Do You Ever Feel a Christmas Let Down?

After all the rushing to get just the right things, Christmas Day is upon us. I don't know about you but the hours and weeks I put into the preparation sometimes leaves me feeling a little let down. Within a few short minutes presents are ripped open and the day is complete. It's a weird feeling. Don't get me wrong, I love seeing the joy the gifts bring, but I guess I just want it to last longer. But then I'm reminded of the gift of this day that is endless! Today is the day that Love came down...GOD became man. HE sent HIS Son, JESUS CHRIST as a Love offering. A gift of such incredible greatness, to lead the way. HE came to show us how to walk through this life. HE was sent to take away our sin and shame; to wipe every tear and lift every burden. JESUS taught with words that astonished; forgive, show love and compassion, care for the lost, hurting and broken around you. HE performed miracles that caused the sick, hopeless and destitute to be healed. HE rose people from death to life. And in the end, HE surrendered all in HIS final and greatest act of Love, Sacrificed upon the shameful cross, beaten and bloodied...to Rise on the third day appearing in newness of life. "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?"~1 Corinthians 15:5 ringing throughout Eternity. 

Love has won. 

The Risen King is Victorious. 

Friends, we often forget to accept GOD'S gift. We push aside the opening of HIS Love. We make it about us...are we good enough, deserving, worthwhile/worthy of such a gift? The answer is...no, not one of us is worthy of such an incredible sacrifice. But the beauty of the greatest present GOD could bestow upon us, JESUS CHRIST, is that HE gave HIS Son to each of us just as we are, in our imperfect state, so that in and through CHRIST, we are made whole. HIS Grace is enough. HIS Love transforms. 

Oh friends, I'm so thankful for a Love that is enough for my lacking. I'm thankful for the day of my SAVIOR'S birth. The greatest day in history. 

Will you join in a daily choice, continually unwrapping the gift of JESUS CHRIST? 

I pray we accept HIS Grace, Mercy, Love, and Forgiveness, each and every day. May we know that JESUS has conquered anything we face; Love was born to save us all...a gift of unending joy. "For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."~Isaiah 9:6

Merry Christmas+

Jump on the #ThankfulTrain...what are you oh thankful for?

Just A Little Farther...

The water splashed all around as the board gracefully glided through. The kids frolicked, water at the center of their fun. But just a few feet in front of them was the clean ocean water. They stopped too soon. They were sitting in the middle of the drainage/run off water. Unbeknownst to them, it wasn't the best place for them to stop. They needed to continue to walk forward, out of the dirty water and into the crashing, clean waves in front of them where the tide disperses any contamination into hundreds and thousands of miles of ocean, cleaning it. 

I'm always puzzled by this. I want to run down and say, "Get out of there! Don't let your kids play in that water."

Isn't that just what our Heavenly Father thinks as we sit in the "contaminated" things in our life? Isn't HE calling us to come out of it? Why do we all too often sit in the very places that is toxic to our souls?

The enemy's deception is slow and steady. One step here, a little step there until one day you're frolicking in a mess of destructive behavior and choices.

Here's some truth friends...
You NEVER have to stay there and continue to "sit" in it. JESUS is right in front of you. Do you not hear HIM tugging at your heart? One right decision at a time, prompting you to take a step in HIS direction as HE grabs hold of you hand. You do not have to walk alone.

Today, stop. PRAY. Ask JESUS to help you move towards HIM. Ask HIM to pull you out of the muck and the mire of wrong choices. You're never too far. Your never beyond HIS reach. Let the Redeeming Blood of JESUS clean you up and set you free!

Lord, I ask YOU to come into my heart and life. Remove anything that is not of YOU. Set me free from the chains and bondage of sin that has held me captive for far too long. I ask you to come into my life JESUS, making all things new. Forgive me and help me to forgive myself. 
I say these things in YOUR Mighty and Powerful Name JESUS, Amen.

"This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin." 1 John 1:5-7 

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

PART II-BAD BEHAVIOR CONCLUSION

We entered in, moving quickly to arrive first. As we secured our spots...Mandy came in. I placed my mat farther back leaving room for her, but my son Elijah must not have remembered and put his mat down right where I'd promised Mandy (during my last week's "Bad Behavior-Part I Episode.") I asked him to move to the outside spot so I could keep my word. He gladly pulled his mat over. She was so happy to see that we were looking out for her. She joined in on our conversations and after class happily said, "See you all next week!"

We have a new friend!

It was a much different scenario than last week. I felt better. I kept my word and took the spot behind her. Less of me and more Christ-like love showing up in my everyday life.

I LOVE the best and I'm bold enough to push to the front to secure what "I want." But at what cost? I never used to ponder these things. How do my actions make others feel? When I decide to bulldoze into a position at any cost...it affects others. They see "me" in all my selfishness. If I'm truly letting the Lord change me, renew, restore and make "all" things new in my life, then my everyday actions should reflect this. When I feel that pang of guilt, the truth being revealed about my actions, am I willing to do something about it? Do I ask the Lord to help me make better choices...better decisions? I want more of Jesus in my life and less of myself. I've proven over and over again that I make poor choices when left to my own devices. I need my Savior to step into each and every area of my life. No holding back. No keeping certain areas for me to try to handle alone.

Being a Christian doesn't make me perfect. Being a Christian is my profession that I am broken and need a Savior, Jesus Christ, in my life. He is changing my heart and mind daily. He began with the big obvious areas and as He cleaned house, He moved toward the nooks and cranny's that aren't as obvious; always with love; always with gentleness. He wants more for me and my life...a true reflection of His heart in my everyday. 

Today if the Lord is revealing truth to areas of your life that need change...don't close the door. Fling it open. Say, "Here's my mess LORD, come inside and help me. I can't do it without YOU anymore." Let Jesus enter in and make ALL things new today. It's a simple prayer of letting go and asking your Savior Jesus Christ to enter in.

Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.”~Revelations 21:5

"Behold, I will do a new thing,
Now it shall spring forth;
Shall you not know it?
I will even make a road in the wilderness
And rivers in the desert."~Isaiah 43:19

"So Jesus answered and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ it will be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive."~Matthew 21:21-22

IS YOUR LIFE RIPE YET?

I look up and there it was, late into the sumer...bountiful fruit on thin tree branches; faithfully sprouting. Through spring and summer, the tree remained bare, but the owner knew if this tree was watered, pruned and cared for, the fruit would come. When it seemed too late in the season, the tree blossomed with a sweet, ripe, harvest. It produced food to fill the body with nature's nutrients. A blessing in the waiting...trust.

You too are created to bare fruit. The fruit of "Christ in you, the hope of glory."

"To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:" Colossians 1:27

When you allow THE LORD to water, prune and care for your soul, HE fills you with HIS nourishing Word and Truth. This nutrient produces abundant fruit in your life. The cares, worries, doubt, pain, fear and sorrows, give way to the fruit of the Holy Spirit. This fruit fills you for the journey THE LORD has planned for you. A travel that requires constant Spiritual Food. The good stuff you need inside of you, the feeding of an often parched and weary soul. This fruit is invisible to the naked eye but seen through the nutrients it produces; "Love, Joy, Peace, Longsuffering, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control."

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control." Galatians 5:22-23

The true light of JESUS CHRIST shining first in you and then through you. You begin to do and say things that uplift, not tear down. You have strength to say, "Yes LORD, YOUR will," in the midst of tough situations you may be facing,

"saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” Luke 22:42

You know that the strength of your LORD is carrying you beyond the, "all about me" focus...to the lost, hurting and broken who are sitting in darkness. Your life, having been pruned, forgiven, renewed...now being used to lead others to JESUS CHRIST. He restores the failing heart and soul; each Scripture, each Prayer, each Word of Encouragement HE speaks deep inside the soul as you spend time with HIM...FOOD! 

The Lord is asking you to be faithful in the waiting. Stand firm in your resolve to seek HIM daily. Let HIM fill you. You were made for more. You're a special, chosen child of God. 

During the pruning seasons, stand strong in the knowledge that The LORD will work ALL things "together for good to those who love HIM, to those who are the called according to HIS purpose" 

"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28

And then, in that perfect moment, all the growing and waiting springs forth the fruit of JESUS CHRIST in your life. Be faithful; patient in the waiting...God's not done with you yet...HIS MASTERPIECE!!!

Are You Stuck In Life's Riptide?

"C'mon! Get in here!" We stood at the waters edge yelling, waving our arms. My son and nephew were deep in the big waves...too far out for inexperienced 12 & 14 year old boys. Worry began to flood. I noticed with each crashing wave, every paddle and kick, they still seemed to be heading deeper and deeper out into the ocean. They were caught in a riptide. The rules of escape need to be taught. I'd told my son but maybe not enough. My young nephew had no idea being from Utah and not familiar with ocean dangers. 

My brother & I continued to yell. I motioned for them to paddle horizontal to the shoreline to help them get out of the riptide and come in. Unfortunately, it didn't seem to be getting through  to them, they continued trying to swim against the ocean force. I knew that we may have to both jump in and save them.

Finally, a large wave broke through pushing them close enough to touch. 

The spray of the ocean across my face matched the refreshing relief in my heart. Sigh. 

That quick!

In a moment things can turn from fun to danger.

When life choices take us out into deep water; when you seem to be swimming and getting nowhere, heading deeper and deeper into a dangerous place...grab hold of your safety net. Reach out for the Lord's outstretched hand. He's yelling, "C'mon! Get in here! Let Me help you. Let me save you from drowning. Take my hand and walk with me."

Like the escape route of a riptide requires following the shoreline until you're safely out of harms way; our walk with Jesus is the same. When we choose to look to Him, to follow Him, we find ourselves safely out of the danger of our poor decisions. Washed clean. Restored. Made brand new in Christ's image, through His sacrifice.

Don't think you're too far gone. He has come to save YOU. He loves YOU. He wants to help YOU. He wants to guide you back to a safe and secure place...HIS LOVE.

Don't continue to swim against life's riptides hoping you'll eventually reach the shore. You're not designed to go this journey alone. That emptiness...that thing in your life that you're constantly trying to fill with (FILL IN THE BLANK) (drugs, alcohol, sex, lying, cheating, pride, stealing, hurting, unforgiveness)...whatever your space is, it can only be filled with the love of Jesus. Look to your Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the lifeguard of your life. Call to Him...HE WILL RESCUE YOU!  

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
"The Lord has appeared of old to me, saying: “Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you." 
Jeremiah 31:3

"If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full." 
John 15:10-11

"You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore." 

Psalm 16:11

IN THE WAITING...

It only takes "Faith the Size of a Mustard Seed"

I can't see it. I continue to hope. It doesn't look hopeful. I stand on promises. In the waiting I'm required to have faith. This faith doesn’t feel like much some days. I grip, grasp, cling…the small window appears as I press my face tightly against it. I try to see in, looking for that glimmer of change…a different view than the present. The curtain closes and I'm back in the waiting. Doubt threatens to steal. I'm sinking. What can I do?

It's in that moment of darkness; when I'm ready to give up, in the waiting, that I'm reminded of the Lord’s unending promises. "Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!” Psalms 27:14.

His timing is always perfect, maybe not perfect by my standards or limited view, but He knows exactly what I need in this situation, at this time. When the Lord moves, no one can stop Him. The doors fling open at the sound of His Voice. The way of impossible becomes possible. The path is cleared…the miracles abound. The prayer once a whisper, a cry, a plea, it’s answered…His answers.

In the waiting you are taught to persevere, never lose sight of Jesus, pray even if you only have faith the size of a mustard seed. So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20

Don't shrink back in the dry seasons. Don't give up before the miracle. Wait on the Lord. “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31

In the waiting know that Jesus is holding you, teaching you to lean on Him in all things. Grab hold of his outstretched hand…in the waiting.

Are You Prepared?

Our Hike Last Year "The Narrows" at Zion National Park

I'm preparing, training, working towards an upcoming goal. This is not going to be easy and I need to be ready for the big hike (Mt. Timpanogos.) The steep elevation and lack of oxygen is something that I worry about. I've had altitude sickness before which put me in bed for a week with severe flu-like symptoms. Now that  I'm aware of it, I know what I need to do to prepare. I'm not only training my muscles and doing cardio, (lifting weights, riding my bike, stair stepper and yoga), I'm also hydrating. I'm ready to counteract the lack of oxygen this, sea-level living girl, normally receives. I'm also allowing several days of acclimation adjustment before embarking on this memorial hike to honor my dad.

The key to any journey in life is preparation. Being ready for the expected as well as the unexpected (as much as possible) that which "may" or "could" happen. If my body is in tip top shape when the unexpected arises, I will be strong enough to endure it.

Your daily life requires preparation for the trials and tragedies that may come upon you. This however requires a different type of training. You will need to train your mind and spirit. It requires seeking your Creator. The One who knows the obstacles on your road, "before" they come upon you. Building your faith and trust in The Lord through prayer, daily scripture study and quiet time. Spending time with Jesus allows you to grow stronger inside, as He reveals truth and hope right there in the middle of the storm. A peace found in nothing else. Daily spiritual training sets captives free. The Lord renews strength when you feel unable to go on. He lifts you up. He puts your feet back on solid ground. A beacon of light shining brightly in the darkness.

Don't go through this life unprepared; hopeless, lost or alone. Seek a "relationship" with Jesus Christ and allow Him to be your life guide. Your trainer. Your hope. Your Savior.

"To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory." Colossians 1:27

"For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come." 1 Timothy 4:8

A Breeze Blew In

NOTICE GOD'S LOVE FOR YOU...IT'S ALL AROUND!

I was sitting in church on a hot spring day enjoying the beautiful worship music the band was playing. The words to a song filling me up as I focussed on the truth of each and every verse.

As we were singing, a cool breeze whisked in through the open door, refreshing the entire room from the warmth of the day. It seemed to be perfect timing...reminding me of God's renewing love which He showers upon us each day.

Unfortunately you may be too preoccupied with worry, anxiety and the daily struggles of life to even notice. But the truth is, He is ALWAYS right there, waiting for you to call out to Him in prayer. Waiting for you to notice Him in the beauty of His creations. Waiting for you...to remind you, HOW HE LOVES YOU!   

"HOW HE LOVES,"
By: David Crowder Band 

"He is jealous for me,
Loves like a hurricane, I am a tree,
Bending beneath the weight of His wind and mercy.
When all of a sudden, I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory,
And I realize just how beautiful You are,
And how great Your affections are for me
     And oh, how He loves us oh
     Oh how He loves us,
     How He loves us all
     He loves us,
     Oh how He loves us,
     Oh how He loves us,
     Oh how He loves.
We are His portion and He is our prize,
Drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes,
If grace is an ocean, we're all sinking.
So Heaven meets earth like an unforeseen kiss,
And my heart turns violently in side of my chest,
I don't have time to maintain these regrets,
When I think about, the way...
     He loves us,
     Oh how He loves us,
     Oh how He loves us,
     Oh how He loves.

"My son, give me your heart and let your eyes keep to my ways." Proverbs 23:21

The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace." Psalm 29:11

ARE YOU LOST IN A FAMILIAR PLACE?

"Can you help me, I'm totally confused and we've been walking forever?" the woman said with a sigh, as she approached me. I sat at the edge of the bluffs overlooking the ocean on my lunch break, trying to think of something inspirational to write and include in my weekly prayer requests I send out.

"Of course," I replied. She continued, "I've been here before and I parked by an entrance that was near a walkway leading down to the beach, but I can't seem to find it." She was carrying a large heavy bag and beach chairs. She had two little girls with her who were also weighed down with umbrellas, toys and towels. They looked tired of searching and ready to give up, head back to the car and go home. "Where am I? I can't find a trail down to the beach," the woman desperately asked, glancing down at the girls with droplets of sweat shining off their bright red faces.

I smiled and said, "There are two ways down in each direction. If you want to head back towards your car, there's a trail at the end of the road or you can go down the driveway in the same direction you're now heading." With relief she asked, "Which one's closer?"

"I would walk down the driveway that's just around this corner," I replied, pointing to my right. All three exhaled, as if they'd been holding their breathe, afraid they might have to walk miles farther. "THANK YOU!" they answered in unison. As they walked away I heard the woman apologizing to her exhausted girls.

Do you ever feel lost in a familiar place? Do you feel overwhelmed, tired and at your wits end, struggling just to make it through the day? Just like this woman and her two girls, the right path may be just around the bend. You may be tempted to quit, give up or throw in the towel, but your road to true happiness is so close. It may be hidden from your immediate view. You may need to take the necessary steps of trust and faith in the Lord, praying for His guidance and direction. With each step, Jesus Christ will lead you toward the path that takes you to that perfect place of peace, happiness, love and joy. Let the Lord be your guide. Stop and ask Him for directions today. Don't continue to walk for miles in the wrong direction with a load of burdens on your shoulders. Set them down at His feet and run in the direction He's leading you...to the true treasure He has planned for your life. Don't give up before you receive the glory and blessings He has in store for you. Your guide...your Savior, Jesus Christ is but a prayer away. Don't waste another minute...call out to Him and He will lead you safely through this.

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. Matthew 21:21

"Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?" Jeremiah 32:27

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

Finding Lost Treasure

The man slowly scanned back and forth across the sand. Large gray headphones covering his ears as he intently listened, waiting to hear the noise signaling he'd found a buried treasure.

I've recently noticed a rise in the amount of people with metal detectors at the beach and parks. These high tech devices enable it's owner to detect any traces of metal (coins, jewelery, gold, silver etc) that may be buried or hidden.

You may often daydream about winning the lottery, finding lost treasure or hitting the jackpot in Las Vegas; but you don't realize that you have a treasure at your disposal that's worth more than gold. It can give you wisdom beyond education. It can give you comfort when you feel inconsolable. It can give you peace when you're lost in discontent. It can give you hope when you've lost faith. It can give you a relationship that will never let you down or disappoint you.

This treasure is in your home, waiting for you to find it's true worth and value; waiting for you to stop seeking worldly riches and seek first something far more valuable. Open up your Bible each day and read all that God has for you. There is a true treasure in store for you.Your life will be transformed as you develop a relationship with your Savior Jesus Christ. You will find true peace, wisdom and happiness; A treasure worth more than gold, silver, diamonds or rubies. Open up your hidden treasure today and discover God's riches.

"The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb." Psalm 19:7-11

"You rule over the surging sea; when its waves mount up, you still them." Psalm 89:9 

"And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them." Isaiah 42:16

"Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert." Isaiah 43:18-19

" Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near." Isaiah 55:6

 

LET ME!

story & photo by: lisa petrarca

Struggling under the weight of worry, fear and anguish over my son being attacked and kicked in the head...I found myself praying and listening to praise music all the way to work one day last week.

The burden was too heavy and I asked my Father in Heaven to please carry it for me. Continuing to feel the stifling heaviness as I exited the freeway, I pulled up behind a car. Staring at the license plate in front of me.

It hit like a brick between my eyes, as I read, "LET ME!"

I realized that I was holding on too tightly, I wasn't allowing the Lord to work in the situation. I was too focused, too close to the problem, my mind suffocatingly clamped over all that was going on, I wasn't allowing the Lord's peace to come in and take over. I needed to take a deep breath, mentally step back and allow my Heavenly Father to help me handle what I was feeling, with His immeasurable love, comfort and understanding.

As I sat in church a few days later, looking out the window as we sang, I noticed a father with two young children playing at the park. He was flying a kite while the little girl and boy ran around him, smiling, laughing, carefree...looking up at their father with complete and total trust and love.

Our Heavenly Father wants us to do the same with Him. Lay your problems and worry's down at His feet today. Spend some carefree time with Him, He will protect, guide and love you. He will handle all that you've been carrying, He is calling out to you, "LET ME!"

Job 26:1-4 "How you have helped the powerless! How you have saved the arm that is feeble! What advice you have offered to one without wisdom! And what great insight you have displayed! Who has helped you utter these words? And whose spirit spoke from your mouth?

Job 26:7-14 "He spreads out the northern skies over empty space; he suspends the earth over nothing. He wraps up the waters in his clouds, yet the clouds do not burst under their weight. He covers the face of the full moon, spreading his clouds over it. He marks out the horizon on the face of the waters for a boundary between light and darkness. The pillars of the heavens quake, aghast at his rebuke...And these are but the outer fringe of his works; how faint the whisper we hear of him! Who then can understand the thunder of his power?"

The Promise

story by: lisa petrarca

"I Promise," no sooner had the words come out of his mouth than he realized he had no way of keeping it. How could he? It was out of his control, but what else could he say to the pleading child.

The boy had brought his dog to the shelter. His family had lost their home and could no longer keep their beloved family pet. With tears streaming down his face, the young boy clung to his dog, his best friend. Looking up at the man he begged him, "Please find him a good home, please don't let my Jack die, promise me," he stammered through sobs.

Jack was a small, mangy, mutt, a dog that he was quite certain no one would adopt and yet, he couldn't help but promise the hurting child.

The child's parents pried his hands away and said, "This man promised...he'll find him a home where a new family can love and be loved by little Jack."

The weeks passed by, no matter how hard he tried to push people to adopt little Jack, there he sat, lonely, sad and just days away from being put to sleep. The man was filled with remorse, knowing that he would have to break his promise.

After a sleepless night, he went into work early in the morning, before his scheduled time and told his manager, "I'm going to adopt Jack." "What, that ugly little dog? Why?" his manger replied. His answer was simple, "Because of a promise."

We often make promises and just as often realize that we can't keep them, forget to keep them or simply have no desire to keep them. A promise to men is often just meaningless words.

The Lord however has given us promises we can trust. Promises of hope, faith, love, healing, forgiveness, and new beginnings. He is faithful to His promises. You never have to doubt whether He will keep them. His promises are written in His word. They have been shared throughout history and proven time and time again. His greatest promise fulfilled through His Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior.

Heavenly Fathers promises are in His timing, in His divine way. A promise that we can be sure is ultimately the best thing for us once it's received, even though it sometimes may not look exactly as we planned or hoped for.

Today, as you read the Bible and look for the Lords re-affirming love, know that He hears your prayers and is faithful to HIS promises!

"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful."
Hebrews 10:23

"Being fully persuaded that God had power to do what He had promised."
Romans 4:21

"For physical training is of some value, but Godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come."
1 Timothy 4:8

Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off - for all whom the Lord our God will call."
Acts 2:38-39

My Christmas Miracle-A True Story

By: Lisa Petrarca
I wanted to re-post my true story, which happened over 13 years ago, but continues to leave a mark on my life today!

Christmas time was closing in on me and it had been a hard year. I was just newly separated and trying to support my three boys on a minimal income. Not to mention my ex was not paying child support, in fact he had completely disappeared. Christmas was just three weeks away. The panic I felt was so different from the years of joy that Christmas had always brought me. I knew that I would not be able to provide a Christmas for my kids. I was barely able to put food on the table and a roof over our heads. The agony and despair was tearing me up inside. I began having trouble breathing, not sleeping and would cry myself to sleep at night. The stress was almost too much to bear.

I was working at a bank and had made a few close friends. They were very sympathetic, uplifting and encouraging, always willing to listen and lend their support, which I must admit helped me make it through the days as Christmas drew near. The bank employees passed around the annual Christmas donation envelope, which would provide a Christmas for needy families, I took out a $5.00 bill and folded it so that no one could see the small amount of money that I was donating. I felt embarrassed at such a measly amount, but thought that there must be families going through worse situations than I was facing, families without a home, a warm place to sleep and food on the table. I quickly shoved the only amount I was able to give into the crisp white envelope and passed it to the person next to me.

Two days left, and still no way to get even a Christmas tree. I spent that long agonizing night awake trying to come up with some ideas to bring Christmas to my young innocent, trusting and excited children. What can I do to give my kids a Christmas? I awoke early and put on a cheery face for my kids. The dreaded day, Christmas Eve, I have never experienced a more miserable day in my life. The kids excitement was making it hard to fight back my tears. They thought that Santa would surprise them with a tree and the presents this year. I didn't even know what to tell them. How do you tell your sweet, naïve children that there would be no Christmas this year!

In the evening as I was preparing Macaroni & Cheese, which thank goodness the kids loved and thought was a very special Christmas Eve dinner, the doorbell rang. I opened the door and to my utter shock, there stood the entire bank staff, singing Christmas carols. Every single member of the staff was carrying armfuls of brightly wrapped presents with shiny silver, red and gold bows along with bags full of food, while the men unloaded a Christmas tree. The women hugged and comforted me as I began to sob uncontrollably.

The kids were squealing with excitement and said, “What’s wrong mommy? We told you that this was going to be the best Christmas ever”! The presents were flowing out from under the tree and seemed as if they were multiplying every time I looked over. They were spilling out from under the tree and into the entryway. The kids were running around the presents, trying to shake them to see if they could figure out what was inside. I looked over to see my youngest son being tossed in the air, blonde hair flying, cheeks flushed and giggling as he was caught and hugged. I had been chosen as the needy family this year. My “family” at the bank had made sure that my kids and I would have a wonderful Christmas. As I stood at the bottom of the stairs, looking over the picture in front of me, my only thought was, this is the true meaning of Christmas. These wonderful people have given much more than material gifts, they have brought the gift of hope, faith and love to a hopeless and desperate mother.

ADVICE:

This was the best Christmas I have ever had and looking back over the years and all the gifts that I've received and the "must have" items, I can honestly say that not one of the material gifts stand out in my mind. The gift of love and compassion from others is something that I will remember for as long as I live. During this Christmas season I hope my story will encourage others to make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate, it is a gift that lasts a life time. As Christmas time draws near, I want to challenge everyone to give of themselves not only monetarily but give the gift of love, kindness and advice to those who are suffering, struggling or in need of encouragement. You will never know how much your small gifts will touch the lives of others and change their world forever!

1. Volunteer to serve Christmas dinner to the homeless

2. Visit an elderly person or convalescent hospital to spend time with someone in need of love.

3. Organize a food drive in your community to take to a women's shelter / homeless shelter.

4. Have everyone bring an un-wrapped gift to your annual Christmas party. Then contact your local fire station or police dept. to drop the gifts off for them to distribute to local charities.

5. Invite a friend whose family is far away to spend Christmas at your home.

6. Invite your family and friends to participate - donate presents/food/Christmas tree to a local family in need of a Christmas Miracle!

7. Take your entire family to an orphanage to visit and love on children who need it.

8. Offer words of encouragement, love and advice to someone in need.

9. Share your personal life stories of your triumphs and defeats. You never know whose heart it will touch.

10. Step out of your comfort zone and make a difference in the lives of others. You will receive the gift of the TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS.

And He said to me,"My Grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness."
2 Corinthians 12:9

"For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:11

His Timing's Always Right!

AT JUST THE RIGHT TIME
By: Joe Stowell

Why is being on time so challenging for some of us? Even when we start early, something inevitably gets in our way to make us late. But here's the good news: God is always on time! Speaking of the arrival of Jesus, Paul said, "When the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son" (Gal. 4:4) The long-awaited, promised Savior came at just the right time.

Jesus' arrival during the Roman Empire's Pax Romana (the peace of Rome) was perfect timing. The known world was united by one language of commerce. A network of global trade routes provided open access to the whole world. All of this guaranteed that the gospel could move rapidly in one tongue. No visas. No impenetrable borders. Only unhindered access to help spread the news of the Savior whose crucifixion fulfilled the prophecy of the Lamb who would be slain for our sins (Isa. 53). All in God's perfect timing!

All of this should remind us that the Lord knows what time is best for us as well. If you're waiting for answered prayer or the fulfillment of one of His promises, don't give up. If you think He has forgotten you, think again. When the fullness of time is right for you, He'll show up---and you'll be amazed by His brilliant timing!

Not ours to know the reason why
Unanswered is our prayer,
But ours to wait for God's own time
To lift the cross we bear.~Anon.

GOD'S TIMING IS ALWAYS PERFECT!

The Eagle

Every morning I make sure and do a half hour bible study, then turn on the t.v. to watch Joyce Meyer's at 8:00 a.m. I turn it up really loud so I can hear it while I'm in the bathroom getting ready for work. She told a GREAT true story about Eagle's that I wanted to share.

As an Eagle ages, his feathers start to wear down, his beak gets covered with barnacles and his claws are worn and not quite as sharp. As he fly's low to swoop upon his prey, his feathers make a loud whistling sound and scares away his food.

After a while, the old Eagle decides to take drastic measures to survive. He flies high into the sky...higher and higher, getting as close to the sun as possible. Once he finds a perfect spot, he begins the painful process of plucking out every feather, one by one, all two thousand of them. The Eagles skin is raw and swollen, he has gone through a painful process.

As he waits for forty days for his new, re-growth, he doesn't waste time, he begins to rub his worn, barnacled beak against a rock. Scraping day by day, refining it to a stronger form. He begins to also sharpen his claws on the rocks. For forty days he continues to prepare. He knows that this process is for his own good. He endures the time of waiting with careful preparation. Each day is spent growing, strengthening and becoming stronger. When his new feathers appear he is now ready to start fresh. With vibrant new sleek feathers, a stronger beak and claws...he is prepared.

Notice that it took forty days for the feathers to regrow. Jesus spent forty days and forty nights being tempted and tried by satan. God often uses our difficult times to pluck, reshape and refine us for his purpose. Jesus, our Lord and Savior, the only perfect person to ever walk the earth was also put through severe pain, struggles and even death.

The next time you ask the question, "Why me God? What have I done that I have to go through this?" Remember, without the trials we would not grow. God did not even spare Jesus, his only begotten son from trials and pain.

He is getting ready to use you for his ultimate purpose for your life!

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like Eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:29-31

With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of His calling, and that by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith.
2 Thessalonians 1:11