Forgotten Focus

Have you ever gotten busy or out of your routine and forgotten your focus? Recently I was on a work/vacation and I succumbed to that problem. I am ashamed to admit it but it happened.

We were in the DC/Baltimore area where my husband was having a week of work related meetings. He brought us, my only remaining teen at home and myself. And tagging along was my oldest son and his fiancé. My middle son is stationed here in the Marines. So this was actually going to be sort of a family vacation on the weekends.

Skipping the scheduling details, we were trying to please several different peoples site seeing goals. Then my oldest got food poisoning and was down two of the few days he was going to be here. My middle son had to work during the week as did my husband. So we were together at times and it just a few of us at times.

But I say all that to share that I was never alone, sharing a room with my soon to be daughter in law. I did not have time in God’s Word or time to sit and talk with God. Though very addicted to this time in a normal routine, I could not find alone time. I tried once and was interrupted.

Mid week, my oldest son and his fiancé went to the beach and were gone all day. So it was just my youngest and me for most of the day. I am ashamed to say…..I was spiritually lazy! And physically lazy. All I did was lounge around eating junk food watching old TV shows all day. I turned off my phone, did not look at Facebook, I did not talk to anyone….What a waste!

The next day the Lord took care of that for me in a rebuke. My oldest son and his fiancé left the next morning. After saying goodbye, I eagerly ate my breakfast in preparation to be with my Lord. I talked with the server and told her I would pray for the needs she had shared with me. After seeing my sweet husband off, I took my coffee to my room.

I hopped on the elevator with two kids. “Hi” I said to them. Then asked, “Are ya’ll here on vacation?” I smiled in expectation of a yes answer. The girl looked to be about 7 and the boy about 5.

Here came the rebuke… the girl answered, “No my mom has cancer and we are here for her treatment.” The elevator doors opened and they exited before I could form a reply.

Wow! Was I ever rebuked! I had been lazy the day before, I wondered at what opportunities I had missed! God convicted me that it is not okay to spend my time on myself. I do not get to eat what I want, watch what I want, ignore people, ignore responsibility. I negated my time with the Lord for a TV show….and did not pray for anyone.

I had valid excuses..... we don’t have tv connections at home so this was a treat…..I rarely ever do this….. I’m getting into my son’s world….can’t I just indulge once….. I could be doing worse things….on and on the excuses went!

What emptiness, what hollowness I ended up with at the end of the day. I had helped no one, but myself (if you can call that help), I prayed for no one, I invested in no one…..

I had indeed forgotten my focus!

So, with the words of that little girl still echoing in my ears…..I went to my room, now vacant except for me…and got on my face before my Abba and cried out to Him! I worshipped Him, I read His words to me….I prayed many of them. I prayed…..and prayed….and prayed some more. Oh how I missed being with Him.

I was reminded my focus needs to be about His Kingdom….His righteousness and then I will have the right focus for the day. I had gotten so wrapped up in my day, my family, my vacation, my laziness. All the while there were real hurts going on. Lives that hung in the balance…

I was reminded to refocus….we are here for others…to show the Love of God to others. No matter where you are, don’t forget there are others, in the “trenches” of real hard situations.

Don’t miss the opportunities God has for you!

Crippled but not Handicapped

 

But he was pierced for our transgressions,

he was crushed for our iniquities;

the punishment that brought us peace

was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed

Isaiah 53:5

 

Recently my dog, Daisy, tore her ACL.  She is now limping badly and the damage is permanent.  With much heartache we watch her continue on.  

My son who is Daisy’s owner, had to come to grips with the fact that we now have a crippled dog. 

We already have a crippled cat.  Stryper’s eye is crooked and causes her to not see correctly.

But God had a lesson for us.  Though both are crippled…..they are not handicapped!

What we have noticed with the cat is… that she still does everything that other cats do….she just  has to do some things differently to accomplish the same goal. 

She doesn’t know she is different!

We have seen the same with Daisy.  Yes she does have a huge limp.  But she is just as happy as ever.  She does not complain. 

She still gets around, maybe a bit slower.  But she gets there.  She even runs, though, with a new wobble.  She still plays with her toys.  And will play fetch in time.

She doesn’t know she is different!

Both our cat and dog, though are crippled, they do not view themselves as handicapped.

What a lesson for us!

The verse at the top makes all the difference in the world.  Though humanly speaking, Salvation is the healing for the cripple!  God made a way for every cripple to not be handicapped.

All of God’s plans for you will come to pass.  He has great plans for you no matter what limitations you may have or think you have. 

Instead of feeling sorry for yourself, complaining, or laying down in the enemy’s lap of defeat.  Seek the Lord, learn to compensate.

Learn a new way to walk, learn a new way to talk, Learn a new way to use your body.  Learn a new way to live……the life God has for you.

Joni Tada is a modern day example of overcoming….through Jesus, to still pour out her life into others. Though she is severally crippled…she is not handicapped.

Handicapped is a matter of the heart.

The Master wants to use you just the way you are….let Him and be healed from your handicap!

 

 

 

Son Catchers

Do you ever feel alone?  As this world gets more and more corrupted, we can easily get discouraged into thinking we are the only ones left…. Elijah thought that too.  In I Kings 19: 13-14

When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. Then a voice said to him, "What are you doing here, Elijah?"
He replied, "I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too."

When we were in Hawaii, there was no doubt the evidence of fleshly entertainment, and ample supply in any department you wanted.  But yet, the evidence of the SON was bright and clear too!'

It was easy to get discouraged in the crowds of people indulging in self sin and greed.  Yet every morning there was a row of people with their cameras lined the rock pier protectors……waiting for the Sun!  It was such a visual for me.  Though I have no idea if these people were believers, but they still sought the sun and the magnificent beauty it’s rising and setting brought. 

It thrilled my heart to see folks still interested in something as UN-techy  and UN-plugged as the sunrise and the sunset.  So I'm not the only one….who traveled a looooooong way to see the SON…..do mighty things as bring the sun up and down each day in all the brilliance that He does things. 

Just the same, you are not the only believer on the planet.  There are times we feel all alone.  Perhaps in beliefs, or soap boxes.  Maybe we even feel all alone in church…..

But know this God has a remnant.  There are people who still follow the SON.  They wait for the SONrise every morning and relish with every  SONset.  They are the people who worship the SON!

Be encouraged……you are not alone! 

SONshine spreads everywhere! 

Mercy + Grace = Heaven

There is an image in my heart that will not remain silent.  So I will share yet another blog from my trip to Hawaii. 

There has been much written about Heaven.  There are countless Bible studies on the subject.  But if you were to describe Heaven in just two words what would they be?

As I tossed this around in my head I tried to combine Mercy and Grace like this:  Gracy OR Merace etc.  What would mercy and grace look like combined?

I want to show you a snapshot of Heaven…

It was Friday night.  We had finished dinner,  Walked along the beach back towards the hotel, leisurely taking our time. We eventually found an empty bench and sat and watched  sailboats in the distance, and then watched the beautiful sunset. Among all this glorious beauty were hundreds of people walking on the boardwalk.  It was full of people and especially as time approached for the fireworks. 

When in the throngs of people…….came Mercy and Grace.  A homeless man walked up, bumped by passerbys, and he asked us, “Hey can you spare a dollar?”

I could tell the man did not want to ask.  His countenance reveal anticipated rejection. 

Then I saw it. . .

My husband said, “Sure I can.”  reached in his pocket and gave him a bill.  When the man saw it he stumbled back.  My sweet husband had given him a $20.

Mercy: Not getting what you expect

          (The man expected rejection)

Grace: Giving what you don’t deserve

         (he received more $ than what he asked for)

His face could not believe this grace and mercy was extended to him.  He nearly stumbled off the sidewalk.  He kept looking back.  he thanked us profusely. 

If Heaven is not the embodiment of Grace and Mercy. . .

Is that not what Jesus did for us?  Had mercy on us, not giving us what we expect (hell)  And gave us grace of which we did not deserve (heaven)

When we see grace and mercy here on this earth.  It looks like heaven to me.

One More to Throw up at You

Okay, now I thought I was done blogging about our vacation, but the Lord gave me one more--

We got up the day of our departure, had our last Hawaiian breakfast then returned to the room to pack.  All went well and everything fit back into the suitcases (though we had to lay on top of them while zipping them shut!) 

Then we took all our things and waited on the outdoor cafe tables over looking the courtyard below.  All day we hung out there. 

At 5 pm, we ate our last Hawaiian dinner, and cocoanut cheesecake!  Then we hailed a taxi and went to the airport.  We had a 9:45 pm departure. 

Still at 2 am I am still awake.  Reading, munching, drinking coffee.  I took a 30 min snooze and before I knew it, we had landed in LAX at 5 am. 

After walking forever to our next departing gate my wonderful husband went to get us some breakfast. 

No more than an hour later, guess what wanted out?  You guessed it.  Thankfully I had made it to the bathroom with a very unhappy tummy.   When all the sudden it all came out.  I don’t know where that much food came from.  But there was no doubt I had nothing left in my stomach. 

Now, I don’t know about you.  But the thought of kneeling down in a LAX airport bathroom stall is sickening to me.  So I stood and leaned over, getting splashed with remnants of a weeks worth of vacation food.

After round two, I finally left the bathroom and walked slowly back to the waiting area.  Wishing desperately that I could rinse out my mouth.   

I slept between stomach pains for maybe 30 minutes, until boarding 2 hours later.  Oh boy, that flight my stomach churned. I was hot then cold.  Bless my husband’s heart, he finally prayed over me. 

God heard his prayer.  I just did not want to be sick on the plane.  We finally landed nearly 3 hours later.  I still could not even sip Sprite, much less attempt to eat anything.  So I was very weak.

Trudging across the concourses at the Houston airport I envied those using the airport carts.  I could barely move.

For the last leg, another 1 1/2 flight to Huntsville, would I make it?  The turbulence did not help my queasy unhappy stomach.  But it manage to keep things to itself. 

We landed and walked (I felt more like we crawled!) to get our luggage, then out in the cold and rain to find the car.  I was too weak to even put on my jacket.

Drove home in the rain.  I could barely keep my eyes open.  But I had carried “the bag” from the plane with me in case I needed it.

We made it home.  I was told to go sit and hold the cat while they unloaded.  So I thankfully obeyed.  Not two minutes later, I am throwing the cat across the room in a dash for the kitchen sink. 

I did not think there was anything more to come up.  But apparently my stomach was just checking to be sure.

So I took a bowl to bed with me.  What a miserable night with fever and my head hurt in every possible position.  Yeah, I think it is the flu (a Hawaiian keepsake huh?).

Now as awful as I felt, I had even more praise.  For God had allowed this to happen on my way home, not on my way over to Hawaii, a once in a lifetime event.  He had kept me from vomiting on the plane.

I have much to be thankful for.  I am convinced that if you look for God’s glory you will find it.

An added blessing was that we had no frozen pipes which was totally God, since our heater went out and it was cold in the house. 

And NO there is no picture I wouldn’t allow Sherman to take one! 

I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of

the LORD in the land of the living.

Psalm 27:13

 

 

Splashes of Envy

Looking out over the private alcove of sparkling green water…. Envy grew.

Here I have seen sunrises beautiful….sunsets indescribable.  I had splashed in the ocean several times at the beach on Waikiki.  I had some epic moments of worship.  I had some great rest and relaxation.  I had take a drive around the island taking in spectacular views of the volcanic mountains.  I watch whales dance in the majestic ocean.  I had seen surfers claim curl after curl.

Yet at that moment…..

I was envious of what I didn’t have.

We had pulled into a famous site seeing pullover.  The blowhole.  Totally awesome thing.  As waves  crashed into the rocks below, there was a tunnel in the rock in which water would spout up threw causing ocean spray to go way up in the air.  Very cool! 

While way up on this bluff you could look out at the majestic ocean.  The views of the rocks, ledges, boulders and water were incredible.  Below on the left was an alcove where the ocean came in on a small beach. 

The water was gorgeous.  A hand full of people were down on the beach enjoying the emerald green water. Riding the waves.  Laughter could be heard.  On three side were great boulders and cliffs. 

I wanted to go down there and dip my feet in the water.  No what I really wanted to do was….get on my bathing suit and get all the way in the water…and ride those fantastic waves myself!

I was jealous…..

There was no way I could transverse those rocks to get down there. I don’t swim and I bet that the water where the waves actually were would be over my head.  Not to mention they had to be pretty powerful.  And though I wished the water to be warm.  It had been freezing all week, why did i think suddenly just because it looked like a picture book that it would suddenly be warmer?? Like it was probably really dangerous!  There were warning signs. 

It looked really cool the rocks people were climbing on and waving.  But if the truth be known, that takes a lot of strength.

The scene below me was picturesque, that is true.  I saw it through fairytale glasses.  When in reality…I would have been miserable If I had attempted to get down there, cold if I had gotten in the water.  No telling if I would have gotten hurt…..

Not so beautiful huh?

But here is the lesson my sweet Jesus showed me….my ugly heart. Here I had received so much during my week of vacation…..yet I wanted more.

Is that ugly or what?

Envy is ugly. 

Thank You Lord for showing me my ugly heart.

Contentment and Gratitude are Beautiful!

But godliness with contentment is great gain.

I Timothy 6:6

Native Citizenship

From the moment we arrived in Hawaii we were surrounded by a large Asian population.  I try not to get my dander up hearing the constant “babble” of another language.  I found my heart in a myriad of emotions.  From resentment to frustration back to the song, Jesus loves the little children……all the children of the world…..red yellow black and white….

I have lived in cultures with a majority of blacks and I have lived in a majority Mexican community.  Both of which I have come to love.  But for some reason, I felt a moment of “This is not your country….what are you doing here?” attitude.

I struggled with it all week.  Asians are everywhere from who was serving me, cleaning my room, to the tourist next to me.  It was so confusing it seemed there were few actual Hawaiians.  So this remain on my heart…..

Then we went to the Pearl Harbor Memorial.  Where I understood a bit more of that sobering piece of history and the surrounding consequences.

There were many Japanese people who were harshly treated, shunned and not trusted.  Because of their heritage they were assumed to be the enemy…..I can not imagine what that must have been like to try to convince “white man” that you were on his side when you have dark skin, slanted eyes and a foreign accent…all of which they were fighting against.  Those same skinned people had just destroyed our ships, planes and killed hundreds of lives.

But the Lord showed me….if is not nationality that makes you belong…it is citizenship.  Was their name written in the American Citizens Book?  Their certificate of identity is what made them belong not their nationality. 

Likewise, it is not our heritage….sinner...thief…adulterer…murderer….lier….selfish….

But Whose we become… a child of The King….gets a new citizenship…a Heavenly certificate.  Anyone can become a citizen of Heaven….

It made me accept these people much different than I upon the papers that states they are American just like me….not their nationality.  They have accepted a new life.

If you have a new life as a child of the King….do you stand out?  Do people see you are different by your love?

By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

John 13:35

Homeless or Hopeless

This is a hard blog to process because I have more questions than answers.  I don’t feel qualified to even write about the topic.  Yet those of you who know me….I must write about what is on my heart.  And just so you know…..my thoughts are all across the spectrum on this topic.  I am just going to throw it out there….

As you can imagine in a place called “Paradise” all kinds of people come to visit.  The locals here also come from many walks of life.  I was not really surprised to see “homeless” yet I have never seen this many.  Even while we lived in CA did I see this many. 

I was struck speechless as I jogged along the waters edge the first morning here.  There were people sleeping on the beach.  I call them my Sand people.  All along the shore here and there, were bundles of sand people. Though I thought it was a “cool” idea to sleep on the beach out under the stars to the constant sound of crashing waves.  Somehow I don’t think this was the sentiment of the sand people. 

Up near the boardwalk area at the beach tree line were the root people.  I call them that because under this one tree was a couple asleep then when I turned the bend of that same tree, there was a body asleep in the alcove of the roots of the same tree.  I nearly jumped when I saw it. 

Then on we went to the city streets following the jogging route. There was many bench buddies if you will.  Almost every other bench was a bed for someone.  I realized that the city had tried to rectify this problem by putting a huge bar arm rail in the middle of the benches.  But these homeless did not care.  Not to mention, one young kid was asleep on the bench next to the police station. So evidently either it is not illegal or the city just gave up because it is a rampant problem here in Waikiki. 

There were many that I call street sleepers.  I am not sure why, but they were bedded down right next to the street (I would be afraid of rolling over and falling into the street while asleep) A group I call the Mocha mob, stake out their place right in front of Starbucks every night.  I saw one of them get up and drag all their belongings on a tarp across the busy street.

But by daylight, the hundreds of homeless suddenly just vanish.  But as the week went on, I began to see them in the day time too.  It is just that by daylight the streets are flooded with locals and tourist alike that the homeless blend in…

But is you look, still under the floral pavilions they are asleep on tables or in chairs.  Or doing their “day jobs.”

Like Plastic man.  I watched many a man (and women do this too) hit all the trash cans for plastic bottles (this is gross to me to be diggin in, and emptying someone else's stuff!)  They pulled a cart behind, then they would be back again in less than an hour, doing the route again. 

Then there was Robert….. Robert put on some clean clothes ,a hat and went around selling island tours.  We were kind and listened.  My heart broke for him. In his intoxicated stupor, he had a hard time squatting down as he presented his island”wares” to  us.  He was trying. I don’t know whether his tours were legit or not, we kindly declined the offer as we had already made our plans.  All I could think was…..he reminded me so much of my dad and wonder if no one had had pity on us….we were often hungry.

The last homeless I want to show you was burrito man.  Right smack dab in the middle of the sidewalk was a person wrapped up head to toe in a blanket.  But at his feet there was a sandwich in a plastic container.  This was the sight I can’t get out of my mind! I did not take a picture and wish I had. 

Even now, tears threaten to consume me.  From what I gather, someone had shown kindness on this burrito man, and set a sandwich at his feet, to eat when he woke.

What a ministry!  My heart was overwhelmed by the sight…..it was a sight of love in action!  Don’t know if they knew the person, if it was a stranger or whether it was a church group that did this for all the homeless.(which would be ALOT of sandwiches.  Though it was the only one i saw this with a sandwich). 

I am left with a heavy heart…..I want to help.  How do I help?  Should I help? My heart is tender……

Yet, I also struggle with treating these people with the same integrity I wish to be shown to me.  They are beautiful in God’s sight made in His image too.

One of the things I observed with many was this:  many of them talk to themselves.  Now there may be a scientific/drug/mental reason.  But the visual God showed me was this:  They talk to themselves because they don’t have a friend.  No one gives them time of day.  It is heart wrenching.

I asked my husband this question:  Do you think these people, Robert for example, even thinks he is less fortunate than we are?  Are they happy where they are.  I know many times it is perhaps a choice, yet we also know that in other cases it  can not be helped.

That posed a question in my mind…..are they homeless or hopeless?  Why do we associate (or maybe it is just me!)  The homeless with hopeless.  Why do I find it hard to wrap my brain around the fact that some of these dirty, mangy looking street people could be saved.  Why is that so hard for me.  Just because they are homeless doesn’t mean they are hopeless.

I struggle with this, not that it is a new thing, like I said having lived in CA for years, I am not unfamiliar with the homeless scene.  Though  I will reiterate, this was totally magnified by far.  I wish for a way to help.  I do know, I don’t want to have a hard heart about it.

I must ask God to show me what to do………..I will do something

I encourage you to reach out of your comfort zone……somehow, someway to those in need, whether  you think they are deserving of it or not…..

Perhaps you and I are only 3 paychecks away from being a bench warmer ourselves. 

In all these thoughts…. I am reminded… Jesus was homeless!

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,
I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me,

I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?
When did we see you a stranger and invite you in,

or needing clothes and clothe you?
When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

Matthew 25;35-40

 

The SON Finds Me

I know this is a simple concept.  Science is not my strong suit, so I am gonna probably make you laugh at the simplicity of this thought…..

As I have watched the sunset every night here in Hawaii, I have noticed this amazing thing.  No matter where I am, along the shore, the SON is always directly in front of me when I look out to watch the sunset!

Whether at the hotel or miles down the beach, I stop to watch the magnificent sunset only to be amazed once again by The SON!

It is a moment of divine connection between The Son and me. Just the two of us. His message:  let my love shine through you, Laura, you are my hands and feet.  I love you to death……

No matter where you are….the SON can always reach you! 

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,  Or nor heavenly rulers} neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,
neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:38-39

 

Clouded View

This morning lesson was brilliant though rough to see.  I got up late after a restless  night.  We  hurried and readied, downed the hotel room coffee and headed out the door.  But one thing I have learned, life starts early here (if I might just say it never sleeps here!)

Sadly, though our teenage son decided this morning was the day he wanted to spoil for a fight.  So that is how the morning began.  Not good…..

We began our jaunt…. though I had great praise music on, my heart was too broken to worship in it.  I trudged along, not able to do much running….I eventually gave up.  But had to keep walking, my body filled with pain both inside and out, I trudged on. 

Simple things make me happy and one of the things I have wanted to do most was just sit on a bench in the early morning and watch the waves…just Jesus and me…..well that didn’t happen either.

It seemed that God was distant.  There were too many obstacles in the way… my vision was clouded by the argument, my burden for another son, the pain my body was experiencing, the fact that we had gotten up late and people were already crowding the streets at 6 am…..

God seemed so far away……

Then to top off my not so good morning….. I missed the sunrise!  Or so I thought.

I followed my husband and son out on a long pier.  I wondered what the deal was, since it was already daylight.  I waddled myself to them and asked what they were doing.

“I thought you wanted a picture of the sunrise?” my husband replied.

“Yes I did, but don’t you think you are a bit too late?” I said sarcastically pointing to the fact that…hello, it is like daylight look around!”

Looking at  his watch he told me it was still to come….

So I watched for it….

I really did not think we would see anything.  I was confused.  It was already daylight.  There was no sun to be seen in the direction of the sunrises we had seen days before.

All I could see was Diamond head (a mini mountain/volcano thingy), tall sky rises and a bunch of clouds.  I thought to myself, there is no way the sunrise will make it past all that. 

Yes, my view of the SON was clouded by many obstacles.  I couldn’t help but think that God had given me this visual.   I too had allowed many things to cloud my view of the SON this very morning. 

Yet, if I wait upon the Lord, He will rise up and show Himself all powerful and glorious!

I waited, thinking this is a waste of my time…..

Until, I saw the top of the clouds turn pink, the SON beams shining through.  Still had not seen the fullness of the SON, but I knew it was coming….if only I would wait I would see the glory of the Lord….

I waited….

I noticed one of the clouds had it’s hand raised giving glory and honor to the King….that was so cool to see. 

Then, it happened….He overcame….The SON did rise, despite the obstacles in the way….Nothing can keep the SON from rising in our hearts…..we only need to look to the sky and all will be well with our soul…..

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart!

I have overcome the world."

John 16:33

but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,

they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:31

Multi-Million Dollar Complacency

I was told this morning by our shuttle driver that over 24 % of the population here in Hawaii are multi million dollar residents.  wow!  So now i know how they got that way…….the prices we have paid from postcards to ice cream to the entrance to a state park.Everything cost here.  Or perhaps because they are here folks can demand that pricing. 

But….it is an unpleasant side of this place. Just as epic is the beauty i have seen, so is the tourists.I am convinced (outside of NY) there must be more tourists than residents! it is unreal.  Phenomenal.  The tourist industry is huge.  Without it it would probably be the US largest unemployment surge! 

Sadly, most don’t seem to enjoy their job.  I can not imagine serving tourists year round.  Yet if it is your job, part of that job is for the visitors to feel special, not another slab of meat. 

Everywhere you turn, the occupation somehow is connected to the tourism.  It is really interesting.  I have noticed a thick cloud of complacency in the midst of the locals who work here.  I have only meet two people who seemed to really like their job. 

I wonder just how complacent the locals have become.  Then i got my answer…..

By day 4 of our vacation, I noticed that on my walk to the beach, that I no longer stopped to admire the ornate shrubs/trees that lined the pathway.  I didn’t take anymore pictures of the passion flowers, or the woven strands of climbing floral.  The Amazon like leaf tunnel trails no longer amazed me….I just walked through complacency stealing over me!

It seems it doesn’t matter where you are or what you are doing, complacency can rob you of today's joy and tomorrows promise.  we need to guard against this and pray that God keep us keenly aware of his beauty and our duty in this world. 

If it is that easy to be to become complacent about our surroundings, how much easier it is to become spiritually complacent.  To forget those around you and the message that we carry or should be carrying to a lost world.

May we get on our faces daily lest we become complacent and our God opportunities pass us by.

A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.

Proverbs 25:11

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Galatians 6:9-10

He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.  Matthew 16:15

Power Run

 

When we go on vacation we have certain expectations.  This time was no exception.  Our flight had been great (as well as being squeezed into a sardine can and bulleted through the skies, using a tiny tiny bathroom and breathing in everyone’s breath, and hearing crying babies.)  But really no complaints. 

The air hitting my nostrils as I exited the airport.  It felt like CA….no humidity a slight breeze of maybe 70 degrees.  I had to stop and take in a deep breath.  Ahh, this is going to be great I thought.

Doing the usual…hailing a taxi, looking out the window at this new land, wondering what lies ahead.  Checking into the hotel, which is an open air lobby.  Looking at their cool Christmas decorations (which seemed all wrong for the weather!) 

Finally to the room…..unpack, check everything out….be sure there is coffee!  Then on to the beach….check it out then food!  Balcony time was cool, the beach was packed, I wondered if this was going to be as much “fun” as I hoped it would be. 

The next morning…was what I had been waiting for….time with me and my God on the balcony alone just the two of us….I had prepared the night before. I had not brought my Bible trying to keep packing down.  But had got a Kindle for Christmas, with my Bible on it.  So I had my kindle, blanket, back pillow ready to slip out for this time of Paradise with my Lord.

Well….guess what, early I rose and slipped out.  Got all comfy and I could not read my kindle!  I didn’t know I needed a light!  So that was a bummmm…. So i just prayed.  And with a burdened heart I pour out to God to fill me and to let this vacation be overflowing with His presence in my days.  I spent a long time in prayer since i would not read the Word, I simply worshiped Him….

This is how He answered me….

We dressed, my husband, son and I went for a run.  With Chris Tomlin in my left ear, singing Amazing Grace my chains are gone, Jesus Messiah, Holy is the Lord, I will Rise, How great is our God, Our God, We Fall Down, and Indescribable…….and the crashing waves in the other….I worshipped like never before….

I have no idea how far I ran, I didn’t care, but the worship and praise under the stars, on the sandy shore with waves of grace washing over my soul…Is indescribable.  God did answer my prayer more than I could have expected. 

It was just me and Him…..in ultimate adoration!  All I can think…is heaven must gonna be something like this!  That one hour of time, made this vacation worth it, and I am sure out of all the things we do, see and eat, nothing will compare….to that Power run this morning!

 

Paradise or Pair-a-dice?

 

Hawaii ---- the Land of Paradise as people call it.  Really?  Well that is where my family is headed for a much needed vacation.  On the flight over I have been reading Francis Chan’s book on Hell. 

So with what the world calls Paradise and what God calls paradise are vividly on my mind.  I anticipate seeing some of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen.  I know my nostrils will inhale the beauty floras indescribable.  My body will relish in the majestic vast ocean, splashing with disgruntled sea inhabitants (they don’t like tourist!)  And I plan to eat fresh sweet pineapple….

Though our plans may be simple….we will enjoy the beauty God has created.  Yet the feast upon God’s word over this past year, can not compare.  He is the rare Jewel that leads to the treasure house full.  He is the one who created this beauty, and even what I will see will be very marred by man.  Can  you imagine what The Garden of Eden was like…

So back to the question….do we, you and I, seek Paradise as in Heaven from Hell’s point of view.  Do we believe there is a Hell, and that it is torment beyond comprehension.  That is is an eternity existing in God’s wrath and a lake of fire over flowing with the sins of all there.  Are we flippant, uncaring or complacent, like the rolling of a Pair-a-dice…in a gamble of where we will go when our life on earth is done? 

I for one don't want to take a chance, a gamble, on whether or not I will spend Paradise with my Jesus.  Heaven from Hell’s perspective should move you to share with others, the true Paradise and that this earth will fade away one day….

Paradise or a Pair-a-dice Which “Roll” will you be on?

Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.
  Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea,

and gathered of every kind:
  Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered

the good into vessels, but cast the bad away.
  So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and

sever the wicked from among the just,
And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

Matthew 13:46-50

A Thomas Kincaid Christmas

 

An email came across my this week describing what kind of Christmas I must be having.  This person only briefly knows my through my books.  We have met over coffee and keep an email relationship.  She knows the general area where I live yet has never been to my house. 

Bless her heart, she had described this beautiful Thomas Kincaid picturesque Christmas that she was assured I was having.  You know the kind…..

The immaculately clean house with decorations delicately placed.  The house toasty with a crackling fire in the fireplace.  Sitting with grandma’s quilt, kitting in my hands while pies cool in the kitchen, apple cider filling the air.  The noise of happy children playing contently.  And delightful conversation of older adult children.  Presents all wrapped and snuggled under the tree.

A beautiful Christmas tree donned the corner with ornaments saved over the years.  Dinner with all the trimmings soon the grace the long table filled with excited family.  Everyone home, all getting along, giving the best to the other person, laying down their own desires for other family members. 

The dog curled up by the fire, the cat next to him contently purring.  The Spirit of peace and love filled the air.

This woman knowing I am a fiction writer….just thought I would have a fiction Christmas…..Okay camera man……turn to camera this way….to reality!  Okay, let’s be real…..

There is fire wood, at least a few peices, may have to cut some more before the day is over.  But we don’t have a fireplace!  That is our heat and we are gonna be freezing our tushes if we don't get out there and cut some.  And never mind the mud trail coming in the back door.  But then again you probably had to step over a bag of trash that never made it down the driveway to the trash trailer.  OOpps!

The decorations, mix matched that they are, at least move the dust around so that everyone is sneezing.  And the poor tree, who knows…you get what you get when it’s live and by Christmas day needles cover the floor!  Two years ago, the tree fell over breaking some of our dated ornaments. 

Oh and the grumblings of stringing popcorn and cranberries can be heard by the neighbors, but not near as loudly as the wailing of Christmas card making days! Of course back aches from days of baking preceded these days.

The beautiful description of the Nostalgic Christmas was touching.  I have thought upon her words for days.  Thought about what Nostalgic means.  I too would have loved her description to be true, but one thing Nostalgia has is…. perfect people & perfect settings & perfect endings.  I like to think that Heaven will the epic Nostalgia. 

Because what she didn’t see….in her imagination and heart…

Putting up a Christmas tree with disinterested children.

Having Thanksgiving the day after with a split crew of sons and girlfriends.

A prodigal son, whose relationship was several damaged with his mother and whole family over the past two years.  This was his first Christmas away.  It comes with all that baggage….

A son who could only spare a few hours two days after Christmas….even those few hours he was tired and there was bickering among the children.

A 16 year old rebellious teenager who knows everything in the world and is in a constant state of disrespect.

A husband who is doing the best he can but is effected by all the same things as myself, but does not always know how to help.

And a body that is in constant pain, and there is still Christmas dishes to wash!

What is Nostalgic about all that?

I don’t want to bust her bubble.  What she wrote is really true, but you have to look at it through the correct lens….

The Season from Thanksliving…..through Christmas:

Was filled with:

Baking for my friends.

Taking a loaf of bread to each of my neighbors with a Christmas card…..visiting with them.

Meeting a lonesome woman and her son and helping her with food, money and friendship…just loving on her.

Being a friend to her son when no one else gives him time of day.  To take him to the movies and let him spend the night over.

Taking baskets of goodies and cards to the elderly and singing to them.

Hugging a neck of a friend who is struggling and wiping her tears. Assuring her New Mercies each morning.

Taking another friend for coffee who husband had just got his termination papers….praying with her.

My son bringing a gang of teens over with 5 min notice!  Love it…messy house, who cares get out the popcorn popper and cookies!

Another friend lost her step mother Thanksgiving day…she is a close friend calling her, praying for her.

Another friend’s son walked out in a mad rage on Christmas day…she called me a few days later for help.

Emails, phone calls. Visits to encourage those God puts in my pathway and most of all prayer for them.

Meeting Jessica and offering her help during this very trying time and getting to meet a new friend on that same day.  Making cards to bless others.

Christmas cards to friends far and wide…the time making them with my unwilling family..but the blessing they have been to others.

Doing things way out of my box…..

Worshipping my God like never before…

Seeing Redemption on every street corner.

Back to this beautiful area I live in….chopping wood in the freezing cold…is NOT nostalgic.

But here is the new lens view:

I am Thankful my prodigal was here…he is showing signs of change…not where I want him to be with the Lord, but closer than last year.  There is hope for him.  Can I trust in my prayers for God to work in  his life.  He even called me yesterday to thank me again for making Christmas so wonderful for him.

My other son, has to walk his faith journey too….I am thankful I had any time with him at all.  He is not disrespectful.  I am thankful we live only 4 hours away and that he has a good lady friend that will point him closer to God.

My 16 year old got another glimpse of his brothers areas that he does not want to follow after.  That is good for him to see.  We have had a good few days.  That is something to be thankful for. 

I forget to be grateful I have a husband who loves me and cares.  He does not always express that but I am reminded of the loneliness many experience during the holiday season and it makes me thankful I am not alone.

And I will always hurt physically and I did end up sick, but have got some meds and am on the mend.

So  you see, out here in the country we were toasty warm, there was love and laughter.  There were tears of repentance.  There were new memories being made, new pictures being carved in our family.  There were hurtful words and there were mending words.  There was play and there was work. There was popcorn and cranberry stringing for the Christmas tree….there was much joy in our hearts because the joy comes from within….and none of those outward situations could take that away from me.  I love Christmas because I love Jesus…and He is the One who my thoughts and actions stay centered on (at least I try!) He is the one who wipes my tears and holds my hand and keeps me going.  Yes, the Spirit was thick among us…..for that I am eternally thankful.

And I still did the dishes…..but with joy as I prayed and thanked the Lord for my imperfect family having the imperfect Christmas….because one day we will have the perfect Christmas…when we see Him face to face….until then….it’s all about Nostalgia!

The Covering

 

The Covering

A mitten is a form of covering

For cold weather and storms hovering

They are needed to warm the hands

In all of winters work and play demands

Nostalgia puts mittens on display

For riding through the snow in a sleigh

Or fun building a snowman in the cold

And snowball fights between the young and old

Winter brings us to a special season

Marking Jesus' birth is the reason

A King born, a human babe, grew up

Humiliated, beaten and given a bitter cup

On the cross He gave up His Life for me and you

His blood covering our sins both in and out of view

Realize the magnitude of the sacrifice that was given

His death enables us to go to Heaven

His love covers us like a mitten

By His Life have you been smitten?

“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.”

Ephesians 2:13

Merry Christmas

With love ~ The Wiggin Family

Merry Christmas

J is for Joshua. He is 20 this year! He’s had a big year. Seems like he is in the season for big years lately! Last September Josh signed up for the US MARINES in a delayed program. While Josh waited for the call, he worked steadily at Wal-Mart, stocking shelves and giving away smiles…what he does best! Then in April, nearly a month early, he called me from town saying they had called and he was leaving in two hours! SO in a mad rush to get him his things and get him to Huntsville, this was his welcome into the US MARINES. (He has never done things the easy way!) The following 8 months are way too harsh to write about. Sherman and I prayed for him a lot! The things he went through at boot camp, School of Infantry, and his personal training, were weeks of intense break down like he had never known. He also conveyed that he learned lessons that could not have been learned any other way. And that he saw God in ways like never before. So all in all, he was thankful to have gone through what most would consider hell on earth. He ended up, funny enough, selected to (not go to Afghanistan with his buddies) but to go to Washington DC for Ceremonial Drill tour for two years. Though a shock, and so opposite of what he was trained for or expected, he is enjoying the “beni’s” that working right on Capitol Hill offer him. He loves running in the monument areas and all the big city perks (like real cell service—not rotary dial up!!), though he tells me every day on the phone, he misses my cooking and being at home in our old fashioned simple life style. He has many adventures ahead of him. We are just trusting that he will run hard after the things of God wherever God takes him. We are trusting and praying….

E is for Encouragement. As long as it is today…encourage someone in the Lord. It has been humbling to watch God bring forth my dreams of sharing His love to others. Though it has not been without it’s trials, I have learned that each of these hardships have been there to make me more and more compassionate, to love deeper than before and know His comfort in new way. How can I comfort a broken heart without having one, How can I care for the sick without being sick, How can I share the Grace of God without first experiencing His grace in mighty ways? Mountain tops in the mundane….I must experience it before teaching it. The Ripple Effect Conference is taking off slowly but firmly with God taking me and my speaking partner every step of the way. My dream to be a conference speaker and tell others just how AWESOME my Jesus is…is happening! That is very exciting. Along with that I still sit with a friend over a cup of tea, wipe a tear, pray over a crying mother, advise a teen, put together missionary projects, encourage the weary! That is what getting your assignment everyday day looks like. LOTS of life happens around here because God is using His servants to comfort and encourage others…..may you find yourself asking Him for your assignments this next year…I promise He will answer! Trusting and lots of praying…

S is for Samuel. He just turned 22 a few weeks ago!! We praise God for him every day! Boy it seems strange to be writing this letter with a 22 year old! He has had a big year too! He has grown into a wonderful young man! He had been working in a West Tennessee Penitentiary since the January before last. And then last November he switched to working for the Sherriff’s Department in Henderson County as a jailer, hoping of course to move up and eventually into the TBI or the like. But that didn’t happened but instead….there came along a GIRL…and as they say….the rest is history! Now things are different. In considering he needed a better income and his sweet girlfriend lives near where he worked at the penitentiary…guess what he did recently? He went back to his old job. He has brought Laura home several times and we love her! We have much to be thankful for this Thanksliving! Samuel loves Jackson, where he went to Union University and plans to stay around the area. He is currently splitting rent with a school buddy. We pray Sam deepens his love for God. Trusting….lots of praying….

U is for us. Sherman and I celebrated our 29^th anniversary this year! We went to New York! It is something we have never done. It was strange for it to only be the three of us. But Zechariah didn’t seem to mind milling around NY with old people (yes we are getting old!!) It was a place like no other. Yes I was inspired to keep my keyboard busy but I have been too busy with volunteer projects to get much writing done…..hummm maybe we will have to go back, I can claim in my old age I forget easily!! But then that would mean outrageous toll fees (like over $100), nearly being run over by taxi drivers and jumping in and out of crammed subways. Oh and be with thousands of non-English speaking tourist and unhappy locals. Germ-X took on new meaning on that trip! BUT we did end the trip with Niagara Falls and that was so beautiful…beyond description. I did write a few blogs on this trip you can check out. We are happy and still very much in love! We took several trips (3) to see Josh. One to each of his schools including his Graduation from Parris Island….which was the first time we saw him in 13 weeks. Then to visit while in SOI and lastly we took him his car for his birthday….while there we went to Arlington Cemetery…..I said as I left…..”I could write in this place!” Sherman crinkled his forehead….and said, “You get inspired in the weirdest places!” Guess who is writing a book about Arlington Cemetery?????

S is for Sherman. He is still working for DIA at Redstone in Huntsville. He still loves his job! His favorite thing at work is to try to tell me (Laura) how to use or fix my wayward computer over the telephone!! Ugh! A patient man! He did go to Australia this past February and he loved it! The pictures were cute of the kangas! He still enjoys cutting wood for our heater every year, only he can barely walk afterwards! He’s been riding his bike a lot more this year and at times we do it as a family! AND he has even started running a bit….who knows he might outrun us all yet! He still teaches Sunday School and helps with the youth. He still blogs so if you are a computer person, check out his articles. You are sure to be challenged and encouraged to walk more humbly with God. But mostly he spends time with his boys and Laura. Those are his favorite things! He has our house up for sale…..gas prices and fewer kids at home has us looking at moving closer to his work. Trusting and lots of praying...

I is for Internet. I am trying my best to stay up with the electronic “times”. We are ALL on Facebook. If you are, PLEASE Friend me (us). A great way to stay in touch. Also you can take a peek at our hearts by way of our blogs…..

www.The-Weekly-Thread.blogspot.com (Laura) *

www.TNThoughts.blogspot.com (Sherman)

www.laurawiggin.tateauthor.com Laura’s Book (The Bus Ride) web page. You can also go to her book email, etsy store & blog spot from there….love for you to leave a response! Contact her for speaking engagements and testimony sharing opportunities!

www.therippleffects.com is Laura’s conference website

www.rockwithjosh.com Joshua’s web page

wavesofgracehome@gmail.com (our regular email address) send us your updated email please!

105 Raby Hollow Rd (our mailing address if you wanna send us some snail mail….we still check our mailbox!!) Fayetteville, TN 37334

(931) 759-6855 (old fashioned phone number)

Z is for Zechariah. He turned 16 this year! He is growing up fast! A handsome young man! He has kept his curls GONE! He is doing great in school, now in the 11th grade. Zech is built like a football player, big broad across the shoulders and strong. His favorite team is Alabama. He keeps up with the team as much as possible. He has been training faithfully. In Sept. he ran a “sprint” triathlon, his first. He did great in all three areas, swimming, biking and running. He was toast after that but it was a great experience and he wants to do it again. He also ran a few 5 Ks too. He has slimmed down in all his training….Hummmm….makes me think he is getting ready for this thing called GIRLS! He loves to collect knives and throw the football around. Daisy the wild & hyper lab puppy, now fully grown….keeps us on our toes. We call her the bullet dog for a reason. When we let her off her line….she runs like a bullet train all over the place! She is adorable but we still have not managed to get her back into the house! Zech still aggravates Stryper (the cat). He consumes books like candy (sometimes both at once!!). He has his permit and is ready to get his license…but we are not! Trusting and praying….

L is for Laura. Laura’s big news is that her 3^rd book A Season of Rebuilding (in A Season for Everything Series) came out this year! If you did not get her second book called The Beat of My Heart! You still can, just let her know. If you loved Peter and Lilly in the first one, The Bus Ride. You got to see them in the second one! It has many of our California memories and favorite sightseeing places all mixed into a fabulous story of Hope! The journey has been an absolute humbling experience seemingly all in one big blur! It all happened so fast and still continues to keep her buzzing to different interviews, book signings and speaking engagements and conferences. But if I were to say,…this is so Laura….certainly all her card making years were preparing her for this moment in time! She still loves to make cards, as she is an encourager at heart. But writing is her passion and love. This new work is a fiction book about the tornadoes that ripped through southern Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi. It is intriguing all the while inspiring collection of 5 short stories that anyone can relate too. She has been told by those who have read it….that it is of the same quality as The Bus Ride….tender, inspiring and full of encouragement and Hope! You can get Laura’s books at Amazon, bookstores and from her as well. Just let her know and she can get them out to you. They are still only $20 a great author discount. I have had several young kids ask me “Are you famous?” I reply “me, naw, the only difference between you and me is a page! We all have a story; just some of us write it down.” It has been an awesome journey! She has started yet another series called Foster Friends! She has already begun! Oh and she ran her first 5K this year! Trusting and praying…..

O is for Others. It seems to be the year for extended family sickness, cancers and surgeries. It only reminds me to value today all the more. Our every breath is a gift from God….use that gift for His glory and your heart will be full of joy no matter the suffering around you. We lost my sweet aunt Bobbie last year and that was hard too. I think of her often. Trusting and lots of praying……

R is for Read. Of course we encourage you r to take a stroll through our blogs, some are quite funny! And also a new friend and blogger, my speaking partner Jessica www.AwakenedAnew.com And of course I wish everyone to read my books! However, even as an author, I must still encourage you to read God’s love letter to you. My prayer for you this year is that you come to a place of craving…where you crave the Word of God! Trusting and praying…..

D is for Drop In. WE LOVE COMPANY! We made all the visits this year. We loved the visits to family as well as our visit to the Wellman’s and the Brown’s and we are going to see the Jessee’s soon. So come on over and sit a spell with us! If I am going to “spend” time…I’d rather spend it with you! So come on by…the rockers are on the porch! And ice tea is in the fridge! Hope to see you this year!

If you have followed our lives for any length of time, you know I can never just “cut and paste” from year to year! Way too much happens. Every year I say I am going to start my Christmas cards and letter in January so I am not so rushed to get them out by the end of the year. Before I could act on that idea it was December again! Not to mention, so much happens on a daily basis, I would short change my readers!

(Though I was tempted as fast as this year went by to just put 2014 on my letter and cards and send them out “early” for next year and skip this one, because time just goes so fast!)

With love---

The Wiggin Family--- Sherman, Laura, Samuel, Joshua, Zechariah

The Art of Listening

 

The art of listening begins with these two words:

         SHUT UP

The art of listening is nearly extinct.  In observation…..the thought of attentively listening because you care about the person speaking just doesn’t happen these days.  We have become such a self centered self absorb, instant chat society. 

Just send me an email or better yet, just text me……has become our mantra.   But it leaves behind the beauty that comes from the art of listening!  Just as with all the “arts” there is a beauty that can be gained by the user. 

One of the hardest things in a conversation is to be quiet.  As self centered creatures, we have a natural knack of turning the conversation back to ourselves.  Or “upping” the other person with one of our stories.  Or we constantly interrupt.

As I have prayed to become more like God, He has shown me much.  This is an area I greatly lacked in.  But the joy of sitting across the table with a friend or stranger and letting her bear her heart, without my  interruption, my advice, my scripture input, without looking at my watch or yawning.   Learned forward intently listening, digesting, praying and loving….that is the art of listening. 

For practice God has put me in countless situations/conversations where I have actually had some pretty heavy stuff going on in my own life…..the temptation to unburden was strong.   I have had to encourage someone else while my own heart was breaking.   But the beauty is….the art of listening is coming forth.   I gain overflowing joy by putting the other person first by engaging in this art of  listening to them.

The art of giving of ourselves 100 percent in a conversation without getting

anything in return is a masterpiece worth keeping!

So…

Shut Up & Listen Up!

 

The Non-Verbal Mr. Verble

I met a man who didn’t speak.  His name was Mr. Verble.  Though he uttered not a word I heard him say many things.

His deaf ears told me of the whistling and explosions of mortar shells.  The loud blast of the guns from world war II silencing the screams of the wounded and dying.  His blank stare reflected The purple heart he had earned.  His eyes no longer focused, blinded by the memories of this thing called war. 

His cane well told me of his active life.  A life filled with family and friends.  A life filled with adventure. 

His hat told me of the loving father he had been to his three sons and the lovely granddaughter he had raised.  His nice clothing told me of his career as the mayor’s recorder. 

His wedding band told spoke of his faithfulness and love for his beautiful wife. 

His serene peaceful countenance told me of things most important….this had been a man of God.  His face spoke of peace and love to all.  He had been a man that was a faithful servant of God.  He had ministered at his local church for many decades. 

So though this man was non-verbal.  He said much.  His name Verble.  The grandfather of a good friend of my oldest son. 

I learned alot from silent Mr. Verble. 

I ask you…..

If you were not able to see &  hear, if you were old and broken down.  What would your countenance say? 

Would it speak of peace and blessing or hatred and cursing?

The choice is yours!

A cheerful heart is good medicine,

but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

Proverbs 17:22

Prayer Matters

I am in my forties.  I have been married 29 years.  I have played sports as a kid and on some adult leagues.  I have been making crafts for numerous years.  I have designed hundreds of cards.  Inspiration runs through my veins.  I love home decorating.  I have created many word quilts and fashioned many unique themes. 

I have raised three handsome boys.  I have homeschooled for 20 years.  I have served on many church committees, served many a meal, and done much mission work.  I have taught Sunday School for years, i have passed on my heart of Encouragement to as many as possible.  I have written books, spoke at retreats and even developed my our touring conference…… Needless to say i have had alot of compliments over the years.

BUT……

In all my life, the compliments here and there over all these accomplishments pale in comparison to this one compliment:

    “Mom, will you pray for me?”

Two of my sons are already gone from home, with one teenager still at home.  It has not been an easy thing to raise kids.  Trying to show them how to follow Christ when you are still trying to figure that out yourself. 

Not to mention, i am a busy person.  My mind and body are engaged most of the time.  One day when my son was in great need……he called and asked:  “Mom will you pray for me?”

You could hear the desperation in his voice.  He was in great need of help.  But along the side of desperation was faith.  Faith in me that God would listen to me. 

Now that is a humbling compliment.  That my son wanted me to pray for him because he believed i bend the heart of God! WHOA!  I was touched. It was no passing flippant prayer request.  It was gut earnest cry for me to go before The Almighty on my son’s behalf.

Now that caused all kinds of emotion to surge through me.  Why did he ask me?  But there was no denying, he thought if i prayed it would make a difference.  Humbly i went before The Lord….

No compliment could ever beat this one.  That someone thought my life represented one with great faith in God and in a prayer lifestyle that showed.  I was undone.

but not as undone as the answered prayer the next day and days to follow.   I was reminded once again, just how Awesome and Powerful my God is and yet so very tender and loving to His children. 

May your prayers become as often as your breathing……

AND your faith as steadfast as your heartbeat!

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.  James 5:16