THE PROGRAM OF THE KING

"I am going to the wolves", I bellowed out! Then everyone that was home who heard me roared back laughing and asking, "Why do you go there?" Let me explain. Walmart, stores that are very crowded and exude much commotion is the wolves. This experience when I feel unable to focus and there is chaos all around me. It is crazzzyyyy! I still go tho! My point is not to explain to you why I go into the wolves.
I going willing.
I know others that absolutely will not subject themselves to places like what I am describing. I can't get them to go!

Yet, Jesus said to his disciples, "I am sending you out like sheep among wolves" Matt. 10:16 NIV).
The title in the bible where this is found is The Program Announced. You know Jesus was completely honest in this chapter. Full disclosure of the future.

Men will hand you over and flog you. Really? Flog you where in their synagogues. In church?
You will be brought before governors and king. Arrested?
Jesus assures them, "But by the Spirit of your Father speaking through you" (Matt. 10:20 NIV).
They will know what to say and when to say it, that's called "Speaking Off the cuff".

Why do we share our faith at all if we take a chance of being attacked by wolves?
The love of Jesus is so strong that we ask to hold hands and walk, talk, learn from Him all with extemporaneous circumstances.

He goes on to explain why we should go.  He says three times do not be afraid, but be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
It is pretty deceptive of those wolves who want to partner with you and they can create some pretty good benefits along the way in this life, but forfeits turns around unconcerned for your soul in the after life.

The wolves of Walmart being compared to the those that oppose you and do not except you for being a Christ follower. Mmm, quite similar I would say.

Pick up your cross, follow Jesus, and certainly you will not lose your reward.

This is "The program of the King".

This is just an observation I made as I am reading through the gospel of Matthew. As I have read through the gospel I have been drawing some pictures with scripture here is the wolf and sheep.

We can ask the same questions that my family asks when I say, "I'm going into the wolves? (Walmart)" God fully disclosed hardship the disciples would encounter, how did they still go, why would they sign-up for that? I am in awe of their courage! I love in the Jewish culture at that time that some really watched for the signs of the Messiah and knew the words of the prophets so well, that when Jesus walk up to them and spoke...they divinely went with Him.

Friends, the loving arm Jesus extends out to us is so powerful. I am sure that they had trouble verbalizing it themselves, but simply put...the just followed.

Lord give us the strength, faith, courage to believe. Pray now for yourself and others who need more of Jesus.

GOD OF WAR

GOD OF WAR (best selling 2018 video game) - is the tale of a father bonding with his son over the death of a loved one. It just so happens that the father is an exalted Greek god living in the world of Norse legends. The game balances a tale that is genuinely epic with a core story as human and heartfelt as any in gaming makes it a modern storytelling masterpiece.

  Good vs. evil,  will good triumph?

Each day presents itself with decisions, battles, taking sides for your ways vs. God's way. Movies, TV shows, video games, phone, electronics and the world news all present us with situations that could be called War.  Anytime there is a struggle between good and evil, it really is war.

So it begins...I will be reading through the New Testament for the next 90 days. Lord help me to see.

A war begins...God himself trying to come to earth...to rescue the people...will the people believe or will they create their own mutiny.

"Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind" (Matthew 1:19 NIV).


The quandary of Joseph starts. Where?...in the MIND.
Are we like Joseph?
A man or women seeking God...wanting to do what others expect of you?
A circumstance presents its self.
This one is big. Pledged to Mary, a women Joseph is to marry, but she is pregnant.
Are you like Joseph, thinking/asking in your mind...what do I do about this circumstance?
Hmmm...well, this seems logical, thus begins...the rationalizing and reasoning.



"But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream" (Matt. 1:20 NIV) and God's way is presented. His perfect will.

I think Joseph prayed, because the bible says, "but after he had considered this".
Prayer
Activation of God's will

Our way vs. God.

This is the beginning.
Jesus teaches us to want His will vs. our own logical will, but He gives us free will.

Is it easy to comply? Will the people continue to want their own ideas of the circumstance to prevail?
This is the age old narrative. God himself trying to show himself real and caring.

Prayer today:
God help me bring my thoughts (impulsive, emotional, logical, philosophical) to you. May your will be done. I want to trust you with all my heart.  Amen.

If you prayed that prayer it is a paraphrase of 2 Corinthians 10:5.


Seeking the baby Jesus is freedom and it  can be for us as the bible says,  "Joy of the Lord is our strength." It puts the focus on Jesus and not on us.

Is God coming to war...to show us how to war? He wants us to make peace with Him and through Him there is victory.

War happens...God wants us to find His peace. To be forgiven...from our war (sin). Sin; turning away from God.

Joseph listens and is led by God. The win begins. The baby  is born, God himself came to earth to save us from our own wars.

"Jesus said, "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth, I did not coe to bring peace, but a sword. (Matt. 10:34 NIV)

TRIUMPH

Really? I could not get a picture of the night sky, my view around 10pm in Elmhurst, IL, Dec. 18, 2018.
My family was not weirded out when I instructed them to get outside . Especially because my daughter noticed it before me, but the sky was amazing. I can only try realllly hard to put words to a grand full display in the sky. A host of witnesses from my family. I am not going crazy.
Here it goes:
There was a huge (covering most of the sky) spritz of clouds that formed what could have looked like an angel or if you blink and look again it could have been a side view of a dove. The words that came to me is the Holy Spirit.
Next to it was a very thick band like a winding road soaring from one end of the sky to the other. It looked like an airplane trace in the sky, but what confused us is how wide the stream of white band was. It was 5x the streak that a plane would leave across the sky before it lands at O'hare. OHHHH! how I wish I had a photo! Darn!

I am always fascinated if a word, words or catch phrase will be impressed on my heart for a Christmas card message. I think about it for days wondering is the message formulating or is it just my own efforts? Or is this card going to exist this year.
Then it happened.
I saw many many birds flying between three trees in my backyard. It has fascinated me to the point that I wait in anticipation to see the varieties that will appear. It stops me from what I am doing and causes me to think about Jesus and the reason for the season. I think of
 Jesus messages of love, like “I will take your cares. I got your back. I care.” He will feed the birds how much more will He feed me. Or Luke 12:7 says, “Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.” (Even Rob has been pausing to watch with me. I call anyone to watch that is in the house. 
It's better than TV. These joyful images stick in my mind when I get off balance with Christmas prepping. (I'm talking about pressure of perfectionism, worldly prepping, gifts, cookies, wrapping and decorations and spending too much money.)

I am listening to Mariah Carey's, Hark the Herald, song and the phrase in the lyrics "Join the Triumph of the Skies".   

Join participate. I love that it says join. In this day our electronics are inviting us to join, box clubs, meals, health clubs, exercise programs! JOIN! Join! Join! But did you join this triumph? Are you in?

Then I remember my drawing I did recently of birds in a cloud made of coffee paint. I'll post that soon on this page.

Triumph!

I can not let the word go. 
What's the triumph?
One thought, the way the circumstances in Bethlehem tried to distract many from finding the Messiah. The government, an over scheduled towns people, a town filled to capacity! (Hmmm, things never change. 2018)
Well, as we know many were distracted but many were not!
The angel appeared, the star shined brightly and those who saw knew they can rejoice with the angels, singing Glory to the newborn King. A song of:

TRIUMPH!

The sky I saw the other night was the display of Triumph. Glory to God!

2019 I believe will be the year of

TRIUMPH!

We are expecting more God stories!

TRIUMPH!

Let us rejoice that we don't have to strive, stress, over schedule ourselves.

We just trust.

TRIUMPH!

Jesus takes it all. He understands. He knows the way out.


Enter 2019 with an expectant heart. Jesus never changes. He TRIUMPHS!

Love you all for taking your time out to read this message.
From my heart 2 to your heart!
Ask Jesus to help you trust to Triumph in 2019.


Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Go with Jesus and TRIUMPH!

Have you joined? Maybe you have to just begin with a simple question, "Who is the baby in the manger and how can I get to know Him?

VISIT FROM GABRIELLE

I thanked the young gentlemen for His kind gesture. He said, "My name is Gabe". Not realizing yet my response was, "You are like an angel." He gave me a handshake then kindly responded, "Gabrielle" and then he walked away. I stood astounded. I thought for a moment, then laughed out loud, crying out, "Gabrielle is an angel's name." God you counteract struggles with a rescue. You used Gabrielle to help me.

In this Christmas season where we are rejoicing, "Jesus the reason for the season!" I had just told the story of the birth of baby Jesus at a gathering. There I was standing in a crowded airport experiencing Gabrielle, (in a much smaller way, not the you are going to be pregnant way!) somewhat like Mary did. His message to her, "You are to have a son and name Him Jesus for He will save the people from their sin." Jesus! The name above every name.

My way:

Gabrielle's gesture as small as it was, lifted me out of despair to hope. I was giving up on my gloomy circumstance and then He appeared. I have heard it said that Jesus is playing chess with the enemy. It is a game of my life. The enemies stirs the pot of life with a struggle, full of despair, and then Jesus makes His move. He is the winner. Believe! Trust! Shine Jesus, Shine. Out of the darkness, Jesus shed light. He wins! The enemy makes a move and boy it looks like it is finished, but it isn't. God didn't make the struggle happen, but He sure helped me get through it.

He is my refuge and strength, ever present in my troubles. He appears to be saying to us this Christmas season. I am here. I am with you. Look, see, open your heart, mind and being to the baby.

Who do you think Jesus was? The angel said the Savior of the world? There was over 100 prophesy's  fulfilled in Jesus coming to save the world.

Come and see, adore and be ready.

Something is going to happen.

Something always happens with the Jesus.

Pray at all times, help, ask for trust, belief.
Mother Teresa was asked by brilliant ethicist John Kavanaugh, "Pray that I have clarity."
She said firmly, "No, I will not do that." Kavanaugh stated, "You always seem to have clarity." "I have never had clarity; what I have always had is trust. So I will pray that you trust God", she laughed and said.

"We ourselves have know and put our trust in God's love toward ourselves" (1John 4:16).

Angelus Silesius, "If God stopped thinking of me, he would cease to exist."

I get frantic with perfectionism in this season. My stomach in knots to complete the shopping, baking and house decorating.

I remember:
My once nine year old daughter tugging at my apron, "Mom, Christmas is about Jesus." Out of the mouth of babes. Wisdom!

But on my own I keep racing around frantic. It takes reading His words. "Elaine (liberty for me to put my name in the scripture), There is no need to be afraid; you are worth more than hundreds of sparrows" (Luke 12:6-7)

Then it happens! Hundreds of birds right out my window today. My attention is finally caught by my savior, "I got your back. You are valuable. Come to me." Grace upon grace arises a strength within me. I may not get it all done today, but I will certainly have peace, a peace I can't put words to.

Listen go out expecting. Expecting....I'm standing next to a older gentlemen buying a card...I hear him reading them out loud...I look up...I realize...he is looking for the Christmas message...I find just the right card..."For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:11) or Repeat the sounding joy...(inside of card) Wishing you blessings at Christmas and joy in the greatest gift *Jesus*! Perspective. We are friends in Jesus. We resound this joy of our soul together and then part with MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Soul activated!

I look up. My mind renewed, I do not have to have this, this and that done. It is now...in the full knowledge of Jesus...a freshness in my soul...I will walk out of here tasting, seeing the feet and hands of Jesus. I talk about Him, I put the membrance of Him first and foremost in my head. When temptation arises...I ask...I confess...I want...to be walking in peace.

I did...I am...with Him.

Walk today expecting peace, you do not have to have it all figured out. Pray.

SOMETHING IS REALLY HAPPENING-HEAVEN KNOWS

Allow your body to flow with the Holy Spirit.
Ever day is an opportunity to
Say less
Love more
Pray more
an opportunity facing
Hardships
Loneliness
Sickness
Decisions
Tiredness.
All make tolerance and love harder
Take heart God's got this.

Time out

Expectations
Fear of missing out
Consumerism
I want or need?
Gut full of anger.
Heat rises to our faces.
Anger.
Anger for the reactions that rises out of my heart.
What is wrong with me? How can I let this world disrupt my flow?

Sometimes it feels hopeless.
Sometimes we ask, have we made the connection between Jesus and myself? The Grace.
Hopelessness sets in.

Lord - Holy Spirit- Father God-help me.

Remembrance:

Jesus makes the darkness tremble!

Make it tremble in our homes!

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing (I shall not want; I have all that I need).

Silence the words that lie.
Silence them.
Tell them to be quiet.

Thank you Jesus.

Something is always happening!
Something is always happening!
Something is always happening!

the name above all names.
Jesus
Wonderful Counselor
Mighty God
Everlasting Father
Prince of peace.

You won't miss out. You are where you are suppose to be.
Some days it's doing laundry, cleaning toilets, changing poopy diapers, going grocery shopping....mundane...NO! IT is what it is! In the moment thank...
my Jesus...my grace...within me is no mistake...SOMETHING IS REALLY HAPPENING.

It doesn't make sense
unthinkable
only heaven knows.
No conditions.

TRUST WINS

I turned and found four year old Anisa completely hidden underneath a straw basket. "Where is Anisa, where can she be?", I called out playfully! Four other little ones joined in where is Anisa?

Frolicking around we pretended as if we could not see her, until she popped out and screamed out, "Here I am!" It became a game of hide and seek, the whole nursery delighted in the fun!

Back up a bit.

Driving in that morning I was asking myself how I was going to get through the two hours of nursery time. 

Back up before that.

I was praying, I need to see your presence. Help me. I want to trust you more.

Then it happened.

Get this.

It was snack time. The kids sat around as I paged through the toddler devotion, it was November 29.

I verify that date. 

I start to read to the children, "Kaitlyn's cat found a good hiding place. Do you think anyone will find her?" I pause. MMMM. Didn't we just have a great time playing hide n seek, I asked the kids. Wait. look at this picture, it looks so similar to the basket Anisa hid in!. Wait! Wait! Being a little amazed, let me repeat we just played a hiding game in a basket. Are you getting this. Do you remember I came in this morning with two things on my mind.

One, I want to see you Jesus. I want more of you. I want to trust you.

Two, I want to get through the two hours and I had no agenda planned.

Let's continue reading this TODDLER/NOW MY ADULT DEVOTION...the Bible says that God is like a hiding place. He will protect us from trouble so that troubles cannot even find us. I ask the kids...what are your troubles...preciously they respond...someone taking their toy...getting in trouble from Mom and Dad...not getting what they want....etc.

The Bible verse: You are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble. Ps. 32:7 NLT

At this point you are probably crying out to me, "Elaine, get to the point!" or Are you getting the point.
I will spell it out...
God answered so many said and unsaid things.
One...Elaine I exist...
two...Elaine I want to be there for you, help you...
three...here is your agenda for today, teach the kids about me...to trust...to realize Jesus is protection...
four...come to me...Trust me...If a problem has a solution why worry about it?...If no solution comes at the moment why worry about it?...-Jesus-TRUST me!

Trust wins, therefore...
"Trust in the Lord with your whole heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV."

Also,
"This is what the Scriptures mean when they say, no eye has seen, no ear has heard and no mind has imagined what GOD has prepared for those who love Him 1 Corinthians 2:9 NIV."


What does this mean for you. As you prepare for you next thing. We pray, we feel responsible for the results of things going on, we want to be in control of results, we get worried, anxious, worked up about things.

When we love Jesus, walk with Him, TRUST, we learn, we grow closer, we realize He can help, He is better at being in control than I am, He is God, thank God I am not.
Let's trust our days ahead to Jesus.
TRUST WINS!

LET'S PRAY:
Dear God, you're like a hiding place, for you protect me and keep me safe. Thank you for protecting and guiding my next steps. Amen.

BURNING BUSH EXPERIENCE

Do you have so much pressure from.....that you feel like if you were a balloon you would, POP!
EXPLODE!

Each layer of pressure building, building, building up...till....stop!
Pray!
God I'm going to explode with frustration. So many things in life go unanswered.
Spirit come!
How will these thoughts be captivated in obedience to you, cause I'm stinking up my brain with clutter.

A room with a view...burning red and orange. Ugh this photo doesn't completely capture the beauty. As the burdens of my heart burn within me. I see these trees burning with color. I stop. sit. slow down to rest. Rest in Him. Help me captivate my thoughts. Forgive me I can't do this. His truth presides...Exodus 33:14 The Lord replied, My presence will go with you, and I will give you Rest.

Hebrews 13:21 I will equip you with everything good for doing my will.

Yes! I look at the words! Yes! He will be faithful to do it!

I believe!

God will help me stop the 

IF ONLY  this would happen THEN things will be better.

If only...then

they go on and on in my brain.

Cluttering things up.

The Lord, "Glance look up."

I look at the burning colors again.

I am grateful.

1. for this room

2. this view

3. my husband

4. rest for my soul

on and on i make a list in my mind...

His response...

I love you with an everlasting love...it will be okay...it might not turn out the way you see it...but I promise to help you find the good." 

Thank you Jesus. Amen.

BIRD ID-JUST A DAY IN THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS

Due to technical difficulties I struggle to put a photo of a bird on this page. With determination tho I hope to be successful soon.

Let me tell you a true story, my encounter with Penny, the bird I met in the Rocky Mountains. I have a witness to this visit from my new found friend. I even have video, which I am trying to make available to you. Nevertheless, I will attempt to describe this pleasurable moment in time, "A moment in time" sealed in my sometimes failing menopausal brain of mine. I loved this story, as you may or may not know, I feel truly like birds are my friends. A gift from God.

Lord I need to know you are here, that you are real. The answer appeared within moments as over 10 beautiful male cardinals appeared on the trees right in front of me. I have written about that moment in the past.

This time in the Rocky Mountains as I gazed, on a long hike, at the beauty of God's nature. Penny was right above my head on a branch, my friend and I stopped chatting and (we noticed something was going on, yeah, mmmm) there the bird was. It would move to the next tree ahead of us. If only I could could eyeball height and come up with that for you to picture in your mind, all that I can say is it was not that high up. Getting back to the story, the bird kept leading us down the path swooping ahead tree by tree. "Are you going to say anything, I'm videoing you?" I ASKED THE BIRD!
I guess I am all crazy for talking to birds, but why not?! These moments mean to me, Jesus is alive! I am not worshiping nature or mother nature. I am reminded! Reminded  of Jesus promise, if I take care of the birds, how much more will I take care of you (paraphrased my words). Simply, I got your back!

Is nature another addiction, a place for us to control our emotions? Well, I pray never, it invigorates me to seek God in His creation. My soul glorifies the Lord with the singing of trees, the whistle of wind and bird songs. Enjoy it with Him in mind. We live to love the Lord with our body, mind, soul and strength.

As I awoke this morning with the negative question, why even get out of bed? I'm running for your heart, sings musical group Third day, Soul on Fire. I need a word from the voice of truth, not my negative Nelly brain of mine! 

Friends I want you to consider running till your Soul is on fire. Read a poem or a phrase from the world, see if you feel like getting out of bed. I in fact got distracted on Instagram and my helplessness was at still at the forefront of my mind. It got me nowhere. Till I stopped and asked for help to focus. I read this, "No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgement (the voices in my head) you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from Me, says the Lord." Amen.

Look closely at these words beloved. You are a part of the heritage of the Lord. Ask. Run till your soul is on fire. I can't describe it, I didn't have all the answers for my day, I just had like a shot of caffeine to the heart. I was caffeinated! That's the words I put to my strength. My thoughts no longer went to, I'm going to stay in bed to let's go, God where we going...together we went, got dressed, washed my face, ate breakfast, chatted with family members, and now I am writing. I'm thinking some form of exercise after...What about you? Check it out for yourself!

We covered much ground today. Nature power, Word power....all worked to invigorate us...by the author, perfecter, creator of my soul, JESUS! Shine on friend. Shine on!

28 SEPTEMBER SPEAKING ENGAGEMENT

First Congregational UCC 235 South Kenilworth Avenue Elmhurst, Illinois 60126 (630) 832-2580 elmhurstucc.org

LOOK! LOOK! LOOK AT THAT...

Look there...and there...look, look, look...she jumps up and down anxiously, kind of like she has to go to the bathroom, grabs her daddy's face moving it each way as she wants him to see what she is seeing. She asks, "Can you see it!" Picture the dad either kneeling down looking fully into her sparkling eyes or just waving saying, "Yah, Yah"! Her eight year old eyes are satisfied or disappointed.

As I sat in my backyard I saw the different shades of green, birds, sounds and was like "Daddy you created that and that and all...for me to see. Wow! I was inspired to draw sparrows from the scripture, "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father's care (Matthew 10:29 NIV)." Beloved you are valued. Your value may be diminished by negative feedback from your roles as a co-worker, spouse, friend, grandparent, and relative. We can not rely on those roles to define us to validate your longings for approval. Only God can STAMP your heart with that kind of love.

Rest my friend. Is this part of what Jesus meant, when He said, "Let the little children come to me"! He knew they appreciated the little. He knew their pure hearts lead us to remember. To be in the moment. To sit and be still. How did we loose that wonderment? Wonder of  the gifts of the day. A butterfly that swoops by you, a bubble with a rainbow shown through it, a thank you from a person who you open the door for. All are gifts of love from the Father. Be in awe of a song that redirects your negative thoughts.

A prayer:
Father give me the ability to see what you see. Amen.

CUP OF JOE

...flavor. I see myself cup the white ceramic mug with my hands, gazing at the swirl of  artistic heart-shaped cream, lifted it near my nose and sniffed in the rich aroma and tasted the bold flavor, "MMM", a savor sound from my mouth. A soothing calming moment and I mean a brief moment , for we all know what comes next;  jittery burst of energy, the much needed focus for the day. 

Pause for this fact: Americans consume 400 million cups of coffee per day making the United States the leading consumer of coffee in the world. Proud american fact, not! I hope you understand that I am not against coffee or about to get on my soap box. Just think of the feeling of expectation (for a cup of coffee) when we drive-thru or get out of our car, wait in a line, order and then drink. All for the exorbitant price of 3 to 5 dollars. 

(Are we paying this much attention to the One who promises to replenish us and fill us every day no matter what? Seriously, FREE REFILLS!)

I liken this experience to my reading the bible. Ok, hang in there with me for a moment. You know, you get your favorite mug the one with the perfect handle, perfect size, perfect portion, perfect feel and weight. I pour and then it happens, the taste is amazing and it is bliss! When I start reading the bible my cup is sometimes empty and slowly as I read, the words pour into my body, mind and soul. I wish I could put words to it. I flourish! Sometimes I have to read the passage three times. But then it happens the rich bold taste of the word convicts me. I get stuck on a phrase or word, person, observation of the writer; something powerful happens to me. Like I said it's bold. You know many of us need our coffee daily, our mind and body say so!  I don't feel weird admitting that I need the word daily just as I feel the need for coffee. I know the benefits, the promises and the strength I receive from it. I am jolted every time. It helps! I'm talking about the word now. It can get intertwined. They seem to have the same effect. I call out "Help!" feeling hopeless, but I am not. The promises come to mind. I must understand them.

The word supplies these truths:

God is who He says He is.

I am who God says Iam.

God can do what He says He can do.

I can do all things through Christ.

God's word is alive and active in me.

Can you understand these 5 points with confidence? Do you know where they are in scripture? These are essential elements to fill your cup to the brim! In fact, let it over flow! 

Pray with me:

Lord you are the caffeine I need each day.  Help me find time to fill myself with you.  The reward is power, love and sound mind. Thank you. In Jesus name, Amen.

Start your reward card today. Get your journal out and record the visits.

Big prizes ahead if you do!

A comment from a special friend in response to this article:

"Prayed the prayer filling my day with the word & can't wait to add to my reward card via journaling!"

WHOSE THE BOSS?

THE SCHULENBERG PRAIRIE, AT THE MORTON ARBORETUM

Forty five minutes had gone by...this plant was told to be amongst the wildflowers at the
Schulenberg Prairie, Morton Arboretum. The experts who identify plants, record their findings, classify them but could not find it. No wonder, the tallgrass was at its peak with thick and lush flowers and grass everywhere.

But then among them all it appeared....
the beauty of the bright purple flowers...

Ironweed

 - Vernonia fasciculata

They felt like giving up.

They felt so disappointed.

"Let's move up the path and find other undentified plants." "Yeah, let's give up."

"Is giving up an option?", I questioned.

"Wait, what did I just ask? Is giving up an option? Did they look hard enough. Did they ask the recent spotter the right questions? Did they listen correctly? 

Did they really want to record this today? No excuse to give up because of weather, it was just right today! Were they tired? I could hear and see the frustration on their face.They turn to their guide book and photos, retrace their steps, why can't they find the flower?

My mind wanders to the times of when I am in my own personal struggle. Trying to map my way out. All the frustration, disappointment and hopeless feelings crowded out any possible positive thoughts. Further thought leads me to where I always go for condolence, solace, rest, a safe place.
In the nape of my fathers shoulder. I sit, rest my head, close my eyes and breathe.

What have I been reading in the book recently? 

I just read the story 'The Validity of Jesus' Testimony', or in my words "WHOSE THE BOSS", where the religious leaders brought a woman who committed adultery before Jesus. Should they stone her to death, for the law says to? 
Jesus is quiet.
Jesus squats down and writes something in the dirt.
Jesus speaks, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." The people began to leave starting with the oldest.

I thought about reading that in the moment. Hopefully, I am getting wiser, as I get older. Knowing who Jesus is...the doubting of who He said he was, Him and God are equal, is no longer a question anymore to me. The next thing Jesus says, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will NEVER walk in the darkness, but will Have the light of life with them.  

I pray my mind always take my struggle and filter it through His fingers, because I believe he never lets me walk in darkness, and I have that life with me, He helps me to do that. How it was filtered in this moment. A scan of truth makes a list come to mind:
Jesus is real. Believe. He challenges the crowd to cast the first stone if they had not sinned. He knows that we all do sin. The oldest walks away first (they have a longer life of sin).  He doesn't judge. He thought the woman suffered enough, by being dragged by men across town. He releases her and asks her gently to sin no more. She walks away frightened, challenged, but changed. He repeats he is the light of the world. Believe it.

For me I could recall this story many different ways at different points in my life.
Don't judge.
I'm a sinner too.
I'm older, I should know better.
Life challenges us to react with value and morals.
The light of the world is with ME so I can walk, learn, do life. My boss. What He says matters.

Miraculously, we found the flower soon before giving up happened. It was glorious. It's on the charts now as a finding for everyone to know. Someone else can now come find and see for themselves.

I pray the same for you. That when circumstances that arise good or bad, you will filter it through the grace of Christ. Joy will bubble up and cause a reaction.

Check it out.
Lord help each of us to find Jesus amongst our tallgrasses of life, so we can calm down and wait. Amen.

MAKE ME AN INSTRUMENT OF PEACE

I ask. I need to hear.

He answers.

He is the channel of peace

Healing.

His voice so sweet.

He calms. He is reassuring.

I have rested.

My heart is full.

Disruption comes like a tsunami.

It wants to steal my joy.

I ask. I need to hear.

Make me an instrument of your peace.

He calms. He reassures.

The peace like a river flows.

I am grateful.

Thank you Jesus for your heart.

TRAVEL LIGHT

Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life.

I like to say Travel with me.

He is always with me.

ALWAYS!

When I pray and there seems to be no answer.

His goodness is there!

When I am waiting for an appointment.

He follows!

I am so grateful, that I have a plethora of stories that the narrative is completed.

Guess who was with me the whole way through?

Stop! Think of the those stories.

Ponder, meditate on His faithfulness from the past, so you can rest assured that the future will have its story also!

I am so grateful for Psalm 23. It has a basic message.

TRAVEL LIGHT!

PURA VIDA

"The sounds of the earth are like music. Oh what a beautiful morning. Oh what a beautiful day. Everything is going my way." I sing the end, "Everything is going to be okay."

Just got back from Costa Rica and the lush green rain forest. Oh the earth from plants, species, birds are all singing and making music.

How tremendous of a blessing it was to view God's creation.

CURIOUSLY, FLOURISHING, LOOKING UP

"But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love forever and ever. I will praise you forever for what you have done; in your name I will hope, for your names is good. I will praise you in the presence of your saints" (Psalm 52:8,9).
I love when I pick up a devotional and flip through the pages and a verse catches my eye.
It starts with reading, leads to a word that sticks out...the word makes me curious then I look it up, which leads to me making a list or asking myself more questions. I look at commentaries and blogs. I'm curious! What does it mean for me? Jesus, I pray, I need you today. Lead me! I get lost. Lost in the truth of what really matters. I need the deep connection. I am flourishing! He is nurturing my soul. My soul is quiet. It is well. It happens, again and again. I delight in the visit. I don't want to leave, but the world calls and I must go DO instead of just being. Being with the Jesus, my creator.

Flourish: to break forth, to bloom.
How interesting. Every Tuesday recently I've gone to the Arboretum to work in the Tallgrass Prairie.
In early in April, the prairie was flat and dead, but it is growing exponentially each week due to the increase in rain. Am I blooming along with the flowers? Maybe. I know for sure that I need to trust the Lord and His unfailing love forever. I like that David reminds me FOREVER. Not just when I feel like it. Do you need an answer from God about what's up! What's going on? I do to! But no answer is coming.

I stumble upon this random verse and it answers the question "What do I do?"

TRUST
PRAISE (For me that includes worship and reflection on Jesus).
REVIEW (Have I seen God's provision before? Remember, Reflect, Relish those moments.)
THANKFUL (After that review, I can't help but be thankful.)

Look up!
Look up!
Don't look down on earth! Not many answers come from there. Look up!

Honestly, it is so magnificent to be sitting at the computer right now writing.

Your closets may be clean, your spices in alphabetical order, but how's the space between your ears? When the pace of life leaves little time to process and organize our thoughts, our minds can become cluttered with "woulda, shoulda, coulda". When the temptation to put ourselves down or compare ourselves to others strikes, defeat and condemnation can lure us into faulty thinking.

"If the counter ain't clear, then I can't think straight"! That is the saying I created in my home. Seriously, for some reason I have it in my head that the day really stops if that counter ain't clear.
I must send you a pic! Really it makes sense, let me explain. If we are ready to set down our computer and make a workspace, the desk can't be full. If it is then you just cannot think straight. Our mind is the same. If we have the daily schedule, alerts, calendar, bills, others schedules, conversations with others not completed, electronic check-ins, concern for others and finally world news. Add, emotional, imagination, impulsive, false thoughts too all of the prior thoughts. Your counter/desk is full. You are probably struggling to get things done. Focusing is hard. 

The bibles refers to the word "mind" fourty eight times!
The bible says this

WALK IN THE PARK

I am thinking of the times I have rode my bike or walked in the park.
Especially when I come upon a deer.
It's absolutely refreshing.

Restoring, reassuring, a bit of fresh air.

The breath of fresh air that God puts in your lungs is life.

THE SON IS RISING

While just coming home from a long drive, Nebraska to Illinois, I saw this!
THE SON IS RISING!

My thought! What a gift! I literally know I was just speaking at a Christian women's connection in Nebraska about Jesus' love. Sharing Jesus arrival on earth, ministry, His unjust criminal death on the cross He suffered, His resurrection and then His ascension. This message written in the sky "The SON is Rising". Indeed He is alive and seated in highest honor in heaven praying for us all!

Friends, do you feel peace? Or are you struggling to find meaning here on earth? I saw this cross and was filled with joy. Jesus came to earth and had so many things to say and teach us while he was here. Have you ever read what He said? He calls to us all, listen, walk, talk with me for I am humble and gentle at heart.

Jesus, humble and gentle, knows everything about you, He created you, He loves you, turn your face toward the SON and talk to HIM. He listens well and joyfully is patient. No question ever offends Him. Tune in. He will answer back. Never harsh, never sarcastic, never with anger, but with gentleness. Have you ever met anyone with perfect love?
It is a gift to meet Jesus and personally walk and talk with Him.
That peace you are craving for sure...will disappear...the fears will be dispelled and...well, you will feel loved. Like you have value and worth. 

I saw the Sandhill Cranes that are migrating in central Nebraska for 6 weeks. They are so amazing! For thousands of years over 600,00 stop to migrate. The noise they make is so cool. 

 Sandhill cranes are tall. I could sit for hours and watch them flap up and down and make their noise. This visit was a gift from God.

SANITY COMES FROM CERTAINTY

Feeling a little insane? The schedule is crazy? Life is crazy?

You may ask:
I don't understand?
Why me?
I don't get what's going on?
Can you clue me in?
What's the reason?
What's going on here?
What's next?
What do I do now?

Asking too many questions?

Been there done that!
Can you identify? (Now I'm asking you a question.) Sorry, there is a point to this.

Possibly ask:

How do you want me to view this situation God?
and
What do you want me to do right now?

My answer as I prayed and asked was:
Go to John 17 (Jesus' last words before the cross.)

John 17:8 For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from you and they believed that you sent me. I pray for them.  26. I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the LOVE you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.
11. Protect them by the power of your name.

After reading this. My mind stopped the clutter, the chatter bantering in my brain. I was quiet. I was peaceful. My next thought was. Check your exercise classschedule. Okay I'll go to that. With the peace of God I went to my class.

I walked in His truth. He loves me. He died and rose again, conquered death for me. He forgives me. He knows that I am not perfect, but I am His. He is my protector. I AM HIS.

In the past God has given me a song to listen to. I have learned that listening to it once is not enough. It takes about 3x. With ear plugs. After my mind is calm and I just do the next thing I peacefully think of things to do next. I like this one GREAT ARE YOU LORD ( by All  Sons and Daughters).

Everything we have is from Him.
Everything we are is because of Him.
We inherited:
His mercy.
His faithfulness.
His Holiness.
His atoning sacrifice.
His flawless character and infinite love and compassion.

Be reassured. Answers will come. Next steps will come. Keep calm and carry on.

Prayer: Lord, what do you want me to do right now? Thank you Father for being with me. Thank you for your love. I wait on you. Amen.

God wants to keep you sane. He did not give you a spirit of timidity but of Power, Love and Sound- mind. Stick with your certainty every time. It will bring you back to peace.

Hi Friend: Do you want more? Here is a little exercise to open your mind to focus on Jesus.

Read Psalm 111. This Psalm contains a word bank of characteristics of Jesus.

great, glorious majestic righteous, wonderful, memorable, gracious, compassionate, provider, covenant keeper, powerful, giver faithful, just, trustworthy, steadfast, upright, redeemer, holy, awesome and eternal. His character is being presented to you every day! Is He real to you? How do you see Him working? What verses help reveal this truth of who God is for you right now? Are you meditating on this scripture day and night? Is it a work in progress, are you waiting, is it finished and you have the answer? Realize sometimes you won't ever get the answer. That's okay! It still will be an opportunity to grow. Your next steps:  be brave, be vulnerable, be authentic, invite someone to her your story of now!

I've been left out! Not even an invite! A chance for me to say "Yes" or "No"!

I heard a young girl, junior in High School, say "I'm not even gonna try anymore."
Try to figure out her "Group" of girls she is part of! "Why?", I asked. She said it began years ago. She is so young. Years ago? When she was in middle school she was not included in a "Girl group". She basically said that she gives up and just waiting for college.

Giving up to find decent people to hang with. People who will build you up. People who will accept you for who you are. People who will include you and want the best for you. They would bring the best out in you.

Do you know anyone that can be on your team?!

I want to share a story about that.

(This story is the only miracle Jesus did and is mentioned in all four gospels.)

Jesus started His public ministry when He turned thirty. He had twelve disciples, walking, talking and learning from Him. One day he was tired from spending much time with the people. More and more people heard about Him healing and teaching. Crowds would gather just to be by Jesus. On this day Jesus got in a boat with idea to go to the other side and go to a place of solidarity to pray.
When he got to the other side there came a crowd. Jesus looked at them and HAD COMPASSION ON THEM. The disciples wanted to protect Jesus. They said, "It's getting late, lets direct the crowd to a town where they could find lodging and food for themselves."  Jesus said, "Let's feed them." His disciples said, "We have only these 5 loaves of bread and two fish." Jesus told the people to sit on the grass and then he took the bread and broke it, looked up to heaven and blessed it and gave thanks. Then He instructed the disciples to feed everyone. They did. There were over 5000 men and also women and children in addition. There was twelve baskets of food left over.

The disciples had temporarily forgot that Jesus did remarkable things. They witnessed them. They were being practical the lacked judgement. They just did saw they did not have the time, money or ability to feed 5000.

Jesus being God himself. Creator. Loved everyone. He reached across and wanted to take care of everyone. He did not leave anyone out! He blessed the bread, gave thanks. (He was teaching everyone.) He did not get mad at the disciples. He did not take charge and do everything. He included the disciples in the plan. They are participated willingly, remember who Jesus was. God took something small and multiplied (did it big). He does miracles. He is a miracle maker. He is acting like a father would. He lavished them with food generously. They got to have as much as they want. Jesus did the impossible. He was kind and compassionate. He includes everybody. He wants the best for everyone. There were even leftovers! He looks out for us all.

Jesus is the one to run to when you feel rejected, alone, left out. To look at your situation in light of the cross, death and resurrection of Christ will bring you peace. Let us say, "I will pray for those to come into my life that will have my back, will support me and want the best for me. I always have Jesus. The one who forgave me, loved me, took the punishment for me. I am seated with Him. He has His thoughts are for me. He will be my rock and protector. He is with me. He left the Holy Spirit who now lives in me. I can do all things with Him. I will be okay. For now better to be alone with Jesus than be with those who are good for me."
Grieving and being sad is real. But then we have to speak the truth to ourselves.
Wait. Wait on Jesus. Wait till the light of the world shows you His next steps.

Pray:  Lord thank you for loving me so much. At times you may want me alone so that you can protect me. Forgive me when I get impatient. Forgive these people who have been mean. I can be mean without you. Help me to find people who will love me and care for me the way you do. I wait on you to show me. Amen.

DO NOT MISS CALVARY

I was cleaning, moving, bamming (Shoving stuff in closets or cabinets. Out of sight!) I tend to move things on shelves and counters. As my husband watches me, lol! He is thinking why does she move things only a couple of feet? Explanation! It looked better today in the new spot. Could you laugh with me right now? Picture me moving things and bamming. Wait! In the end I did something and I felt productive. Now my mind is clear and I can settle at my favorite spot to read and write about HIM! Who?

Jesus, of course!

Lately, reflecting, imagining myself sitting at the foot of the cross. Seeing my Lord like that is very disturbing to say the least. I never want to see Him like that, really, yet I realize that reflecting on His pain brings me to a very humbling place where I question, "Why did you have to die in such a brutal way?" I like to also picture the risen Jesus, full of new life and meaning. Beckoning me to come to Him. Him giving me the faith to believe, He went to the cross for my sins. I am personalizing it here because that's my way of letting go. Letting go of my anxiety, impatience, waiting, my temptations, and worldview. To get back. Back to the view Jesus wants me to see. To stop! To see! Remember. Because of His blood my sins are paid. The risen Jesus is alive and seated at the highest place of honor. He sits in heaven and He went there so that the Holy Spirit can come live within me. In me I know that as I rely on this love I have life and peace. Essentially all I need. Satisfaction.

Love is here, love is now, love is pouring from His brow. All of our spiritual blessings, come from the cross.

I pray that as we prepare for Easter we take this time to pray for all of those held in captivity and need to hear the story of love of Jesus. Imagine a world where more new this love story!
To make it personal as I did here.

Pray: I want to pray that the eyes of the heart of_____will be opened. Opened so they will experience forgiveness and your eternal love for them. Amen.

Prayer, the key to everything. God is calling us to the cross. Calling us to Him. At the cross is love, hope, forgiveness and healing!

Facts to know: Jesus carried the cross about 8 football field (end zone to end zone length). The cross was possibly 6x14 and weighing about 300 1lbs. That is incredible that as wounded as He was that he went that far with that much weight.

CALVARY
It's about His story.
It's about who we become at Calvary.
But most importantly it's about Him.
His Mercy.
His faithfulness.
His holiness.
His atoning sacrifice.
How He traded His glory (Identity) for our shameful one.
His flawless character, infinite love and compassion.

Constantly remembering, where we will spend eternity, rejoicing not in us alone but in Him.
Crying out at any moment with those in heaven:
Holy, Holy, Holy...is the Lord God Almighty; the whole earth is full of His glory (Isaiah 6:3).
Holy, Holy, Holy...is the Lord God Almighty; who was, and is, and is to come (Rev. 4:8).

Do you hang on His every word?
Do you remember who He is?
Who are you because of the cross?

He is the one who can set you at ease, give you peace.

In light of the truth of the gospel, how do we translate this into our everyday life today?
Gospel: incarnation, sinless life, substitutionary death, burial, bodily resurrection, ascension, and eternal reign of the son of God, Jesus Christ.

We can identify. We are CHRISTians. Being a Christian is not a program of self-improvement. When we identify and meet Jesus with our heart at the cross. Self-improving is our work. At the cross is Jesus work, substitutionary death (for our sin), burial, bodily resurrection, new life.
This is the work of Jesus. My old self has been crucified with Christ, I no longer live. The life I now live is by faith (Gal. 2:20). Another way put is the old is gone, the new has come (2 Cor. 5:17).

THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU ARE THINKING

Put Your Thoughts on a Shelf

Scripture Verses[1]

Phil. 1:6.  [B]eing confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

2 Cor. 10:5. (MSG) We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. 

Phil. 4:6-7.  Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

 2 Tim. 1:7.  For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. 

Ps. 139:14. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous-how well I know it!

1 Pet. 1:13.  Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. 

1 Pet. 4:7.  Therefore, be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.

Prov. 3:5-6.  Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

2 Cor. 1:4.  [He] comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

James 1:13-`5 When tempted…

Col. 3:13 Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

1.      Awareness- Think about what you are thinking.

2.      Accept- What needs improvement.

3.      Action- My project worksheet.

4.      Available- Walk humbly, freely. Help others.

Key to mind: When you look at Paul’s life; Paul’s sanity was protected by his CERTAINTY (God’s words.) Believe it! Let’s do life with Christ!

---

[1] All scripture verses are taken from the NIV unless otherwise indicated.

NATURE CALLS! STUPENDOUS!

My happy place, the Morton Aboretum. I remember for years I didn't go there. Many people said it was the place to go. I would tell myself, why should I pay money to enjoy nature. How can it be any better in there then the forest preserve down the block? On a whim I went two years ago and found it nice. I started only enjoying the bike path and not endeavoring any deeper into the park. Well, oh yeah I did lunch. Until one day I really looked at their website and started to consider if this place makes me so peaceful why not learn more. Thus began my whole new out look. The more I got educated about the woodlands, prairie and the rich history, Ding! Ding! Ding! - a light bulb alarmingly went off in my head.  Are you crazy, look what you have been missing! What God created I hadn't been paying attention. Nature calls! It never let's me down! This is stupendous!

Friends: I liken this to my relationship with Christ. I drifted through life on my own, in my twenties I was feeling empty and desperate. Significant transformation came when I was introduced to Christ and His ginormous love for me. It was great in the beginning even tho I did not know much about Jesus, but the more I picked up the bible and read about His life, way and truth, I marveled and wanted more and more. It was bliss. The more I learn, which is never ending, the more I appreciate the Father's love for me. It really is a love story. 

If we walk around life and do not dig deeper. We miss out! Diving in enriching! It is stupendous! 

I ask?

Have you asked Jesus to take your hand? Will you walk, talk, learn from Him? I had my favorite dinner the other night, a big juicy piece of Filet Mignon. The memory of eating it is there, but it kind of was a quick fix to gratification. Jesus is sufficient. He is better than that steak. 

All my days, I want to praise the wonders of His mighty hands. Every breath that I take is a reminder that He created me and He gave me breath in my lungs. 

Prayer: Father thank you for your stupendous love of Jesus! Amen.

Not Spring yet, but get ready God is calling us to His creation, nature!

FROLICKING IN FREEDOM

I’m sitting in a spot at the Arboretum. I hear the tweeting of the different birds. I hear the voice of two moms walking by, babies in tow in their strollers. Quiet now. I hear children on foot approaching. Children walking. One yelping for a sandwich. One just eats contently her sandwich contentedly. The third girl pointing, quietly. They move along the path. One suddenly chooses to lay day down on the grass. They other two follow and do the same. All frolicking, giggling and content. Two get restless and get up. Wait! Oh, the third is up too! Now they are all up and walking down the path. One mother speaks up, “Why not keep walking?” “Yes”, one girl says and they all agree.”

I am sitting by a lake. A duck lands on the water. It approaches for landing on the water. I hear a stream of water part as the bird lands. Floating the bird quacks. It stays a while then drifts. Drifts away toward a rock. The duck is able to maneuver itself up the rock. Waddling his way along It pecks at itself. Perhaps to clean itself. Not sure. It just stands, looks around and pecks at itself, every few seconds, repeats, pecks.

The girls did not get very far. They have stopped to sit on a patch of grass along the path. On the other side of the path is that lake where I just observed the duck. Each girl proceeds to get up and down. One girls stands out to me, she lays for a bit speaks a bit. The mothers deep in their own conversation, appear to be ignoring the girls.

The one girl approaches her mom and sits on her lap for a moment. Wanting and loving the touch of a mom that only a mom can give. Now another girl observes this and sits on her mother’s lap too! The third girl who is bigger than the other two, not by much though, sits between the two moms. The one in the middle grabs her foot and straightens her leg. Then the girl on the right sees this and does the same thing. A minute and half lapses and the middle girl gets up, walks around them all then proceeds to grab the back pack they brought. She looks through it closes it up and swings it on her shoulder. It appears to be heavy. But as she gets it to properly rest on her shoulders it gets easier to carry.

I gaze out at the lake. The duck now sits on the rock resting not moving. Now two of the girls sit to the left of the moms. But suddenly the mom on the right gets up and then the other mom. She proceeds a few feet down the path gazes, all jump up and continue walking on the path. Mothers intently talking again and begin to walk ahead of the girls. One is sticking by the moms. She is the smallest. The one mom has the backpack on properly now. They are walking at a steady pace on the other side of the lake from me. They started right in front of me, but now they are completely in front of me across the lake. They are walking in the distance. Like the sun going down in the sunset getting smaller, smaller and then I see them no longer.

I am wearing a tank top. I realize I’m on a park bench that only one side of my arm is getting sun, so I proceed to another location where my other side will be exposed to sun. There is beauty all around me.

That Spring sun.  It was May 2015.  To my left was white tulips, seven in a cluster bunch down horizontally in a row, two more, five inches break then one more, about five inches more a cluster of four. Straight across from me is a lady dressed completely in black even black flat shoes, socks, black slacks, and black cotton blouse. Black purse sits on the table. She has those big black sunglasses you wear after cataract surgery. She has chin length sandy color hair with a hint of ginger. She places her glasses down low on her nose so she can look at her black smartphone. She is trying to look at the prompts on the phone to set it.  Then she places her glasses up right, lifts her phone to take pictures or possibly video nature. She makes a comment to a passerbyer, “Have a nice day”. The sun is bright, 70 degrees. Earlier it showed no rain today, but no sun either. So, this is a bonus.

She grabs into her black satchel and retrieves an apple. That reminds me I brought an apple, but left it in the car. She munches on the apple and looks around. I notice her shirt has a logo of the Arboretum on it and a lanyard with a badge on it. She either works or volunteers here. She takes her black strap and places it around her head. It is a cross body hand bag. Her break is over. She tosses the apple in the trash picks up a forest green cloth bag. (I didn’t see that before.) She proceeds to walk toward the indoors. She glances back as if she is making sure she has everything.

The building she is entering is the Arboretum main lodge. Big windows, some cedar siding. It is a low rise structure that is modern looking. Gift shop, café, restroom and a patio attached. Guest central is available for questions and membership. 

Did you ever take the time to journal? Slow down to just observe? I did this as a exercise and really enjoyed it. I have done it several times since. Try it. It slows you down and the world is seen differently. It changes me internally, each time I do it. Permanently changes me!

Where is our childlike frolick?
Where did it go?
When did we loose it? Did someone steal it from you with actions or words?
Did someone say we have to be serious now?
When was the last time you stopped to just frolick?
Silly, free like?
I looked at the heart of those little precious girls. So simple. In life will someone take that fragile heart and yell at it or speak negatively to them? Will the trajectory of their life be changed from one tragic voice, tone or incident?
Not one person deserves it!
If you have stopped your frolick in freedom. It is never too late! It does not have to be the end of your story. You can choose the voice of truth, who views you as wonderfully complex!
How do you become connected to that voice?
How do you be driven by that voice?
Do we sometimes get driven by our own voice that has accepted what has happened act on that acceptance by reacting with shame or guilt (negative talk) and we work harder and harder to silence it? Pretty tiring!

Pray:  Lord I need you. I need to hear from you? Transform me! Amen.

Read the greatest story that transforms:
Phil. 2:6-11
The name above all name, seated at the highest honor transforms.