Am I Teachable?

Sometimes I ask myself...Do I learn ANYTHING from the circumstances of my life?
At times I can give a resounding YES! But there are times when I feel the discouragement of realizing I haven't gained any ground at all. Didn't I listen? Didn't I take into account? Didn't I recall that...? Won't I EVER learn?!


What has God taught me from failure?
What has God taught me from a lack of money?
What has God taught me from pain or sorrow or depression?
What has God taught me through waiting?
What has God taught me through illness?
What has God taught me from disappointment?
What have I learned from my family, my church, my relationships, my small group, and my critics?

PSALM 119:13
Be blessed, God;
train me in your ways of wise living.
I'll transfer to my lips
all the counsel that comes from your mouth;
I delight far more in what you tell me about living
than in gathering a pile of riches.
I ponder every morsel of wisdom from you,
I attentively watch how you've done it.
I relish everything you've told me of life,
I won't forget a word of it.

"CRY OUT TO JESUS"

To everyone who's lost someone they love
Long before it was their time
You feel like the days you had were not enough
when you said goodbye

And to all of the people with burdens and pains
Keeping you back from your life
You believe that there's nothing and there is no one
Who can make it right

There is hope for the helpless
Rest for the weary
Love for the broken heart
There is grace and forgiveness
Mercy and healing
He'll meet you wherever you are
Cry out to Jesus, Cry out to Jesus

For the marriage that's struggling just to hang on
They lost all of their faith in love
They've done all they can to make it right again
Still it's not enough

For the ones who can't break the addictions and chains
You try to give up but you come back again
Just remember that you're not alone in your shame
And your suffering

When your lonely
And it feels like the whole world is falling on you
You just reach out, you just cry out to Jesus
Cry to Jesus

To the widow who suffers from being alone
Wiping the tears from her eyes
For the children around the world without a home
Say a prayer tonight
(THIRD DAY)

Thoughts from a Starbucks Cup...

You can learn a lot more from
listening than you can from talking.
Find someone with whom you
don’t agree in the slightest and ask
them to explain themselves at
length. Then take a seat, shut your
mouth, and don’t argue back. It’s
physically impossible to listen with
your mouth open.

Valuable Lessons from a Wise Woman

Just finished reading LETTER TO MY DAUGHTER by Maya Angelou.
Very good book. Some light stories and personal accounts of her life. I enjoyed her insight. Since this is a library book and must be returned I have jotted down one passage that was particularly meaningful:

" There have been people in my life who meant me well, taught me valuable lessons,and others who have meant me ill and, have given me ample notification that my world is not meant to be all peaches and cream.
I have made many mistakes and no doubt will make more before I die. When I have seen pain, when I have found that my ineptness has caused displeasure, I have learned to accept my responsibility and to forgive myself first, then to apologize to anyone injured by my misreckoning. Since I cannot un-live history, and repentance is all I can offer God, I have hopes that my sincere apologies were accepted.
You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them. Try to be a rainbow in someones cloud. Do not complain. Make every effort to change things you do not like. If you cannot make a change, change the way you have been thinking. You might find a new solution."

Very wise woman.

ELECTION WOES

I'll admit it. I'm confused.
All of this election stuff has my brain jumbled.
Apparently I'm supposed to be for one candidate or another. I don't find it that easy. I listen and read and try to decipher what they are saying. And I find good and bad in both. I'm not convinced that either one is the answer to this world's problems. My husband gets frustrated with me. He is very outspoken in what he believes and doesn't understand why I don't always agree with him. It's not that I don't agree, but I do tend to see things from a different angle at times.
I'm not sure, yet, who I will vote for in this election, but I was thankful for this passage that God gave me today in my devotions. Again, an assurance that whoever wins...God is still in control !

Isaiah 65:17-22 (The Message)

"Pay close attention now:
I'm creating new heavens and a new earth.
All the earlier troubles, chaos, and pain
are things of the past, to be forgotten.
Look ahead with joy.
Anticipate what I'm creating:
I'll create Jerusalem as sheer joy,
create my people as pure delight.
I'll take joy in Jerusalem,
take delight in my people:
No more sounds of weeping in the city,
no cries of anguish;
No more babies dying in the cradle,
or old people who don't enjoy a full lifetime;
One-hundredth birthdays will be considered normal—
anything less will seem like a cheat.
They'll build houses
and move in.
They'll plant fields
and eat what they grow.
No more building a house
that some outsider takes over,
No more planting fields
that some enemy confiscates,
For my people will be as long-lived as trees,
my chosen ones will have satisfaction in their work.

A God-Season

I like fall. I don't love it. It is too close to winter for my liking, but it is a pretty season. And I do enjoy the crispness of the air that requires pulling out fluffy wool sweaters to wrap up in. I think I'm noticing this changing of the season a little more this year. I'm not so distracted with other things. Maybe I should be...with the economy, the upcoming election and the pain and struggles that I see all around me.
I guess in all the changing of the colors I see someone who is the same. Who is consistent and giving me assurance that whatever changes come there is One who is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He is as comforting and warm as my big, bulky sweaters...I need to put them on with the first chill of autumn, not wait until I'm cold!
Luke 12:54
Then he turned to the crowd: "When you see clouds coming in from the west, you say, 'Storm's coming'—and you're right. And when the wind comes out of the south, you say, 'This'll be a hot one'—and you're right. Frauds! You know how to tell a change in the weather, so don't tell me you can't tell a change in the season, the God-season we're in right now.

TIPS FOR A BETTER LIFE (PART 2)

--Don't take yourself so seriously-NO ONE ELSE DOES.
--Get rid of everything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
--Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what
their journey is all about.
--However good or bad a situation is it will change!
--Do the right thing!!
--No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
--Forgive everyone for everything.
--Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
--GOD heals & transforms everything that YOU LET HIM!!
--THE BEST IS YET TO COME !!

TIPS FOR A BETTER LIFE (PART 1)

--Take a 10-30 minute walk every day.
--Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes every day.
--Read more books.
--Take time to pray.
--Spend more time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6.
--Eat more foods that grow ON plants, eat less food that is made IN plants.
--Don't waste precious energy on gossip, energy vampires(we all know people that feed off negativity),issues of the past, negative thoughts or
things you cannot control. Invest energy in the positive present moment.
--Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn.
--Eat breakfast like a KING, lunch like a PRINCE, and dinner like a COLLEGE KID with a maxed out charge card.
--Life isn't fair, but it's still good!

I had just pulled into Target and my mind was spinning. Decisions. Next steps. Wondering what God has in store for me and my husband. When this little sparrow hopped onto the cart rack beside me and looked at me through my car window, as if to tell me "Ya know what? I don't worry about what I'm going to wear, or what I will eat,or even what tomorrow may hold...I have a heavenly Father who takes care of ALL my needs!" We looked at each other for awhile, then I began to smile. Thanks God for that simple reminder...you are all I need!

My interpretation influences my situation. It’s not what happens to me that matters as much as how I choose to see it. The way I react will determine whether the circumstance makes me better or bitter. I can view everything as an obstacle or an opportunity for growth – a stumbling block or a stepping stone. “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:2-4 NIV). (Rick Warren)

Good job, son !!!

Photo caption: (L-R): Brandon Heath and PLG’s radio promotions team member, Matt Ingle, celebrate Heath’s No. 1 radio hit “Give Me Your Eyes” this week with a victory lap organized by Ingle.


Photo caption: Brandon Heath joined the Provident Label Group radio team and friends in a ‘victory lap’ around the Provident offices yesterday in celebration of Heath’s No. 1 at AC-Monitored this week with “Give Me Your Eyes.”


BRANDON HEATH TAKES NO. 1 SPOT AT AC RADIO
WITH FIRST SINGLE “GIVE ME YOUR EYES” OFF SOPHOMORE ALBUM

Multi-Format Hit Song Remains No. 1 for Fifth Week on R&R CHR;
Tops iTunes Chart for Tenth Consecutive Week with more than 70,000 single downloads.

Wishes

I Wish....
I Wish I could understand things like He can...
I Wish I could speak words the way He would...
I Wish I could love the way He wants me to...
I Wish I could react the way He tells me ...
I Wish I could trust the way He promises...
I Wish I could see the way He sees...
I Wish...

What I'm Listening to These Days.....

What I'm Reading These Days.....

1st Wednesday

Alright, God...
I will admit, you ALWAYS know just what I need. And at just the right time.

You prepared the songs that were sung at 1st Wednesday just for me... I am thankful.

You allowed me to serve others through the hand-washing knowing that I would be the one to be touched deeply and feel the cleansing of the water...I am honored.

You spoke to me through the breaking of the bread...I am humbled.

You encouraged me through the fellowship of your people...I am blessed.

I will press on, now, feeling hopeful...I am renewed.

LIFE PACKAGES

It's said that some of the best gifts come wrapped in the ugliest packages. We see the unattractive wrapping and our (my) first reaction is "How can anything good come out of this?"
I'm learning that God reaches out to me in the midst of some "unpretty" gifts. He wants me to see beneath all the cardboard and tape to the real present deep inside. It may take some digging. I may get frustrated and not understand why all those packing peanuts are sooooo necessary (they can be so messy!).
There is an awesome gift in that box for me. Handpicked and carefully wrapped by my creator.

1 Corinthians 1:7
Just think—you don't need a thing, you've got it all! All God's gifts are right in front of you as you wait expectantly for our Master Jesus to arrive on the scene for the Finale. And not only that, but God himself is right alongside to keep you steady and on track until things are all wrapped up by Jesus. God, who got you started in this spiritual adventure, shares with us the life of his Son and our Master Jesus. He will never give up on you. Never forget that.

Authenticity

2008/08/18

Authentic Friendships
by Rick Warren

But if we live in the light, as God is in the light, we can share fellowship with each other. Then the blood of Jesus, God’s Son, cleanses us from every sin. If we say we have no sin, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 1 John 1:7–8 (NCV)

*** *** *** ***

In Christian fellowship people should experience authenticity.

Authentic fellowship is not superficial, surface-level chit-chat. It’s genuine, heart-to-heart, sometimes gut-level, sharing.


It happens when people get honest about who they are and what is happening in their lives. They share their hurts, reveal their feelings, confess their failures, disclose their doubts, admit their fears, acknowledge their weaknesses, and ask for help and prayer.


Authenticity is the exact opposite of what you find in many churches. Instead of an atmosphere of honesty and humility, there is pretending, role-playing, politicking, superficial politeness, and shallow conversation.


People wear masks, keep their guard up, and act as if everything is rosy in their lives. These attitudes are the death of real friendship.


It’s only as we become open about our lives that we experience authentic fellowship. The Bible says, “If we live in the light, as God is in the light, we can share fellowship with each other. . . . If we say we have no sin, we are fooling ourselves” (1 John 1:7–8 NCV).


The world thinks intimacy occurs in the dark, but God says it happens in the light. We tend to use darkness to hide our hurts, faults, fears, failures, and flaws. But in the light, we bring them all out into the open and admit who we really are.


Of course, being authentic requires both courage and humility. It means facing our fear of exposure, rejection, and being hurt again.


Why would anyone take such a risk?


Because it’s the only way to grow spiritually and be emotionally healthy. The Bible says, “Make this your common practice: Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you can live together whole and healed” (James 5:16 MSG).

I loved this devotional today...reminded me of great friends from GCC. Friends that I do ministry with, serve with, pray with and fellowship with. Friends that ask "how's it going?" and really WANT to know!! I pray that others will find me an "authentic friend".

New Quote that I Love

"It's one thing to believe in the power of God...it's another to experience His power."
-----Dr. Bob Laurente

Sweet tastes of Summer!

Yeah...I know it's hot & humid, but don't ya just LOVE summer!!!

Psalm 106:6-12

I read this passage this morning, God.
I see the Red Sea before me.
I thought I could get across by moving to the right...but there was just more sandy shore.
So I ran to the left where I thought I saw a bridge! It was only a short pier that jutted out a short distance and stopped.
I'm feeling kind of trapped.
I'm not afraid of the water. I've learned to be a good swimmer.
I'm just not sure I have the strength, energy, or even the determination to try swimming across.
Then I read how you helped the Israelites by rebuking the sea and it dried up.
On the spot.
You paraded them right through the middle. No one so much as got their feet wet.
I'm throwing away the snorkel and flippers and waiting on You to part my Red Sea.

"and they believed His words were true and broke out in songs of praise!"

Condiment Collection

I've had my share of collections. Seashells, glass figurines, Disney snowglobes. My husband collects swords, pictures of old TV shows and his latest endeavor is collecting hubcaps (don't ask!). My sons loved to collect baseball cards and would spend every last dime of their allowance to get the latest Barry Bonds or Michael Jordan card. But, this collection was a new one on me! To think that this guy has the time and patience to rinse out each condiment wrapper, and catgorize it by type.

http://condiment.portablefolkband.com/packets.php

PLANS

God laughs when we make plans....

I thought I had it pretty well figured out. I had a plan. An agenda. A "to-do" list that would accomplish what I wanted to accomplish. A goal that I could reach. I felt comfortable with my new focus. I've come to the conclusion that God never wants us to "get comfortable". I think He delights in throwing conflicts into our dayplanners. It makes us trust Him. It allows Him to work through us in ways that we would not think of nor give energy to if left on our own. We are stretched...but growing pains are uncomfortable, even painful at times. As I look back at my carefully made plans that do not even make sense anymore, I realize how important they seemed at the time, but now I'm seeing a bigger picture. I'm still not sure how the story ends...but I trust in the one who does.
"I know, O Lord, that a man's life is not his own;
it is not for man to direct his steps" Jeremiah 10:23

Manowe'

Terry & I served this afternoon/evening at Manowe. We helped prepare and serve dinner to one of the 5 Star Camps. I must say, it felt good to help Mary, the cook, who was sooooo appreciative to have us come and work with her. Many say they are going to come help...but don't show she told us. It's a lot of work to service Manowe like we do GCC...."With Excellence"!! What a great place! What a blessing! What a great outreaching facility that God is using!! Check it out!

WHAT??!!

Wow! That's all I can say after New Community last night!! I must admit I was shocked and disappointed in some of the survey results...but excited to hear that the church is meeting this problem "head on". I don't like change. I'll admit it. But, I am optimistic about what God is going to do through his people at GCC. Coming from a strict, Baptist background, it was hard for me to fathom that many of our attenders do not even "get" basic doctrine. Maybe it is time to pull the soft cushions off the pews and step on some toes. Will we lose some attenders? Maybe. But what we will gain will be more valuable and rewarding. May God get the Glory!!!

My Bum Knee *sigh*

"Don't get off track, either left or right, so as to make sure you get to where you're going. And don't for a minute let this Book of The Revelation be out of mind. Ponder and meditate on it day and night, making sure you practice everything written in it. Then you'll get where you're going; then you'll succeed. Haven't I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don't be timid; don't get discouraged. God, your God, is with you every step you take." Joshua 1:2-3

Okay, I'll admit it. I had a pity party this morning. Sometimes it seems life doesn't give me a break. I know that isn't true...it just feels that way. I have recently started exercising hard...joined a Bootcamp...and was really feeling good about the progress I was making. Then that darn right knee, that has given me fits in the past, decided to ache...then hurt bad, then I heard and felt the telltale snap. Yikes. Working for an orthopedic surgeon, I know that I probably have torn my meniscus. So now I'm wearing a brace, eating anti-inflammatories and feeling sorry for myself. I'm praying for healing. And very timidly, I'm praying for patience. I'm going to try to press on with the bootcamp--only 2 more weeks to go--I'm counting on God being with me "every step I take".

Mr. Bean should come to GCC....

Swing

When I was a little girl one of my favorite spots was on my backyard swing. I would swing for hours daydreaming about things that little girls daydream about...growing up, living in my own apartment in a big city, how I would furnish that apartment, what I would do for fun. I'd think about who I'd marry (either David Cassidy or whatever pre-teen hearthrob was "hot" at the time!)how many kids I'd have, etc, etc.
Sometimes I'd make up songs...singing them at the top of my lungs in time with the swaying of the swing. (I liked rock songs since I'd have to swing harder.)
I still like the swing. As an adult I will sit on my back porch swing and get lost in my thoughts. I think God speaks to me the loudest when I am quiet and on my swing. Or maybe I just listen better. Nevertheless, I always feel a little calmer, more at peace, and that everything is alright with the world...on my swing.

My Reflection

"The Bible is a mirror. You will never see who you really are until you see yourself in here (the Bible)." Dr. Bob

Wow. What does my reflection say about me? Do I see myself in God's Word? Why do I feel like I'm always falling short of what he wants me to become? Thank you God for not giving up on me...I'll keep trying to do better.

When all else fails....eat pizza!

Spent the weekend in Nashville, Tennessee with my grandson, Alex. What fun watching him discover his world! After a frustrating week, it was a welcomed treat to observe Alex playing outside, exploring his "cardboard house", and eating pizza! I was feeling stuck in my circumstances but I remembered some insights from Messy Spirituality by Michael Yaconelli:
"Getting stuck can be the best thing that could happen to us, because it forces us to stop....
We cannot grow without first giving up and letting go. Getting stuck forces us to see the futility of our situation and to put life in perspective so that we can move on."
It's time to move on, explore this life and let God have control....and eat pizza!

My Movie

Last week at the women's retreat, Dr Bob asked the question "If there was a movie made of your life--how would you feel about it?"

I've thought about that alot this week. Would my life be classified as a"romantic comedy"? Or a"drama"? At times I think "horror flick" would adequately describe it!! (just kidding!). I think it would keep the audience in suspense...never knowing what is going to happen next. You think you have the plot all figured out and then whammy a turn in events. This week has ended in a cliffhanger...but I'm confident in the happy ever after ending.

Matthew 11:28-30 (New Living Translation)

28 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

Prayer

No ocean can hold it back.

No river can overtake it.

No whirlwind can go faster.

No army can defeat it.

No law can stop it.

No distance can slow it.

No disease can cripple it.

No force on earth is more powerful or effective than the power of prayer.

Everyone needs a Goal in Life...

Springtime at Linton's

Ahhhhh! Even though it is wet and cold today I experienced a taste of spring as I sat in on a"Gardening with Annuals "seminar at one of my favorite places. Seeing all the green plants that are blooming and the new flowers that promise color in my gardens gave me hope that spring will be here shortly. Now, where is that sun???????

Courage

Wow, God. I re-read last Friday's post and realized that I never suspected that this week would bring even more discouraging news. I felt defeated, God. What is happening to your people? Your kingdom? Why are you allowing your name to be drug through the mud by those who call you ABBA? Then I went to New Community last evening...and you spoke to me through Dr. Bob. You reminded me that I, without you, am not strong enough to take on Satan. But Satan is ALWAYS on your mind...You are constantly "taking on" the enemy. I was reminded to be strong and courageous. Thank you, God, for reminding me that ...the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast."
"Love that comes to my rescue is courage". Dr. Bob L.

Fearful? Get Busy!

I'm sitting here this morning with my cup of coffee. Thinking. Praying. So many unknowns are flying around in my head...a windstorm of thoughts and concerns. Will my friend's marriage survive this recent betrayal? Is my dad going to receive a good report at the oncologist's office today? Will I still be working at my present job in 6 months? And what about these elections....and the economy...and the increase in crimes. As I look at the calendar it states it is spring but it sure doesn't feel like it! God, I try to remember that you are in control of all things...but I get too caught up in what is happening around me. When I think back of all the things I've feared in the past, my biggest fear is always of the unknown. I came across this quote: "Inaction breeds doubt and fear, Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy." -Dale Carnegie
I like that. I will go and get busy now.

Wishin' for Warmth

It's cold, wet, rainy...and I even see some slushy snow coming down...maybe if I close my eyes and click my heels three times and repeat "There's no place like the beach, there's no place like the beach, there's.....". *sigh*

The Punishment that brought us Peace

We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. Isaiah 53:6

"When did you assume that sin affects only the sinner."

"Sometimes the way is difficult because of me..."

"(My) forgiveness was purchased at a great price...the death of Christ" Mark Beeson-Holy Thursday

Idol Hoopla

Yup, it's decided.....David Cook has MY vote!!!! Carly is coming in a close second....(just in case you were wondering).

It's the little things.....

Yeah!! It is 53 degrees today...and sunny!!! I bought myself a pair of flip-flops!

Psalm 147:12Jerusalem, worship God! Zion, praise your God! He made your city secure, he blessed your children among you. He keeps the peace at your borders, he puts the best bread on your tables. He launches his promises earthward— how swift and sure they come! He spreads snow like a white fleece, he scatters frost like ashes, He broadcasts hail like birdseed— who can survive his winter? Then he gives the command and it all melts; he breathes on winter—suddenly it's spring!

So you've had a bad day......

2 Corinthians 4:17For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.

A Shift for Oprah????

Oprah, what is up with you? I used to be a fan. When the show was the interviewing of celebs, discusssing how to make relationships better, how to look 10 pounds lighter without dieting, but Oprah seems to have really jumped on the New Age band wagon. First it was the promotion of the book The Secret, now it is the 10 week on line course of study on Eckhart Tolle's new book A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose.
Apparently Mr. Tolle is an "essential spritual teacher, the father of now" (whatever that means!). He wants to help us get in touch with the stillness within ourselves and discover what the greater purpose wants from me rather than what I want from the greater purpose. (Isn't that what we Christians call meditating on God's Word??) According to the book:
"Any life-form in any realm-mineral, vegetable, animal, or human-can be said to undergo "enlightenment." It is, however, an extrememly rare occurrence since it is more than an evolutionary progression: It also implies a discontinuity in its development, a leap to an entirely different level of Being and, most important, a lessening of materiality." HUH???
"Once there is a certain degree of Prescence, of still and alert attention in human beings' perceptions, they can sense the divine life essense, the one indwelling consciousness of spirit in every creature, every life-form, recognize it as one with their own essence and so love it as themselves." ALRIGHTY THEN.....

The goal of this book and Oprah's 10 week on-line class is to bring about a "shift in consciousness, that is to say, to awaken." BUT ( and I guess this is a very, Big BUT...)..."it can only awaken those who are ready. Not everyone is ready yet, but many are, and with each person who awakens, the momentum in the collective consciousness grows." YUP, I GUESS THAT WOULD BE ME.....ONE WHO IS NOT READY.

The scarey part of all this is the big following Oprah has. People tend to follow her blindly. If she promotes it , it must be good. YIKES!!

3If anyone teaches false doctrines and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, 4he is conceited and understands nothing. I Timothy 6:3

Thou Shall Not Steal

What an interesting day...I spent the day inside this courthouse as part of a 7 person jury which would decide the fate of a man facing a felony charge for theft. When I arrived this morning for the jury selection I was crammed into a very small room with 19 other people of different shapes and sizes. No one talked. Just sized each other up. There was the guy who had the ZZTop lookin' beard. The gal with the gray vinyl sweatsuit that looked like she should be boarding a space shuttle. My favorite person to watch was the "Mr. Bean guy". Yup, had his mannerisms, walk, even that tiny grin...But, eventually, all those people left and the chosen ones remained!
The judge was great...very informative and gracious. So was the bailiff. The attorneys did their best to present their cases. One for the defendant, one against. Not to bore anyone with details...the case was interesting but I was distressed that so much attention (& tax payers money!) was going towards this case. It seemed more like miscommunication to me rather than "knowingly exerting unauthorized control over the property of ----with the intent to deprive----of any part of its value or use."
So after several hours, and having one of the jurors decide he needed to vomit during the closing arguments....the jury went into the deliberation room and after discussing the case for awhile decided that we could not prove the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
I was surprised tonight to attend New Community and hear Dr. Bob speak on thou shall not steal. Wow...
God provided an awesome object lesson for me today...and for once, I didn't have to learn it the hard way!!

Self-Image

What IS it about a haircut & color that makes one feel a little better about oneself??? Seriously, guys may not understand this but after an afternoon at the salon...I walk straighter, look in the mirror more often, do that little "hair flippy thing" and smile at everyone. Who AM I???? Was this the same person that was grumbling this morning over needing to lose 10+ pounds? Searching through my closet at the same old clothes...absolutely nothing to wear! Jotting down the name of that new facial cream that advertises "wrinkles and fine lines disappear like magic"!
Such a little thing...chemicals & scissors. I am thankful for those who know how to use them!!

Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God Proverbs 31

BORED

What IS there to do in this town in the middle of February??? I work, go to the gym, go to church twice a week, maybe grab a bite to eat with friends....same old scenario. My husband bought tickets to U2-3D...Yah, something to look forward to!!! But no! It was cancelled!!! The last couple of Netflix movies haven't done anything for me...I am trying to avoid the mall (thank you very much Dave Ramsey)...Yes, I think it is official. I have come down with a case of the winter blues! YUCK!!!

My Valentine

"...God has no favorites, that no matter where you're coming from and what you've done and who've you've been with and how badly you've screwed it up, the cross is the place where God looks past it all and forgives and accepts and wipes the slate clean.....In matters of love, it's as if God has agreed to play by the same rules we do. God can do anything--that's what makes God, God. But God can't do everything. God can't make us love him-that's our choice." Sex God-by Rob Bell
'

Faith

Is Your Faith In Your Fear?by Jon Walker
“But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid.” (Matthew 14:27, NIV)
Across the breadth of the Bible, God consistently sends the message, “Do not be afraid, for I am with you.”
The Bible reveals that God knows we tend toward fear, particularly as we respond to uncertainty and change. Yet the Bible also reveals that God is the only unchanging certainty in this world – or out of it.
Yet, is it possible we have more faith in our fear than we do in God?
No matter how complex life becomes, it still comes down to this basic choice: Will we place our confidence in the All-Powerful Supreme Being and Sole Authority of the Universe, or will we place greater confidence in our fears?
Although the choice is black-or-white basic, God knows it’s not simple. It involves a challenging stretch, and that’s why God continually reminds us, “Fear not, for I am with you.”
God is clear that our abilities, our resources – even a belief in the myth of luck – will not be what strengthens us for the journey. (Philippians 4:13) We fear we can’t do the things God calls us to do, and we fear that God will not protect us or provide for us. We choose this fear, embracing the unholy lie that our circumstances are bigger than the One True God.
Our faith in God gets placed on the altar of our own perceptions when we should be placing our perceptions on the altar of unflinching faith.
If you’re like me, you often fear what’s behind the curtain of God’s call, and God – frustratingly – won’t let me peek behind the curtain, and so:
Our fear shouts – “Pay no attention to the God behind the curtain; he’s just another wizard from Oz, using smoke and mirrors to give you the illusion of power and grace.”
Our God whispers – In that still, small voice, he calls us to develop confidence in him; he calls us to abandon the confidence we have in what we see and the confidence we have in our fears. God keeps the curtain of our future drawn so we will learn to live by faith and not by sight, so we will become certain of what we hope for and become sure of God, even when we cannot see how he’s working in our current circumstances. (Hebrews 11:1)

Whew! I read this devotional this morning and it hit me between the eyes! I am such a creature of habit and I hate the uncertainty of the unknown. How often do I awake in the middle of the night with my mind raising with questions of what's to come? Job situation...economy...health of family...friends that are struggling...my inadequacies. I was once again reminded today to "live by faith and not by sight". Amen.

GOVERNMENT HEALTH WARNING!!!!!

DO NOT SWALLOW CHEWING GUM!!

(I know, I know, this is soooo wrong, but I couldn't resist....it IS funny!!!!)

A Cracked Pot

We are jars of clay, chipped and blemished, fragile by God’s design in order to show the glorious light of God shining through our cracks and crevices. People should look at us and say, “What’s this? That plain jar of clay isn’t creating such a glorious light; it must be the light of heaven contained within. The peace and joy and love I see in that light must be from God.”

Hmmm...what do people see when they see me? Somedays I feel pretty "cracked" and "unlovely". My fragile side shows more often than not. I pray that God's light shows through all my chipped and cracked edges. Help me, Lord, to concentrate more on my insides where your light is contained. Use this blemished vessel for your purpose and glory. I do want to be more than a "cracked pot". Thanks.

Choices

Dr. Bob gave us a challenge last night at New Community....."Make choices in 2008 that you will never regret."
I accept that challenge. I will need God's help. I don't always make the best choices. I say the wrong things...at the wrong times. I don't do what I should. I do what I should not. Sometimes I'm *gulp* selfish. Dr. Bob said that he wrote the word "grace" on the rock that he received last week from Jason Miller. I think I will write "choices" on mine....as a reminder.

The Shack

I just finished reading THE SHACK by William P. Young. Wow. I usually do not read alot of fiction. Yet this piece made me think and examine how I see God, Jesus and the Spirit. At times I forgot that I was reading fiction and I began to examine my ideas of why God does what He does with what Papa tried to help Mackenzie understand. I could relate with Mackenzie...it's must easier to put God in a box and expect Him to act/react in preconceived "spiritual" ways.

I recall Mackenzie questioning God on his choice of music--a secular funky dance tune--and I loved His reply.."I listen to everything-and not just to the music itself but the hearts behind it." (kinda what GCC has been saying for years!!).

When Mackenzie questioned God about the murder of his daughter God assured him that He did not allow that to happen. He did not cause that because it was part of His perfect will (how many times do Christians console each other with those statements!) but He would use the tragedy and redeem it even though Mackenzie may never know how.

Many interesting thoughts/ideas were raised for me in this book. I have to admit it was not what I expected...but each of us have our own "shack" wherein we each find God & grace.

Good bye 2007

Romans 8:12So don't you see that we don't owe this old do-it-yourself life one red cent. There's nothing in it for us, nothing at all. The best thing to do is give it a decent burial and get on with your new life. God's Spirit beckons. There are things to do and places to go!

2007---*whew* what a year!! A year that was filled with "down in the valley" times and "mountain top experiences". A year where God revealed Himself to me in ways He never had. He took me out of my comfort zone. He made me dependant upon Him. He allowed me to see people, circumstances, grace....like I never had before. He gave me another title (Grandma) that brings with it new responsibilities and joys. He renewed my faith and strengthened my love for my family and my church family. He brought new friends into my life and showed me the value of "old" ones. All in all...I'm glad 2007 is over and I'm ready to move into 2008. I think my God has great things in store for me and I'm anxious to unwrap his presents!!!!

Question to ponder.......

Christmas question – How would you view the circumstances of this Christmas season differently if you were certain God was working in your circumstances? “For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11 NLT)

Christmas in Chicago

Terry & I took the Amtrak train into Chicago yesterday. It was a beautiful winter day to enjoy the Christmas sights. Popping into some of my favorite stores like Crate & Barrell and Pottery Barn to get ideas, eating deep dish chicago pizza at Giordano's, checking out the highly decorated Macey's, and a stop to rest aching feet at Starbucks (love the peppermint mochas!!) Of course, a trip to Chicago is never complete without a stop a Garretts for the chicago mix popcorn!! All in all a very enjoyable day (even though Terry did come home with a blister or two!)

Mr. Grinch

Feeling like a "Grinch" this holiday season??? I have to admit I have had my moments...and we are barely into all the hustle & bustle!!! If I WAS a Grinch my name would be:

"Miserlygrinch Fussyhead" To find out what yours would be check out this fun site:

http://www.yourgeekfriend.com/GrinchName/GrinchName.php

Winter Blues

Ecclesiastes 7:13Take a good look at God's work. Who could simplify and reduce Creation's curves and angles To a plain straight line?

As much as I dislike winter...it is coming. I am looking out my window and seeing blue-gray skies and swirly (is that a word?) snow. And it is cold!!!!!!! I've come to realize that God gives us the cold dark seasons so we can really appreciate the warm lighthearted ones. He has shown me that time and time again in my life yet each winter I complain once again. When will I learn that God has a purpose for all seasons. He is good...ALL the time!!!!!

Our Church Family

"Love your brothers and sisters in God's family" I Peter 2:17b

We are a family forged in the fires of God’s love, and we are to “be devoted to each other like a loving family” (Romans 12:10a GW). We are to love one another like brothers and sisters. This sense of family togetherness allows us to create authentic Christian community – where we are accepted, supported, and challenged to fully live out the purposes of our lives. We belong, and we help others believe they belong.
Family is synonymous with a deep, unwavering commitment to support one another, no matter how rough it may get. You do things for family that you wouldn’t do for anyone else – and you make allowances for family members that you might not make for anyone else.

Thanks, GCC!!!

Thanksgiving Blessings

My husband & I have devotions each morning. This morning we examined what it means to be blessed. Kinda appropriate being that Thanksgiving is almost upon us and even though the "world" sees the day as an excuse to stuff yourself and watch football, most of us will contemplate our many blessings. I found it interesting when I realized that being blessed does not mean I am "untroubled, healthy, admired, or prosperous". It means that all is well between me and my God. That I am content in God while I weep over a body that is sick, a mind that isn't as sharp as it used to be, a spirit that is crushed, or a relationship that causes hurt. I learned today that "the blessing is not that he gives us what we want but that he gives us himself, especially in our painful places". In that....I am truly blessed!!

Pre-Christmas Jitters

" Look, Charlie, let's face it. We all know that Christmas is a big commercial racket. It's run by a big eastern syndicate, you know"...Lucy Van Pelt (PEANUTS)

The holiday season is fast approaching and I must admit I am dragging my feet....

It is not that I don't like Christmas but I do find myself longing for a simpler version of the holiday season. Less focus on "to do" lists. More focus on reflection. If Christmas really does start in the heart...I guess it will be what I make it. If I really believe that the day belongs to Jesus, then, well, I'll give it back to Him. So I've purposed in my spirit to de-stress my holiday season. I'm hoping my flesh agrees.

Just a random thought......

Have you ever wondered about the person(s) who wrote this song??? Curious.


Lyrics for: Bohemian Rhapsody

Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy? Caught in a landslide, No escape from reality. Open your eyes, look up to the skies and see, I'm just a poor boy, I need no sympathy, Because I'm easy come, easy go, little high, little low, Any way the wind blows doesn't really matter to me, to me. Mama, just killed a man, Put a gun against his head, pulled my trigger, now he's dead. Mama, life had just begun, But now I've gone and thrown it all away. Mama, ooh, didn't mean to make you cry, If I'm not back again this time tomorrow, Carry on, carry on as if nothing really matters. Too late, my time has come, Sends shivers down my spine, body's aching all the time. Goodbye, ev'rybody, I've got to go, Gotta leave you all behind and face the truth. Mama, ooh, I don't want to die, I sometimes wish I'd never been born at all. I see a little silhouetto of a man, Scaramouche, Scaramouche, will you do the Fandango. Thunderbolt and lightning, very, very fright'ning me. (Galileo.) Galileo. (Galileo.) Galileo, Galileo figaro Magnifico. I'm just a poor boy and nobody loves me. He's just a poor boy from a poor family, Spare him his life from this monstrosity. Easy come, easy go, will you let me go. Bismillah! No, we will not let you go. (Let him go!) Bismillah! We will not let you go. (Let him go!) Bismillah! We will not let you go. (Let me go.) Will not let you go. (Let me go.) Will not let you go. (Let me go.) Ah. No, no, no, no, no, no, no. (Oh mama mia, mama mia.) Mama mia, let me go. Beelzebub has a devil put aside for me, for me, for me. So you think you can stone me and spit in my eye. So you think you can love me and leave me to die. Oh, baby, can't do this to me, baby, Just gotta get out, just gotta get right outta here. Nothing really matters, anyone can see, Nothing really matters, Nothing really matters to me. Any way the wind blows.

What exactly IS a Bismillah????

halloween

B O O !!!!!!!

".....I WILL FEAR NO EVIL, FOR YOU ARE WITH ME....." PS 23:4b

MEATHEADS

"One always looks neat, in a hat made from meat."
-Mark Twain

"Charmer"

I just spent the weekend with my grandbaby, Alex. We had a lot of fun reading books, playing, and exploring the Nashville sites. He seemed to be the center of attention wherever we went. Whether it was breakfast at the Loveless Cafe or the local Harley Davidson dealership, he seemed to be able to turn on the southern charm!!!

THE MOVIES

Ahhh...who doesn't love the movies!!?? A time to get lost in another time or place and forget the day to day grind. Sometimes I enjoy a comedy and sometimes I prefer action/adventure. And yes, I even love to cry over a chick-flick every now and then! I found this list of movie cliches that made me chuckle...enjoy!!

HOW COME IN THE MOVIES.....

Glasses never collect moisture when you come in from the cold outside.

People never cough, sneeze, blow their noses, or show any other symptoms of being in less than perfect health.

You can eat as much as you want in a film and you'll never EVER have to go to the bathroom

Bombs always have big, blinking, beeping timer displays. Evil geniuses who devise bombs to destroy things/people are always thoughtful enough to include a visible display (usually LED) of how much time remains before the bomb detonates, giving the hero accurate feedback on exactly how much time remains.

A car will always explode when shot at, unless the hero is driving it.

No one ever runs out of gas (even in long car chases). Corollary: every stolen car has a full gas tank and gets great gas mileage.

All movie women try to run in heels, never stopping to kick them off.

Whenever anyone knocks out anyone else and takes their clothes, it's always a flawless fit. When you go to rob a bank in a film, you will always choose the teller who has just started his or her first day on the job.

All movie mothers will prepare a breakfast, usually consisting of scrambled eggs, bacon, etc. Dad and the kids will invariably arrive at the table 30 seconds before Dad has to leave for the office and the kids have to catch the school bus. Each will have time only for a sip of coffee/juice and/or one bite of toast. There must be enough food left over in these homes to feed an emerging nation!

People never get out of the house when there is obvious danger there (ghosts, murderers). The hero will always get shot in the shoulder, yet will be able to use his arm.

A kid can fend for himself even if his parents have gone to Paris, leaving him with no food, electricity, heat, money, etc.

Any person waking from a nightmare will sit bolt upright ("boing!") in bed. Instead of just lying there going "eeewww!" as most of us do. .

Whenever a woman announces to her husband/boyfriend that she's pregnant, it comes as a complete surprise to him, whether pleasantly or otherwise.
No one is in labor for hours and hours... they pop out babies in a matter of minutes.

Whenever anyone in a movie goes shopping, they always come back with stuff sticking out of the top of the shopping bag, usually carrot tops and French bread.

In any type of sport movie, a player on the field can look up into a crowd of 1 billion and immediately spot their loved one.

cancer

I just spent the last hour in a hospital room visiting an old friend who is dying of cancer. What a dreadful disease. Cancer strips you. Not only of hair and body mass but of dignity. You eat from a bag. You eliminate waste into a bag. There are tubes every place there is room to place a tube. But as I sat there talking with my friend and reminiscing about old times there was a sense of joy. Cancer can not take a person's soul. It can not strip you of the joy of knowing that there is a better place being prepared for you. It can not take the fact that you matter to God away. My friend feels like she is in a "win-win" situation....either way she will go home from that hospital room. In this war--cancer will lose.

PROPHECY

Cool video from Matchbox Twenty...what are they trying to tell us?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlqfpPf_EO0&feature=dir

REASSURANCE

But this uniqueness goes beyond giftedness; it reaches as well into the depth of each of our experiences in life. No one else has your life. No one else has your pain, your hardship, your joys and sorrows. Everything in life shapes us and we are shaped by everything for a reason – so that we can touch others in a unique way based upon who we are and what we’ve been through. God doesn’t waste anything in our lives.
Every piece of our lives and experiences can be used of Christ to touch someone else. We were made for each other; we live for each other; we even die for each other. We die with hope so that others who live might see the reality of Christ in even the darkest of hours. God uses everything.
Are you just getting by, or are you living for a reason? Think about your unique gifts and ask yourself how those gifts are benefiting others. What specific way is God using you to touch others in the Body of Christ? Do you seem to have an extra measure of wisdom, or mercy, or discernment, or knowledge, or administration, or desire to serve? These will help determine how you can look for opportunities to help others.
And then think about the things you have gone through so far in your life – especially the difficult or challenging things where God has met you with his presence and power. That information is not just for you, it’s for you to empathize with and encourage others who have encountered similar struggles.
God isn’t messing around here. There are no accidents with our lives. Whatever we have received and experienced has shaped who we are, and because of that, we are qualified servants. There is truly no one else like you … for a reason. --John Fischer

Right on!!!

The Test

God has such a sense of humor. Like when He has me read Psalm 139 at New Community---you know, the verse where it says "cross examine and test me, get a clear picture of what I'm about..."yeah, that one. Then He puts people/situations in my life where I have to struggle to respond/react in a way that will be, shall I say, God Honoring?? He brought some dirt to the surface. Ways in me that are NOT His ways. I have some work to do. *sigh*

FRIDAY

Have I mentioned how much I enjoy Fridays?? No, not the restaurant, although it is a great eating establishment...I mean Friday. My day to myself. I do not go to my job on Fridays. I get up when I want, drink an extra cup of coffee, watch the Today show and spend a little extra time in the Word on Friday. I usually talk to my son on Friday morning while he is stuck in Nashville traffic. Sometimes, I shop. Sometimes I meet a friend for lunch. Sometimes I simply enjoy being at home. I might finish that great book on Friday. I may take a long walk. I may download some songs on the IPOD. No agenda. Have I mentioned how much I enjoy Fridays??

RENEWAL

"I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint"

Jeremiah 31:25

Thank you, Lord, for this time of relaxation and renewal...Let me go forth now with more energy and purpose in my steps and a new determination to do whatever it is you have for me to do.

Thank you for the beauty you showed me this week...and the calmness that is within my reach if I just seek it.