What Do You Want To Be When You Grow Up?

“What do you want to be when you grow up?” he asked.

The unexpected question, which has been my “go to” catch phrase to others for years, caught me off-guard. I was sitting down to eat with an open book and writing tablet. I needed clarity and wisdom over some parenting issues. 

When I answered “Anthony’s” (the employee at the restaurant), all too familiar question, “I’m writing a devotional book about purposefully looking to be thankful each day.” He paused, then said with incredible sincerity, “I’m proud of you.” We continued chatting about struggles and remembering to trust GOD’S plan in the waiting, (leaving room for The LORD to work.) We talked about JESUS and HIS Love that continually pours out. The words of wisdom he offered was an answer to my prayers. It helped lift the weight I’d been carrying when I walked in, (was I making the right decisions, showing enough love, doing enough, saying the right motherly things to uplift and encourage?) 

Anthony walked away to help other customers with their trays. Then when he came back he said it again, “I’m really proud of you.” It brought tears to my eyes. Just the simple words, along with GOD’S timely answer to my prayers...sending one of HIS Faithful servant’s to speak truth and life in the unlikeliest of places. 

Friends, I’m thankful for Anthony’s reminder, we all have a calling each and everyday. You never know how much a simple encounter will be the exact words someone needs to hear. Today I was the grateful recipient. But maybe tomorrow GOD will use you or I to be the Blessing someone else has been praying for. Let’s push past fear, hurt or rejection and show up, ready to go/do/say the things JESUS prompts us to...right in the middle of ordinary.

You and I are called for more!

✝️“Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.”~2 Timothy 4:2

Jump on the #ThankfulTrain what are you thankful for?

Stay In The Moment!

I awoke to a whole houseful of my grown boys...oops I mean men. It was one of those heart swelling, overflowing moments. But then I found myself counting how many days I had before Jullien goes back to New York (4) and Elijah heads back to school in Missouri (5). Then I thought, "Why do I do that? Why do I jump ahead instead of staying in the joy of the moment? I have them here right now and I'm dampening my mood by focusing on next week already."

Today, I'm thankful for recognizing a habit that I all too frequently fall into. I'm thankful that in the noticing I can "take captive every thought", submitting it to The LORD in prayer, asking for HIS help to keep me right where HE has me. A time of over-abundant blessings, happiness, love, and heart-filled joy with my boys...men (I have a hard time thinking of them that way😬). So today I will soak it in. I will let it pour over me. I will stay right here and enjoy the day I've been given. 

Friends, join me in remembering that right here and now is a gift from The LORD. It may be a gift of overflowing, growing, learning, resting or even trials that teach the importance of drawing closer to JESUS...your Helper, Savior and Redeemer.

"We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."~2 Corinthians 10:5

Jump on the Thankful Train...what are you thankful for?

Are You Wandering?

While sitting on the beach a group of monks walked past me. It reminded me of life's wandering and searching. The quest to quench a deep seeded thirst for truth. A life journey to fill an empty space. I remember all the things I'd try to fill my emptiness with before I truly accepted JESUS into my heart and life. Some things would temporarily cover the hole for a short time, but slowly, I knew deep within, I was missing something truly important in my life. Eventually, sadness and longing for more crept into my every day routine; something meaningful, healing, restoring. I wandered in search of the next thing to plug the hole, only to find the same end result. 

One day, after a dark, despair filled night, I decided to go back to church and take my whole family with me. I'd tried everything else and realized that it was time to give JESUS a try. My approach was different in that I chose to make it more than a Sunday sermon affair. I decided if I was really going to seek HIM, I needed to get into GOD'S Word and read it for myself...daily. How can you get to know someone without doing your part to get closer?  As I made a commitment to read the Bible ten minutes a day every morning, something began to happen, the truth of GOD'S words began to heal the hole in my heart. It began to heal the hurt in my soul. It began to heal my thoughts, changing my attitude, reminding me that I was loved and made for a purpose. 

I'm thankful JESUS CHRIST found me in my wandering. I'm thankful HE pulled me close. 

Friends, if you're in the wandering stage of life and still feel emptiness at your very core, I want to challenge you to seek JESUS. Don't take my word for it or anyone else's, go straight to The LORD in prayer. Ask HIM to reveal HIMSELF to you. Open up the Holy Bible and read GOD'S Words, love letters written specifically for you and I. A guide to true healing in every single area. GOD created an open place in each of our hearts that only HE can fill. 

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."~John 14:6

Jump on the Thankful Train...what are you thankful for?

Look It's Pokemon GO People!

Some days you just have to say *yes* to 12 mile beach boardwalk bike rides and hand holding!😍

We rested and had a picnic lunch at the waters edge. While relaxing the hubby, Anthony said, "Look, there's some of those Pokemon Go people. Let's watch and see if they chase Pokemon into the ocean."😂 They didn't...but all of a sudden they both took off running full speed down the beach. Meanwhile another group of boys were playing football in the ocean. And right there in front of us, the differences. Each person uniquely and wonderfully made for a purpose. We are all wired differently. GOD's plan. 

Friends, as the world seeks to divide and separate with violence and hate, I'm reminded that GOD is still Sovereign over all. HE created each of us. We are perfectly and wonderfully made. JESUS continually calls us back to HIS Love, Wisdom, Forgiveness, Mercy and Grace...re-setting our hearts and minds back to Truth. Let's remember to use the different gifts and talents GOD's Given us for a greater purpose. Shine the Light of CHRIST in you as HE leads you to the lost, hurting and broken. This world seems to be falling apart. Let's remember who we are in CHRIST. Love more. Judge less. 

I'm thankful for the reminder of the very differences that GOD has given each of us. We are all called for a purpose. Let's not shrink back or fall short in the face of it all. Let's you and I remember to walk closer to The LORD each day, allowing HIM to Strengthen us to be all HE's created us to be. Our differences united together for HIS Will.

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."~Romans 12:2

"For You formed my inward parts;

You covered me in my mother’s womb.

I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works,

And that my soul knows very well"~Psalm 139:13-14

"We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully."~Romans 12:6-9

Jump on the "Thankful Train"...what are you thankful for?

Let's Be More Like Annie!

Her hair was short, blonde and disheveled. Her face wore the marks of difficulties. Her cane bore the weight of a limp. Her entire life belongings stuffed into two baskets. A large, long, waterproof Edison jacket shielded the wind from her frail body. 

As I passed her I told her I liked her jacket (being an Edison fan and all😉). She turned to look at me, smiling as she said, "Thank you! A kind woman took it off her back on a rainy day and gave it to me."

"Wow! So you were Blessed," I replied. 

"Yes I was, but they will be Blessed also for their kindness!" she exclaimed with a knowing nod, her eyes squinting as her smile broadened. 

I asked if I could buy her lunch. 

"Oh no, someone just fed me and I'm full. But thank you!"

"So GOD is making sure your needs are met?" I asked.

"Yes HE is!" She assured me.

"Can I pray for you? I love to pray for people, what's your name?" I asked.

"Annie." 

"Well Annie, what do you specifically need prayer for?"

Her brows furrowed closer together in deep thought. 

"How about your leg? Can I pray for healing for that? I suggested.

"Oh yes! I was hit by a car and shattered my pelvis and hip. I also have arthritis in my knee and ankle on the same side," she said.

As we said our goodbye's I told her I'd continue to pray for her. 

"Have a good day Annie," I said, smiling and waving as I headed to my car.

"You too," she said waving back. 

As I reached my car she yelled, "Have a *Blessed* day!" Her eyes but small straight lines as her smile overtook her entire face as she emphasized *Blessed*.

And since my "Thankful Train" doesn't have a limit on how many things one can be thankful for...I'm thankful for Annie and her reminder of Blessings in the midst of struggle. She notices and is grateful for each and every daily kindness. 

Let's notice friends. Let's see things more through Annie's eyes. 

"And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart."~Galatians 6:9

HE is Risen!

HE is Risen! 

"He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay."~Matthew 28:6

On this day, Resurrection Day, I'm reminded of the gift of The Hope and Glory that JESUS CHRIST has given. A gift so insurmountable. New life. Eternal life for all who believe in and on HIM. Holy, Mighty and Powerful is HIS Name. The Name above all Names, JESUS CHRIST. "Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name"~Philippians 2:9

HE is Risen! I am forever thankful.

Friends, let's not forget the true reason we Celebrate this day. Don't take HIS Gift of New Resurrected Life, Eternal Life for granted. Don't let another day go by without asking HIM into or back into your heart and life. 

Climb aboard the "Thankful Train"...let's join in thanking JESUS together today!

Are You Looking For Your True Purpose? Start Here!

Why does my to-do list always try to steal my joy? I was feeling rushed and discouraged as I walked up to the school to purchase a large number of Bell Game (big football rivalry game) tickets. A bus load of special needs kids were being helped out. "Okay, perfect," I thought..."I'll pray for all these kids whose life struggles are no where near anything I *ever* have to deal with." I silently said a quick prayer as I heard one of teachers struggling to get a girl off the bus. I didn't think much of it and hurried to the ticket window. 

The grocery store was next, when I realized I needed one more ticket. I quickly shopped (about 20 min) and headed back to the school. I ran up to get the additional ticket. On the way back a beautiful young down syndrome girl was getting off the bus, head down, wiping tears as her caregiver reprimanded her. It had taken 30 minutes for her to find the courage to exit. She was having a difficult day. I slowed as she passed and prayed for her. 

Three more stops led me to three beautiful, warriors, women who'd lost their hair as they courageously charged the silent enemy inside...cancer. More opportunities to offer prayers for the very people The LORD had placed in front of me. 

I'm thankful for the reminder that people are truly going through incredible difficulties & I have the opportunity each and everyday to stand in the gap and pray for them. What a Blessing and wonderful responsibility/honor The LORD gives us. There's always someone struggling who needs to be lifted up to our HEALER. Pay attention friends...you may be the only person praying for them. 

Who is in front of you today? 

It's time to pray!!!

*Pray for All Men*~"Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men"~1 Timothy 2:1

Jump on the "Thankful Train"...keep your eyes up and look for opportunities. What are you thankful for?

GOD'S BLESSING

...and at just the right moment, as my finger pressed down freezing the view, he flew in, blurred wings, flight in motion, flared tail speed reduction and a boat called, "God's Blessing."

It was all too perfect. "God's Blessing." This old fishing boat that didn't appear to be much by today's standards of bigger, better, newer...provided a living, food; valuable in sustaining. 

I'm thankful for the reminder that The LORD'S Blessings, the very things HE'S given us are exactly what we need, *valuable in sustaining*...financially/physically/emotionally. HE'S Blessed each one of us, but all too often we're sitting in a place of discontentment, wanting, coveting, complaining...unable/unwilling/forgetting to focus on all we *do* have.

Today friends, pause, look around. Look at all that The LORD *has* Blessed you with. Take a moment to be grateful and Thank HIM. This small act will transform your day!

"For GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whoever believes in HIM should not perish but have everlasting life."~John 3:16

You Are Not Going To Take What's Mine!

Yesterday I captured this image. I LOVED it! The way the little boy stared down this hungry pelican looking for a free meal. It was as if the boy was letting him know, "You are not going to take what is mine."

I'm thankful for this reminder... when the enemy threatens to attack, flooding me with worry, fear and discouragement I can say, "You are not going to steal what is mine in CHRIST today." 

He is already defeated. Don't grow weary friends for in due season you will reap a reward. We know how this story ends. Stand on the strength, hope, faith, trust and love of JESUS today. HE'S got this!

"And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart."~Galatians 6:9

"And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen."~Romans 16:20

I Called To Him...

I kneeled, softening my voice I coaxed him near to me. He responded. No hesitation. He sensed my hope. He stood right next to me, standing at attention...waiting. Suddenly fear took over. Unsure. Did I do the right thing calling him to me? Did I really think he would come? 

He just waited. Still. Motionless. 

I had his full attention, and yet *I* began to waiver. 

How similar this situation is to our walk with JESUS? We call HIM near to us in hopeful expectation and then we waiver. Doubt. Fear. Uncertainty. 

Is HE really going to answer?  

Is HE going to draw near to me in this moment? 

Often times we slowly back away, while HE waits attentively, patiently, lovingly, for the next moment you seek HIM hoping you'll *still* long enough, to allow HIM to fill you, guide you, give you peace, love, comfort and direction. 

Today, do not move away but call JESUS closer. Give HIM access to *every* area that "so easily entangles." For it is in the letting go, putting all faith and trust in The LORD that HE is able to move. 

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on JESUS, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV)

WHEN FOLLOW THROUGH & LACK OF DEDICATION COLLIDE!

Today in class they prompted people to go into "Crow Pose." I balanced my knees on my arms, but was only able to accomplish a quick little push off the ground with my feet. A few little mini-hops. No balancing. My arm strength just isn't there yet. I looked over to see my son balanced and holding his "Crow Pose" perfectly. His arm strength, obviously working to his advantage. He puts in daily time, preparing for his upcoming football season; lifting, running and now weekly yoga classes for flexibility, balance and to avoid injuries. The work is paying off. Dedication.

I on the other hand am hit or miss with my workouts/gym time. The result of my lack of dedication very apparent in my strength and body image. Oh believe me...I want that summer body. I'd love to feel strong and healthy, but somewhere in-between my want and follow through there's a lack of dedication.

How often does a lack of dedication to a relationship with Jesus Christ get in the way of your desire to grow stronger in your faith and trust?

How can you trust when you're not putting in the time to truly get to know your Savior?

How can you grasp the depth of His love, forgiveness, and healing power in your life if you never seek Him?

Would you trust an acquaintance whom you may barely say hello to with very personal and/or intimate details of your life...even if other people told you how amazing and trustworthy they are?

No.

Why?

Because you have not personally formed a deep relationship with this person. Our human nature keeps us at a safe distance from people we are not familiar with. The enemy will use trials, struggles, pain, loss and heartache to keep you from seeking The Lord. Jesus wants you to truly seek Him. To ask Him into your life and heart. He wants to reveal who HE IS and how much HE LOVES AND CARES for you.

Today, make a commitment or re-commit your life...get to know your Savior on a personal and intimate level. Don't just know "about" Him...seek Him throughout your day. Put in the time to talk to Him. Read His love letters to you (The Bible). This dedication to a true, deep and meaningful "relationship" with Jesus will reveal the things you've been longing for in your life. A peace that surpasses all understanding. A love that abounds in the midst of your every day, ordinary life. His Light, Wisdom, Guidance, Truth and Direction...overflowing. 

  

Let the words of this old Hymn fill those empty places with truth today:

WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS-(Joseph M. Scriven-1855)

What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do your friends despise, forsake you? Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield you; you will find a solace there.

Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised Thou wilt all our burdens bear
May we ever, Lord, be bringing all to Thee in earnest prayer.
Soon in glory bright unclouded there will be no need for prayer

Rapture, praise and endless worship will be our sweet portion there.

"Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."~ Philippians 4:4-7

UNDESERVED

I sat in the waiting room trying to stay busy and pray for my son, Josh who was in surgery for an extensive ankle break from a recent motorcycle accident.

There were two girls sitting to my left, also waiting for a loved one. A doctor, still in his operating scrubs came directly up to the two women. He began to talk to them about the surgery, his voice lowering to a whisper in the crowded waiting room. He stayed and talked to them for quite a while. Once he left, the younger girl leaned into the older one's arms and began to cry. I started praying for them, assuming they'd received bad news. 

After a few minutes she lifted her head and said very loudly, "Thank You Jesus, Thank You Jesus, Thank You Jesus!" Her tears had been tears of joy. The surgery was a success and she knew exactly WHO to thank. 

How many prayers has the Lord answered for you? How many times have you been blessed throughout your life? Are there too many to count...too many to recall? Do you remember to cry out and thank Jesus each and every time? Does your everyday life reflect your gratitude?

These are all questions I need to ask myself. I don't ever want to get into a place of complacency; a place where I don't thank my Lord for His many blessings. But if I'm honest, sometimes I do. I expect and receive. In my haste and rush I may forget to say, "Thank you Lord." I mean really..how many times throughout the day do I feel His love, His comfort, His peace and His guidance? They are all blessings...not to mention the specific requests answered.

I need to remember to always stay in a constant state of gratitude. The Lord has been good to me. Undeserved Blessings. Undeserved Love. Undeserved Forgiveness. Thank you Jesus for Your unending, over-flowing showers of grace and mercy. May I take my thankful heart and point people to You. Offering them the same undeserved, forgiving, redeeming, restoring love of You, Jesus. May I daily cry out, "Thank You Jesus, Thank You Jesus, Thank You Jesus!"

But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”~Matthew 19:26

And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.~2 Corinthians 12:9

Jesus said to him, “It is as you said. Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.”~Matthew 26:64

ARE FOGGY DAYS SURROUNDING YOU?

The fog was thick. I walked farther hoping it would lift and provide the view I'd come for. Unfortunately, it grew thicker with each step. I stopped and decided to make the best of the moment. I knew that although the conditions weren't ideal, there was still beauty in it. I may have to look a little harder, focus on something other than easy, because simple was hidden.

I lifted my phone to  snap a picture of the fog bank over the ocean, when a seagull flew right towards me. Startled, I jumped back, regaining composure just in time to get the bird in flight, close enough not to be blurred by the fog.

I scanned the pier. A lone boy fishing, skateboard laid aside. A row of fishing poles perfectly lied up. Telescopes empty...unusable in the present conditions. 

Click. Click. Click.  

All beautiful. All right in front of me...close enough to see when I actually decided to focus on it; when I no longer tried to scan the distant blurred ocean landscape.

Life can often be like this foggy day. You may always be focusing too intently on the blurred future, missing the very things Jesus is placing right in front of you at the moment.

Are you forgetting to slow down, to stop, to look around? Where you're at right now may not be easy. What you're going through can seem dreary and dim. But it's right where the Lord has you. This very second you can ask Him to show you what He wants you to see. 

Things may not be ideal, but the Lord's beauty can still be found in the foggy days of life. Ask Him to reveal truth to you. Ask for His joy, peace, comfort and direction. He will show you the way. The beautiful things right here...right now...slow down. Focus on the Lord for a minute. He's close enough not to be blurred by life's fog. Stay in the moment as He gently reminds you...

And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."~ 2 Corinthians 12:9

"This is the day the Lord has made;
We will rejoice and be glad in it."~Psalm 118:24

What Do Your Words Say About You?

"He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”
John 7:38

My words come quickly. My tongue unleashes with a biting sting. This has been my struggle. This is my daily prayer. "Your Words not mine, Lord." Use what I say to uplift, not tear down. My ever constant plea.

When I was younger, I learned the importance of words and the effect they had on people. It was my defense mechanism. A sure fire way to keep people at a distance. I honed my skill through life struggles of raising three boys alone for several years. I was always standing guard. My mouth a willing sword.

Due to years of practice, my mouth seemed to take on a mind of it's own. Where once I'd only lash out at someone I felt was attacking me or my family, soon became anyone or anything that made me upset or angry. This weapon was hurtful. 

As my life continued to spiral out of control, one hurt and disappointment after another, I knew I needed a drastic change. My life and my family's had become unmanageable, chaotic, I knew the answer. I'd been running from the truth for years. I couldn't understand how my life had traveled so far off track. I needed more of Jesus and less of me.

We started going back to church. I prayed for help in all areas of my life, especially my mouth. I started reading scriptures first thing in the morning before getting out of bed; before the hectic day sucked every last minute away.  I turned my radio to a Christian station while driving. The upbeat worship music calmed my aggressive mind and mouth. I began to speak kinder. I had more control over what I said. I felt a need to encourage others with words instead of tearing down. Jesus was filling me up with His love and truth; mending old habits and scars.

My words...my lifelong struggle...they were being used for good. For the purpose and will of God. Words that brought hope, pointing people to the Healer, Jesus Christ. My scripture and prayer time  was actually the most healing gift I'd ever been given. I laid my struggles, hurt and weakness at the foot of the cross each morning. Jesus met me in that place. He carried my pain. He encouraged me, "Write and speak My words; words that edify and lift up, leading the lost hurting and broken to their Healer, Jesus Christ."

Today, lay your troubles at the feet of Jesus. Let Him heal you and use you. He has a great and glorious plan for your life. He makes ALL things new; turning even weaknesses into your greatest strengths. Call out to Him. He is near to the downcast and broken-hearted.

"Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up." James 4:10

"Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time,  casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:6-7