Tag Archives: #Write28Days

Once

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“Now rescue your beloved people. Answer and save us by your power.” Psalm 60:5 (NLT)

Once

I once took a girls’ day out shopping for granted….
Now, I don’t.

There was once a time I didn’t know that gathering with family would be considered risky…
But now, I do.

I believed the privilege of going to church was guaranteed, once….
Now, I don’t.

Wearing a mask everywhere I went, once seemed impossible….
But, now I do.

Hugging was once the way I greeted my friends….
Now, I don’t.

Once, I had no idea how much I could miss “normal”, everyday life….
But now, I do.

I once assumed that grocery store shelves would always be full….
Now, I don’t.

I couldn’t comprehend how very lonely a holiday could be, once…
But now, I do.

Oh, how easily, I once regularly overlooked the simple joys of life….
Now, I don’t.

Once, I had never prayed for the end of a pandemic….
But now, I do.

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

 

These random thoughts about the last months came as a result of the prompt, “Once”. I’m writing today with others at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com and with #write28days over at http://www.anitaojeda.com so “once” you’re finished here, why don’t you click on over to read others’ offerings. Wishing you all a Happy Valentine’s Day! Remember God Loves You and that I appreciate you taking your time to stop in. 

Waiting for the Sunrise

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“I wait for the LORD, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope. I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning.” Psalm 130:5-6 (NIV)

Waiting for the Sunrise 

Early bird? Not me! But even so, there are many winter mornings I sit in my chair with my coffee, still waiting for the sunrise. The mountains out my front window keep the sun’s rays at bay until later than most places. And so I wait. I watch. Then, about half way through my second cup, the sun rises over the ridge and I welcome the day with those first bright beams breaking through the gray, early morning and transforming ordinary things into a palette of reflected light.

“As evening approached, Joseph, a rich man from Arimathea who had become a follower of Jesus, went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. And pilate issued an order to release it to him. Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a long sheet of clean linen cloth. He placed it in his own new tomb, which had been carved out of the rock. Then he rolled a great stone across the entrance and left. Both Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting across from the tomb and watching.”
Matthew 27:57-61 (NLT)

Just a short while ago things were going so well. They thought they knew what the future would hold. But then, everything changed. And now? These followers of Jesus were sad, scared, and didn’t know what to do next. And so, with darkness closing in, there they sat… watching, waiting, and longing for the Light. Sounds very familiar to me, how about you?

Waiting. Not one of my favorite things, especially when waiting in the dark. We all know about that, don’t we? Seasons of life change just like seasons of the year, and we can find ourselves, without warning, in the midst of bleak days where all we can do is watch, wait, and long, too.

“Early on Sunday morning, as the new day was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went out to visit the tomb. Suddenly there was a great earthquake! For an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, rolled aside the stone, and sat on it. His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint. Then the angel spoke to the women. ‘Don’t be afraid’ he said. ‘I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He isn’t here! He has risen from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come, see where his body was lying.’ ” Matthew 28:1-6 (NLT)

Just a short while ago things weren’t going well. They thought they knew what the future would hold. While the Marys and the world waited in the darkness, the mountain of rock couldn’t hold Him back and The. Son. Did. Rise! And in that moment everything changed for them.

I’m sure you’ll agree that this world can plunge us into unexpected darkness. We’ve been living there for about a year now, haven’t we? Here’s the thing: when we welcome the Light into our days everything changes for us, too.  Our circumstances might not be different, but how we see them will be. The Light shows us the Way. He shows us the Truth. He offers us a life transformed, one where we ourselves become a palette of reflected Light. The wait is over! The light shines in the darkness, not just today, or tomorrow, or for only a season, but my friends, the Son Rise is for evermore.

“Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, ‘I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.’ ” John 8:12 (NLT)

Doing double duty with this post and joining http://www.fiveminutefriday.com and  http://www.anitaojeda.com for #write28days both using the prompt “Sunrise”. Lucky you! There’s double the great writing to read. Just click on over and see what the “Sunrise” brings! As always I am more than grateful for your presence here with me in my ponderings. You are a true gift! 

Risk Free Life

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“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)>JESHOOTS.com at Pexels

Risk-Free Life

Imagine a person who lives her life on the “safe side of the sidewalk”, who to stay there, crosses only within the boundaries of the crosswalk and not until the light says go.

Imagine a person who wears a life preserver even in calm, shallow waters for fear something will rock her boat.

Imagine a person who avoids anything  too fast, too closed in, too challenging, or worst of all, too unknown!

Imagine a person with numerous big ideas, bigger dreams, longings, and callings that remain buried and unfulfilled rather than attempting to venture outside her comfort zone.

Imagine a person attempting to live out her life without encountering risk.

Now……

Imagine the One who went to the cross, became the light, and has removed the boundaries between Heaven and earth.

Imagine the One who preserves life for eternity, calms the stormy seas, and beckons us to get out of the boat.

Imagine the One who finds nothing in this fast-paced world challenging, invites us to join Him in spacious places**, and to whom every little part of us is known.

Imagine the One who, to fulfill God’s plan was buried but didn’t remain there; instead, He sits at the right hand of the Father calling us to follow Him to bigger and better things than we could have ever dreamed of.

Imagine the One who risked it all to give us life.

Now……

Imagine what could happen if a person let go of her fear and put all her trust in the One!

Now…..THAT would be truly living a risk-free life!

P.S. We don’t have to just “imagine”!
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT)

Joining today with other writers in TWO places! You can learn more at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com and https://anitaojeda.com/welcome-to-the-write-28-days-blogging-challenge/ This week’s Five Minute Friday prompt is “Risk” and the prompt for Day 21 of the Write 28 Days Challenge is “Numerous”. I know you’ll enjoy reading the offerings on both sites! As always, I hope you know how much I appreciate the support you give me by being here!  **five minutes

 

 

 

 

 

More Than Enough

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“God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.” 1 Peter 4:10 (NLT)

More Than Enough

Over the years, I’ve been inspired by several excellent cooks and one of my favorites was my friend, Evelyn. She always created dishes that lured you back for seconds! (And maybe thirds if it was her homemade bread and jelly!) Now, most people would be happy if their guests left little behind at the end of a meal, but not Evelyn.  Her philosophy was to provide all we could eat and still have more to serve. “Enough” was not in Evelyn’s vocabulary. She’d always keep watch and when she saw something running low, she was ready to fill it right back up.  By her example, I’ve learned to always be prepared to offer more than enough. And that’s exactly what I try to do whether cooking for two or twenty-two! I only wish I was better at applying “Evelyn’s Way” when offering my talents, too.

“By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. ‘This is a remote place,’ they said, ‘and it’s already very late. Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.’ But He answered, ‘ You give them something to eat.’ They said to Him, ‘That would take more than half a year’s wages! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?’ ‘How many loves do you have?’ He asked. ‘Go and see.’ When they found out, they said, ‘Five-and two fish.’ Then Jesus directed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, He gave thanks and broke the loaves.  Then He gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish. The number of the men who had eaten was five thousand.” Mark 6:35-44 (NIV)

I’m afraid when it comes to thinking about offering to others the talents and abilities God’s given me, I’m an awful lot like the disciples in the scripture above, offering excuses instead: “Wrong place and time, There’s someone else who can serve them, I don’t have the means, Surely, you don’t expect that of me?”  I’m still learning, maybe I’m not the only one, the same thing the disciples were: that when we place our little into Jesus’s hands, He’ll make it into more than enough to be shared with those around us!

I don’t know about you, but for me, in today’s social media driven world, it’s easy to look around and feel I don’t have as much on my plate to offer as others do. But, just as a meal in Evelyn’s hands provided her family and friends with all they needed and more, so are we in the hands of the One who has given us our talent in the first place. He’s watching and ready to fill us with not just enough, but rather in “Evelyn’s Way”; so, that whether we’re around the table, sitting in the green grass, or anywhere else, we’ll have more than enough of what we need to serve one another OR even five thousand others, well!

Joining today with other writers in TWO places! You can learn more at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com and https://anitaojeda.com/welcome-to-the-write-28-days-blogging-challenge/ This week’s Five Minute Friday prompt is “Talent” and the prompt for Day 7 of the Write 28 Days Challenge is “Enough”. I know you’ll enjoy reading the offerings on both sites! As always, I hope you know how much I appreciate the support you give me by being here! 

 

Begin at the Beginning

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“In the beginning God….” Genesis 1:1a (NLT)

Begin at the Beginning

The beginning of a trip is always difficult. There are preparations to be made, suitcases to be packed, things that must be left behind, and you actually have to take that first step to be on your way. Our life journey leading to see our true selves is not so different: We spend time preparing, carry A LOT of baggage to bring along (most of mine has been gathered, carefully folded, and packed away by yours truly), there are definitely things we’d like to leave behind, and stepping into who we’re meant to be often proves to be a little daunting. But, if we’re going to get anywhere, step out we must.

“So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27 (NLT)

When looking in a mirror, how often do we say to ourselves, “Wow! I am the spitting image of God!” I don’t know about you, but I’m not sure that’s ever been my response as I’ve analyzed the reflection staring back at me. Why is that?

“Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was very good!” Genesis 1:31a (NLT)

Did you catch that? God didn’t look at humankind and say, “I guess they’re ok.” And he didn’t even describe His creation as “good”; no, God looked upon all he’d made, including man and woman and declared them to be VERY good! Again, there are few times that I stand in front of a mirror and describe what I see as “very good” and I have a feeling I’m not alone.

So, when did we (OK, me) begin to look at ourselves and focus only on the unruly, curly hair (or freckles, weight, sagging skin…you get the idea) instead of seeing the image of God? What causes us to point out all the negative things we pick up on rather than leaning in closer to find the reflection of Christ? And why do we feel we must try harder, work longer, achieve more to make up for our perceived shortcomings when “In the beginning God…”

We can spend so much time believing we’re not enough that we forget that God IS. This is where my journey, and yours too must begin! When we travel to learn more about who God created us to be, we’ll be headed toward a destination where old thoughts and ways can be left  behind, extra baggage we’ve been carrying will be unpacked, and we can confidently step into who we’re meant to be. Exploring new places (especially within ourselves) can sometimes be difficult. There may be wrong turns, detours, dead ends, and if you’re like me, we’ll ask, “Are we there yet:” (probably more than once); but from the beginning, God invited us to join Him on the open road and sent Jesus to help get us to our journey’s end:

“But whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord.  And the Lord-who is the Spirit-makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.” 2 Corinthians

Yes, with the Lord we are changing! Step by step, He teaches us to trust His plan, how to lighten our load, and to leave worrying about our old selves (curly hair, wrinkles, and all) behind. From beginning to end, our journey to becoming more like Christ is leading us to a place where we’ll finally learn to look at ourselves in the mirror, see the “glorious image” He sees, and truly believe, “It is very good!”

Joining today with other writers in TWO places! You can learn more at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com and https://anitaojeda.com/welcome-to-the-write-28-days-blogging-challenge/ This week’s Five Minute Friday prompt is “Life” and the prompt for Day 1 of the Write 28 Days Challenge is “Begin”. I know you’ll enjoy reading the offerings on both sites! As always, I hope you know how much I appreciate the support you give me by being here! 

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!

 

 

 

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!

 

 

 

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)