MASTER CARPENTER

We are in the process of having wood floors installed in the entire downstairs of our house.  For those who have ever done this while living in your home, you will know the difficulties of this experience.  However, I must say, I am thrilled with the two gentlemen who are installing the floors.  George and his son, Richard are what I would consider master floor carpenters.  He was recommended after installing floors in my son's home.  

The great thing about George and Richard is not only their expertise and quick turnaround, but they conduct the cleanest and tidiest installation I have ever seen.  They show up at just the right time, are always working to make everything just right and when the day is over, the work area is pristine.  Who wouldn't recommend George and Richard!

Isn't that the way our Lord is?  His timing is perfect, not interrupting us but coming along side us to make things just right.  His handiwork in our lives is precise.  His finishings are pure and spotless at all times.  And when He finishes His plans for us, we are made BEAUTIFUL!  He is truly the master carpenter of our lives.

I am so grateful....I will not only recommend George and Richard, but give my highest recommendation for others to seek out God's master work in their lives. Allow God to do His work on us and make us into a stunning work of art.

Won't you look to Him and ask for His hand in all you do?

SELFIE

If I were to ever take a "Selfie" of myself, this is what I would look like:

Yep, constantly AMAZED at my stupidity, lack of self control, open mouth insert foot and lack of humility.  What is all this obsession with selfies?  Are we so in love with ourselves that we can't help but take our own photo so we can show others just how wonderful we are?  Do we think everyone we know wants to know every detail of our existence?  Our continuous self observation of what we look like, what we say, what's in our every thought has become so evident of our total lack of humility.

I heard a sermon last week on humility.  In it, the pastor explained that humility is not thinking less of ourselves but thinking of ourselves less.  Hmmmm....food for severe thought.

Our Lord was humble in every way.  He thought of others as he walked this earth.  He served others to the point of washing their feet.  Would I ever wash another's feet (besides my small child)?  Would I clean someone's house if they were in need or would I pay another servant to do so?  Would I take the job least wanted for the least pay because there was a need of help?  Would I sit in a hospital day after day with someone I didn't know who was gravely ill and tell them about Jesus because they had no one else?

You see, humility is not just not thinking of myself less often, but thinking of and doing for others and their needs before even thinking of myself.  What I want my selfie to look like is this:

I want to be the emoji selfie who is looking up to my Lord, not at myself.  I am grateful God gives us pictures of ourselves so that we can look up to Him to make us into what we were created to be.

What would your emoji selfie look like?

A CRAZY BUNCH OF THANKFULNESS: IT'S NOT A FAIRY TALE!

A CRAZY BUNCH OF THANKFULNESS: IT'S NOT A FAIRY TALE!: As a grandmother, one of my favorite things to do is plan themed birthday parties for my grandchildren.  Atlee, our 4 year old has a birthda...

IT'S NOT A FAIRY TALE!

As a grandmother, one of my favorite things to do is plan themed birthday parties for my grandchildren.  Atlee, our 4 year old has a birthday coming up in July.  I asked her what kind of party she would like.  We discussed a few options and she decided on Sleeping Beauty.  I was thrilled!  There is nothing more fun than a magical fairy tale for a little blond hair, blue eyed princess.  Of course, even though it is March, I, as usual, begin to plan early so there is plenty of time to have it just perfect!

I have plans to cut out foam boards in the shape of a princess bed to use for games (i.e.  sleeping beauty bingo).  I will cut out characters of a princess, prince, evil queen and of course the dragon.  I am planning a face painter to paint princess crowns on the girls foreheads, a corn whole game with a rose in the center...get the bean bag in the hole and win a prize.  Pink chocolate covered strawberries on a stick with red lines to outline the "rose petals" for a desert.  A princess cake, homemade eye masks and more (possibly tutus for all the girls along with nail and toe painting)!  I know...it's extravagant....but as grandparents, you have such a small window of time to celebrate their lives.

As I am planning all this, I am studying Revelation 19 in BSF.  I'm reading about the day of judgment and BAM!, this real life "fairy tale" came to life.  I'm reading and envisioning the following...

John looks into heaven and sees a prince (Jesus - Faithful & True - who will inherit the kingdom) on a white horse, with a white cloak dipped in blood (from those he died for or those who would be concurred).  His eyes are like fire (seeing him on a mission), on his head are many crowns  and he carries a sword in his mouth with which he will strike down his enemies.  His name, Word of God, clearly seen.  He is coming with his army to defeat the evil dragon (beast) and his false prophet (evil queen).  

Though the beast's army rises up against the magnificent prince, they are unable to overcome him and his army, also dressed in white linen.  The prince and his army captured the beast and the false prophet and thew them into the fiery lake of burning suffer.  The rest of the beast's army are killed by his sword and birds feast on them.

The prince has come to redeem/save his princess/bride and take her to his kingdom.  They are bonded in marriage and she reigns with him forever.

Isn't this a beautiful fairy tale?  Except...IT'S NOT A FAIRY TALE!  It's true!  Every ounce of it is true.  We do have a prince/king, who will rise in the end and defeat evil, taking us to his kingdom to reign with him FOREVER!  This is the most beautiful love story ever told.  A handsome prince - to be king, battling for ME!  Defeating evil and carrying me to his kingdom to live and commune with him in the most beautiful love that ever exists.

Do you know this prince, King of kings and Lord of lords?  Do you know how much he loves you?  Do you know he will reign in the end after defeating the evil of this world?  Do you believe this is no fairy tale but the truest and greatest love story ever told?

I am grateful to "The Word of God" for his love and faithfulness.  I am grateful this is not a fairy tale but the love of the One, my truest love of all.

THE GREATEST LOVE STORY EVER TOLD

I've been watching the news about Nancy Regan's death.  The most wonderful part of the stories being told is her relationship with the late President Regan.  Theirs was a true love story.  From the love letters he wrote her to their complete devotion to each other, they were what seemed to be the most dedicated couple in the world.  

Today, her daughter Patty Davis was interviewed about that relationship and asked if she ever felt left out of their lives.  She responded, "It like if a  band of gypsies came and took me and Ronnie Jr. away, I knew that they would be sad, but they would be okay because they had each other.  They were complete with just the two of them".  At first, I thought....how sad.  Then it began to dawn on me what that meant in my life.

You see, God's love relationship with each one of us is just like that....but even more.  Like Job, who lost all his family, wealth, health, etc., he was complete with the Father.  In fact, God loves us so much, He sent his son away to take the punishment for our sins so that we could have that infinite, complete relationship with Him.  Even if God allowed everything, and I mean everything, to be taken from us, He would still be there.  He would never leave us or forsake us.  This love story is so much greater than the Regan's.  God too, writes us love letters in His word.  He promises we could never be snatched from Him.  He promises his eternal love, his care and his grace and mercy.  

God's love is a love that endures, it is complete and whole.  Most humans only know the love of man....incomplete, sometimes disappointing, often abused and rejected.  But God's love is totally complete.  He gave himself in order that we might know that complete love.

As I read the 10 commandments, I see them as an expression of his love and devotion.

1st & 2nd - God says, "I am your God, who loves you so much, I don't want you to love anyone or anything more than me.  I am a jealous lover who offers complete love....you need not look anywhere else."

3rd - "Don't take my love for granted and say evil about me.  I will always be there for you...love me and speak of my love for you."

4th - "I give you a day of rest from your labor so that we can spend it together, resting, fellowshipping, laying in my arms....Don't give this up, it is important we spend this time together."

5th - "Love those I have given you in your youth.  They raised you and cared for you so that you can I could be together.  They taught you of my love.  I chose them for you.  I entrusted them to care for you, my love."

6th - There is no need to harm another because I have your back.  I will judge justly.  You can trust me."

7th - "Don't turn to another lover or chase after what you may see as greener on the other side.  I will give you all that you need and love you so completely you will need nothing else."

8th - "No need to take from another....again....I will give you everything you need.  Even myself on a cross so that we can live eternally together."

9th - "Don't speak harm about another.  You don't know their intentions or motivations.  I know them.  I will take care of any wrongdoing.  You need only trust me, my love."

10th - "Don't think about what others have and desire it for yourselves.  I promise to love you forever and provide for you, all you need in abundance."

This is the greatest love story ever told.  Do you share in his complete love?  Do you accept him as the love of your life?  Read his 10 commandments and understand His great love for you.  It is complete and eternal.

I am grateful for His love, devotion, grace and mercy.  

DELIVERY MAN

Hershey loves it when the USPS, UPS or FedEx delivery man comes to the door.  He goes nuts!  They don't even have to ring the bell.  I know immediately some package has arrived.  I'm a big online shopper and look forward to my packages arrival.  I track them and look with anticipation on the date they are due.  I am currently waiting on an item I ordered on February 5th.  It was supposed to be delivered with expedited shipping in two days.  It is now the 19th and still no package.  I have contacted the seller three times, explaining that I have still not received the package nor am able to track it.  The seller promised it has now been sent, but I do not trust this person because of her faithfulness to her promise.

Again, I am studying Revelation this year and am discovering much about God's faithfulness to His promises to us.  It is revealed in Old Testament of God's intention for us, His plan for our redemption and judgment in the end.  Most of us fear the idea of His judgment and some don't even believe in it.  Yet, throughout the Bible, God proves he keeps his word.    Throughout history, his Word has been proven faithful.  Now, as I study Revelation, I discover that the end times are a fulfillment of his promises.  In other words, He will faithfully keep his promise to redeem all who love and believe in Him and we will live with Him eternally.  It also means those who refuse Him will be judged.

So...the question lingers.....why wouldn't someone believe someOne who is ALWAYS faithful to his word?  As humans, we are sinful and cannot be trusted to ALWAYS act according to our words.  So why not trust the One who is?

I am grateful for Him who is faithful and has redemptive plans for me.  I am grateful I can depend on Him when others let me down and are untrustworthy.  I am grateful I have the privilege to know such a holy and wondrous Lord.

Do you know Him - who is ALWAYS faithful and has such a glorious plan for you?  If you want to know Him...check out His Word.  He ALWAYS delivers!

Boundless Beauty

The wedding is over.  The newlyweds are on their honeymoon.  I'm so tired from the fun I hurt.  Catching up from being out of town for 5 days.  Daydreaming of the joy of having all our family together for the blessed event.  Enjoying some of the stunning wedding flowers scattered around my house.





As I look at the flowers, imported from who knows where (certainly not here in Texas) - I marvel at the luxury we have to enjoy God's handiwork.  We just order and they are delivered.  We pay a price, but the joy in the beauty of it all is worth every cent.

Is that how we view God?  A luxury to behold?  We don't have to order Him in (in fact we can't).  He is not some foreign "being" who just appears when we call or order.  He is ever-present - omnipresent, priceless, beautiful, sovereign and ready to show His splendor to any who would look.

He brings joy at getting a good look at Him in His Word - His faithfulness and character.  He graciously displays His beauty in His perfect character.   He fills our senses with His the sweet aroma of His faithfulness.

I'm so grateful for the beauty that surrounds us in the nature He created.  I am grateful of His generosity in sharing this beauty with us.  I am grateful for His beautiful splendor revealed in His handiwork, His character and His generosity.

How do you view God?  Someone to come at our beckon call, to provide beauty on demands or someone you can love to be with because of who He is?

Thank you Lord for allowing us to see your beauty in nature and in your character.

SOOTHING ALOE

Now that my hair is getting longer, it takes me loads of time to wash, dry, straight iron and curl.  The last time I had long hair was in college (you can only imagine how long ago that was)!

This morning, as I was going through my hair "routine", I burned the tip of my pointer finger as I was using the curling iron.  Wow!  You know how a curling iron burn feels!  But do you really understand how grabbing a hold of the curling iron (rod) when it's 400 degrees and holding it a minute hurts like nothing else?  I screamed and Jimmy came running.  MEN, of course, would ask the question, "why did you grab the hot part?"  Right, I really meant to!  I wasn't paying close attention, looking for something else, thinking about leaving for the wedding and quite frankly, I was board with the entire process!  If I had my eyes/mind focused on the delicacy of the hot iron, and its danger,  I would have prevented this accident.  Now, I'm stuck with a burning sensation and pain until it heals.  Aloe helps until the burn is healed.  But I will still suffer the consequences for this mistake.

You know, life is like that.  When we don't pay attention to the dangerous temptations right before us, looking for something more fun, thinking about our agenda instead of God's and board with the day to day routine He set before us, we get burned by sin - we are separated from God.  Why do we KNOW what is right and  wrong, KNOW where our focus should be, yet our sinful nature takes us away from the One who can protect us from being burned with our consequences.

People will go through hard times.  Believers will go through hard time.  We will make mistakes, wanting that which is dangerous for us.  And we will get burned.  But, there is one thing we can be assured of.  Our burns will last only a short period of time (that what God has determined) in relation to eternity.  God will be there to carry us through those burning times when we need soothing, encouragement and healing until we are restored to the place we were before, right with Him.

I'm so grateful my Lord soothes my burns with His aloe (love/forgiveness/gentleness).  I'm grateful He reminds me to keep my eye on the Him and not look away to those burning temptations.  I'm grateful when I do get burned, He is faithful.

Do you have a burn?  Are you separated from the One who can sooth your burn and comfort you until it is healed?  Did you know Jesus paid the price so you can be healed?  Will you keep your eyes, thoughts and heart on the One who is waiting with His aloe?

I do love His soothing aloe!

RUN FOREST RUN!

I love movies.  Jimmy and I go often and consider movies one of the great entertainments.  One of our favorites is Forest Gump.  Forest was such a good soul.  Always kind, always generous, always ready to help another, very innocent.  Of course, the best line in the movie was "Like my momma always said, life is like a box of chocolates....you never know what you're gonna get".  

That line in the movie has made history...probably because it is so true.  Our lives are like a box of chocolates.  Each day brings new experiences, new challenges, new joys, new disappointments, new temptations and  new hope.  The question is, how will we view each new day of our lives?  Forest always seemed to view it with hope and amazement.  He was made fun of, rejected, bullied, persecuted, his love rejected and ignored.  Yet, Forest still seemed to meet each day with joy and hope.  He suffered through his challenges with confidence.

Some may say Forest was able to survive because he was challenged or disabled.  They might say he was unable to comprehend what was going on.  But I say Forest survived because he looked at life through the eyes of love and hope.

You know, studying Revelation this year reminds me of Forest.  In the end, when our Lord returns, those left on earth will face the same, though even worse, challenges as Forest.  Rejection, bullying, persecution, acts of unkindness, wickedness of other human beings, violence, immorality, depravity and more.  Yet those who's faith is in our Savior, will look at each day with joy, love and hope.  They'll have joy because God's plan will be coming to completion - when His Son will take the throne and be glorified .... every knee will bow and every tongue will confess He is Lord.   Love and gratitude, because of what our Father has done in order to allow them to spend eternity with Him - sending His own Son to be our Savior.  Hope, because their hopes will be fulfilled in eternity with Him - in a place He has prepared for us.

I am grateful for the joy, love and hope I have and will have when my Savior returns.

Was Forest challenged or did he have something others only think they have?  What will you have when the race is finished?  Will you have the love, joy and hope God gives to all believers?

Run Forest Run.  Finished the race victoriously!  Rejoice when the Lord says, "Well done my good and faithful servant".

WEDDING JOY!

Two down and one to go!  Yep....our last son is getting married in February.  Preparations are almost complete, dress bought, shoes on the way, Spanxs in the suitcase, reservations made and the rest is down hill from here.

To me, weddings are a total joy.  I cry at weddings.  Not tears of sadness, but of great joy.  Weddings take place because two people have "chosen" to be joined together for a lifetime.  They pledge their love and devotion to one another.  They make a solemn oath and commitment before others and to each other.  Two people begin their life with great joy and jubilation.  What a wonderful time in one's life!  Why not cry tears of joy?

True, marriage is a lifetime of commitment and work.  Working to keep the relationship fresh.  Working to please one's love.  Working to do for the other what no one else would ever do because you love them.  It is a work that brings great joy and intimacy.

True, there are those marriages, when two people do not keep the same commitment to one another, to do all the things they promise and pledge.  But then....was that commitment/pledge ever really true to begin with?  Was it simply one sided with selfish desires by one party?  We are never promised marriage would be easy.

It reminds me of our true commitment and pledge to our faith - our love for the Lord Jesus.  The Bible says He is our bridegroom and we are his bride.  When we truly get to know Him, what is not to fall in love with?  He's truthful, faithful, loving, merciful, kind, generous, slow to anger, eager to  show love and desires to have an intimate relationship with us.  

In these times of uncertainty, there are not many we can rely on.  Not many we can trust to always be truthful, faithful to their word.  Not many who are willing to give forgiveness and mercy, wanting only for us to love them with all our heart.  The world is full of sin and wickedness, yet there is one who is all these good things and more.

When He returns, He will take those of us who love Him to His home.  We will share in His wealth and glory, bask in His love.  And all the pain and hurt, fear and injustice we experience here will be wiped away.

Is He your bridegroom?  Have you committed to Him for eternity?  

My prayer for Nikki and Anthony....is that they will pledge to each other, their commitment to love each other for all their earthly lives.  To promise to the best of their ability their faithfulness, love, mercy, kindness, gentleness, slowness in anger and generosity.  But most of all, together, pledge to their heavenly bridegroom, all the above, for eternity.

Who could possibly live a more joyful life than those who commit to Him?

I am grateful for the loves of my life, both my earthly groom and my heavenly groom. And, I am grateful for their love for me.

Love you Nikki and Anthony!

FOODIE

Foodie....that is what I call my husband.  He plans weekends and trips around when and where we will eat.  Though both of us are watching our weight...food still plays a great part in our daily lives (I think Jimmy's more than mine.)  Though I often say I eat for sustenance, Jimmy eats for pleasure.  Whatever the reason...food is still important.  I thought about this and came up with the following reasons food plays such an important roll.

1.   It gives energy and builds strength

2.   It comforts like nothing else

3.   It hydrates and keeps things flowing

4.   Tastes brings great pleasure or sometimes disappointment

5.   It heals when we are sick

6.   It provides great conversation

7.   It removes hunger

I'm sure there are more, but these are just a few I could come up with.  Since Thanksgiving is coming up, I've begun to plan the menu.  Then, I realized Jimmy and I would be home alone for this holiday and I wouldn't need to cook.  This is disappointing, but also, I must admit, comforting.  I can still receive the above blessings without the work of cooking since we will probably eat out.  Free blessings at someone else's cost (time, energy, money, etc.)  This makes me think about the free blessings I receive when I study or partake of God's Word.

1.   It gives energy and builds strength

2.   It comforts like nothing else

3.   It hydrates and keeps things flowing

4.   Tastes (intake) brings great pleasure or sometimes disappointment (due to conviction)

5.   It heals when we are sick (physically, emotionally and spiritually)

6.   It provides great conversation

7.   It removes hunger (for anything other than God's desire)

Hmmmmm.....these two lists look a LOT alike!  Yes, if I think of food as a means of sustenance, doesn't it seam to make sense that God's Word is a means of even greater sustenance?  Perhaps not just momentarily but eternally?  I'm grateful for His Word that gives me strength and courage when I'm down....comforts me and heals me.  Gives me living waters that flow within to bring me great pleasure and conviction.  And it's free...paid for by someone else.  It also reminds me of my brothers and sisters in Christ, with whom I have relationships that provide great conversations about our loving and wondrous Father.  All this....and it's not temporary but eternal.

Hmmmmm....I'm hungry.....what will I turn to?  Man made food or spiritual food?  What are you hungry for?

MY ALL AND ALL

We all face trials, things that happen to us or things we may even cause.  Often times these trials boil up in us those things we find most disturbing and unpleasant in others.  We sometimes feel entitled to those feelings, therefore bringing us to a feeling of despair and anguish.  

I have a friend who "appears" to be to handle most all these feelings.  I envy her in her no-nonsense approach and dignified manner in which she works through problems and heartache.  I wish I could handle things the way she does.  There is no self pity, no complaining.  Simply quiet resolve and steadfastness.  

Yet, I really don't know what's inside her heart or mind.  I don't know the hurt she may be feeling or if she too feels despair or forsaken.  I only know what appears on the outside.  Perhaps she too, has the the feelings that overcome me, but somehow has the power rid herself of them.

In Ephesians 4:31-32, Paul reminds us to "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every for of malice.  Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."  


But how do I do this when feeling hurt, angry, bitter and rage?  My only resolve is to remember the description of the "Sender" to the saints of the seven churches in Revelation.  He is described as the "holder of the seven stars (angels) of the churches and the One who walks among the churches.  He is the First and Last who died and came to life, the One who has the sharp, double-edged sword (has divine judgement), the Son of God, who's eyes are like blazing fire (has penetrating insight), feet are like burnished bronze (strong and mighty.  He is the One who holds the seven spirits of God (God's Spirit) and the seven stars (the seven churches), Holy and True and holds the keys of David (possesses absolute authority).  He is the Amen (one true God), the faithful and true witness and the ruler of God's creation.  He is the Truth and supreme over all His creation."

If He is all this,  He was and is and is able to forgive me of these iniquities and His Spirit gives me strength to overcome that which He calls me to get rid of.  Along with this, He also calls me to rid myself of guilt, for His blood has covered it all.

I am grateful for the Word.  I am grateful for His conviction, forgiveness and grace.  For as He convicts me, it is not for my punishment but to make me pure and holy.  

Praise be to Him who is my All and All!

MOMMY'S HOMECOMING

In my last post, I spoke of names and name changes. My son just got married and therefore, his bride's last name changed.  I have discovered that names really are important.  They identify, or connect us with others.  My mother's name was Edna.  Edna means "little seed, kernel".  Her middle name was Louise, meaning "well known fighter". And her last name was Drake, meaning "dragon".  Therefore, mom was a tiny little thing, worked hard and fought for her family like a dragon.  Yep...that probably describes her well.

She was petite and was a mamma bear when it came to her children.  Tough in discipline but loved deeply.  She always made the comment, "hurt me but do NOT hurt my child!"

Mom fought hard these past several months.  Diagnosed with COPD, congestive heart failure and low kidney function, she had to press on with great strength to keep going and stay alive.  She wanted to live and wanted to be with her children.  Yes, she was a petite dragon who fought to care for others and experience the joys of life as long as she could.

During the last month, I had the privilege to be with mom during a hospital stay.  We talked about fears past and present.  We spoke about heaven, seeing daddy again and more importantly, seeing her heavenly Father.  We walked through the steps of assurance and mom prayed the prayer of salvation.  This was my wish for her.  That she would know Jesus as Lord and Savior and have a such a personal relationship with Him that she would rejoice in her homecoming.  My sister had been out of the hospital room during this conversation and when she returned, with mom sleeping, she commented on how peaceful mom was compared to when she left for a short while.  It was like night and day.  Yep...that's what knowing Jesus does.  A peace and assurance of His love and faithfulness brings about an inner peace like none other.  Indescribable! 

Mom went to her new heavenly home last night at approximately 10:00 pm.  My sister and brother-in-law were at her side.  I am grateful for my sissy's love and tenderness in being there at that time.  I am grateful for a mother who worked hard, fought hard and raised 5 children with love and compassion.  But most of all, I am grateful for a heavenly Father who met her in His kingdom with open arms, ready to say, "Well done my good and faithful servant".  And I am grateful for His compassion on this sinner's soul to allow me the privilege of knowing she is with Him.

Where will you be?  In a grave or in His kingdom?  If you're not sure, won't you ask Him how you can be adopted as His child and spend eternity with Him?

Welcome home mommy!

NAME CHANGE!

WOW!  What a great weekend we had.  Our middle son was married this past weekend to his beautiful fiance Carissa.  We are so blessed beyond imagination!  Carissa Adamson became the new Mrs. Graham Todd Allen.  One nice benefit to her name change was that she kept her same initials! How many of us get to do that?!

I remember changing my name on my SS card after I was married.  I went from an "R" to an "A". That sounded great to me!  But what was really good, was that I was now identified with a precious family that loved me and took me in as a daughter.  We hope Carissa knows how much we love her and consider her now the next daughter in our family.  Alix now has a sister in crime!

We will have another wedding in February with our youngest, Anthony. Then, Nikki will become the third daughter in the Allen clan.  Our love for each one of these girls is beyond our dreams.  They add a powerful addition to this all male household -  a strength and and assurance of a complete family.

You know, a name change identifies you not as someone new, but as someone claimed.  It's like a seal placed on you as a claim of identifying you to another.

We too, believers in Christ, are given a new name.  A name that identifies our love and faith in the One who has paid the ransom and claims us as His.  We are sealed with this new identity by His Holy Spirit for a lifetime.  My  new name....Christian.  I am claimed by my groom, who chose me to be His bride.  I'm thrilled with my new name.

My prayer is for these two newlyweds to claim their new names.  After all.....adding a "C" to their initials is a blessing and a privilege.

I am so grateful for the blessing of this weekend.  For the beautiful woman my Lord game my sweet son.  Name changes are AWESOME!  Have you added a new initial?

STALKER FRIEND

When we are children, we make friends with classmates, neighbors, other dance or sports team members and etc.  Sometimes these friends are friends we keep a lifetime.  For others, some move away with their families, go to other schools or join other organizations or teams and we loose track.


As we grow older, we make new friends, form new relationships and bonds and become more selective of those we want to keep close.  Women in particular find other women they trust, women with common bonds and likes and those who have shared the similar experiences to form close relationships with.  But I have found that my closest friends have one thing in common.  We are all sisters in Christ.


I once read that sometimes, God gives us a friend for a "season".  I didn't quite understand this when I first heard it, but later, I came to believe it to be true.  It is a painful thought to think we could have a close friend and things happen to diminish what God had once given as a sweet gift.  It often doesn't take much for these "seasonal" friendships to disappear.  Sometimes it's simply a location change, a schedule change or a tragedy that makes one party move in another direction.


If you  have ever experienced this kind of loss, you know what I mean.  Just recently, I was contacted by an old friend I thought had been a "seasonal" friend.  I had mourned the loss for quite a while.  But you see, my friend would not let our friendship go.  In fact, she almost "stalked" me into reconnecting.  I guess my "stalker" friend didn't believe in "seasonal" friendships and knew more about real friendships than me.


It made me think of my very best friend - Jesus Christ.  He's no "seasonal" friend.  He "stalks" me to stay close because He loves me.  He's relentless in His pursuit.  We've shared much together and he is faithful and trustworthy and always has my back.


I'm so grateful for my "stalker" friend who did not let our friendship just disappear.  God has blessed me with a sister in Christ that will stand the test of time and I will love her for never letting go.  I want to be a "stalker".  I want to be a stalker for Christ.


I hope you know who you are sweet friend!  I am so grateful for you!  Love you much!

THE GIFT OF A NEW ROBE

American Girl dolls.  Beautiful, lifelike and a little girls dream to own.  Emery, our 8 year old granddaughter got two for her birthday this year.  A blond and a brunet.  They are beautiful dolls and it was just what she asked for.  But even more fun, for me that is, was the opportunity to make clothes for the dolls to give her for her birthday.  I spent hours making approx. 10 outfits. I even went so far as to buy a hanging rack and hangers to organize and hang them on.


One day, before her birthday, I took her shopping to pick out patterns and fabric for four of the outfits.  We had a great time and she was thrilled to see them completed. 


Her mom told me she came down stairs a few days after her birthday and proclaimed that she had 17 outfits for her doll.  More than any of her friends.  She loves changing their clothes.  She has now ordered (from me of course), outfits containing shorts and pants. 


What is it about little girls changing clothes.  Atlee, her little sister changes clothes about 4 times per day.  Changing clothes makes one feel like new, cute.  We feel good about ourselves, noticed and loved when someone comments on how nice we look in what we wear.


I got to thinking about "new clothes".  It reminds me of the "robe of righteousness" we get when we place our faith in the Lord Jesus.  We shine, are like new, and know we are loved because of the price that was paid for this "robe". 


I spoke at the beginning of spring how the blood of our Lord Jesus often repulsed many these days.  Yet, the cross, and the blood of Jesus reveal the most dynamic love story every.  The love of our Lord Jesus and the price He paid to give us this "robe" demonstrates the powerful love He has for all who believe.  It's the greatest love story every told (and it's true).


I am grateful for the love of my heart.  The One who loved me enough to pay the ultimate so I could receive the robe of righteousness.  What a gift.  What love.


Have you received your gift?  Do you know He's waiting to give it to you.  It's already paid for.  Won't you go to Him today?

CALL ME!

Man have I gotten a lot of catalogues lately.  It's not like I get one a day, but instead, I get 5 or 6 a day.  The stores are really pushing their spring and summer stock.  They know the time is changing and people are ready to be rid of the cold and have a change in their lives.  The cold has been harsh this year for many people.  Even here in San Antonio, it seems the cold started earlier and lasted longer (I guess a couple of freezing mornings is really not so much for us).  The complaints were horrible.  It seems that all we heard about for soooooo many mornings on the news was weather, weather, weather!

I have to admit, Boston and the rest of the East coast was hit hard.  But the people in Chicago are used to that type of weather.  Yet, weather had a hold on our news for quite a long time.  People wanted change.  They were tired of old man winter.

With the new spring weather comes freshness, newness, beauty, clear air and freshly mowed grass.  Flowers bloom and people are out walking with their kids or dogs.  It seems all is made clean and new.  

Easter is this weekend and ladies are shopping for the newest spring fashion to wear on Sunday.  They feel beautiful and sophisticated in their Easter hats.  Even the little girls are all gussied up.  Smiles fill the mall and excited talk passes between friends.  Spring weddings have even begun.  This is THE time of year for a wedding, a new beginning on life for many.  The word "spring" gives everyone a feeling of relief and joy.  Fresh, new, joy.

But then again, it is Easter.  And Easter is a time of newness, cleanliness and joy.  Yet there is one thing so many seem to stumble over.  The blood of our Lord Jesus and His resurrection.  Some are repulsed, some hesitant, some horrified and some apathetic.  Yet for those of us who believe Christ's blood was shed for our redemption and yet conquered death by rising in 3 days, this blood brings newness of life, cleansing and abundant joy.

If we are so excited about a new dress or a basket full of eggs or toys, a magical bunny or a picnic and egg hunt, why are we not overjoyed to celebrate and praise the One who paid so dearly for us to have new life, eternal salvation and the presence of our Lord for eternity?  How am I going to display my joy in the real celebration of Easter this year?  How will I share with another, they too can have this new life and eternal joy in the presence of our Lord?  How will I tell my grandchildren the desire of my heart, for them to KNOW the One of whom we celebrate at Easter?

I am so thankful and grateful to this One and only One who gives me life.

Do you stumble, or believe?  Call me, let me share Him with you.

REPLACEMENT PARTS

About four weeks ago, we had a small slab leak under Jimmy's bathroom lavatory.  The water leaked into my closet and almost into his study. It took a couple of weeks to get it repaired and returned to normal but finally, everything is complete.  While repairing the damaged line, the two faucet valves under this sink had to be replaced.  They were old and rusted and broke off when trying to turn them to shut the water off.  The project was quite and ordeal.

Two weeks ago, Jimmy had a complete knee replacement.  His knee was damaged for many years and therefore needed the surgery.  Yep, even our bodies get old and weak and need repairs or replacement parts.  He already had a hip replacement 25 years ago and now the opposite knee was having it's turn.

It seems we are a country of throw away parts and items.  Things break and we replace.  Some replacements are needed, some wanted and much is frivolous desires.  Things get old and not working as well and we throw away and replace.

Our master bath is our next upcoming project.  It's time for updating and we are currently working to gut it and remodel.  Does is absolutely need it?  No. Might it help the resale in the future?  Yes. Do I have grand ideas for a lovely, new design?  Yes.  Will it cost?  Yes.  But really, why am I replacing everything? Because I want new.

I began thinking about all this "replacement".  Even the necessary ones like Jimmy has had.  When our hearts and souls become rusty, damaged, not working properly or envious, jealous and materialistic, does God just replace us? Does He believe that He would be happier if He had someone "New" to take our place?  As detestable and broken as we are, is it necessary for Him to do away with us and begin again?  No!  No!  Though we truly deserve it, He loves us and restores us like new.  He doesn't just bandage us up and return us to our previous state. His love and mercy restores us like new.  He loves us so much that He would never throw us away when we are His.

Do I throw Him away, look for another "god" who will "meet my needs" when He doesn't answer my wants and desires?  Do I blame Him for the difficulties in my life?  Remembering God is Good all the time helps me to understand that even in those difficult times that aren't working like I want, and the times I feel He isn't there helps me understand that no matter what, He has my back and will never forsake me.  He is with me through thick and thin and.

Are you replacing Him with something or someone else?  I am grateful He doesn't reject me, forsake me or replace me.  God is Good all the time.

LEFT BEHIND

Soon, Jimmy and I will be visiting Chicago.  The "windy city", filled with wonderful restaurants, lots of sights, a beautiful river, great architecture and people we love.  The day will be long to get there, even by plane.  But the excitement and anticipation can't be beat.


The weather should start to get cold, brisk and possibly white, white snow.  I love the snow in Chicago (as long as it's not February!  Burrrrr!).  At some point during the winter, Chicago has a festival of snow sculptors.  They build these wonderful sculptures like sand sculptors do - only out of snow.   They are so beautiful!  Such talent!


I had to get a new coat.  My old wool coat is gone, no longer fits.  So I bought one with a warm lining and a fur collar.  I have my scarf and  gloves ready and my ear muffs in my coat pocket.  I even sprang for some waterproof boots.  I'm prepared!  I've read up on things to do and places to go eat.  I'll be going to a Black Hawks game with my son.  I do love hockey!  I also plan to Segway through the city as I've done before, and hope to visit Second City again.  Chicago is so cool!  It's a happening place!


The only downer is that we will be leaving Hershey behind with a house sitter.  I hate leaving the little guy behind.  I guess you can say Hershey will be "left behind".  He's such a good, sweet dog, who loves people and is gentle with children.  It always amazes me how we could ever leave him behind.  But some places are just not meant to take a pet along, no matter how wonderful he is.


It makes me think of my future citizenship.  What a wonderful place it will be.  It will have everything I can imagine to make it fabulous.  Streets of gold, happiness, fun, joy, no pain, and people I love.  But there will be those who won't have the same citizenship - no matter how wonderful they are here.  People who are kind, good, bring joy to others, yet lack the one thing that gives them citizenship to this wonderful place.  One thing - Jesus Christ as their Redeemer.


Will you be left behind?  Will you miss out on the most wonderful place you could ever imagine?  It's there for all who will make the choice.

ETERNAL VICTORY

It was a nail biting game.  Down to the 4th quarter and we were behind 3 touchdowns.  Defense had trouble the first three quarters.  The other team was reading our offensive plays and it was a fight to the end!  Our hearts were giving way to doubt.  It was truly depressing.  But...we knew our team was a 4th quarter fighter.  They could wear the other team out and come back.  The question, would we be victorious in the 4th quarter?  We were given a 7 point spread with us as the victor.  But we were now BEHIND 21 points (three touchdowns).  Do we sit and watch this game to the end and give up on our team?  Or do we have hope, unfailing hope in a team that fights to the end, believing the CAN?

One touchdown, two touchdowns, 3 touchdowns and now we are TIED!  OH MY!  Will it be an overtime game or will we be able to score one more point to win?  Our field goal kicker is a freshman and not all that dependable.  But so far, he's hit every one this game.  We have possession of the ball and on the other team's 20 yard line.  One second left in the game and the kicker is ready to go.  Oh please God, give this young man victory!!!!!!

HE MAKES IT AND WE WIN THE GAME!!!!!  He's a hero and our quarterback just gets a little closer to a possible Heisman candidate (sainthood in the game of football)!

WOW!  This was a nail biter to the very end.  We were worn out praying and rooting for our team.  But in the end, they came through and walked into the locker room victors!

The game of life is the same.  Sometimes people finish with a victory because they have followed God throughout their lives, followed His leading, followed their Lord Jesus and entered His kingdom with assurance and hope answered.  Then, there are others that are in the nail biting stage.  At the very end of their lives, in the final seconds, they victoriously follow the Lord and enter too with assurance and hope answered.  See, it doesn't matter how long it takes, only that before the final second, you accept without a shadow of doubt who you will follow.  The ruler of this corrupted world or the One and only Ruler, King, Father and lover of our souls?

Are you following some One to eternal victory or the other to eternal defeat?  Do you have assurance and hope in the One and only One who can lead you to eternal victory?  Don't be a nail biter.  Follow the One and Only to victory now!