Expectation or Anticipation?

This morning I read a devotion about anticipation. It talked about looking toward Christmas with the anticipation of the Hope that comes with it. As I reflected on that thought during my quiet time, I was having a hard time focusing because of the expectations of the day. I wrote in my journal that the expectations of the next few weeks are beginning to outweigh the anticipation of the season.


Both of these words look forward to what is to come. They are considered synonyms of each other; both with a similar meaning in the dictionary. But as I thought more about my feelings that are driving my thinking, I am not sure that they mean the same thing.


I learned a long time ago that if I put expectations on another person I will more times than not find myself disappointed. I cannot expect another person or another situation to make me feel better. We do that a lot, don't we? We expect our spouse to love us well or to say the right words. It doesn't always happen. We expect our children to follow the rules or to respect our authority. It doesn't always happen. We expect our students to make good grades. We expect our government to provide certain things. We even expect our churches to meet particular needs. There is not a person in our lives that can meet all of our expectations. No matter how hard they try or how desperately we want them to.


Expectation seems to be passive. We stand still expecting something to come to us. That something usually, in our minds, will meet a need or fix a hurt or even lessen the pain. But when I think of anticipation, it seems to be active. If an athlete anticipates an action in a game, they are in ready mode. In anticipation we can move forward or look up or reach out. Anticipation is moving toward the Hope that we know is coming.


During this first week of Advent, we celebrate the Hope of the season. The Hope that is promised to us. The Hope that will fill the void of our lives. There is a Hope that can meet all of our expectations. The Hope that came to us in a dark night, in a cold cave and in an unexpected way. The Hope that the birth of Jesus brought to the world is what we celebrate during the next few weeks. We celebrate the truth that Jesus came. The truth that He is active in our lives through His Spirit and the truth that we wait with anticipation for His return.


In that anticipation of Hope, we can put down our expectations we have for ourselves and for others. We can look up and reach out to the hurting world around us. We can let our light shine into the darkness around us. We can live these next few weeks in such a way that the people we come in contact with will be excited by our anticipation of what is coming. The Hope of the season is for everyone. And if we allow the One who can meet the world's expectations love through us, there is no limit to what we can do.


Anticipate the possibilities...

 So it was, that while they were there, 

the days were completed for her to be delivered. 

And she brought forth her firstborn Son,

 and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths,

 and laid Him in a manger, because there was

 no room for them in the inn.

 Luke 2:6-7

Turkey Soup for the Soul...

God is so good. All the time. Even in the tough times. Even in the times that we have no human explanation for the loss or for the pain or for the situation. He is there. He is good. He is the answer.


This morning I received a huge crock pot full of homemade turkey soup. It smells delicious and I have to wait until tonight to eat it. But beyond the smell is the intent behind the soup.


I have a young, sweet friend. She has a three year old daughter. She has been married for a few years. The marriage is not a good one. Things are not the way God intended them to be. She is not loved well at the moment. Life is hard and the holidays have been tough.


My friend found herself in a situation a few months ago that escalated to the point of her needing another place to live for her safety. She called me and I started thinking and praying with her. That morning as I was praying for her, the Lord brought another friend's name to mind. A friend that I had not seen in a while but one that I knew had a room in her home. I called her. The teenage girl that had been living with her had just moved out. Her home was open and so was her heart. Within a few days we had my friend and her daughter in a place of safety and love. It has been a true answer to prayer for everyone involved.


I was not able to see my friend over the holiday. We had a house full of family and some out of town friends stopped by and then I was not feeling well. It just did not work out. When I called to check on her, I mentioned that I had not been feeling well the day before. We talked and she shared her feelings and emotions about the holiday. Her fears and her blessings. She told me that it had not been as hard as she thought. She knew that prayers had been a big part of that.


She called last night to say that she was making a big pot of turkey soup and she was going to bring me some. Of course, I immediately told her no. She had too much to do and she needed to just enjoy the soup herself. She would not take no for an answer. She said, "please let me do this for you."


It is the season of giving. We all know that it makes us feel good to give to others. We all are told that it is better to give than to receive. But I know for me personally, it is much easier for me to give than it is for me to receive. I don't receive well. God is working on me in that area.


So, early this morning, my sweet friend showed up at my house with ALL of the soup she made last night. She is going home tonight to make more for her. She got up very early. She dropped her sweet baby girl off at daycare. She then drove out of her way to drop off her delicious soup. She left my house and rushed to her job where she will work all day until she picks her sweet daughter up later this evening. And in the middle of her hurting life she smiled so big as she blessed me with her gift.


The blessings of this morning will make both of our days a little brighter. She gave. I received. And in the process the Spirit of the season was shared. Hope blossomed for us both. In the middle of our little "bless-fes", we talked about the counseling she will pursue over the next few weeks with her husband. She is open to God's plan for their marriage. She is willing to look at the future. Only God knows where it will lead. But in the middle of the loss and the pain and the sad situation, He showed His great love for both of us.


And all the time God is good.

Thanks be to God for His indescribable Gift.

2 Corinthians 9:15

A House of Peace

What a blessed Thanksgiving I had. My mom came and spent the night on Wednesday. We all cooked and cleaned and decorated tables. Danny's parents stopped by at one point in the afternoon too. Everybody together with no agenda or reason to be anywhere. It was a great pre-celebration day.


On Thursday, we had over twenty people gathered in my home. We laughed and talked and shared stories. It was very nice. Very enjoyable. Very full of blessings.


Over the course of the week though, I talked to so many people who struggled with the holiday. One person in particular described it as a stomach ache that will last until 2012. I find that so sad. And my heart breaks for those who feel that. I have had those same emotions before. Not only does it make for a long couple of weeks, but it takes its toll on our health and our emotional well being.


Those kind of feelings are not what God wants for us. In that same conversation, another friend said something that I have been reflecting on all morning. She said this simple statement: I was raised in a house of Peace and I was taught to live in one.


She had no idea why anyone would have a stomach ache over the holidays. She has lived a blessed life. Not many people have the perspective that she does. She was raised in a missionary family. Her parents were raised in the same type of environment. The  Spirit of Peace was passed down from generation to generation. They knew the reason for the season and they made it a priority in their home. In turn, so did their children.


I do not know many families that do not have some sort of family issues. It just is part of this fallen world that we live in. But we can choose what is in our homes. Do we allow pettiness and dissension to rule our emotions and our thoughts? Or, do we invite the Spirit of Peace to invade our homes and our hearts?


The choice is ours. Even if we have never had that kind of home before. There is no reason not to have it now. Peace is a Person. Jesus is the reason. Hope is worth holding on to. But to have that Peace that passes all understanding, we have to let go of the other stuff. Let go of the grudge. Let go of the hurt. Let go of the turmoil. Let go of the control. Let go of the anger. Let go of the expectations.


As we begin this Advent season, let's commit together to let go and look up in expectation. We are in the season of celebration. We are celebrating a Truth about God and a reconciliation. Let's love God with all of our hearts and let's love our neighbors as ourselves. As we do that, let's make sure our homes are a house of Peace. A safe place for our children and for our friends and for our families.


Let go and look up. Choose Peace. Reflect it to the world around you. Then wait expectantly for the Hope that will fill your heart and your home.

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel...

Thankful for Family Time

I love weeks like this. Everyone is home and there is no real schedule. We have slept in and laid around in our den. We have watched movies and favorite TV shows together. We went to lunch together and we have done wedding stuff. We have gone to the grocery store and we have cooked our favorite dishes.

But most of all we have just been together. Nothing special. Just time. All together.

I love to have this extended time now that my girls are older. I get to spend time with each one. We tell stories and share our lives. My girls get to catch up with each other and hear the things that have happened while they were apart. They curl each other's hair. They check out each other's clothes. They hear each other's hearts.

I am so thankful for this family time. It slips away so quickly. They grow up so fast.

Enjoy your children. Enjoy your family. Savor every memory and hold on to every moment.

Counting my blessings today as I hear from so many dear friends who are hurting this week. Friends who are missing their children because they will not be home. Friends who are spending their first holiday separated from their spouse. Friends who are learning how to maneuver the split time between mom and dad. Friends who are mourning a spouse or a sister or a parent or a child. Friends who are struggling with their emotions and simply trying to hold it all together. Friends who just don't have family time that makes them feel good.

My heart breaks for these friends. I so earnestly wish that I had the words to make it all better. The solution to the hurt and the pain. The answers that could change everything. The quick fix. But, I don't.

No matter what your situation is today. Please know that I am praying for you. If you are reading this blog today, consider yourself lifted to the throne room of Grace. Jesus knows your name. He knows your situation. He has the Words. He is the solution. He has the answers. He is the fix!

Rest in that today. And know that you are special. You are loved. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Jesus will meet you this week at the point of your greatest need. Just ask Him.

I am going to spend the rest of my week with my family. They need my time and my attention. They need me to really be there. Fully engaged with them. I need to spend time with Jesus. I need time to pray for them. 

But, I will be back next Monday. So until then, leave me a message or send me an email and let me know how I can pray for you. I would love to have the privilege of lifting you by name to the One who blesses beyond measure.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving. Counting you all among my blessings!

May God give you...

For every storm, a rainbow, for every tear, a smile.

For every care, a promise, and a blessing in each trial.

For every problem life sends, a faithful friend to share,

For every sigh, a sweet song, and an answer for each prayer.

Thankful for Memories...

As I begin this week of Thanksgiving, I can't help but think about all of the holidays that came before. I remember the spreads of food around my grandmother's table as I was growing up. I remember running between families and eating two meals just so we could see everyone. I remember sitting with my brother watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. I remember smelling all the wonderful smells of yummy food cooking and being prepared.


When I had my own family I wanted to continue all of those traditions. It took a few years and a few daughters before we settled in on our own traditions. I consider myself blessed because we have been able to consolidate both sides of our families into one Thanksgiving dinner at our home for years. I cooked my first turkey when I was 25. I was petrified that it would not turn out okay. I think my mother was more nervous than I was but Danny and I managed. We still laugh about that turkey. The memories of that day forever etched in our hearts.


I love to decorate my dining room table with fall colors. I love to set up the kids table and cook all the food. Over the years my girls have joined in the kitchen. Our tradition has become that every girl has their favorite dish. We prepare it together each year. There is something about all being together in the kitchen as they grow and change that makes incredible memories. My daughters are so funny. They make fun of the one sister that struggles a bit in the kitchen. They laugh at the one that is so logical that she cannot veer away from the recipe. We cook and bake and laugh and love in our kitchen.


This year for the first time in probably fifteen years, almost everyone is going to be at my house for Thanksgiving. We will have tables full of around 25 people. My heart is overflowing with blessing. I am thankful that family is always family no matter what. I hear so many people who allow the holidays to bring up sad memories or feelings of anger or hurt. They work themselves into a frenzy of past hurts or arguments that threaten to rip a family apart. I have been one of those people at times. I think in one way or another we all have.


As we prepare our hearts and our homes for this time of thankfulness, let's look at it with God's perspective...


While we were still sinners, He sent His son to die for us.
All have sinned and fallen short of His Glory.
From Him, all blessings flow.
In Him, we are restored and renewed and redeemed.


Life changes and we all move from past traditions to new traditions. In the process, a lot of us lose our perspective. But the truth is that none of us can be who we want so badly to be. We fall short. We are weak. We tend to make life about ourselves and our needs and our wants. We want everything around us to be perfect so we can feel safe and secure and loved.


Jesus is the answer to all of those feelings. Whether you have a table full or a table for two. Whether you have a family of believers or a few who have their own views of the world. Whether you all get along like a scene out of Mayberry or whether you look more like a scene out of the Godfather. Whether you have all your loved ones with you or whether this is your first holiday without them. Whether you feel loved or whether you are wondering how you will survive the day.


In spite of all the feelings, Jesus is there. His love will sustain you. His provision is enough. His Grace is sufficient. His strength is shown through your weakness. His power is available. All you have to do is allow Him to join you this year. Open your heart and your home and your table to the One from Whom all blessings flow. 


And be thankful for it all. The past. The present. The future. The good. The hard. The impossible. There are blessings in it all. Let Him open your eyes and show you.

Praise Him from Whom all blessings flow;

Praise Him all creatures here below;

Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

AMEN.

Thankful for Peace

It has been a really long week. Lots of things have been going on all at once. Some really good stuff. Some really hard stuff. And some stuff that just does not matter in the big scheme of life. But, have you ever noticed, the stuff that just does not matter is the stuff that gets to us? It bogs us down in anxious worry and seems to consume way too much of our thought process.


This week I have let the little things take my focus off of the important things. The eternal things. The things that do matter in the big scheme of life. For me, anything that involves one of my daughters usually gets my attention. If they are hurting or struggling in some area, I tend to think about those things with them. I have definitely learned over the years to not carry their emotions but I still let my thoughts drift to whatever they share with me about their struggles. I think all moms do. The problem comes in when I allow that thought or situation to have more of my thought process than it deserves. That is when the anxious thoughts and stress come in.


Yesterday, I had lunch with a dear friend. We have been friends for about 20 years. She is that kind of friend that just knows you. No words or explanations are required. She just gets me. We have raised our children together and we have ministered together in different areas. We have both heard and seen some really tough things over the years. We laugh and say between the two of us we have seen and heard it all. Well, at lunch she told me something about her life that left me speechless. And that does not happen often. There were no words. Nothing. All I could do was pray for her because I had no answers or reasons or comfort to offer at the moment. So we prayed right there in the restaurant. There was no other option.


My husband has been dealing with things this week too. Things that there is no clear answer for. Nothing concrete that can be put in place to deal with the situation. He doesn't carry the emotions of the situation like I do but his thoughts get caught up too. When work and church and friends and life swirl all together sometimes, his thoughts get anxious and the stress comes in.


The holidays are upon us and the busyness of this time of year is creeping in. The emotions of lost loved ones or families in dysfunction can be overwhelming for some people. But we have a weapon that is so much bigger than anything that the world can throw at us. We have Peace. And Peace is a Person.


So as we end this week and prepare our hearts and minds for a week of thankfulness, family, friends and togetherness, let's remember the kind of Peace that is available to us. The kind that transcends all understanding. The kind that flows like a river. The kind that gives rest. The kind that blesses. The kind that overcomes the world. The kind that guards our hearts and our minds. The kind that is promised to us.


Let us press in to the Prince of Peace. Lean on Him and the kind of Peace that He promises us. The kind that gives us a future. The kind that causes even our enemies to be nice to us. The kind that allows us to lie down and sleep in confident trust. The kind that is not what the world offers. The kind that allows us to live in peace with everyone. The kind that builds up each other. The kind that we crave and the kind we should pursue. 


Peace be with you, my friends!

I have told you these things, 

so that in Me you may have Peace. 

In this world you will have trouble. 

But take heart! I have overcome the world.  

John 16:33

Thankful for Hope

Sometimes there are just no words. Sometimes the feelings are overwhelming. Sometimes the hurt is too big. Sometimes the loss is too much. Sometimes the what-ifs are paralyzing. Sometimes the regret is too heavy. Sometimes the diagnosis is devastating. Sometimes the anger is overpowering. Sometimes the grief is more than you can bear. Sometimes the bills are coming in too fast. Sometimes your children just refuse to listen. Sometimes life is just not fair. Sometimes that drink looks way too tempting. Sometimes that other person looks better than your spouse. Sometimes that pain pill seems to be the answer. Sometimes the day seems too long. Sometimes the night is scary. Sometimes the job seems pointless. Sometimes life seems out of control.


But there is Hope. There is always Hope because...


In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.


Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go..


You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.


But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting..


He sent His Word and healed them, and delivered them from their destruction.


I am your shield and your exceeding great reward.


The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?


For you are my Hope, O Lord God: You are my trust from my youth.


We have Hope as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast...


Hold on to Hope today. It is always available.

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, 

the evidence of things not seen. 

Hebrews 11:1

Thankful for Generations of Blessing

I grew up in a small south Georgia town. Well, it was small at the time. My parents lived outside of town a few miles and my grandmother lived "in town". We were at her house a lot. She was the center of the family. My aunt and uncle lived outside of town in the other direction. My grandmother's house was the meeting place. My brother and I would stay with her in the summers during the day while my mom worked. But the one thing that defined my grandmother was that she could cook. I mean really cook. The good old southern way with all the stuff they tell us will kill us now.


Not only was every holiday filled with incredible food, but everyday was filled with homemade goodies. Her love language was definitely food. Every Sunday as a little girl, I remember gathering around her table that was overflowing with fresh vegetables, meats and of course biscuits and cornbread. I remember standing next to her in the kitchen watching her cook. Her house always smelled like fresh brewed coffee or homemade bread or a sweet delight. I felt loved and safe in that house. And she made sure that all four of her grandchildren knew how much they were loved. 


When Danny and I began dating in college, we would come home to visit my grandmother. My hometown was about 30 minutes from the land that Danny hunted on so during the fall we usually ended up at her house. She would fix him a cozy bed on the couch in her den so that she could make sure he was awake at the crack of dawn to head to the woods. He had no problem getting up that early because he would be greeted with hot coffee and a full breakfast complete with homemade biscuits and jams. I am not sure if he loved coming home with me because he wanted to spend time with me or because he wanted to be fed by her. Either way, he knew early on that he was loved by her too.


I learned so much from my grandmother. I still think of her so often and I still realize life lessons that were taught by her as different things happen in my life. She loved well. My girls remember just enough about her house and her food to appreciate all of the stories. They know that they were loved by her too. My mother loves my girls the way my grandmother loved me. And one day I hope to be that kind of grandmother too. It is a blessing of love and comfort that has been passed down for generations.


I know how fortunate I am to have that kind of blessing in my life. But even if you don't have generations of blessing flowing into you, you can choose to be the beginning of that blessing. God gives us a chance to love our families right now. We can make the difference. We can break the curse. We can be the change that will flow into our families for generations to come. Jesus is the answer.


I remember seeing my grandmother's Bible always sitting next to her chair. She knew the Lord. Even if it is hard to look back at your family, you can be the generation that is remembered. Love your children well. Tell them your stories and teach them how to love others. That love will flow into their children and into their children's children. And God will use it to change lives and to bless others. 

But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, 

then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, 

whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, 

or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. 

But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD. 

Joshua 24:15

Thankful for Fathers

I was blessed to have a wonderful father. I have so many good memories of who he was to me and how he made a difference in my life. I remember how he made me feel like I mattered. I remember him encouraging me when I played sports. I did not have a lot of self confidence as a child but he always had a way of making me feel like I could do anything. He would listen to me talk about academic stuff and discuss things with me on an equal level. He never belittled me or made me feel less. I grew up in an environment that fostered my lack of self confidence so looking back on it now I can see God's hand in my father's words and encouragement. My daddy was a man of very few words so he did not always verbally tell me he loved me but I knew it. I knew it with every part of me and I consider that a gift. I never struggled to understand the love of a father.


My girls have that kind of father too. Danny has worked so hard at being a good dad. He has listened and learned over the years. He has sacrificed and given a part of himself to his girls. Anyone who knows Danny at all knows that he is all man. He loves to hunt and to fish and to be outdoors. He is strong and knows how to do most anything. When God gave him all girls, he wondered what in the world he was going to do with them. But he learned, much to his delight, that girls can play sports and hunt and fish and shoot guns too. And over the years he has learned about hair and makeup and clothes and emotions. The relationship he has with each of his girls is precious. They each have their own special connection. He is a man of a lot of words and has no problem telling them he loves them all the time. They know it too. With every part of their being they know they are loved by their daddy. They do not struggle to understand the love of a father.


I have so many friends that don't have that kind of experience. They struggle greatly to understand the love of a father. Their view of a father is harsh and uncaring and belittling and hurtful. But they are loved unconditionally by our heavenly Father. We all are. He tells us in His Word. He shows us in His creation. He lets us know in His still small voice. He wants us to feel Him. To know Him. To love Him back.


So today, even if you don't have an earthly example, talk to the Father. Tell Him what you are thinking. Share your life with Him. Tell Him your hurts. Tell Him your fears. Tell Him you want to feel loved. 


He will listen. In fact, He already knows it all. So sit a while with Him today. Or walk along beside Him during your busy schedule. Look into His face and know that you are cared for. Let Him assure you that He is there. Sit still and know with every part of your being that you are Loved!

So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. 

Instead, you received God's Spirit when He adopted you 

as His own children. Now we call Him, "Abba, Father."  

Romans 8:15 new living translation

Thankful for Freedom

Freedom is not free. It comes with a cost. And today I am thankful for all the men and women who have paid that cost to serve our country. A country of freedom and privilege. A country of plenty and of beauty. A country of hard workers and people willing to sacrifice for our abundant opportunities.


I went to a military college. No, I was not in the military but I was surrounded by young men and women who chose to be a part of the military system for four years and then some that chose it for a lifetime. Because our college was largely military, the rules and regulations governing life around campus were military oriented. There were rules in place to promote the discipline and the honor of those who serve. I remember that the first time I would see one of the guys in "regular" clothes they would look so different. They were always in uniform and that is what we were used to. If I walked with Danny around campus, he could not hold my hand or put his arm around me. I was escorted. We were never allowed inside the military dorms or even allowed to walk behind them. At 5:00 every afternoon, the campus stopped. Whether you were walking or driving or just sitting outside, you stood and turned toward the flag pole. Those in uniform saluted while the rest of us put our hand over our heart. At midnight each night, taps would sound out across the campus. There is something very comforting and safe about hearing that bugle tune playing in the stillness of the night reminding us that another day was over. We were safe. We were free to study and play and go about our business because someone was paying the price elsewhere.


I have friends who have served all over the world. They have raised their children on foreign soil or on military bases. They have sacrificed. They have served this country well. And I am thankful for them.


I am also thankful for the ultimate Freedom. The freedom that comes from Someone who died. From Someone who paid the price for me. From Someone who broke the yoke of slavery and gives me the freedom to live in power and in truth. The kind of freedom that isn't dependent on what country you live in or what family you come from. The kind of freedom that is for all mankind. The kind of freedom that sets all captives free. The kind of freedom that brings healing and hope and power and strength. The kind of freedom that ushers in a Kingdom.


May God bless those who protect us. Those who serve this country. Those who are living here while their loved ones are serving there. Those who have lost a father, a mother, a brother or a friend. May God bless America and the freedoms we are privileged to have.


And may you live in the Freedom that comes from Jesus. 

Christ has set us free to live a free life. 

So take your stand! 

Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you. 

Galatians 5:1 the message

Thankful for the Small Stuff

Yesterday was one of those days that started out fine but ended up full of really hard stuff. Danny and I went to visit with two different friends who had surgery at Emory Hospital. On the way there Danny got a phone call that one of his dear friends had died unexpectedly the night before. As I was driving home, I got a phone call from a friend who told me that another friend's husband was having some serious side effects from a medication. The effects had literally shut down the whole family overnight. Last night my Bible Study group prayed for a mom who is hurting over her son, a mom who is grieving her husband, a mom who is dealing with a medical diagnosis and a bunch of moms whose hearts are just heavy with life.


This morning as I stood in my kitchen preparing lunches, the Lord reminded me about the small stuff from yesterday. The fact that I talked to one of my daughters three times yesterday. And that is the daughter that doesn't just call for no reason. She called just to talk. To really talk about some things that she needed to sort out. It might seem small, but to me it was big. And the fact that when I just needed to unload, my other daughter called and said she was bored. She was cleaning out her closet and just wanted to hear about my day. Again small, but big on timing for me. And then this morning as I was making my husband and my youngest daughter's lunches, my husband informed me that yesterday's lunch was extra delicious. A small comment but it made me feel special. The three of us stood in the kitchen at 6:30 this morning and laughed about an inside joke about lunch boxes. No one else would find that significant, but it made my heart smile as they left for the day.


As I was writing in my journal this morning, I began to think back on all the small stuff from yesterday. I had the opportunity to see a dear friend that I don't get to see often. She was at the hospital taking care of the friend who had surgery. I would rather see her over lunch, but I will take a big hug any day. On my way upstairs after the long day, I passed by a plant in my foyer. It is a plant that was sent to me at my Daddy's funeral. It had one single bloom on it. When I glanced at it on my way up the stairs I thought, "Hi, Daddy!" It made me smile. As I went to bed late last night, I saw something one of my daughters had posted on my facebook. It literally made me laugh out loud. No one else would find it funny but it gave me a good laugh to end the day. 


The small stuff adds up, doesn't it? If we allow God to be in every part of our day, then He will use the small stuff to remind us of His love and faithfulness. He reminded me this morning of Zacchaeus who just climbed a tree to get a better view and look what happened. The woman that just touched the hem of Jesus' garment and her whole life changed. The child that sat on Jesus' lap because He believed that children are important. The mustard seed that Jesus held to talk about our faith. Jesus talked about baking bread, sewing seed, tending sheep and loving little children. The everyday things that we do without really thinking about them. But in that small stuff there are big lessons and big blessings.


So look for your small stuff today. The stuff that only you and God would see. The stuff that makes your heart smile. The stuff that makes the day a little easier. The stuff that reminds you that we are not small and insignificant to a great big God. The small things that remind you that He sees. He cares. He loves.  

In everything give thanks... 

1 Thessalonians 5:18

Thankful for the Waiting

The Bible is very clear in several places that we are to wait on the Lord. It says that if we wait we will be blessed. That waiting produces strength. In waiting we will inherit the land. By waiting we will become strong and also that waiting on the Lord will renew us.


What does that mean though? This morning I am waiting for a friend to answer me so that I can make some decisions about my day. I am waiting to see how one of my daughters will do in the class she is struggling with. I am waiting to see the outcome of a family friend who is having surgery. I am waiting for direction in a personal decision. I am waiting for people to call me back to finalize wedding decisions. The list seems long today for the things I am waiting for.


I was reading Isaiah 40 this morning. It talks about waiting on the Lord. It says that He gives strength to the weary and that He increases the power of the weak. It says that even youth get weary! But then it says that if we wait on the Lord we will renew our strength.


I used to hate to sit in the pediatrician's office when one of my girls were sick. After staying up all night with them and trying so desperately to make them feel better, you then had to sit with all the other children and wait your turn. I just wanted them to feel better. I wanted to feel better. But in order for that to happen, I had to wait for the diagnosis and for the medicine. I knew that the doctor could provide answers as well as some sort of solution.


As I continued to read Isaiah, it dawned on me that in order to wait I have to know what I am waiting on or at least Who I am waiting on. I  can look back over the years and see God's provision. There are days that I see for the first time what He did years ago. I am at a season with my girls where I am receiving the blessing of one of them verbally affirming what God did as we were waiting. I have the privilege of seeing the Hope restored in some of my friend's lives and marriages and families because they chose to wait. I am also waiting in the gap for my daughters as I continue to Hope in the One who can provide the answers and some sort of solution for them day by day as well as for their future.


So, today I am choosing to see the benefit of waiting. I do not need to run ahead and fix things. I do not need to respond to someone or something that I don't have the answer for. I don't need to be able to see what is going to happen this weekend or next week or even in the next hour. I know Who it is I am waiting on. I can look back and see the Hope in His timing and His answers. And I can continue to ask Him what He wants me to know and learn each day. As I wait, I can soar on wings like eagles above the circumstances of the day. I can run the race of life by clinging to Him. I can walk through my daily routine and the everyday stuff with the confidence that He goes before me.


The best part about waiting on the Lord is that while I wait He continues to teach me, to strengthen me and to give me power. Waiting isn't passive. Each day has things that need to be done. Decisions that must be made. People that need my presence and my prayers. So as you wait for that diagnosis or that job offer or that paycheck or that prodigal child; take heart in the One who has gone before you. And then join me in the Waiting Room.

Wait for the Lord; 

be strong and take heart 

and wait for the Lord. 

Psalm 27:14

Thankful to be a Mom

I love my girls. Anyone who knows me can see that. But as much as I love them and enjoy them, I am more thankful for the privilege of being their mother. And I believe that being a parent is a privilege. We are given the task of molding and shaping for a season but the blessings can last a lifetime. Thank goodness that I don't have to be perfect at the task. God just asks me to be available for the task.


This morning as I was praying for each of my girls the Lord reminded me that standing in the gap for my children is not only a privilege, it is a necessity. I have learned over the years how to more effectively pray and listen to God in regards to my girls. I remember clearly when I realized that He actually loves them more than I ever could. As simple as that sounds, it was a turning point for me. I had a wonderful woman in my life that spoke that truth clearly to me. She told me that if I was not careful I could find myself making my girls an idol instead of a gift. That truth has helped me learn what standing in the gap means.


As I was looking through my Bible this morning, I started reading all of the scripture that I have marked with my girl's names on it. Over the years as I have prayed over and for my girls, I started marking the verse the Lord gave me and putting the date and the name of the daughter it referred to. As I looked through these scriptures this morning, I was reminded that God's love and His providence are poured out on my girls through His Word and His blessings; not mine. It was such a blessing to be reminded yet again of how much He loves them.


All of my daughters communicate very differently. They receive my words and instruction very differently also. When the older two were in high school, I was struggling with how to communicate effectively to their different personalities. My oldest was open to a good long talk. She was willing to listen and to discuss her life. My middle daughter is not an open communicator. She is not a curl up on the bed and share a good cry type of girl. So, I started writing my thoughts to her. We never talked about my notes, but every morning for one year I wrote a note to her on index cards. Sometimes I  told her a story. Sometimes I told her how proud I was of her. Sometimes I shared my devotion with her. But every day I started with the date and her name and ended with a scripture and love, Mom. I put them on her pillow every morning and sometimes I would find them on the floor or on her night stand. I never commented on them and I just kept writing day after day. When we were packing up her room for her to move to her college dorm, I noticed that there were no notes laying around. My heart was sad. Then I saw a little box sitting next to her bed. When I opened the box, there were all her notes. They were stacked neatly in order and put away for safe keeping. My heart smiled.


I love spending time with each one of my girls. I love hearing their stories and sharing in their triumphs. I love when they share their hurts and pains with me. I love when they open their hearts to me. I love shopping with them. I love to go fun places with them. I love just watching a good movie or TV show with them. But more than any of those perks of being a mom, I treasure the privilege of standing in the gap for them. The blessing of praying for them each morning. The knowledge of knowing that they have a relationship with Jesus. 


God has a plan for their lives. I get to be the one that helps them learn how to see it. God wants to guide them. I get to be the one that reminds them of His promises. God wants to protect them. I get the opportunity to pray His hedge of protection around them. God wants to bless them. I can choose to be the voice that speaks His blessings over them. God has a purpose and a calling on their lives. I get to stand in the gap for them as they figure out what that is. God wants them to have a relationship with Him that has nothing to do with me. I get to bow my knee and get out of the way as He becomes all they will ever need.

I remember my mother's prayers 

and they have always followed me.  

They have clung to me all my life.  

~Abraham Lincoln

Thankful for Truth

Mondays are a little crazy for me. I savor as much of the weekend as I possibly can and then Monday morning hits and I feel a little frazzled sometimes. The beginning of a new week. All the school stuff and kid stuff and everyday reality stuff comes back into the picture. Not that it went away, but I try hard to make weekends full of family and fun and as little stress as possible. 


This week is going to be particularly busy. Lots of extra things are being thrown into the schedule. Things that require us to be present in body but also in heart. Those kind of weeks are tiring and draining even when the extra stuff is filled with good things. 


Yesterday, one of our pastors talked about being where God puts you. About really being where He has placed you for the moment. He reminded us to know who is surrounding us. To know our people. To know our place. To know our purpose. So as I begin this week, I asked God to remind me of His truth. Of His promises to His people for this season and place and for His purpose.


He knows the plans He has for me. They are for my future and for my hope.


He never leaves me or forsakes me.


He works all things together for my good.


He makes my path straight.


He goes before me and He is my rear guard.


He is my beginning and my end.


He is patient. He is kind.


He knew me before the foundation of the earth and He knows the number of hairs on my head.


His love for me is eternal.


His equips me. He provides for me. He only gives me what I can handle.


He is my portion. He is my passion. He is my ever present help.


Have a blessed Monday!

Then you will know the Truth, 

and the Truth will set you free. 

John 8:32

Thankful for Grace

God's riches at Christ's expense. That is what Grace is. It is a free gift. It is something we cannot buy or earn or work our way into getting. Grace is from God. Pure and simple. It is unearned favor. It is full of love and mercy. It is offered to all of us.


Why is it that the concept of Grace is so hard to grasp? That we can believe so many things about God, even the most mind stretching concepts, but we have a hard time believing that He loves us unconditionally. That His Grace is sufficient in all areas of our lives.


My youngest daughter has had a rough week. She is struggling in a class and with a teacher. We have put tools and a plan in place to help her navigate through these last few weeks of the semester. It will not be easy or fun, but she knows what she has to do. On top of all of that, the orthodontist put springs on her braces yesterday. Not only does she still have her braces in high school but she has these metal things attached to the side of her mouth that aren't very attractive. She thinks she is ugly and her mouth hurts. Nothing I have said this week has been right. Every time I have tried to encourage or give insight into her situation, she has gotten irritated with me. Finally last night after another outburst of emotion, I just wrapped my arms around her and loved her. No words, just love. I prayed silently over her. I let her tone of voice go. I let her disrespect go. I let her angry words go. She had put herself in the consequences of her rough week, but I just let it all go and loved her.


As I extended grace to my daughter, I felt God's grace flood over me. I don't have all the answers. I don't have the right words. I don't have enough love in me to take away my children's hurts or pains. I don't have the capacity or the strength to do much of anything on my own. But by the Grace of God, I can rest in the truth that He is sufficient.


May the Grace of God pour over you as you end another week. May His unconditional love wrap around you and hold you tight. May His forgiveness be a reality to you. May you know that there is a Voice interceding for you that understands your groaning and your pain. May you rest in the shelter of His wings and trust in the power of His might. May you dwell today in the beauty of His presence. And may you know that by His great love for you that you have the strength to face the day.


Grace and Peace be with you, my friends.

For it is by grace you have been saved, 

through faith - and this not from yourselves, 

it is the gift of God. 

Ephesians 2:8

A Thankful Friend

I love my friends. I have been blessed with some incredible people that are a part of my life. Friendship is such a vital part of who we are. The relationship that comes from another person pouring into our life and helping us to get through all of the things that life throws our way is invaluable.


 I have had friendships that have lasted throughout my life and I have had friendships that didn't make it through the fire of misunderstanding or hurt. Sometimes those friendships dissolved because I was stubborn or immature and sometimes they dissolved from no fault of my own. But I am so thankful that we serve a God who is all about relationships. Not only does He seek out a relationship with us, but He blesses us with others who can encourage and uplift and exhort us.


I have a friend who is a neighbor. When I asked for suggestions about a good book to read, she didn't just answer me on facebook. She brought over a bag of books for me to borrow. I have a friend from college. I haven't seen her in 25 years. But she encourages me through technology. She affirms me and uplifts me and keeps me moving forward. In fact, she probably does not even know what a source of affirmation she is in my life. I have a friend who speaks truth to me even when I don't ask for it. She tells me like it is. I love her for that.


I have a friend who I don't ever talk to anymore. There were some uncomfortable conversations in the past that we just have not been able to move through yet. But God still uses her in my life. There are so many times that I hear her voice in my head reminding me of advice she gave me in the past. She may not be a daily part of my life, but she is a part of the person that I am.


I have friends that pray for me. And then they follow up. What a blessing it is to receive the text or the phone call asking me how God answered our prayer or what happened in the situation we were praying for. Those friends love me well.


I have young friends. I have older friends. My husband is my best friend. God has blessed me. And I am grateful. So my friends, whether I talked to you this morning or haven't talked to you in years, know how much you mean to me. What a gift your friendship is. I have learned so much from each of you and I am a stronger and better woman because of you.


Jesus is my friend too. It has taken me years to truly understand the reality of that truth. But He is my friend. I can sit at His feet and tell Him my thoughts. I have learned to rest in His presence and to listen to His voice. He knows everything about me, even the stuff that I haven't figured out yet. And He loves me anyway. What a privilege to know that He calls me friend, too.

What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear. 

What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer. 

O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,

 All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.

 ~ Joseph M. Scriven