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?

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?

A Day of Firsts

Today is a big day of *1st's* for our family, and this heart is overflowing with thankfulness! So because you are all my friends, I have to share it with you. First, it's our "Gotcha Day"! Yes...it's been *1* whole year since lil Josh became our *official* son. Although we considered him our son the day he came home with us four years ago when The LORD put him in our hearts to love even before we had met him. How amazing are GOD'S Mighty and Life changing plans? HE works Miracles each and every day. 

HE changes everything. 

Second, it's our granddaughter, Ava Grace's *1* year Birthday party celebration today! This bundle of spunk and giggles has brought such joy to our hearts. GOD's Abundance continues to pour down into our lives, filling us with more love than our hearts can almost bear. 

And third, it's Elijah's very *1st* NCAA college playoff game, and SBU's *1st* ever invitation to a playoff. When The LORD opened the door for my boy to receive a free education and continue to play the sport HE'S gifted him in, my heart leaped. But then as we often do, I started to question, "LORD, do YOU really have to send him so far?" No sooner had the thought escaped than I realized...GOD has a plan, HE sees the bigger picture and HE is *always* for us.

Friends, Join me today in counting The LORD'S Abundance in your life...you may have overlooked it. Stop and take a more thorough review and then jump on the Thankful Train...share your abundance. 

"God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work."~2 Corinthians 9:8

I Lost My Puppy!

"Oh no, where is he?" I'd just gotten home from church and my pup, who was supposed to be asleep in his play pen area (a long, tall, rectangular metal enclosure) was no where to be found! I called my oldest son to see if he took him. He said, "No". I frantically searched the house, calling his name, "Apollos, Apollos!" Exasperated, I stood in the middle of the living room thinking, "How can someone completely lose a puppy?" Then I heard a...thump, thump, thump, coming from the direction of the stairs. I ran over as he peaked his freckled little white nose around the corner. A sigh of relief escaped as I rushed over to pick him up. My little man learned how to climb up the cage to the top and tumble over the edge to freedom! I put him back in and hid to watch his escape method. Needless to say, I quickly headed back to the pet store to exchange the play pen for a crate. I'm thankful my pup is safe and didn't get into anything harmful while roaming free. 

Friends, have you ever gone outside the safe boundaries The LORD has placed around your life? I have. It was a slow, downward spiral into a disastrous mess. I didn't even realize I'd wandered too far until my life was crumbling around me. The people I love most in the world were hurt, disappointed and deeply affected by my choices to run from The LORD and HIS Loving Wisdom and Guidance. I hid for a long time in my shame. I didn't want to come out into the Light. I felt I didn't deserve to have a good life. But sitting in my hiding spot only compounded the problem, keeping me from receiving JESUS' Redeeming, Forgiveness, Love and Healing. A Healing not only for me but for my loved ones who were hurt the most by my bad choices. 

I'm thankful for this reminder of running, hiding and being found. I'm thankful for the Healing and Restoration JESUS has brought into my life and my family's. I'm thankful that in and through HIM *all* things are made new! HE is the Seeker of the lost, and broken, calling them out of darkness and into HIS Marvelous Light.

 

"He restores my soul;

He leads me in the paths of righteousness

For His name’s sake."~Psalm 23:3

"because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death."~Romans 8:2

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

Finding Real Treasure-A True Story!

I was headed to the beach to take pics for my niece. I stopped at Target for a quick errand. I noticed a young girl and her baby sitting out front with a sign, so I grabbed a quick gift card. I stopped to give it to her, (now this is a disclaimer: please know that I'm *not* sharing this to get kudos, I'm sharing because I was being taught an important lesson today-you'll see what I mean as you read on). I asked her name and her baby's name, "Isabella and Alejandro," she said. She was from Romania and spoke broken English. I glanced at her sign, it said she was needing a motel room for the night. I didn't have any cash, but hoped the gift card would provide for some of her needs. I was late so I told her I'd be praying for them. I got to my car, and it hit me, "Why didn't you pray for them right then? Gulp. I got back out and asked if I could pray with them. She smiled and said, "Yes." We prayed together.

I went back to my car and realized I couldn't just leave. So I looked up the number to Collette's Children's Home in HB, and went back to give it to her. Her English was broken, so I called for her. They didn't offer immediate shelter, but gave me the number of a place that did. I handed the info to Isabella along with my number, and hurried back to my car a *third* time. 

By this time my two niece's and sis-in-law were already at the beach waiting for me. I apologized and hurried to meet them. For the next few hours we took fun maternity photos with some props I brought. One of them was a heart shaped wire basket. I bought fake shells to put in it. I didn't think it was good enough so I took our prized shell collection from home that the hubby, Anthony and I gathered through some painstaking adventures. Well guess what? I left my basket/shell collection lying in the sand and when I went back down the beach to get it...someone had taken it! I was soooo upset. Those shells were amazing and special.

Now here's where The LORD reminded me of Truth, and boy I needed it. While driving home, still *very* upset about the shells and not wanting to tell the hubby (he loves them as much as I do, if not more)...this thought poured over me, "You are worried about meaningless earthly treasures. I'm calling you to search for *real* treasure...lost, hurting and broken people who need hope, love and kindness. People who are wandering without a SAVIOR." 

I'm thankful for being strongly reminded of what has *true* value...and it's *not* things! I'm letting the thoughts of my lost shells go and praying for Isabella and her baby.

Friends, join me in keeping your focus on searching for *real* treasure in your day...the people JESUS places along your path!

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."~Matthew 6:21

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

She's Thankful For What?

We turned down the aisle at Target and there was a woman and her adorable little Pomeranian sitting in her basket just begging to be pet. Of course we stopped to play and chat. The woman, Christy, was here visiting from Yosemite. She was the sweetest, most joy filled lady, which was in direct contrast to her story. She had breast cancer and a double mastectomy a year ago. She is now cancer free. 

I shared about my ongoing cancer check-ups, struggles and many answers to prayers. 

And do you know what she told us? 

Her eyes lit up as she said, "Cancer was one of the best things that's ever happened to me. It made me appreciate my life and realize that I do not have to worry about the little daily struggles. They are truly meaningless in the grand scheme of things. Life is too short to be miserable. I thank GOD each day for the gift of another day of life." 

Her words hit hard. How can she be thankful for receiving a disease that changes your life forever? This is a whole new level of thankfulness that is mind boggling...defying all human logic. But there it was. Spoken out loud in the middle of the store from a woman who was thrust into an unimaginable battle. But through her struggle The LORD met her there, revealing something deeper to her spirit. 

She told me she was going to continue to pray for me and I told her I'd be praying for her also. We hugged one another like old friends. As we walked away she said, "You are so precious Lisa. I may never run into you again here on earth but I look forward to one day seeing you in Heaven." 

Oh friends, I'm thankful for meeting this beautiful woman. I'm thankful for those daily *GOD* moments that remind.

If you find yourself struggling over the *little* things, like I often do, join me today in taking a different outlook. A renewing of mind and thoughts. A reset of truth. A *larger* view. A reminder of Blessings in the middle of struggles. Time is short. Days and years fly by. 

What are we doing with our time? 

Worrying? Stressing?

Let's ask for The LORD's help to truly see things through HIS Eyes. 

For “who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him?” But we have the mind of Christ."~1 Corinthians 2:16

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

When HIS Words Pour Over You...

When you sit longer and the LORD pours HIS Love upon your heart, mind and soul, spilling over onto the pages. HIS Words bringing a complete refreshing to my parched spirit...

"I Am with you. Do not forget this truth. Stop laboring in your mind, body and spirit, rest in ME daily. When tasks crowd and fill your mind, your thoughts wander as you seek to grab something to steady your emotions. As you learn to continually take every thought captive into the truth of MY Word, you will find peace. I Am not a burdensome taskmaster, but a safe place to rest your weary soul. Come to MY Unending Fountain of Love, Mercy and Grace. Let it wash over you. 

This world seeks to distract you with many things. I have come that you may have Life – More Abundantly. I Am the Living Water. Come near and wash away the lies of the enemy. Do not shrink back at the difficult tasks I've place before you. As you lean into MY Strength, I Enable you to accomplish all things that bring ME Glory. Be still. Rest in MY Embrace. I Am more than enough for whatever you face. I Am the LORD your GOD, the Maker of Heaven and earth… Rest in ME. I will strengthen and renew you daily. Do not continue running through your day, giving no thought to MY Will. Stay in the moment with me. MY Grace is Sufficient. 

Accomplish what I place in front of you right now, giving no thought to what lies ahead. Wait on ME, as I take the reins of your life and your heart. Let ME lead and you follow; for in this you will find rest. You will be Renewed, Revived, Strengthened and given Wisdom to carry out MY Good and Perfect Will for your life. More of ME and less of you. Do not forget who I AM. Stop limiting ME in your life. I've called you to be a Bold, Fearless, Faith-Filled servant of your Mighty and Holy GOD. Behold the work I've place before you. Lead souls back to ME." 

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

And then He told them, "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone."~Mark 16:15 

Pushing Past Fear!

Lil Josh just got home from a week long church camp at Hume Lake. Last year we'd discussed him going because some of our older kids had gone before and had an amazing time. We knew it'd be an awesome experience for him. But he wasn't emotionally ready. He still struggled with social situations and was very nervous about it. So we told him not to worry but next year (this year), we wanted him to really think about going, pushing himself outside comfort zones...into areas where growth can occur. 

So today, I'm thankful for the incredible work The LORD is doing in his life. He had a great time! He came home and shared all that he'd experienced. 

I asked him if it'd be okay if I shared this on my Thankful Train, explaining exactly what I'd write, because I didn't want him to feel uncomfortable with sharing personal struggles. 

He told me he was fine with it. 

I'm thankful for his openness in letting me share all that the The LORD is doing in his life...which in turn shows others the difference JESUS can make in their life too. 

Friends, never underestimate the things JESUS can do in *your* life. All the past pain, brokenness, fear, sorrow and uncertainty can be turned around. HE restores all that was once lost, making *all* things new. Join me in laying it all down each day. Allow JESUS to step right into the center of the storm. 

"The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit."~Psalm 34:18

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.”~Revelation 21:5

Jump on the #ThankfulTrain, what are you thankful for?

#ThankYouJESUS #AdoptionRocks

A Long Trip To Humble-Town

LORD, I am nothing without YOU. My pride says, "I need to handle this alone." My *self-focus* tends to rush in and take over. But LORD, YOU continually show me that as I humbly seek YOU in the face of adversity, YOU lift me up. YOU lift my family up. YOU lift my friends up. Prayers answered time and again. LORD, please help me walk this path to a continual *humble* heart and spirit. My sufficiency is in YOU. JESUS, YOU are my Provider, Healer, Comforter...my *Savior*. Whom or what shall I fear? I have no reason to raise myself up...for "YOU, O LORD, are a shield for me, my glory and the One who lifts up my head."~Psalm 3:3

*Join me on my daily journey to reach *Humble*-town, a difficult place to find in this prideful world we live in.

3 

Her Words Cut To My Core!

I'm thankful for a visit today with my beautiful sis in CHRIST, who is in a fight for her life. As we sat and talked, she shared a story about people giving less than their best. She stopped mid-sentence, tears welling up, her face softening, a gentle smile filling the room, as she said, "If they could see CHRIST the way I see HIM, they would do more." 

Oh how this statement of truth cut me to the very core, piercing right through. Her daily struggles and battles should be debilitating in their very nature, but this amazing warrior for JESUS continues to do HIS Work. She depends on HIM every moment of the day. 

Friends, there's work to be done. 

So I have to ask myself, "What's holding me back from doing the very things The LORD'S putting on my heart?" 

I ask you, "What's holding you back?"

GOD has given you specific gifts and talents. Join me in seeing JESUS in a clearer light. Bigger than fear. Larger than limitations. Pray to push past the doubts, seeing CHRIST as your *Complete Sufficiency*...you can do more!

"For with God nothing will be impossible.”~Luke 1:37

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

WHEN THERE WAS NOTHING LEFT...HE WAITED!

He swiftly flew in. The white, gray and black coloring stood out against the dark tide pool rocks. I had food...he wanted it. As people walked by, he'd move a short distance away only to return again. He was patient. I tossed some crumbs in his direction.

After a short time, another seagull flew in. He was smaller in size and a dull, dingy gray in color, blending perfectly with the backdrop. I was partial to the first seagull who came to share my day, giving him all the food as the smaller bird stood back and watched in hopeful expectation. I finally relented, throwing some remnants in his direction also. I finished eating, crumpled my trash and put it in my bag.

The first seagull realized his food was gone and quickly flew away to find the next meal further up the beach. The grey bird remained by my side. There was no reason for him to. As people passed, setting up camp, he made himself comfortable in the shadow of my chair. I soon found myself wanting to reward him. He seemed extraordinarily dedicated to me. I reached into my bag, opening the ball of trash, looking for something to give him. I found a few slivers of tomatoes, lettuce and bread crumbs. I set the food down very close to me as he bravely came to get it. After another 20 minutes passed, I shuffled through my trash, wanting to find something...anything. 

His perseverance and faithfulness at remaining by my side touched me. I wanted to feed him. "What a strange feeling," I thought, "it's just a seagull...who isn't even much to look at for that matter."

Then it hit me, the similarity of how I must appear when I come to The LORD; some days I show up, wait a short time to be filled and then go about my day. 

However, on the days when I feel extra needy, I slow. I sit patiently waiting for HIM. I am dedicated, determined, unwavering and faithful in drawing closer, waiting for the full abundance of HIS Love and Blessings to pour over on me.

Oh how I want to be like the second seagull...always waiting in hopeful expectation. I want to never lose sight of JESUS' Love and all that HE has to share as I sit at HIS Feet, drawing closer in expectancy. I want to be steadfast in faith as HIS Mighty Hand reaches low to feed, help, guide, direct, forgive and save me.

"Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?"~Matthew 6:26

Join me in persevering friends. Don't wander. Don't chase after the next thing that will never fill the emptiness. Let GOD'S Love envelope you. Be like this steadfast bird who in his faithful persistence, caused me to reach in again and again looking to bless him. 

In your seeking...you will find HIM.  "Be of good courage." HE will "strengthen your heart" and reward your faithfulness with HIS Love.,,"Wait, I say, on The LORD." 

Wait on the Lord;
Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart;
Wait, I say, on the Lord!~Psalm 27:14

Bring It To The Light!

So yesterday I had a plan for my day today. I was going to spend the day cleaning and writing (forcing myself to stay in -no adventures- and get some things accomplished). But it's weird, I've just had this sadness that's creeped in from nowhere that I can't shake, so I'm just laying here in bed with zero accomplished. It seems like whenever I'm determined to dig deeper, get closer in my walk with The LORD, do what HE'S calling me to do...the enemy fills me with all kinds of depressing thoughts.

So today I'm determined to push past these lies and negative thoughts, setting my mind on Truth and Praying that whatever this sadness/hurt thing is that's pouring over me goes away, in JESUS' Name. This Christian walk is never smooth, it's a day in and day out steadfastness in seeking my SAVIOR. So here's the truth...as a Christian, I still struggle. I'm not perfect. But I can look to The ONE who is. I can sit at HIS Feet in all my messiness and let HIM Heal me. Because when I say, "Have YOUR way in me JESUS," there's always going to be some ugliness deep in there that comes to the surface...things that need to be brought to The Light of CHRIST. 

Today I'm thankful for the reminder...the negative thoughts and feelings are not Truth. They are just *feelings*. So when I take them to The LORD in Faith, asking for HIS Wisdom, I'm throwing them into The LIGHT of HIS Love and Truth. 

"But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. Therefore He says:

“Awake, you who sleep,

Arise from the dead,

And Christ will give you light.”~Ephesians 5:13-14

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

ARE YOU HUNGRY?

He slowly descended, wings wide, landing softly; having nothing to do as I waited for the green light, I watched. A second bird, identical in size and color glided in next to him. They turned to look at one another, the second bird lowering its body and turning his beak upward.  The first bird leaned down, putting food into the waiting, open beak.

I want to be just like this second bird; trusting, expectant...as I spend time with my Lord each day, waiting in openness for Him to feed my soul the nourishment needed for today. 

I want to start my day knowing that I'm empty, needing a healthy portion of what The Lord wants to give me to make it through this day, finishing strong; fed, and then feeding others who may, "glide in next to me."

Lord, help me to spend time each morning, bending low, looking up to You for exactly what I need. Open my heart as You faithfully and lovingly meet me, fill me, guide me and direct my every step, thought, word and action. You are more than enough for whatever I face today. Help me so I don't MISS IT! In Your Mighty & Holy Name Jesus, Amen.  

"Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?"~Matthew 6:26

"The eyes of all look expectantly to You,
And You give them their food in due season."~ Psalm 145:15

"Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us."~Romans 5:5

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 YOU EVER SATISFIED?

Are you ever satisfied? I ask this question first to myself and then to you. When you're blessed with something you've been hoping and praying for…is it enough? Do you find yourself chasing and hoping for the next thing on your wish list? Are you a victim of consumerism? 

Human nature is stated very clearly in the Bible found in Ecclesiastes, written by King Solomon (son of King David and considered one of the wisest men to ever live besides Jesus.) He chased after worldly things, attaining it all, only to say it was, "grasping for the wind." He mentions it over and over again...no less than nine times. Accumulation. More stuff. Never enough. We rent storages to hold things that we will probably never use again and yet we keep it. MINE. I speak to me first!

"GRASPING FOR THE WIND."

The true chasing you should be doing each day is chasing after the Lord's heart. JESUS. HIS will. Allowing the Holy Spirit to guide you towards the things that you truly need. Jesus said, "And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—" John 14:16 More time praying. More time reading the Scriptures. More time sharing the unconditional love of Christ. Where's your heart? I ask myself first and then you. The Lord has blessed each one of us with so much materialistically and continues to do so. But the true question is…do you care where others will be spending eternity? 

As you seek Jesus and He fills you up…this should start to become a priority, if you truly let Him transform you into HIS image; removing the things that so easily trap and entangle you. Look around, wherever you are…is there someone you can pray for? You have so many opportunities placed in front of you each day. At work, praying quietly at your desk for the people in your office to accept Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior, in the store, in the gym, in the movie theatre…so many opportunities to pray for people. The Bible plainly states that the ONLY WAY to the Father is through His Son, Jesus Christ. All paths do not lead to Heaven. Jesus is the only way to the Father. 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

Where's your heart? I ask myself and then you. Are you too busy trying to devise a plan to get more things? It's all, "grasping for the wind." It will not bring you true happiness or fill the empty void in your soul. 

Don't get me wrong…we all need provisions now and for the future, but what I'm talking about is the never ending excess that consumes our thoughts and time…more…more…more. Maybe it's time to pray for the things the Lord wants for your life. As a "Christ"ian you should care more about the Lord's will than your own…"grasping for the wind." There are too many people who need a Savior, Jesus Christ; too many people who are struggling with pain, addiction, loneliness, and heartache. Do you care? Step up and seek more of the Lord's will and less of yours. In this you will find true happiness for all that you've been searching for. I speak to me first, then you. Trust Him with ALL of you. Allow Him to use you mightily each day and watch the burdens begin to fall away. Jesus is "the way, the truth and the life". What was Christ doing here on earth? He came to save. He was here to bring the lost, hurting , misled and broken people back to the loving embrace of their Heavenly Father. Stop "grasping for the wind," and cling to Jesus Christ, the author and finisher of your faith.

"Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:2

Mothers Day Poem-I Am A Mother

Tomorrow is Mother's Day, be sure to make it extra special for your moms.

As children we don't realize all the sacrifices she makes for us. During this time, she also worries about doing a good job and making all the right decisions..she hopes to be the best mom she can be.

Somewhere along the way, we find things that she did wrong or should have done better, but then we grow up and realize...she wasn't given a rule book, she did the best she could, just as we now try to be the best that we can.

Be sure to make this day one of gratitude & thanks for all that she has done for you over the years.

I AM A MOTHER
Poem by Lisa Petrarca

We often ask, why me dear Lord?

Who am I to receive such a reward?

The child you've given is a blessing from above

Sent down from heaven to be showered with love

I am weak, sometimes scared, to make a mistake

I press on with the task...you chose for me to partake

Who am I to receive such a reward?

To raise a child of my own accord

Each step I take I hope is the right direction

As my child follows behind with pure innocent affection

I am a mother, who will offer her lifelong love and protection

Who am I to receive such a reward?

I am a mother...trusted with a life to mold

Until their gifts begin to unfold

Then I will take a step back and behold

My child has become the person I helped to shape

Who am I to receive such a reward?

I am a mother who was given a gift so rare...a life to raise, guide and share

I am a mother......

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO ALL OF YOU MOMS!

James 1:5-6
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.

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!

DREAMS

As we get older we become more responsible...letting go of dreams that have passed us by. Raising and supporting a family becomes our new focus. Tucking away the hidden desires of our hearts...only re-visiting those distant hopes during secret daydreaming moments. Sometimes these old dreams begin re-surfacing more frequently as we start to head in to our 40's, tugging and prodding at our hearts to pursue them. The older we get, the harder the pull becomes. The following story is about one woman's dream that would never die. This might be the inspiration you need to reach for the stars!

DREAMS

The first day of school our professor introduced himself and challenged us to get to know someone we didn't already know. I stood up to look around when a gentle hand touched my shoulder.

I turned around to find a wrinkled, little old lady beaming up at me with a smile that that lit up her entire being.

She said, "Hi, handsome. My name is Rose. I'm eighty-seven years old. Can I give you a hug?" I laughed and enthusiastically responded, "Of course you may!" and she gave me a giant squeeze.

"Why are you in college at such a young, innocent age?" I asked.

She jokingly replied, "I'm here to meet a rich husband, get married, have a couple of children, and then retire and travel."

"No seriously," I asked. I was curious what may have motivated her to be taking on this challenge at her age.

"I always dreamed of having a college education and now I'm getting one!" she told me.

After class we walked to the student union building and share a chocolate milkshake. We became instant friends. Every day for the next three months we would leave class together and talk nonstop. I was always mesmerized listening to this "time machine" as she shared her wisdom and experience with me.

Over the course of the year, Rose became a campus icon and she easily made friends wherever she went. She loved to dress up and she reveled in the attention bestowed upon her from the other students. She was living it up.

At the end of the semester we invited Rose to speak at our football banquet. I'll never forget what she taught us. She was introduced and stepped up to the podium. As she began to deliver her prepared speech, she dropped her three by five cards on the floor. Frustrated and a little embarrassed she leaned into the microphone and simply said, "I'm sorry I'm so jittery. I gave up beer for Lent and this whiskey is killing me! I'll never get my speech back in order so let me just tell you what I know."

As we laughed she cleared her throat and began: "We do not stop playing because we are old; we grow old because we stop playing. There are only four secrets to staying young, being happy, and achieving success. "You have to laugh and find humor every day. You've got to have a dream. When you lose your dreams, you die. We have so many people walking around who are dead and don't even know it!"

"There is a huge difference between growing older and growing up. If you are nineteen years old and lie in bed for one full year and don't do one productive thing, you will turn twenty years old. If I am eighty-seven years old and stay in bed for a year and never do anything I will turn eighty-eight. Anybody can grow older. That doesn't take any talent or ability. The idea is to grow up by always finding the opportunity in change."

"Have no regrets. The elderly usually don't have regrets for what we did, but rather for things we did not do. The only people who fear death are those with regrets."

She concluded her speech by courageously singing The Rose. She challenged each of us to study the lyrics and live them out in our daily lives. At the years end Rose finished the college degree she had begun all those years ago.

One week after graduation Rose died peacefully in her sleep.

Over two thousand college students attended her funeral in tribute to the wonderful woman who taught by example that it's never too late to be all you can possibly be.

The Rose
Bette Midler

Some say love, it is a river
That drowns the tender reed.
Some say love, it is a razor
That leaves your soul to bleed.
Some say love, it is a hunger,
An endless aching need.
I say love, it is a flower,
And you it's only seed.

It's the heart, afraid of breaking,
That never learns to dance.
It's the dream, afraid of waking,
That never takes a chance.
It's the one who won't be taken,
Who cannot seem to give.
And the soul, afraid of dyin',
That never learns to live.

When the night has been too lonely,
And the road has been too long,
And you think that love is only
For the lucky and the strong,
Just remember in the winter
Far beneath the bitter snows,
Lies the seed, that with the sun's love,
In the spring becomes the rose.

Pursue your hidden dreams, you're never too old to start. You were made to achieve great things. Listen to that inner prompting...your dreams are waiting to be fulfilled.