Share Four Somethings ~ February

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February has been a weather extravaganza!  We’ve had rain and more rain. Sleet, snow, ice, sub-zero temperatures, and today it is sunny and 50 degrees! Plans have had to be changed, there’ve been unexpected challenges, and also moments of immense beauty. We can’t control the weather. It plays with our emotions and definitely gives us something to talk about!  Isn’t that just like life? I pray your life has gone a little more smoothly than the weather has this past month!

I love being part of this link up at http://www.heathergerwing.com where we share “Four Somethings”: Something loved, Something said, Something learned, and Something read each month. Here are mine….

Something Loved

“She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness.” Proverbs 31:25-26 (NLT)

I don’t know about you, but these days my mail usually consists of bills, requests for donations, and advertisements for things I don’t want. This month was a little different though because in the midst of the everyday delivery to my mailbox, I unexpectedly found my something loved.

Opening a tiny box revealed a big surprise. Nestled inside, lay a necklace created from my Grandma’s signature. Memories immediately filled my heart and overflowed down my cheeks. The accompanying card, containing words I’ll treasure forever,  was as much a gift as the necklace itself.

Going to the post office that day, I never imagined I’d come away with a blessing. A blessing that reminds me that Grandma’s life is inscribed upon mine and that, inspires me to be to my own grandchildren, who she was to me. This something loved also motivates me to look for unexpected ways to show my love and appreciation for others, just as was so generously done by a special someone, for me.

Something Said

“Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, jus as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32 (NLT)

I recently watched a documentary on PBS about Fred Rogers, better known as “Mr. Rogers”. Watching the evolution of his passion for and commitment to his show was inspiring! But more than that, Mr. Rogers’ love for and understanding of children touched my teacher’s heart deeply. His message of kindness and acceptance are timeless and so vital for us today! Here is something he once said that has resonated with me:

“I believe that appreciation is a holy thing–that when we look for what’s best in a person we happen to be with at the moment, we’re doing what God does all the time.  So in loving and appreciating our neighbor, we’re participating in something sacred.” Fred Rogers

Just imagine what our neighborhoods could be like if we would live these words Mr. Rogers said!

Something Learned

“Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him that they are?” Matthew 6:26 (NLT)

I’ve learned that birdwatching in my front yard is now so much more exciting, all because of my Valentine’s Day gift!  My husband surprised me with a telephoto lens for my iPhone! Who knew such a thing even existed?

As you can see, it just clips right on to the lens and you’re ready to get those close up shots! Because of the extra weight (of the lens not me)  I’m not as steady as I’d like to be. It will take some practice to produce clear, focused pictures, but I won’t mind at all! Camera + Birds + New Gadget = Learning Fun

Something Read

“I will search for my lost ones who strayed away, and I will bring them safely home again. I will bandage the injured and strengthen the weak.” Ezekiel 34:16a (NLT)

Oh. My. Word.  This book!  The story of a wayward donkey who is rescued, cared for, and loved by a family who never expected to be his owners. And while you might think that Flash, the donkey is the lucky one, the story is actually about how he transforms and blesses his people! Rachel Anne Ridge writes in such a way that you feel you’re sitting across the table from her drinking coffee together or on the sofa side by side sharing a bowl of popcorn as she tells you her story of how a large eared donkey taught her about “life, faith, and second chances”. It’s one of those books that I wanted to highlight line after line in!  I can’t wait to read her soon to be released sequel!

Well, there you have it!  February with her ups and downs, sunshine and snow, peaks and valleys is all but finished. What surprises did she bring you? Be sure and let me know in the comments. Until next month, Happy Loving, Listening, Learning, and Reading!

Just ~ Five Minute Friday/#Write28Days

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Just When You Least Expect It


 

“If your gift is that of serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, do a good job of teaching. If your gift is to encourage others, do it! If you have money, share it generously.  If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly. Don’t just pretend that you love others. Really love them.  Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of the good.  Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.  Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.” Romans 12:7-11(NIV) 

This is the scripture I used to describe my boss, my mentor, and my friend: Ken Price as I spoke at his funeral, fourteen years ago this week.

As a young teacher looking for a job, I’d about given up hope.  School had started in most districts and there I was still without a classroom. But then, just when I least expected it, my phone rang and Ken was on the other end offering me a job in West Virginia.  I immediately said yes! He drastically changed my life that day.  Not only did he give me the start to a career I loved which lasted 32 years;  he also had a hand in changing this city girl into a country girl and  introducing me to my husband. Ken pushed me to leave my comfort zone, think outside the box, and he continuously challenged me to be a better teacher and person. Somewhere in the process he became a treasured friend, both to me and my family.

The crowded gymnasium was alive with energy. Our daughter was in the middle of cheering the basketball team on to victory and we were joining in, shouting at the top of our lungs. Then in the midst of the excitement, just when I least expected it, news came that Ken, our Ken, had suddenly passed away. In that moment, I felt as if the basketball had hit me and knocked the air from my lungs. The cheering continued but I couldn’t hear a thing. Making my way out of the gym, I didn’t want it to be true. It was.  I prayed it was a mistake.  It wasn’t. And once again, my life changed that day.

As I stood on the stage in that same gymnasium a few days later, the crowd was quiet this time. Speaking from my heart, I shared how Ken had allowed me to be me without judgement. That he compelled me to expect more out of myself without condemning and how he shared his wisdom without reservation.

The truth is, my life would have been profoundly different had it not been for Ken Price. He possessed many of the Spiritual Gifts listed above and his spirit was a gift to me. Oh, how I wish I would have told him so when I had the chance. The anniversary of his death reminds me how very important it is to always let those who mean so much to us, know! Not just on holidays. Not someday. Not even tomorrow.

“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” 
Proverbs 21:1(NIV)

Let me ask you: is there someone you’re thinking of as you read this? Please don’t wait! Tell them now; because you and I know that just when you least expect it, life changes and the chance is gone. So make the call, send the text, FaceTime, or wrap them in your arms. You won’t be sorry! And who knows? Maybe you’ll change a life, just like Ken did mine!

Confident ~Five Minute Friday/#Write28Days

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Confident Like a Tootsie Pop

“being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6 (NIV)/ Pixabay

Do you remember getting a Tootsie Pop when you were a child? Their commercial challenged us to find out how many licks it took to get to the Tootsie Roll center; so we’d carefully start counting trying to keep the hard outside intact. Before too long though, the inevitable happened and CRUNCH! The covering cracked and we found the chewy center.

When it comes to being confident, I’m kind of like a Tootsie Pop. Maybe, you are too! On the outside, I appear solid, sure of myself. As I lead a meeting, present a children’s sermon, speak to a crowd, or visit someone who’s in need, it looks as if I’m that rock-like sphere atop a sturdy stick: assured and fearless. In reality however, I’m nothing but that soft, gooey center: insecure and scared, hiding behind a sugar-coated shell.

I’ve often wished to have true confidence, to be certain and bold in my abilities. But lately I’ve begun to look at it in a different way.  When I’m in the midst of a situation or task where I don’t feel self-assured but am still able to handle it, I’ve found my focus turning from myself to saying things like: “To God be the glory”, “The Holy Spirit guided my words”, and “This was an answer to my prayer”.

“But he replied, ‘My gift of underserved grace is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak.’ So if Christ keeps giving me his power, I will gladly brag about how weak I am.”
2 Corinthians 12:9 (CEB)

God has been showing me once again that it’s not about me! I’m learning that even though we may not be sure of ourselves in all areas of life, God can use that “soft middle” to teach us about His power in our weakness. What a comfort to know, confident or not, Christ is the one who makes us strong!

How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop? I don’t know.  Lots, I’m sure. What does it take to uncover and use each of our soft centers? That I do know! Our One and Only God!  And He won’t stop until our work is finished. Now that’s something we can really sink our teeth into!

Joining up with  http://www.fiveminutefriday.com and http://www.anitaojeda.com today to write on the prompt “Confident”. Why don’t you “pop” or “roll” on over and see what others have written about!

 

 

 

Build ~Five Minute Friday/#Write28Days

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Building Towers

“a time to tear down and a time to build,” Ecclesiastes 3:3b (NIV)/ Pixabay

I’ve recently returned home after spending a few days with my grandsons.  Oh, my heart is happy! We made a tent, read stories, played on the swings, and blew bubbles. Along with other little boy fun and games we also spent time together using blocks to build towers.  Here’s what I’ve noticed over the years, we adults are very protective of our towers!  While the wee ones like laying one block upon the other, their favorite part of building is actually the knocking down! And they are good at knocking down!  I’m ashamed to say that there have been times that I’ve had to bite my tongue because I was about to whine (or even get a little angry) when they chose my tower to topple!  Silly, right?

But aren’t we the very same way about building our towers in real life? I don’t know about you, I like to be the architect and contractor in one! In other words, I want control over my tower! We carefully stack our “blocks”: the job we have, where we live, who we marry, the goals we pursue, the people we spend time with and the tower gets higher and higher. We’re in command of it all. That is….until we’re not. The promotion we were counting on doesn’t come….a block wobbles. Someone we care about betrays us…..blocks fall. The phone rings and life is never the same…..the tower topples to the ground. We whine. We worry. We cry. We. Get. Mad.

Here’s what I’m learning: Our towers will always get knocked down.

“If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it.  But if you give up your life for my sake,
you will save it.” Matthew 16:25 (NLT)

“You can make many plans, but the LORD’s purpose will prevail.” Proverbs 19:21

In other words, we need to stop trying to do the constructing ourselves and hand the job over to the true Creator, allowing Him to do the designing. When we build on the foundation that is Christ, our towers may teeter in the winds of life; circumstances may rearrange our blocks, but the LORD’s purpose will prevail. Our towers will not fall.

I’m going to be honest; it’s not easy for me!  Just like I wanted to protect and keep the carefully made tower I built with my grandsons, I desire to control my everyday.  Silly, right? Maybe you’ve been watching your own towers get knocked over, too.  It’s time we put away the self-made architects’ plans, give up the contractor’s hats, and instead become laborers building a life under God’s direction.   A life that when given up, is actually saved. It doesn’t get better built than that!

“For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.”
1 Corinthians 3:9 (NIV)

Linking up again with the wonderful writers at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com and at http://www.anitaojeda.com

 

 

Night ~ Day 7 ~ #Write28Days

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“And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” Philippians 4:8 (NLT)/ Pixabay

Night Time Conversations

I talk a lot AND I talk loudly.  I try not to, honest I do! But, telling stories, giving advice, asking questions, answering questions….you name it…. I tend to foam at the mouth! I just can’t seem to help myself!  Now sometimes, I actually talk so others can hear, (sorry family and friends) but more often than not, the voice dominating the conversation is the one inside my very own head. And unfortunately, her favorite time to chat is in the middle of the night! Anyone else know what I’m talking about?

Often, I’m not sure why, I wake up around 3:00 A.M. Would you believe she’s already conversing before I even have one eye open? The words spew quickly, bouncing around and echo loudly in my mind.  It wouldn’t be so bad if they were uplifting messages, confident affirmations, and organized plans, however, these conversations in the dark are quite the opposite!

Her night time monolog reminds me of disappointing failures, overwhelms me with worries, offers frightening diagnoses, and casts doubt where I have harbored hope. She taunts and ridicules, frightens and shames. Try as I might to silence the voice,  the froth of her words spume forth engulfing my peace and make the night seem darker.

“This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.” 1 John 1:5 (NLT)

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.” John 1:5 (NLT)

It’s likely that the voice of darkness in each of us will continue to try and be the keynote speaker anytime it can, but I’m learning that whether it’s in the middle of the night or anytime at all, we can choose to either dwell in the words spoken from the murky places of our minds or we can invite God into the conversation and rest in His message of truth and light.

“Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand.  His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 4:7 (NLT)

When we allow God to mute the disparaging dialog we speak to ourselves and let Him become the Guard of our minds, we will finally experience a truly peaceful night’s sleep and wake refreshed to welcome the light of a brand new day! Now that’s worth having a conversation about!

 

I’m popping in and out when I can at http://www.anitaojeda.com for the #Write28Days Challenge.  If you’d like to read the creative posts of other writers just click on over there!

 

 

 

Swan ~ Day 6 of #Write28Days Challenge

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“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul:” Psalm 23: 1-3a (KJV)

A Pond and A Swan

I sit in the window and
Look out at the world.
My breaths become slower
My muscles, unfurled.

Leaning into the glass,
The pane cool to my face,
Worry lines once there
Disappear with no trace.

Hopeful, my gaze
Sweeps over the pond;
Searching the surface,
The banks, and beyond.

Not a ripple is present.
No hint that he’s there.
So I wait, I watch,
And say a quick prayer.

Hues of orange and purple
Reflect on the sill.
As the sun takes its place
On the crest of the hill.

As the day makes way
To welcome the night,
From the verge he appears
Much to my delight!

Regal, he glides
With his head held high.
A silhouette of grace
Against the darkening sky.

Each time that I return
I’m amazed to find
That renewal abounds
For my heart, soul, and mind.

For me, there is something
About the view so serene,
With a pond and a swan and
The pastures so green.

It’s hard for me to explain
How this place can be so dear,
But sitting in this window seat
Brings peace each time I’m here.

For I’m reminded of the Shepherd
Who meets all our needs
And guides us to still waters
If we’ll follow where He leads.

Now, the view from the window
May be different for you and for me,
But when we’re looking from where HE leads us,
A restored soul we’ll surely see!

This picture and poem are of one of my favorite places: a small, Ohio country inn and while the swan isn’t visible in my photo, he’s been there every time I’ve visited! The kindness of the people, the serenity of the inn, the beauty of the surroundings, and the swan who is there to greet me give me many reasons to be thankful that God has lead me beside those still waters! Where is your place?  I’d love to know if you’re willing to share with me in the comments. And, If you’d like to read what others have written to the prompt “Swan”, head on over to http://www.anitaojeda.com

Where to Begin ~ Five Minute Friday/#Write28Days

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Something’s a little different today! Yes, it’s Friday.  Yes, I’m writing for 5 minutes (plus) to the prompt “Where” over at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com AND I’m also writing to the prompt “Begin” to join in on the #Write28Days Challenge at http://www.anitaojeda.com So, here we go….

 

Where to Begin

“So you must remain faithful to what you have been taught from the beginning. If you do, you will remain in fellowship with the Son and with the Father.” 1 John 2:24 (NLT)

Hmmmm….Where to begin? That’s easy! Isn’t it? Of course the best place to begin is at the beginning! But wait, which one? Life offers each of us many beginnings. Here are just a few of mine:

Beginning of Life: Jackson, Michigan 1959
Beginning of Sisterhood: Santa Maria, California 1961
Beginning of Elementary School: Santa Susana, California 1965
Beginning of High School: Jackson, Michigan 1973
Beginning of College: Jackson, Michigan 1977
Beginning of Teaching Career: Circleville, WV 1982
Beginning of Married Life: Jackson, Michigan 1983
Beginning of Motherhood: Petersburg, WV 1985
Beginning of Retirement: Riverton, WV 2014
Beginning of Grandparenthood: Huntington, WV 2015

Each beginning has a unique story of place and time to tell.  Each leads one to the other; but there’s one beginning that tells not just my greatest story, but the greatest love story of all! That beginning took place at a youth retreat in the church pictured above:

Beginning of My Salvation Story: Hanover-Horton, MI 1975

Little did I know when I signed up to participate with my youth group that weekend, it would be a new beginning for me! We spent those days studying, singing, sharing and praying. On the final evening, as the music softly played, the speaker concluded by inviting us to accept Christ as our Savior. In that moment I felt in my heart such longing, tears filled my eyes, and before I knew where my feet were taking me, I found myself kneeling at the alter and asking for forgiveness at the foot of the cross. I don’t always get it right. Often, I have more questions than answers but there’s no doubt that because of Jesus’ sacrifice, my life hasn’t been the same since that night many years ago! Like I said, “the greatest love story” ever!

So, that brings me back to my original question…. Where to begin? And the answer is to begin with “The Beginning”!

“In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
John 1:1 (NLT)

We often don’t know where a beginning in life will take us. Some may lead us through grief, pain, and discouragement; while others usher us into joy, fulfillment, and peace. And of course, there’s everything in between. But, when we begin a new life in Christ, we have assurance that He shepherds us through each start and stop, every success and failure, and all of our dreams and disappointments. And here’s the best part: in choosing a new beginning with God we do know exactly where it leads…..to eternal life with Him!

“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (NLT)

I took this picture of the church where I made the decision to receive Christ as my Savior on one of my recent trips back to visit family because to be honest, I hadn’t thought of that night in a long time and I wanted to keep it close as a reminder.  Sitting there in the parking lot, I was flooded with such an overwhelming calm.  I can’t explain it but once again tears began to flow as I recalled how much the new beginning I experienced in that place has blessed me. It’s not a salvation story that books will be written about or movies will portray, but that doesn’t matter.  Mine is a story written by the Author and Perfecter of Faith, the One True Beginning!  Yours is too!  As you think about your many life beginnings, stop and revisit your own salvation story. If you’re willing, I’d love to hear about it in the comments.  And who knows, maybe when we begin to share our stories they may just lead someone else to exactly where they need to be!

 

If you haven’t yet accepted Christ as your Savior I pray you don’t put it off.  I’m sharing some scriptures here that helped me.  I hope they will help guide you to find your new beginning, too:

~“But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” Romans 5:8 (NLT)

~“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23 (NLT)

~“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.. For it is believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved.” Romans 10:9-10 (NLT)

 

 

 

Share Four Somethings ~ January 2019

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Can you believe that January is already drawing to a close and it’s going out with a polar plunge at  that!!!! I’m joining in on the fun of “Sharing Four Somethings” over at http://www.HeatherGerwing.com . I’d love to know yours, so please share them in the comments!

Something Loved:

 It doesn’t happen very often.  Everyone has responsibilities and busy schedules but I just treasure when my family can spend quality time with each other! January brought us all together for a few days and it made my heart so very happy! Meals shared, games played, stories told, love given. What a gift and a blessing! I cherish every single moment!

“Love is patient and kind.  Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude.  It does not demand its own way.  It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.  It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out.  Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NLT)

Something Said:

It continually amazes me how God uses the words of others to speak to me! Whether they’re sung in a song, read on a page, or spoken from the heart, there are times when simple words said are a love note to our soul.This past month found me questioning and doubting (what’s new?) Then, at the right moment, just the words of encouragement I needed were said.  I can’t begin to tell you how much they meant! It reminds me how important it is for each of us to always say what’s on our hearts, even if it seems like a little thing, because we never know when God will use what we say as a note of love to a tender soul, exactly like He did with the words said to me.

“Kind words are like honey–sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” Proverbs 16:24 (NLT)

Something Learned:

I am new to the world of Podcasts. I know, I know, I’m behind the times but I’m happy to say that in this new year, I’ve begun to listen to a few and have I found some gems!  The insight shared is inspiring and I’ve learned so much from the episodes I’ve heard! Another great benefit is hearing the actual voices of people I’ve admired from afar!  Now, I feel like a fan on the Red Carpet edging my way up, getting as close as I can to the Stars! 

“How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!” Proverbs 16:16 (NIV)

Something Read:

Oh my goodness!  This book! I am still in the process of reading it because I want to take in small amounts at a time and ponder them before moving on. Emily P. Freeman has such a reassuring way with her words both written and spoken. These pages have brought me to tears in such a good way.  If I were to write down all the lines that have resonated with me, we’d be here awhile! But….one that I’ve especially been holding close is this:

“Listen to what makes you cry.” Emily P. Freeman

The message in “A Million Little Ways” is a spiritual journey for me and I know I’ll be changed for the better as I continue to stroll through each chapter!

“Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.” Psalm 126:5 (NIV)

January has been kind to me, I hope to you, too!  As I said above, I’d love to hear your “Four Somethings” for the month.  Just jot them down in the comments and I will celebrate each one with you! Here’s to a fabulous February!

Convenient ~ Five Minute Friday

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I know it might not be “convenient” for you to go over to http://www.fiveminutefriday.com
right now, but I highly recommend you check out the talented writers there today and every Friday! I know I will. That’s my favorite part!

Convenient 

“I look to the mountains-does my help come from there? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber.” Psalm 121:1-3 (NLT)

For all means and purposes, I live in a pretty inconvenient place. If you’re looking for fast food, I hope you’re not too hungry because the closest is 35 minutes away. The mall? An hour and a half or so; depending of course, on if you get behind a semi truck on the mountains or not. Oh, and that’s where my hair stylist is too; so I always need to allow extra time for unforeseen large, slow moving vehicles blocking the way in front of me. (the worst are the ones loaded with live turkeys-but that’s a story for another time)  Need a hospital?  35 minutes will also get you to the small rural one or you’ll need to travel three hours if you prefer large university affiliated healthcare. My dentist is an hour away, so is the closest large chain grocery store, and even the Wal-Mart. As you might guess, being organized, having a plan, and making a list are musts when I set out to “run” errands which of course, takes all day. And oh, if we forget something while shopping? Well, we just have to do without.  Like I said, “Inconvenient!”

Unless that is, I change my focus and take my eyes off of my watch and look instead to the One who watches over us! I honestly never thought I’d live anywhere other than the suburbs, but God had other plans! And in the thirty plus years I’ve lived in the shadow of these mountains, He has reminded me time and time again how conveniently He worked everything out so that I could live my best life. In times of need, meals are delivered to our table by friends and family. We never have to go far to find a helping hand. When unforeseen roadblocks come into my life, I know prayers are being lifted throughout our community, almost before I ask. Honestly, if I tried to name all the people and circumstances that have blessed my life here in this special place, my list would be long!  For all means and purposes, God brought me to this pretty place. He reorganized my life and has provided so abundantly that I haven’t had to do without anything that really matters!  Like He said, “convenient”!

“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT)

 

 

Influence ~ Five Minute Friday

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It’s Friday! I’m once again joining in with the special group of writers at   http://www.fiveminutefriday.com thinking about the prompt “influence”. It’s always important to stop and think about what we allow to influence our lives.  Here we go……

The Influence of Prayer

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Colossians 4:2 (NIV)

The remnants of Christmas at my house are slowly being tucked back into their boxes and stacked into closets where they’ll stay, out of sight and out of mind, forgotten about until next year. That’s what we seem to do with Christmas, isn’t it. The anticipation starts early.  The sights, smells, and sounds conjure up warm feelings that cause us to be just a little kinder, more patient, and willing to give more throughout the season.  We sing and read of the baby in the manger and we promise ourselves we’ll carry those attitudes and Him with us into the new year. I hate to admit it, but all too often, Jesus ends up packed away right along with all my other holiday memories.

This new year has been different though. I’ve recognized the presence of the Heart and Hope of Christmas that is Christ, lingering longer. The important word in that sentence is “recognized”.  Christ is always with us; it’s just that often, we allow life to obscure our view. I’m seeing more clearly recently because my focus has been under the influence of prayer!

Advent this year, found me “beneath the tree” as I prayed my way through the devotional, “Jingle and Joy” written by Jodie Barrett. Spending** time in prayer each day for specific things changed something…..ME!  Little by little I began to notice a transformation taking place:

~My relationship with God improved. (It’s only common sense that spending more time together brings you closer!)

~Praying for others also made me more aware of how blessed I am!

~Jesus, born in a manger, became more vivd and meaningful as I prayed, studied the scriptures, and read Jodie’s devotions.

It’s evident I’m sure, that my daily quiet time is usually hit or miss.  I have the best of intentions; but we all know where that leads!  Being under the influence of prayer throughout the holidays has once again made me realize what I miss when I’m not spending regular, consistent time with God and that He’s always ready and waiting for me, for us, to make Him a priority in our busy, distracted schedules, even when we don’t.

The time I spent in the soft glow of lights and under the boughs of our Christmas tree praying, made me more hesitant to take it down this year. But like Jodie shared, it’s not about the tree. No, the “where” is not important but choosing the “what”, is! We can allow our calendars, moods, those who surround us, and innumerable other things fill up our days OR instead of putting the Babe in the manger out of sight and out of mind, we can keep Him close, by spending time each day in prayer. Yes, Christmas has come and gone, but living under the transforming influence of prayer reminds us that the Hope of Christmas remains long after we’ve put everything away and that my friends, is something we can celebrate all year long!

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

If you would like to know more about Jodie Barrett’s book and her ministry go to http://www.faithfullyfollowing.org You won’t regret it!