The Violin

From where I sat on the front porch of my old home place, I could hear the sweet strains of the violin coming from our family radio. I do not ever before remember hearing anything so beautiful in my entire life. My young heart thrilled to the music.

When I told my mother that I wanted to learn to play the violin, she encouraged me to ask at school if there was one available for me. The elementary school music teacher told me that there was a loaner that I could use while at school, and she would teach me the beginning steps to learn to play.

I was delighted, and could only hope that I could bring forth the lovely sounds that I so vividly remembered taking pleasure in.

Shortly after, mother took me with her down town, and we visited a music store. The attendant showed us a used violin that was in good condition and he named the price of $25. In those days that was a lot of money, and our family was not known to be extravagant.

My mother was a person who never wanted to dampen our dreams and somehow she found the money and made the purchase. (I never knew what she gave up so I could have my precious violin.)

Although I practiced, and played in the school orchestra, my violin never sang the sweet tunes that I was searching for. My talent was lost to music, but I never regretted the hours spent in seeking out my love for music.

In stead it seemed my talent was enjoying music coming from others. They call it music appreciation and that is what I still do today.

Years later, I passed my old violin on to my daughter who expressed an interest in music.

When it comes to worshiping the Lord, God does not demand perfection from us. In fact the Bible tells us to “Make a Joyful Noise” unto the Lord, and praise His name.

When you sing praises unto God, it may sound like a noise to others, but to the Lord, it is the most thrilling and lovely sound that His ear can hear.

Isn’t it amazing that God does not criticize our songs of praise, but as a parent would enjoy his children, He is pleased with our sacrifice of praise unto Him.

Psalms 100:2 Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

Psalms 150:6 Let every thing that has breath praise the LORD. Praise you the LORD.

What’s Up?

Hey! How are you doing? Hi there! What are you up to these days? What is going on? How have you been?

These and many other short sayings are common everyday expressions used to open up a conversation.

Some would take you wrong, and think that you were prying into their private life.

Offence is often made unwittingly and certainly not intended. Why do some hold their feelings attached to their coat sleeves?

Another common expression for those easily hurt is: “Get Over it!”

Then there are others who would be happy that you cared to ask, and even speak to them.

Usually you will get a short answer that lets you know they are fine, or doing good. Some would even answer that they are “Blessed.”

Honestly you would prefer that you do not get a detailed report of their last physical examination, but that could happen too.

Others might let you know they would appreciate prayer regarding something going on in their family.

Use caution yourself not to relate all your woes and troubles, for your sad story may fall on deaf ears.

Ecclesiastes 5:2 Be not rash with your mouth, and let not your heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and you upon earth: therefore let your words be few.

Instead let your listener leave feeling they have been encouraged to have spoken with you.

How did the Gospel writers greet their friends? Usually they said, Greetings to all the saints. Simply stated that means if you are a Christian, then you are a saint.

Romans 1:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

May all you Saints be greatly blessed until our next Post!

Quick Energy Snacks

Fresh fruit is wonderful for a snack, but do you always have it available at all times?

If you are a working person on the job, or a student at school, you may find fresh fruit difficult to carry with you.

When I was a teen age girl, there were times during the month, when I felt extremely weak and so very tired. Many times I was almost in a faint.

I am a fair skinned person, and my complexion was always pale after a very debilitating problem when I was about 12. Too many silver fillings caused my liver to rebel and my skin turned brilliant yellow. After about 3 weeks I was better and able to return to school but continued to be weak.

My mother decided that she would wrap up a handful of raisins and add them to my sack lunch. Usually I saved the raisins until mid afternoon just before my long walk home. That snack was what saved many a day, and the infusion of iron gave me added strength.

Later in life, we met a woman who kept a supply of almonds on hand. Each day she would snack on a handful of these delicious nuts.

A trip to Cost-Co provided us with a large bag of these valuable almonds. A zip-lock bag in the glove compartment of our car would offer enough nuts fresh and handy if we felt the need for a quick snack. The balance was stored in our refrigerator for easy reach.

If you have school age children, you may want to consider purchasing the small mini snack zip lock bags. They are just large enough to contain a handful of almonds and raisins, so your child can easily carry it in their purse or back pack. In the late afternoon they can retrieve their precious snack and enjoy a quick fix of energy.

Your child will especially need this snack if they have after school sports or other after school activities.

As Christians, there are times when our faith seems to wobble and be weak. Perhaps it is time for a quick snack on the Word of God.

Carrying around a big Bible may not be the thing you want to do, but you can carry small index cards with your favorite scripture verses printed on them. Here are a few good ones!

Always practice Gratitude: Psalms 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

Feeling afraid, worried, or depressed? Take a look at:
2Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Are you anxious? Hebrews 13:5 Be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave you, nor forsake you.

This post has been entered in: Food on Fridays at  http://annkroeker.com/   Do visit her site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes.

The Color Purple

I must have been three years old, when my aunt Blanch, visited us with some sample swatches of material. She showed me three of the small samples and asked me which color I liked the best.

I selected a purple background piece that had tiny flowers on it. In a few days, she delivered to my mother enough yardage material to sew a dress for me to wear to church.

I have always loved the color purple and variations of it, all the way to dark wine colors.

If you look in my closet now, you will find several dresses, blouses and pants that are modifications of purple, from violet to magenta.

Don’t get me wrong, because I also love Emerald Green, and shades of blue, but purple usually wins the choice.

This struck home to me many years ago, when I was purchasing shirts for my son.

One day he asked me, “Mom, are these wine colored shirts the only ones on ‘Sale?’

Yes, I am a bargain hunter, and my children knew it, but I was always drawn to the deep magenta colors, and yes they were on sale.

I told my son, that I would be more careful, and I was from that day on, as I shopped for my children.

Favorites, yes we do have them from colors, to food, to places to visit, to types of music.

Most of us have a favorite Hymn or chorus we love to sing our praises to the Lord.

Favorite Bible Verses are difficult to select for we have a variety of favorites, from John 3:16 to the verses promising protection and those that offer peace and blessings.

These are some of my favorite verses from the Book of Psalms:

Psalms 1:1, 6 How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of scoffers!   But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night.  And he will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season, And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers.
The wicked are not so, But they are like chaff which the wind drives away.
Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, Nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the wicked will perish.


Psalms 63:3, 4 Because Thy loving kindness is better than life, my lips will praise Thee.  So I will bless Thee as long as I live; I will lift up my hands in Thy name.

Double Honor Instead of - - -

"Instead of your shame you shall have double honor, and instead of confusion they shall rejoice in their portion. Therefore in their land they shall possess double: Everlasting joy shall be theirs." Isaiah 61:7

Are you ever confused, worried, depressed, or ashamed of your past?

Although I know some things in my past are forgiven, there are time when thoughts parade across my mind and I feel guilt and a wish that I could have changed certain actions.

The Bible speaks of silly women and as I look back in time, at certain events, that was me, the foolish one.

I should have been a better mother, wife, example, teacher, and worker, here the list gets longer the more you think.

The mind loves to rehearse, and although thinking is good, it can also be bad. The Bible requires that we think on things that are lovely and of good report. If we find that we are thinking on things that condemn, worry and upset us, it is time to adjust our thoughts.

How to do this? Certainly you can only think on ONE thing at a time, so change the channel.

Begin to quote to yourself, Bible verses you have committed to memory, or what helps me is to sing a hymn or worship chorus.

The past is no more, and thinking about it will not change anything. Paul says forgetting those things, I press on to the new day and the future.

God has promised to reward us double joy and peace for our trouble. Instead of shame, He promises that we will have double honor.

Simply believe it and receive it. Make it your affirmation: “God’s blessings are mine.”

The Long Lasting Winter Coat

It had taken me a long time to save up $75 so that I could purchase a new Winter coat.

The coat I wore for seven years was a neutral grey color, a sturdy fabric and was still in good condition, but I just wanted a new Winter coat and in my mind I needed one.

Then our church had a Missionary speaker.  Afterwards they took a special offering to assist with a project the missionary was involved with.

The Lord spoke to me and said, “Give your $75 to this missionary.” I replied, but Lord you know this money has been saved for my new coat, and besides that I have worn this coat every Winter for seven years, and now I deserve a new one.”

It is hopeless to argue with the Lord and I knew that, so I told Him, “If you will cause this old coat to last another seven years, I will wear it and give up this money for the missionary.” 

Then I cheerfully placed my coat money into the offering plate.  (The Lord loves a cheerful giver.)

The amazing thing was that the coat still looked new at the end of another seven years. But now I was tired of it, and my friend who had a Cost-Co membership took me with her and helped me select and purchase a new coat.

Another friend, asked me. “What did you do with your old coat?” I told her, “I still have it and probably will give it away.” She asked me if she could buy it but I told her no, I will I gladly gave it to you.  I think she wore it for awhile, and then because her sister needed a coat, she gave it to her sister.  As far as I know, that coat is still going on from person to person.

The Lord promises to multiply that which is freely given, and I believe my $75 went a long way also. I do know that in many ways we were prospered in health and finances, and I tend to believe it was from my faithfulness in obeying His voice.

In the dusty march from Egypt to the Promised Land, the Israelites experienced an amazing happening. Their shoes and their clothing did not wear out for 40 years. I suppose there was hand me downs for their growing children.

Aren’t you happy that on this earth, you don’t need to wear the same thing for 40 years?

Today as Christians, we wear the Robe of His Righteousness. I expect that it is a neutral white color and probably glistening in the light of the SON. Or it could be a royal Purple color and that would be nice too.

One day, the Lord promises to give us crowns to wear as we rule and reign with Him. Oh that will be an exciting time, but for now He expects me to listen to His voice and obey.

From time to time, I do hear him speak to give this or that and I obey.

I hope you are also are listening and will follow his instructions when he tells you to give or to do some work for Him, whether is in the Spring, Summer, Fall or in the Winter.

This post has been entered in “Changing the World One Word at a Time.”  Please amble over and check out the other great posts for the word WINTER at:  http://peterpollock.com/

We’ve Never Done it That Way Before

Some people are so set in their ways that they refuse to attempt new ideas and new methods in this present age.  Many reject the thought that they should learn the computer.  They are afraid of e-mail, and are content to pay their bills with a check and send payments out by mail.

Churches are loosing members, right and left because their music, their rituals and the order of the service was always done a certain way, and God forbid to change anything.

The church must always lift up Jesus, and there are new joyful songs that can be learned and sang along with the old hymns, and even a little hand clapping in tune to the music is sometimes appropriate. (But not here, because that is something we never did before.)

A small church can give the member’s time to speak out their prayer requests, and also give a short praise, but please no “testimonies” Because we have never done that before.

At my church, I must have misunderstood, because the time that was allotted for “joys and concerns” seemed to be a great time to share a short joyful witness that would encourage the congregation.

One of the Council members took me aside and informed me that they had never done this before, but they would allow me a short witness once a month, just not too often.

My husband told me that if I liked this church, that I should abide by their decision, or shake the dust off from my feet and find another church. I did love the people and the Lord did not tell me to leave.

Difficult as it was, I kept stories bottled up inside, but - -

Because there was so much bubbling in my spirit that needed an outlet - - - a good friend and also my daughter suggested I should start a blog. They gave me tips and suggestions on how to begin, and off I went.

My friend’s daughter’s fiancé recommended two sites that are popular for Blogs. I selected Google, because at the top of the post is a place to view the “next blog.” This way you can see how others are posting. If you find a blog you like, you can leave a comment and they may return to view your blog. Comments are fun to give, and wonderful to receive.

My daughter suggested that I join Twitter and Face Book and leave a notice each time I did a post.

Then I discovered the blog carnivals, where bloggers enter their post along with other bloggers. Now it became even more exciting.

Yes, me a Senior Citizen, who had “Never done this before,” was launching out into a new ministry. Some accept my posts and others pay little attention. That is fine, because God is multiplying the messages. Each time a Face Book friend clicks on “Like” there the notice goes out to all their friends. Unknown followers are joining on Twitter and they often re-tweet.

Is there something good and exciting that you have never attempted before? Do not wait until you are as old as I am to jump in and get wet! Launch out and at least give it a try!

A Vegetarian House Guest

Years ago we had a group of house guests, for about 3 weeks. We were working on the computer for an investment program we were all involved in. It turned out that the group of us had been lied to by the experts, but that was not discovered until years later. (However that would be another story.)

One of our house guests was a vegetarian. Another guest was Lorraine, a Mormon lady who had written two books about grains; one of the books was a recipe book. Lorraine helped me prepare meals that would please everyone at the table, and most were without meat.

Our vegetarian friend would eat dairy foods including cheese. Also she would eat eggs if the eggs were inside something such as a cake or a casserole, but her main protein was a handful of almonds each day. I believe she counted 19 almonds for her daily treat.

In the book of Genesis the Lord gave man all the trees and herbs of the field for their diet. It was when it became necessary to slay an animal to provide clothing for Adam and Eve that animals became a sacrifice. Then God gave meat in addition to their cultivated food, but they were instructed to make certain the meat was well roasted or boiled and fully cooked.

In the New Testament, Paul says in a letter to Timothy - -

1Timothy 4:1-4 Some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; - -Forbidding to marry, and command to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving.

So what to do? Be gracious as to what ever diets your friends choose.  A friend of mine says she is a sometimes vegetarian and other times not. This gives her a greater appreciation for all types of food and diet. Preparing food with love is likened unto a type of Worship to God. As we are thankful for our food we can worship the creator who gives to us all good things.

This post was entered at Ann Kroekers “Food on Fridays.” Please visit to collect other interesting recipes at: http://annkroeker.com/ The no meat recipe that follows is a keeper !!

WHEAT BERRIES CASA BLANCA (Lorraine Tyler)

2 ½ cups cooked whole wheat berries (alternate use Milo)
2 cups sour cream
One 7 oz can diced green chilies
½ pound Monterey Jack Cheese shredded
½ pound Cheddar cheese shredded

The night before, boil enough water in a kettle to cover the wheat berries. Put a lid on the pot and turn off the fire. Let this sit overnight. The wheat berries will just about double but fix plenty. (If you have too much, use it in salad, cereal, or filler in a meat dish.)

Next day, drain the water from the wheat berries. Combine the cooked wheat berries and the sour cream. Add the chilies and the liquid from the canned chilies. Stir in the cheddar cheese and half of the Jack cheese. Place into a 2 quart casserole and sprinkle the remaining Jack cheese on top. Bake 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Serves 6

Free Lunch – Almost

There is a saying that goes something like this, “There is no such thing as a FREE Lunch.”

However my husband and I have been able to enjoy several FREE fast food breakfasts, and lovely lunchs and dinners! That is well almost free!

The catch was that I was required to write an internet report about our observances of the exterior, the interior, the waitress, the cashier and the manager. How clean was everything? Were you greeted warmly, did they smile and make good eye contact? How was the service? How many customers were ahead of you in line? How many customers were seated in the restaurant when you arrived? What was the timing from ordering to delivery of your meal? Was the food hot? Was it tasty? Did you inspect the restrooms and was everything working and clean?

Sounds easy – right? It is if you can secretly make notes in the bathroom, and remember all that happened while you were there.

The establishment is not supposed to know that I am a Mystery Shopper, but later on they will be given a copy of my anonymous report by the company that I work for.

In life, we are constantly being observed by others, and they watch for our smiles, and our attitudes. Are we pushy, rude, winy, loud, or are we gracious, kind, soft spoken, and helpful to others?

Not just people are watching us, but also God is taking notes. If we realize we have messed up (sinned) we can confess and amazingly, He wipes the slate clean and we start over.

I am reminded in the Bible, God made available free manna for the children of Israel. They were instructed to gather enough for their family, each morning for five days. On the sixth day they were to collect double because on the seventh day there was no manna for it was a day of rest. God continued to provide Free Manna as they trudged along on their way to Canaan Land. Almost free, because they did have to take their baskets and gather (or work for it.)

In the New Testament it is recorded that Jesus did provide some free lunches to a large host of followers. On two occasions He fed several thousand persons from a small amount of food that was on hand.

On this earth, unless we are in a soup line, there probably is not an abundance of free lunches. However in Heaven, God has promised that he is preparing a great supper for all those who have received Jesus as their Savior.

No charge, because Jesus has already paid it all. FREE–ly Given.

Shiny Faces

As I drove into work each day, I would listen to a Christian tape and fill my spirit with praise. Then when I walked from the parking lot to my work place, I would pray for my family naming each one and ask the Lord to protect and bless them that day.

By the time I entered the building, my heart was glad and I knew it was the day that the Lord had made, and that I should rejoice and be glad.

One day at my job, one of the girls called loudly to me from across the room, “Hazel, what do you put on your face to make it shine?

This girl had a Jewish Grandmother, but the girl herself told me that she did not practice religion of any kind.

Not wanting to shout back and forth, I went to her cubical and stood there. She asked me again, “What causes your face shine?”

Not wanting to call attention to my self, I faced her, and quietly said, “It is Jesus inside me that shines out.”

The girl across from her called out, “What did she say?” I turned and repeated, “It is Jesus.” The second girl was a Christian, so I am sure she understood.

Then I went back to my desk and began to work.

Another day, the Jewish girl told me, you have something and I want it, but she was not ready to accept the fact that it was Jesus that made me happy and gave me peace.

When I retired and left my job, I gave this girl a video tape by Joyce Meyer explaining how to be born again. I told her to view it with her teen age children and to keep an open mind and heart.

I do not know the outcome of those encounters, but I can trust the Lord to speak when I cannot.

My daughter Judie was visiting and I told her about this incident and the shiny face.  She knew exactly what I was talking about.  Judie had been in the Air Force stationed in South Korea for a year, and the Koreans would always remark to her about her shiny face.

When I look in the mirror, I do not see a shiny face, but as you spend time with God, listening to his word, reading his word, and praying perhaps even interceding for others, the Holy Spirit will light up inside you and it may show up in your face. 

Show them the light by your smile, so others will see Jesus as they look at you.

The Bible tells us that we are to be a light unto the world, and that a city that sits on a hill cannot be hid.

Exodus 34:33-35 And until Moses had done speaking with them, he put a veil on his face. But when Moses went in before the LORD to speak with him, he took the veil off, until he came out. And he came out, and spoke unto the children of Israel that which he was commanded. And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses' face shone: and Moses put the veil upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him.

Evaluations

When it was time for evaluations at my work, I usually did not mind both positive and negative feedback. The negative was not personal, but it was to encourage me to reach out, and use all my potential.

However, there were a few times when I was requested to take a walk (for privacy) and talk about some issues. My supervisor was extremely tactful and I ended up having some work removed that I did not enjoy and placed in another spot which was better.

Usually when I got into trouble at work it was for not following all the rules. (smile)

One day, our lead person asked me to come to the conference room with her. I knew this was not going to be a happy time, and as I followed her, in my mind, I repeated to myself, “I hate this woman, I hate this woman.”  When we entered the room, she closed the door and began to point out several errors I had made and requested change. I took it well, because I determined she was right, even if I did not like it.  I told her I would do better. As she finished, she reached out and with tears, she hugged me and said, “I love you Hazel,” and that is when emotion overwhelmed me, and this time my inward message changed drastically to “I love this woman, I love this woman.”

No one actually desires negative feedback. Not all negative feed back is even true. It may be their distorted opinion and not the truth at all.  Each of us crave to be accepted and we have a need to be recognized as a decent and first-class person.

We smile as we see the attempts of a baby to walk, and even when they are naughty, we may even laugh at them. We love them as they grow and develop in each stage of life.

In our failures, and mistakes, our Heavenly Father often smiles at us and perhaps he may even laugh at times. However as we mature in the things of the Lord, He does expect better things of us. Growing up spiritually is a necessity.

If you have received negative feedback from your work, your church, your family, do not be discouraged.  I hope they were intelligent enough to also give you some positive and helpful comments.

One of our Bible teachers had a saying, “Eat the hay and leave the sticks.” This can also be applied to what you hear people say about you.  Simply leave the remarks you do not want to accept and zero in on the positive.

In all, do not allow your spirit to be crushed to bruising, but permit the washing of His Word to flow over you and cleanse away all the pain.

If you are wallowing - - - Get up. Know that God has great things in store for you.

Come to his table and dine. He is preparing a feast !

Sack Lunches and Roast Beef Sandwiches

My daughter, Nancy had written me a thank you that stated. “By the way, I was fixing Randy's sandwich early this morning and I flashed back on you in your fuzzy slippers and robe, cutting up roast beef and making us sandwiches for our school lunches.

Mom, those were honestly some of the yummiest sandwiches!!!

Thanks for doing that! I appreciate that investment in my life.


In turn, I always made my children's lunches as well - even when they were teens!”


My daughter continued: “Many moms these days don't bother with a lot of stuff that still seems reasonable to me. Especially if, for nothing else, but to help save hard earned dollars.


Making lunches is often passé...considering it's so much easier to throw lunch money at the kids or crappy stuff like lunchables...or...nothing at all, in the hope their kids will put together something for themselves - - and we know how that works out.”   ***

Thank you Nancy for those kind words. My own mother prepared our lunches from Junior High onward. Usually it was three halves. Half a tuna sandwich, half an egg salad, half a cheese or often half a jelly sandwich. In with the lunch was a couple of home made cookies or a small cup cake. She did give us milk money to purchase a small carton of milk from the school cafeteria.

The Roast beef sandwiches. Yes, I chopped the meat fine with my chef knife, and mixed a bit of mayonnaise to hold it together. A slice of lettuce finished it off. I suppose you could add pickle relish, but I never did. An optional sandwich would be chopped left over baked chicken or turkey mixed with a bit of mayonnaise.

Food shows love, and lunches prepared by loving hands will fill the hunger in your growing children’s bodies and souls.

Be sure you are also giving your children spiritual food straight from the Word of God. Family Daily Devotions may be a thing of the past, but you can begin anew to help start a new trend to feed your family rich and strength giving food from above.

Each morning before school, I read a chapter from the New Testament to my children. At night I told them an Old Testament Bible story as they lay in their beds. I made an application from the story to apply to their lives.

Children are prone to make their own decisions about life, and those choices do not always correspond to that which you endeavored to teach them as they grew up.

The story of life has commas, and other punctuation marks, and if your children are still out there doing their own thing, please know this; there are commas, but no periods because the story does not yet have an ending! Keep on praying and trusting the Lord!

This post has been entered at Ann Kroeker’s Food On Fridays. Visit there to view great recipes. http://annkroeker.com/2011/01/13/food-on-fridays-creamy-mushroom-sauce/

Foolishness on Highway 70

As we drove along Highway 70, we had just witnessed the car in front of us, cut around another vehicle and cause some angry hand and finger waving along with some fuming fancy words.

The first car pulled off the road to a stretch by the underpass and the second car followed behind him.

My husband decided that perhaps we should do something, so he pulled off behind both vehicles.

The driver closest to us, jerked open his car door and hastily exited his automobile. He was angry and from the looks of him, he was ready for a fight.

Then he noticed us.

I held up a tablet so he could see that I was writing down their license plate numbers.  (This was before we owned a cell phone.)

The standing driver made a quick decision to have second thoughts and jumped back in his car and began to slowly pull away and head down the road. We held our position and waited patiently, probably a full minute.

The other car kept looking in his rear view mirror and at last decided that we might not possible be a threat, but he did not want to face us, so he cautiously put his car into gear and began to pull onto the highway and drive off.

We followed and kept following until we decided that these two hot heads had cooled down. By now the first car was no-where in sight.

Perhaps they were embarrassed, felt guilty, were ashamed at their childishness, but haven’t we all done foolish things and then regretted it?

Next time something similar to this happens to you, and you discover that anger is flaring up and your temper is about to get the best of you, please allow that unseen visitor to show up and calm you down before you make a hasty error in judgment.

God is very good at sending His Holy Spirit to follow you and let you know it is time to calm down.

Not always will you view a visible presence, but God has his ways of letting you know that what you are considering in not the greatest plan or policy or in your best interest.

Heeding that inward voice of the Holy Spirit will prevent lots of mistakes and to be on the safe side; stop, look, and listen before you take action.

Little Girl Lost

When my children were growing up, I took them with me everywhere. They went with me to church, to bridal and baby showers, to parties, and of course they accompanied me every time that I went shopping.

One day my schedule included the picking up of a catalog order at the local Montgomery Wards store. The catalog department was on the walk in floor and the main store was up on the second floor. This basement floor had a bargain room, and also housed the children’s clothing department.

I was busy looking through the clothing items on sale, when a voice over the loud speaker boomed out. “We have a little lost girl named Judie who is looking for her mother.” The voice continued, “You can find her in the upstairs furniture department.”

Puzzled as to how she managed to escape from me, and wind up on the second floor was a total mystery. Then as I pondered this feat, I realized she must have stepped on the escalator which would take her up stairs; and being a child, she did not understand how to make the return trip. The down escalator is always a half circle away and around an aisle and adults can effortlessly find it, but not easily considered by a child.

Making a quick trip up the escalator, my little lost girl was promptly found!

Sticking close to her Mother would have solved the lost girls problem, but my child was, and still is adventurous. 

No lasting harm was done, and in this case, both of us were happy and delighted to see each other again.

I was reminded when Jesus told the story of a gone astray lamb and how the good shepherd would gladly leave the ninety and nine sheep to search for the lost lamb. The tiny animal was crying and sadly tangled in a thicket, and was suffering cuts and bruises. The shepherd hastened to rescue the lamb and tenderly carried it back to the safety of the fold. There he lovingly applied oil, and gently and with compassion tended to the wounds. Safe in the arms of Jesus our Good Shepherd is the best place to be.

In this life, we often take the interesting and inviting stair way that leads to a lost condition. Perhaps turning on and listening to the loud speaker to heaven that we carry with us is a good thing to do. Just click the internal button and have a word with the Lord.

The word is, “HELP ME, I AM LOST, SAVE ME.”

Never fear, Jesus, the Good Shepherd knows where you are and He will answer your cry!  He is seeking and He will find you.

Luke 19:10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

John 6:37 All that the Father gives to me shall come to me; and him that comes to me I will in no wise cast out.

Loss of Dignity and Restoration!

Listening to others will reveal that there are a multitude of broken lives and tragic stories that stand out much more frequently - - than the HAPPY times. 

Why is it that these chronicles of past abuse and horror are more often in the fore front and occupy so much of one’s thinking?

Nightmares, flashbacks continue to terrorize. Why?

I question if the answer is perhaps simply that these persons have suffered a loss of Dignity.  Self-respect and Self-esteem were lost somewhere in their childhood or early life and they were left with a sense of guilt, humiliation and shame!

Rape, physical abuse, absence of security, divorce, death of a loved one, can turn one’s life upside down, spiraling one into a ditch of depression, into the abyss, into a pit.

We have witnessed those trapped in a coal mine that were not able to rescue themselves. It was necessary to call in professional equipment, and those experienced in the rescue field.

Once ensnared in a deep enough hole, it may not be possible to crawl out or climb up by ones self.

Is it possible to heal those once broken and destroyed so terribly?  Can help be found to restore DIGNITY and self worth?

There are many viable solutions. Some rush to take drugs or alcohol to drown out the pain. Others visit the psychiatrist so they can talk out their problems. Often the rehearsing of the events only embeds them deeper into the memory, and magnifies the suffering. 

There may be a simple solution, one that involves allowing Jesus to enter into the picture. If the hurting person can find a quiet place and pray a simple prayer asking Jesus to meet with them as they discover healing.

This may be difficult but next bring to mind the damaging event in the memory and at the same time try to discover the LIE that Satan told them at the time it happened. Did they hear the words, “You are no good, and this is your fault?” Were they overwhelmed with the thought that they were bad or this would not have happened?

It is very important to identify the Lie that Satan whispered to the broken one.  Understand that Satan is the thief, the liar and the Father of all lies.  Planting horrible thoughts is his method to destroy “Dignity” and bring shame and remorse, and Satan expects that it will be a permanent fixture.

While still in the memory mode, realize that the “voice” that was heard at that occasion of hurt, was a LIE from the deceiver, and it is now time to discover TRUTH. While you remain in that time of recall, quietly look around.  Do you see Jesus there? Is He speaking to you? What is Jesus doing or saying?

Each person will have a different answer. Some will say that Jesus approached them and took them in His arms.  Others will say, Jesus spoke and told them that they were Special, that they were beautiful and that He loved them very much.

Allow Jesus to enter that past broken situation and restore to you, your “Dignity.” You will discover that moment by moment you are being changed into the beautiful person that Jesus says you ARE!

Todays post has been entered in “Changing the World One Word at a Time”  Please visit and check out the other great articles at: http://peterpollock.com/2011/01/broken-blog-carnival/
You may also want to read my previous post on my site entitled: Broken, Bruised but not Defeated.

Broken, Bruised but not Defeated

A few years ago, our local Nazarene Church was offering a Biblical Counseling Seminar that interested me and so I signed up.  My Pastor and a few other members from my church also attended.

A six month follow-up Work shop was offered for those who wanted experience working with this type of Biblical counseling. Again I was excited to enroll. The sessions began by prayer asking Jesus to reveal his answers. The counselor was to only offer a small amount of guidance, thus allowing the participant freedom to permit Jesus to respond to the need.

We paired off into small groups, and each person in turn would be the volunteer to share what was bothering them at this present time. It was amazing as our small groups became intimate and willing to be open and share with each other. Testimonies of grace came back each week as we met again.

During our sessions, one person was selected to be the counselor, and if any of the co-workers had anything to say, we were to write it on slips of paper and give it to the person in charge. Otherwise we were supposed to be silent; to observe, and to pray.

I remember one lady confided that she was frightened to go on a cruise that her husband had planned for their anniversary. It so happened that they were to have an inside cabin, and she was terrified of small enclosed rooms.

Her session went well, and we finished in prayer, but I was impressed to ask her a question. Here goes, and I blurted out, “Molly, (not her real name) when you were growing up, did your parents ever punish you by locking you up in a closet?”

She answered, “Why Yes they did.” At that moment a light turned on in her spirit and a smile came across her face.

Three weeks later we met again, and this lady reported how much she enjoyed her cruise, and that the small cabin did not bother her at all.

Amazing don’t you think? Go figure!

The Holy Spirit was at work, and the Bible calls Him our Counselor and our helper.

Isaiah 61:1 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound - - -

Please return for the continuation of this post!! Next is, “Loss of Dignity and Restoration!“ It will be entered in the One Word Carnival, and The One Word is Broken.

A Muddied, Mushy Mess! Guest Post

A Muddied, Mushy Mess!  Guest Post by daughter Nancy Kehr

Honestly, I don’t know what it is about our society, but a good majority of people just can’t seem to keep their word!

I had been waiting since early morning for the construction crew to arrive. My husband had done minor demolition on the outside of our house, but today was the day that all the old siding and rotten wood were to be removed. – gutted, might more appropriate. Even the windows have to come out! No fun!

Things are askew in nearly every room. Now somewhat bare, my whole office had to be displaced. The computer is in one room, the copier in another, files elsewhere, and so on.

No phone call! No crew by 1pm! Without the window coverings, the room stayed frigid. Of all months for these needed repairs, January! This was supposed to have been started last October and kept getting pushed back because the previous contractors chose not to keep their word. Even the animals’ continual pacing from room to room marked my own edgy, restless feelings.

Why isn’t that phone ringing? In the past week, every time the phone has rung, it has been bad news for my pocketbook!

The next session of my small Dental Assisting School is scheduled to run in just four weeks and the only people calling either want to attend for free, need free dental work, or the worst….are withdrawing from the class!  Without enough sign-ups, I won’t be able to run the class as planned.  Worry nagged at me.

A knock at the door – finally! Only one guy, leaving supplies for tomorrow. I open the garage and he tells me, to move this and that. In heeled, slip-on boots, I was sent scurrying, lifting and pushing things way too bulky and heavy for me. 

Lugging a huge tote out of the garage, I stepped onto the mushy lawn. My shoe sank in the mire. My foot came out of the shoe and I continued moving, falling over! Sore and soaked, I was also a muddied, mushy mess!

I was aware of frustration trying to overtake me. I knew I had to get it in check!! Thank God, prayer came easily and so did peace. Putting things back into perspective is good exercise.

I headed for the bathroom to clean up. The phone rang, so I hobbled to grab it. A small voice asked if she could make an appointment. Here we go again!

Mustering patience, I asked if she was calling about the school or if she was looking for a dentist. She needed a dentist who worked on a sliding scale. I explained about the dental assisting school, and discouragement was evident on her end. Slimy stuff  fell from my clothes. I desperately wanted to get back to what I was doing, but something grabbed at my gut, so I reached for my chair.

Hesitantly, she answered my questions. This young lady had been released from a hospital where she received care for a skin condition that could be fatal if left untreated. Multiple hospitalizations and meds had left her teeth in a weakened condition. They were broken and decayed; one was badly abscessed. She had no job, no money, and no dental insurance. Children screeched in the background while she explained that she was not complaining but was willing to step up and do her part. That’s why the call.

Ideas for a letter campaign to her local dentists flooded my thoughts. She loved them! Then there’s Craigslist. We put together info for an ad. We talked about Barter. Other ideas came up. Her voice started to tremor. She thanked me over and over for taking time with her.

A pause, a deep breath and then she confided in me a little more about her disorder. Did she say she was only 27?  Stunned for a moment, I realize that I have lived more than twice as long as she is old. She may not make it to twice her age!

I studied my muddy feet as I listened; aching muscles and joints started to scream. My thoughts drifted. A few of my own teeth have compromised crowns, and expensive issues that won’t be covered by insurance. And now? I don’t have a new student prospect either!

Smacked by a good dose of humiliation, I snapped out of my self-preoccupation!  Of course, I couldn’t fix all her problems, but I DO know her name, and……..she was sent to ME!

The One who can get in the middle of Carly’s situation is a good friend of mine! After all, we just talked about my attitude and problems earlier, and He gave me his full attention and assured me that He had it all under control.

I listened for a break. She ended with, “I’ll keep trying and guess I’ll have to trust God to take care of me”. Well….lots of people say that. I don’t know if she really believed her own words or not, but I took it as my que!

God was waiting for me to keep His Word! I told her to bow her head and close her eyes for just a minute. All was quiet. Sudden warmth engulfed me and power-filled words streamed forth as I prayed over her body and situation. If asked to do it, I couldn’t begin to reconstruct that moment or say the same words if I tried! The energy that swirled around my cold, little office was there – for both of us! God has lots of coping methods for this life.

What a vivid reminder of just what a muddied-out MESS we all are without our Creator.

My life rarely goes along as I expect or even hope, but I can tap into a steady stream of strength and rest - anytime!

Carly’s tear-filled voice was stronger as we parted our phone encounter. I promised to look into possible free-clinics and to keep her in my prayers. Nothing had changed with my own circumstances, but my outlook did. God promised to never leave me or forsake me.

By the way, I can do no less. I will keep my word to Carly.

A Piece of Cheese

Cheese is used most commonly for cooking and eating and at our home we keep a variety of different types in our refrigerator.

We usually shred our own cheese especially when we make tacos. (My favorite taco recipe is at the end of this post.)

However cheese does have other uses too. You are probably thinking about the old fashioned mouse traps when cheese is used to catch an unwelcomed critter. I have also used peanut butter on a mouse trap and that works well too.

Let me share with you another use for cheese that has helped us with a problem with our dogs. We have three great dogs, and we try our best to keep them healthy.

Each month we give them a preventative pill to keep them free from Heart Worms. They like the soft chewy kind, but on my last purchase I ended up with some firm pills that they did not want to accept.

My husband had the perfect solution and this is what he did. He took a slice of cheddar cheese from the refrigerator and cut it into three even strips.

Next he cuts one third off of each of those slices. Taking the larger two thirds, he wraps the pill and made sure our dogs could see the other small piece waiting.

It is a good thing our dogs like cheese, so as he held up the small piece so they could see it, and offered the wrapped pill, they quickly took it knowing they could have the other piece as well.  It worked like a charm, and their prevention is good for another month.

If you have dogs that need tablets for a cause, you might try this next time, if they hesitate to take their pills. Cheese is good and it deceived our puppies into taking their medicine.

In life, we need to be cautions because Satan often tries to hide something undesirable by making it look decent and respectable. That is what he told Eve, Just take a small bite and prove to yourself that you have been kept back from something good. As Christians we must be wise and harmless as a dove and watch out for that old trickster!

This post has been entered in: Food on Fridays at http://annkroeker.com/
Please visit Ann's site and gather up some delicious and nutritious recipes for your files.


Tacos (Home Made) Hint: Do not use Taco seasoning mix (use chili powder)
One pound hamburger, crumbled as you fry it, and then drain the fat.
1 tsp chili powder, ½ tsp salt, optional 1 tsp dried parsley flakes.
1 can tomato sauce

Fry corn Tortillas in hot oil and lay on a paper towel.
Fill each tortilla with a big spoonful of the hamburger
Top with: Shredded cheese, shredded lettuce, chopped onions, chopped tomato or Salsa
Wrap in a napkin and enjoy. For tostadas use flour tortillas.

Antiques

Antiques are something that I now am fond of, but I did not always appreciate their value.

Our dear Aunt Jesse (God rest her soul) enjoyed a house full of antiques. I do hope and expect that her grand children cherished them.

Uncle Joel had an Awning business with two men working for him as bookkeepers. When the men left for a better job, Aunt Jessie took the place of both, and worked in Joel’s office. Uncle Joel gave Jesse a salary, but told her that he was always going to take care of her, so he allowed her the freedom to spend her earnings how ever she desired.

Aunt Jessie was intelligent and clever, and she began to purchase houses with low down payments. The rents would cover the mortgage, and in most cases she would make a profit. Some of the houses she purchased were from estate sales, and often there was old furniture in the homes. Jessie began to collect beautiful antiques, and have them refinished until she found a place in her own home for them.

One summer we drove from California to Georgia to visit Aunt Jessie and Uncle Joel, and Jessie was pleased to show us all her pretty things.

Aunt Jessie proudly took us on a drive by tour to view all the houses she had purchased with her earnings.

Besides furniture she enjoyed a lovely collection of old dishes. She had antique dinner plates displayed all along her upper walls. Each meal time, she would take the next plates down. By this method she was using them, and keeping them clean as they would soon have another turn to be used.

After seeing how Aunt Jessie treasured “ancient things” it caused me to realize that my rather old fashioned Maple wood table that I once hated for its large clumsiness was indeed a jewel.  One day my Aunt Lucille and Aunt Geneva almost had a fight both wanting my table. At that time I did not see the value in it until I was made aware how beautiful they thought it was. (So I kept it, and later on I paid a friend to refinish it.) The table and chairs were beautifully restored.

Years went by and eventually I gave my antique dining room table and chairs to daughter Nancy, because she often had large family gatherings.

When God looks down from Heaven at those in his world, he first sees us as tattered, wretched, old, and in need of renovation.

That is why He sent his Son Jesus to redeem and restore us to become the New Creation that He wants us all to be. God loves old antiques but he wishes to recreate them into something beautiful. Come to Jesus for he is in the business of restoration and He will change you spiritually into something new.

2Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Then your part is to begin to read and study God’s word for the renewing of your mind, for this is how you will discover the perfect will of God for your life.
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Bartering

Trade, exchange, negotiate, haggle these are words used to explain that bartering is simply giving and receiving.

We had a friend, from our church, named John, who would often ask my husband to help him in his enterprises. John had two brothers and two sisters. In their youth, their mother became a widow, so the five young children gained after school and week jobs to help the family budget. The boys in their teens would take on painting work, the girls baby sitting, or selling products.

John later became a baker working in a bakery at night. This gave him freedom to earn money in other ways during the day.

One day John asked my husband to help him purchase small trailers and fix them up. I had some drapery remnants and sewed some curtains for the windows, and Robert painted the insides. John would place the trailers in a friend’s mobile home park, and rent them out. Some he sold for double or more from the purchased price, and he would collect payments over a period of time. Thus John could purchase more trailers. The World War II military men were especially happy to have a reasonable priced place to house their family as they were shipped out over seas.

John began to save his money and to purchase houses in his neighborhood for low down payments, and the rent would pay for the mortgage. Some of the houses were from Estate sales, and often there was furniture or other items left in the homes. John asked Robert to help him paint the homes prior to renting them.

One year John sold Christmas trees and asked Robert to lend a hand. For all the labor, we did during several years; we did not receive any monetary gain. However during that time, John gave us a Christmas tree, an older Cadillac car, an upright piano, and a 30 year old dining room table and chairs.

During our married life, we have had a mish mash of furniture because of a lack of finances.  John noticed that we were using a picnic table and benches for our dining room, and I suppose that is why he decided to give us the dining table made from maple wood.

While at first I did not appreciate my table, I learned to be rather fond of it, and to enjoy the fact that the two end extensions would enable us to serve a large group of family and friends.

Bartering is often something done between club members, or between friends. There are bartering groups that trade professional services for a variety of other services.

God was the Apex of bartering, when He proclaimed, I will give the World my Son to save them from their Sins, and I will ask in return that they will give me their life. That is quite an exchange; our old sinful life in exchange for His new Eternal Life.

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Memorizing Scripture!

As young children, our mother would read a chapter from the Bible each morning before school and before we enjoyed our breakfast.

Mother also gave us a memory verse to learn by the end of the week. We started out with John 3:16 and went on to the 23rd Psalm. Other than the 23rd Psalm, we did not memorize entire chapters, but only verses connected together to give us assurance, confidence and peace.

I should have done better with my own children. The Bible was read to them, and stories told, and they did learn verses at Sunday School and Bible Club, but I failed to emphasize memorization at home.
There are some of the verses with words that in my young age, I did not understand, but they are very real to me now.

Romans 8:1 - 2 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

As time went on and my walk with the Lord deepened, I could understand the security in those words. First being IN Christ and then Walking daily in His spirit, then I did not need to worry about condemnation!

These scriptures taught us the importance of presenting our bodies and minds to the Lord.

Romans 12:1 -2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

These scriptures assured us that Jesus (the Word) is truly God. And that He was with God the Father and the Holy Spirit when together they created the World.

John 1:1 -5 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

Other Scriptures taught us how to become a Christian.
Romans 10:9 - 10 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

We understood that Jesus paid for our healing.
Isaiah 53:5 -6 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

There were many others that Mother had us memorize, some single verses, others two or three verses together with a positive input into our spirits to sustain our faith.

It is good to memorize scripture as David said in - - -

Psalms 119:11: Thy Word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee.

This Post has been entered with Ann Kroeker who is hosting a Memory Month at http://annkroeker.com/2011/01/03/mmm-2011-progress-report-1/ 
Please check out other entries found there.

She’s on Empty! Guest Post By Nancy Kehr

Lively singing and clapping engulfed us! Nearly everyone around was fully engaged in the music. We were visiting a church out of town, and although the music was new to us, it was not difficult to catch on.

Just a day after Christmas, spirits were high!

Ornamented with high dollar clothing, expensive purse and boots, the woman next to me was in full motion – whooping and hollering at the top of her voice. Okay - - so she was making her form of a “joyful noise.” The fact that she kept bumping into me was a bit distracting here and there, but I lived!

Once we were all seated, and the Pastor began speaking, she commenced fanning herself with her hand, as if she were about to faint! She nodded her head vigorously and rocked back and forth while muttering , “Oh yes” - - - ”MMMM-hmmm!”

The more the pastor spoke about the importance of leading a calm, unhindered life and exercising self-restraint, the more she rocked and agreed.

The admonishment was for people to be alert and watch how we respond to situations so that we are not pressured, or scared, out of our purpose in life.

The woman’s rocking motion intensified! Her head shook and her “MMMM-Hmmm’s” got louder! She was hilarious and downright entertaining. I had to work to restrain a laugh.

“Wow”, I thought to myself. “She is one on-fire ball of energy!”

While I am not quite that demonstrative, I realize that there are all kinds of personalities out there. Overall, it seemed like this woman had a handle on the whole wide world!

After being startled by one of Action-Woman’s whoops, I tried to turn my attention back to what was being addressed and take a few notes. With all her rocking, I think I was suffering a little from motion sickness myself!

I said a small prayer for her. Maybe it was more for me, I don’t know….

Just before the service ended, I had a chance to give this woman a hug and spoke a few encouraging words in her ear. She seemed surprised! That’s when I knew.

A strange feeling crept over me and I felt a gentle nudge inside - - - ”She’s on empty!”

The pastor voice punctuated the moment as he asked if anyone needed prayer. When he elaborated about needing prayer for the removal of bad influences, inappropriate associations, or other hindrances to a peaceful life, the “MMMMM-Hmmmm“ lady about fell all over her son, stumbling past the people next to him as she beat a hasty path to the front for prayer!

Startled family members and friends stared at her in amazement!

I chuckled to myself for a moment, and then I was hit with a thought. I had felt a little silly giving her the type of encouragement that I had, but I did it just the same. All things being considered, I guess one can never really know just how much the effect of gracious words might have on someone else - - - even if they don’t “seem” to need it.

As I gazed around, I wondered just how many other people were sitting there looking like they had it all together, but were actually riding along on fumes because they were “Sitting on EMPTY!”

Reflections Past and Future

Reflections of the Passing Year and looking ahead at what is to Come in 2011.

Comments are always welcome and are important to bloggers! That is the reason when I enter my post into one of the blog carnivals, I endeavor to place a comment on all the other entries.

Changing the World “One Word at a time” is a popular Blog carnival. The last “Word” for the year 2010 was REFLECTIONS.  It was amazing that so many entries used mirrors as their theme. Looking into the mirror and not seeing clearly or not entirely happy with what they viewed.

About the One Word Carnival;  Bridget is taking a leave and has asked Peter to host.  The new site is: http://peterpollock.com/2010/12/reflection-blog-carnival/ 
Once there, click on the phrase “One Word at a time,” to reach the entries.

I have observed that many blog writers are self conscious, and they doubt their work. There is a certain fear that no one will read or appreciate their endeavors. Comments do give encouragement and comments also help the one who gives.

As I have made an effort to place comments on blogs I read, I often am reminded of something that will make a good blog post for me to create. The main reason I am writing this today is that you will be encouraged to make comments on blogs you read, and that you will also be stirred.  Below you will discover some of my comments that I gave to different bloggers at the recent "One Word at a Time" site.

A favorite question at a job interview is: "What do you expect to be doing five years from now?" The thought is - - will you be someone that we can depend on to BE there!  Whether it is for an hour, day, week, month, year or ten years, we can rest assured that Jesus never leaves us. It is He who gives us the strength to carry on, and to know that He is pleased with us, even if we sometimes are too hard on ourselves.

Such interesting thoughts are revealed when you read some of the newer Bible versions! I love your thoughts about chewing God's Word. Meditation to me is also murmuring with my mouth the scriptures that have such deep meaning for me. It is so important to look daily into the face of Jesus (in his book) for we will find Him there. I plan to read the Bible through this year. The last time I did this, I played a different version on my recorder as I read my King James Version. It was enlightening. I liked your words so true; "I find the writing to be soothing, even when it’s hard and exhausting."

Many, including me will relate to that mirror. The mirror of God’s word reveals traits in us that are often hidden, but are exposed as we look deeper into that looking glass. His love will enable me see myself as God sees me and not as I view myself. May you be blessed this New Year as you minister to your family and to others by your writing and by your love shown.

May others continue to see HIS reflection in YOU this coming year as you Minister for HIM.

One Thing" that I desire for this coming year is to be an instrument for His use! Instruments make a Joyful Noise!

My prayer for you is, be confident and courageous as you minister for Him in this New Year of 2011 doing what ever your hand finds to do and doing it well as unto the Lord.