JOY

Christmas Gifts

     Through the years I have received many wonderful gifts. As a child Santa left me a really cool Barbie RV. I really enjoyed taking Barbie, Ken and Skipper on imaginative camping trips. In third grade Santa brought me a red and white flowered bedspread. In fifth grade my Dad got me my first 10 speed bike (a big step up from the purple banana seat one I had). My Dad has shared with me the story of how one year he went to every store, both near and far, to find the highly- in-demand, pop- up tree house play set I had asked for.  I know what this frantic search for the perfect gift feels like. One year I wanted to get my son the Little Tykes climbing structure for Christmas. I checked with all the stores around and finally located one quite a distance from home. I drove there to pick it up, full of satisfaction at a mission accomplished. All of these gifts are a wonderful symbol of the love and thought behind them.

     Today I received a different kind of gift. It is the gift of peace and joy that come as I step out of myself and look to the needs of someone I don't even know. Today at church there was a guest speaker who shared about the extreme hardships all around the world. From what I see, these hardships begin even in our own neighborhoods. As I got in my car after service, I took some money out of my wallet with the intention of giving it away. I knew God would place someone in my path that could really use it. I went to a nearby coffee shop to get myself a treat. As I was exiting the parking lot I saw a man standing at the exit. I had seen him there before. I had also seen him at church before.  As I was approaching him, I rolled down my window. He came toward the car as he saw me leaning over to talk to him. As I handed him the money, I said, “Hello sir, I’d like to buy you lunch today”. He was so gracious as he thanked me. We introduced ourselves. He asked me if I was a spiritual person. Remembering that I had seen him at church I told him yes, that I was a Christian. I let him know that I had seen him at Calvary. He told me that he usually sits outside of the sanctuary and watches it from the T.V. screens because he knows that it makes some people uncomfortable to see him inside. He knows they judge him and think he must be a boozer. He doesn’t blame them, but it is not the truth. He used to work on Wall Street, but something happened and now he is on the streets asking for help. He commented on how much he enjoys the teachings at Calvary. He said it really helps him dive deeper in his understanding of scripture. He referenced the teaching on Joseph, which was today’s teaching. So I knew he had just come from church.  He told me he grew up a Jewish boy and had become a Christian. As a boy he moved here from Europe. It was because of the Boy Scouts that he accepted Jesus. God had also placed Christian women in his life to lead him on the path to Jesus. God places people and circumstances in our lives to guide us to Him. He said he knows God has a purpose for everything and he had asked God why he was standing here on the corner. God told him it was to learn humility. He said God had a reason for me stopping that day; to help him out, but mostly just to talk to him. I told him it was also so he would recognize a friendly face at church. He has a girlfriend who is dealing with some health issues. She is not a believer, but he is hoping. He knows God is the one to change her. I told him that his job is to pray and that God will handle the inside job. I told him I will be praying for her as well. I was pulled over to the side of the lane, out of the way of traffic with plenty of room for people to go around me. One man though, must have thought we were still in his way. He gave a little honk. I leaned out my window and gestured for him to go around. I was in the middle of a conversation with a wonderful person. I look forward to seeing him again. God calls us to go out of our comfort zone and bless each other; which usually results in our own blessing. So that was the wonderful gift I received today. It is not for us to judge, only to love; in Jesus’ name.

Mark 9:41

 I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward.

Christmas JOYS

            I love all things Christmas!!! The season brings joy everywhere I turn (except in the long lines and parking lot). I love watching all the old Christmas shows. Last night we watched Rudolph, my favorite one of all. I remember when the abominable snowman used to scare me; and I have always felt bad for Rudolph and Hermie the elf/ dentist. Charlie Brown is also a favorite of mine. I can even dance like one of the kids in the pageant. Tonight another favorite of mine is on, Frosty the Snowman. My boys will be out at a football game so I will have to record it to watch this weekend.  My favorite, more contemporary Christmas show is Elf. I love Buddy the elf’s child-like excitement and honesty. I love the way he pours maple syrup on everything and the way he runs through the rotating department store doors.  This may sound strange, but I still get excited when I see Santa.  I love seeing the lights on all the houses, having the scent of a pine tree in my home, getting out all of our favorite decorations, the yummy treats that fill our tummies, listening to Christmas carols and dancing around the house. I love the pretty packages under the tree. There is an amazing sense of wonder that comes with the Christmas season.

            Years ago my grandparents would open a seasonal a Christmas store. It was named “Christmas JOYS”. MY grandma told me that it stood for Jesus, Others, Your Self. That is the true Spirit of Christmas and our priorities of the season should be in that order. One year I had the blessing of working in the store with my grandparents. It was so fun to be surrounded by Christmas at work each day and working alongside two of the most important people to me. They lead me to Jesus when I was about 12 years old.  The love of Christmas runs in my family.

         Of course, my favorite part of Christmas is Jesus. For, He is the true meaning of Christmas.

           When I was in third grade I was the narrator in the church Christmas play. I was given the privilege of reading one of the best passages in all of scripture, the one proclaiming Jesus’ birth.

Jesus’ Birth

Luke 2:1-21, ¹ In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. ² (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) ³ And everyone went to his own town to register.

⁴ So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. ⁵ He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. ⁶ While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, ⁷ and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

The Shepherds and the Angels

⁸ And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. ⁹ An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. ¹⁰ But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. ¹¹ Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ  the Lord. ¹² This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” ¹³ Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”
¹⁵ When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
¹⁶ So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. ¹⁷ When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, ¹⁸ and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. ¹⁹ But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. ²⁰ The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

   Every time I read or hear this passage read it brings tears of joy and gratitude to my eyes. This joy is a gift that is available “to all the people”.

Knowing that God loves me (and you) so much that He sent His Son to be our Savior fills my heart with a joy that lasts all year long!

Celebrate the CHRIST in Christmas, now and all year long!

 

Thanksgiving Celebration

       Thanksgiving is a wonderful time for reflection and gratitude for all that God has blessed us with over the past year. There is so much to be truly grateful for in each and every day. But, this is a special day set aside for gratitude. What an awesome occasion to come together with family and friends… just to be thankful!

      This year for Thanksgiving we traveled up north to stay at my Mom and Stepdad’s for the weekend. They live in a cute little town, with beautiful wineries all around; there is a quaint town square park that is lined with fun shops. Their home is on the outskirts of town, with a very small lake in the backyard. So it feels like we do drive “over the river and through the woods, to Grandmother’s house”.

       Thanksgiving dinner was held at my Aunt and Uncle’s home nearby. We drove straight there and arrived about an hour before dinner time. We were greeted with lots of hugs and kisses from Grandpa, my Aunt, my Uncle, cousins, babies, parents, my Sister and friends too. Everyone was hanging around the kitchen visiting and snacking on yummy appetizers.  As dinner time approached many of us jumped in to help out. My job was the gravy; making sure it was lump free and had the right amount of flavor. Saltiness is key- not too much, not too little. As I stood at the stove whisking I could hear the bustling going on behind me. My Aunt commented on how wonderful it is when everyone pitches in and how the work load is so much lighter. She actually told me this would be a good story for my blog. So here it is. Working together is so much fun as it joins us together in our tasks. Another benefit is that the food is all done at once so everything is hot! And no one is stressed.

Ecclesiastes 4:9,  Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor.

My aunt had asked me to say “Grace”, which I felt greatly honored to do.  We all gathered together with our heads bowed and hearts humbly grateful as we asked God to bless our food and our time together.  Then the feasting began.

      After dinner we continued our visiting. Some of us played games; some watched football on the couch, some of the kids went downstairs to watch Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. One of my cousins (a fun 18 year old) had the idea for all of us to make a family music video. She made a list grouping us together in pairs of who we wanted to dance and lip sync with.  She then called us down a pair at a time to the craft room where she had her computer set up to record us. My husband was my partner for the performance. Over the weekend we actually made two videos. My cousin is very talented at editing and mixing it all. We all had a good laugh watching the final productions. Even my Grandpa got “Jiggie with it”. He is a really good dancer.

       Nothing beats getting together to celebrate with family and good friends. Our time together gives us even more to be thankful for.

Ecclesiastes 3:13, That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil—this is the gift of God.

The Hairs on My Head

Leo my dog.

The other day as I was cutting a friend’s hair my cell phone rang. I didn’t recognize the number so I let it go to voice mail and figured I’d call them back when I was done. Then my friend’s cell phone rang and it was her daughter, so she took the call. I figured since we were taking a break anyway, I‘d listen to my voice mail to make sure it wasn’t an emergency. Well, it was. The call was from a girl down at the end of my street who had wanted to let me know that my dog had escaped and she had him in her protective custody. She told me that she would be waiting out in front of the house that was having Christmas lights put up. I told my friend I’d be right back and left her, wet hair and all. I got to the end of the street, found the girl on the roof, but no doggie in sight. He had escaped out of his collar and had continued his run, getting further from home. She could not catch him, but, at least seeing which way he went, she could send me in the right direction. As I was getting back in my car I saw two other women who were out for their morning walk. They had seen my doggie run across the park and watched a woman grab him up and put him in the back of her dog-washing RV. I pulled up behind this woman as she sat waiting for the gate to open for her so she could go into a different neighborhood. Fortunately the gate was not working very quickly which allowed me to catch up with her. One minute later and I would not have gotten my doggie back. He had no identification on him since he had wiggled out of his collar. The timing on everything worked out perfectly! I got my dog back and I got the phone number of a good dog-washer. God had kept my dog safe as he crossed each street. God had been watching over my dog and He guided me right to him.

Every bird that falls out of his nest

Scripture tells us that God notices and cares about every bird that falls out of its nest. So why do I stress out and worry about things so much? Just like my dog and the birds, God is watching over me.

Every hair on my head (and that’s a lot!)

He tells me I am worth much more than a sparrow. There is no detail of my life that is hidden from Him. He is my protector and my guide. If He knows me so well, then He knows what is best for me. As I rest in this truth and trust Him with everything, I am overwhelmed with His peace and confidence.

Matthew 10:29-31

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. ³⁰ And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. ³¹ So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

International Adventure

           My international adventure began a year and a half ago. My husband and I had been asked to consider hosting a Chinese high school student for the school year. We discussed it and thought about it for a little while and then decided to decline the offer.  A month or two went by and my husband asked me if the school had ever found a family to host this young man. I found out that they had not. My husband had a few questions about the program and the student. I told him to call the director of the program and get the answers for himself, without me as the middle man. At this time I was taking the kids to visit my mom and step-dad. During our trip I finished a book I had been reading called, “Same Kind of Different as Me”. I highly recommend this truly beautiful and inspiring book! But, I want caution you, this book will challenge you to step out of your comfort zone and do something new for/with God. As you may have guessed, I did read it, so you know I was challenged to do something for/with God. Out trip came to a close and the kids and I got in the car and headed home. On our drive back home I prayed that God would show me what He wanted me to do; where He wanted me to step out of my comfort zone and join Him on an adventure. I prayed that if it was God’s will for us to have an international student that God would speak directly to my husband.  When I got home I got my answer. My husband had called the director while I was away and had set up an appointment to meet with her the next day. He was feeling led in the direction of hosting. We had our meeting; we agreed to host and thus began our adventure.

       It was a year of ups and downs.  God was teaching me to lean on Him for all my needs. Adventures challenge us, surprise us, make us stronger, bless us, grow us and leave a lasting impact on our lives. My adventure did all of the above. We now have a relationship with a young man we never would have known had we not listened to God’s voice and followed Him into the great unknown. Even though he lives with another family this year I still see this young man at the school when I volunteer in the library. We sit together at water polo games and chat about how school is going and his plans for his future. We have been blessed to watch him grow over the past year and a half. He was even crowned Homecoming King this year.

       Our adventure continues even though we are not hosting full time. Our family is signed up as a respite family, giving the full time families a break when they need it. This last weekend we had the blessing of hosting two boys for the weekend. One from China, the other from Brazil. They came on Friday night and stayed till Sunday night. Over their time with us the boys and our sons went to the park and played basketball together, they ate pizza, they played video games, they laughed and sang and even danced a little. The Brazilian boy loves to sing! We also had another Chinese boy join us for dinner one of the nights. I told my younger son he was going to have his own international pizza party! We laughed.

       I look forward to many more international adventures as God brings students into our home. I am on the mission field in my own home!!

2 Corinthians 5:20, “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors.”

Evening of Blessings

            Last Saturday I was treated to an evening of continual blessings. It all began three years ago when I told my wonderful Dad and lovely Step-mom that my favorite song is “Bye, Bye, Miss American Pie”, by Don McClean. Since then they have been keeping their eye out for him to come out in concert. Well, about a month ago my Dad called and asked what my husband and I were doing on October 29^th. I told him we didn’t have any plans and that we were open that evening. He told me that Don McClean was in concert in Santa Barbara that night and that he had just bought tickets for the four of us to go.  Yippeee! Now Don McClean came out with song when I was about two years old, but it still has special meaning to me. It takes me back to simpler times. I cry every time I hear it. I make my kids listen to it in the car.

          So Saturday, October 29^th arrived and at about 4:00 PM we all hopped in the car and drove up to Santa Barbara for a special night. We walked around town a little bit and then headed to the restaurant for dinner; Carlitos Café and Cantina. Mexican, my favorite! We had a lovely time, wonderful family time, great conversation, yummy food and amazing weather. Even though it is the end of October, it was warm enough to be with out a sweater.

         After dinner we headed down the street to the Granada Theater. It was an older theater that had been remodeled beautifully. We took our seats, orchestra section, center stage. I was literally, directly in front of his microphone stand.  Don Mc Clean took the stage at exactly 8:00 PM. I kept waiting for the seats in the row ahead of us to be filled. They never were. We had a perfect view the entire night. Amazing!

        We were treated to many beautiful songs that evening. One song he had us sing along with him. It was “Keys to the Kingdom”. It went something like this- I got the keys to the Kingdom, the world won’t get me down. He sang about Peter, Paul, Silas and John the Baptist, during times of trouble, calling heaven asking for Jesus on the phone. It was a fun, lively song that everyone joined in on. Then the big moment came; “American Pie”. Of course tears came to my eyes as I got to hear my favorite song, live. After Don finished the song we all got up to give a standing ovation. As we stood there clapping he started some of the verses over again, this time with all of us singing along.  What a blessed evening.

      It all happened because two special people took the time to notice what I like, had been on the lookout for three years to get me tickets, and treated us to my favorite food.

That is what thoughtful looks like.

Philippians 2:4, “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

Lord, help me to be this thoughtful and mindful of others; making them feel special and loved. Amen

Butting Heads

Yes, you read that correctly. You see, when you have two stubborn buttheads you are bound to butt heads. So often we think we have something so important to say. We feel we must be heard.  As we are trying to get our point across someone else butts in with an entirely different point of view. We can either listen open-mindedly or continue on with our point of view, not listening or wanting to give in at all. Many times we completely misinterpret each other. We assign wrong motives to what the other one is saying. Making assumptions is a way of asking for a disagreement or fight.  If only we would stop and listen, try to understand the other person’s point of view and the reasoning behind it; then we would have peaceful relationships, and often gain some wisdom.

James 1:19, “ My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,”

I can’t seem to master this one. I’ll let you know if I do. For now I will just keep trying.

Blessed Interruptions

This morning I was going over the chapter called “ The Sacred Present” in my study of “Simplicity”.  I had my cup of coffee nearby and my workbook in hand. I was just reflecting on the subject of the “Brevity of Life” according to the verse –

 Psalm 39:4-5,

⁴ “Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be.
Remind me that my days are numbered—
how fleeting my life is.
⁵ You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand.
My entire lifetime is just a moment to you;
at best, each of us is but a breath.”

I was reminded how short my time here really is in the grand scheme of life.  That time is fleeting and passes by oh, so quickly.  I was given this question; How do I best spend this precious time?  Is it with the rigidity of sticking to an inflexible schedule, getting everything on my agenda done, not wanting any “distraction”?  I had sat down to do some quiet study; I had a purpose and a plan.

As I was reflecting on this verse and what it means to me, my husband came up and said “Come with me, I want to show you something.” Many times I get a little annoyed when I am interrupted when I am in the middle of something. I put my study down, got up and followed him upstairs. He took me out onto the balcony. The view was amazing; the sky was crystal clear, a warm breeze was blowing. As we stood there together enjoying the view, we heard the “Star Spangled Banner” being sung from the park nearby. As the song ended we heard the baseball crowd cheer and applaud. Just think, if I had stuck to my plan and not embraced the moment, I would have missed out on a beautiful opportunity to enjoy a precious moment with my husband. I was truly blessed by being present in the moment. So often we miss out on the present, because we ourselves are not fully present. Our minds are somewhere else. How many times do we see or engage in the action of texting or checking our phones or doing something else, while we should be enjoying the company of those in our actual presence? We cannot build relationships or create fulfilling memories when we are only half engaged. We must consciously decide to notice, appreciate and savor every moment. Each moment is a gift we must take the time to open and marvel at.

Psalm 90:12,

“Teach us how short life is, so that we may become wise.”

Growing up

Be Glad

Last week a friend of mine gave a talk on the overflowing peace that comes as we walk with the Lord. Her theme verse was, “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it”, Psalm 118:24. It has stuck with me all week. Life has been quite busy for me the last two weeks. It has been filled with many ups and a couple of downs, but through it all I claimed the verse above and cherished every moment.  Each day and activity has brought with it an important life lesson. My time has been filled with drives to water polo games, working, volunteering as senior class photographer, and the exciting homecoming events for my sons’ school.

         The first life lesson I gained is that in the midst of all life’s busyness we must consciously choose to make time for ourselves and the Lord, and to seize opportunities as they arise. Thursday after work as I headed to my son’s afternoon water polo game, (right near the beach), I noticed I had half an hour or so before his game started, so instead of getting there early and sitting in my car waiting, I used the time to walk along the beach. What a blessing that was! I took a break from the constant hurrying and enjoyed the beautiful day. As I walked along the shore letting the waves splash up on me I was refreshed not just physically, but mentally and spiritually as well.  Stepping back for a moment gives us a clear perspective and a joyful attitude.

     The second lessons I learned were at that water polo game, “Trust in the Lord” and “pray on all occasions”. My son plays goalie, so the pressure was on. As a mom I also have the role of cheerleader. That day they played against a very hard team, but my son did a good job of blocking many balls, two of which were with his face. So my cheerleading stopped, as my role of mom came to the fore front. I could see the pain in his eyes. He was struggling, but would not quit. The refs didn’t seem to notice, so I yelled to my son to call a time out, but he motioned to me that he would be ok. All I could do was sit there and pray. Actually, that was the most important thing I could do for my son. When we feel helpless, He is our help. My son’s jaw is healing nicely. I will continue to pray for his safety and protection.

The third lesson I learned is that there is a reason we go to high school when we are young… it takes a lot of energy. It sure is fun to step back and watch my boys go through this adventure though.  Sometimes I start to reflect on when they were little and I miss the silly childhood fun. But, I have learned that as scripture says, “Don’t long for the good old days” (Ecclesiastes 7:10), instead enjoy the present. I am actually in the process of making more “good old days”.  The week of homecoming brings a lot of excitement and activities, such as dressing up each day. One of the days my 14 year old went to school in dinosaur pajamas and my 17 year old went with a bike helmet covered in aluminum foil. The themes were “prehistoric” and “future”.  So, it turns out, we don’t have to give up the silly childhood fun after all.

      I was able to watch the fourth in action with my sons this weekend. True and Christ-like friends are priceless. They give you a safe place to be yourself; they show you it’s ok to not go to the “cool kid” party, even if you are invited. True friends support you, encourage you, protect you and love you. It’s better to spend time with a small group of true friends than be surrounded by a huge group of acquaintances who really don’t have your best interest at heart. Friends who encourage you on “paths of righteousness” are your real friends.

 Psalm 18:24, “ A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”

My fifth and final lesson this week is, “what satan intends for evil, God uses for good”. There was a little bump in the road this weekend and it could have turned into a huge mountain if eyes were not on God. Due to respect of privacy I can’t go into great detail of the event, but I can tell you, God is good. He tells us to bring everything into the light, have open communication, trusting each other and God, whatever comes our way. Satan only wins when we keep things in the dark, letting division and mistrust set in. God is a healer and a restorer, making things better than before. Look to Him first and foremost. “He blesses us beyond anything we could ask or even imagine”.

Lemon

Lemonade

Lemonade

        About two years ago, I got a new car. Actually it was better than new. It was used, with only a few thousand miles on it; which meant we got a really good deal on it… or so we thought.   I was really enjoying this car. It was the perfect size, a smaller SUV; which was a step down from my large SUV. It was nice and roomy inside, plenty of cargo space and better gas mileage. Well, not long after we got it, it started breaking down. It got to the point we had to call a tow truck to come pick it up about twice a week. They would tow it to the dealership; they would fix it up and then call us to come pick it up. After a few days, the same cycle would happen again. It seems the engine could not cool properly. The gauges would show the engine getting steaming hot, and stuff would pour out of the bottom. We knew we had a lemon, but we had to wait out the process. Eventually the dealership would have to agree with us and legally declare it a lemon.

           So, one day (when it was supposedly fixed) I took the boys and our cousin for a fun-filled day at the beach. On our way home we took the windiest canyon of all, Decker. We had made our way to the top of the canyon when all of a sudden the red lights were flashing and the check engine light was blaring. Smoke or steam (not sure which) started to come out from under the hood. We quickly pulled over and jumped out of the car. I knew my car might be lost, but I didn’t want to have to replace beach chairs on top of that. So we quickly got everything that wasn’t nailed down, out of the car and then moved a bit away (in case it exploded). I called my husband and he called the tow truck, again. Now, while we were waiting, we could have been pretty bummed out, but instead we turned it into a party of sorts. We unfolded our beach chairs, opened the cooler, got out some snacks and drinks. As we sat there relaxing, cars would drive by periodically. We began waving and clapping and hooting and hollering hello to everyone that passed by. Everyone would wave, smile, honk and holler back, but no one ever stopped to see if we needed help. I guess we looked like we were day camping on the side of the road on purpose, since we were having such a good time. Eventually the tow truck did come and eventually our car was declared a lemon and we got our money back. Everything turned out just fine.

         So that’s my story of how to take a lemon and make lemonade, by taking a bad situation and turning it into a fun memory. More important than that is the testimony I can offer when I am not sidetracked or knocked off balance as trials come. The way I handle difficult situations can bring glory to God, if I let what is truly important guide my reactions. Do I always react this well? Unfortunately, no. But it sure is nicer when I do.

"The joy of the Lord is my strength”, Nehemiah 8:10

Lots of Things

One afternoon last week, my neighbor came over for a haircut. While I was cutting her hair, my older son came into the kitchen to look for a snack. As he was looking he asked me what we were having for dinner.  I answered, “Oh, lots of things”, trying to make it sound exciting.  Then he curiously asked, “What kind of things?” To which I replied, “Mashed potatoes (from the night before), taquitos (frozen), a big loaf of French bread, chicken soup (which I had also made the night before), and a few other menu items I can’t even remember.” My neighbor then corrected me, “Oh, leftovers.” I quickly shushed her and told her not to tell my son, but, loud enough for him to hear too. We all started laughing at how I was trying to make leftovers sound so good, as in “lots of things”.  I had been on my feet all day, beautifying some lovely ladies, so I hadn’t really thought of dinner until that moment, and “lots of things” just popped into my head. Later that night, we had another good laugh as I lay out a multicultural smorgasbord for my sons to enjoy.  It was really a strange looking dinner…and that’s ok.  The lesson I came away with, is that I need to let go of perfect, do what I can, and have fun doing it. When Jesus comes back I will be perfected, but until then, He and my family would rather me be lighthearted and serving with a joyful attitude.

²² A cheerful disposition is good for your health;
gloom and doom leave you bone-tired.  Proverbs 17:22, the Message

Carefree

Claiming Simplicity

           At the beginning of summer I set out on a quest to find simplicity. I knew that I needed to begin my search in the Bible. I went online to Christianbook.com. to find a study to help me on this quest. I was longing for a life of quiet simplicity, a break from the rushed busyness of the everyday norm.  I came across a lovely study by Cynthia Heald, called “Becoming a Woman of Simplicity”.  I ordered it for my own personal inspiration, but over the summer I became convinced that other women could benefit from the blessings in this little book too. I decided to offer it as a study for our women’s group at church this fall. The response was overwhelming! Who knew so many women were craving the same simplicity in their lives.

        Since beginning this study I have come to the conclusion that simplicity really begins with God. We are the ones who complicate things. As we “keep company with Him”, He begins to change our priorities; He orders our days, He shows us what to say “yes” to and what to say “no” to. As we walk in “rhythm” with Jesus and take on His plans for our lives, everything falls into place. Everything seems easier.  He's just waiting for us to ask what His plans are for our day, week.. Then when He shows us,  we just need to follow His lead. Jesus calls to us, “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest”.

                                                           An invitation

Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."
Matthew 11:28-30, The Message

Ever Faithful... and the Rain Came

Ever Faithful

Fall is here! I am so excited! Living in California means that an Autumn day often times looks just like a Summer day. But, this morning while I was making school lunches, I looked out the kitchen window and noticed the leaves in the trees were rustling and there were some clouds mixed in with the sunshine. Then I noticed that the patio was getting darker in spots as some sprinkles of rain fell on it.  Yippee! I yelled to my family and ran to look out the front door. I knew that if there was rain and sunshine there was bound to be a rainbow. Sure enough it was right outside my front door. I called to my husband to come and look with me. As we stood there I noticed that it was actually a double rainbow. I was reminded of how ever faithful our God is. He pours out a double blessing on our lives as we look to Him and follow Him. His promise has remained since before time even began. What a wonderful way to start the morning, being reminded of God’s faithfulness to me!

 "I have placed my rainbow in the clouds. It is the sign of my covenant with you and with all the earth." Genesis 9:13, NLT

Consider the Lilies

 Jesus tells us to, “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin.” KJV, Matthew 6:28

What a beautiful lesson God is showing us here. The lilies represent resting in God’s presence, showing that He is the one who takes care of them and provides all the sunshine and rainfall they will need to make them bloom. The contrast is us laboring and toiling, working so hard on our own effort. We literally spin with no direction until we are so tired and dizzy; we just fall down from exhaustion. Jesus wants us to come to Him, rest in Him, and trust in Him completely.  Further on down in verse 6:33 Jesus tells us to,  “ seek first Hi s kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”    My hope is to someday  rest like the lilies, seeking Him first, trusting Him to care for me perfectly. 

 I thank you for joining me on my first blog ever. My desire is to give you glimpses of God through the teachings of scripture and also from the lessons I learn (sometimes the hard way).  My hope is that you can glean something from my stories along the way. Some stories are full of joy, some of sorrow, others of mishaps and also a few of mistakes. I don’t claim to be an expert in any particular area. I’m just a woman who loves the Lord and seek to follow Him with my life.  I am blessed with the privilege of sharing God’s Word in the women’s ministry at my home church, but I wanted to reach out and share God’s heart with even more women.

     I know that we all come from different situations in life, but I am sure that in one way or another our lives and experiences overlap in some way.