Great News in the midst of disappointment

I've been waiting with great anticipation for an event that was scheduled to take place in Roseville, California tonight. It was a Random Act of Culture - otherwise known as a flash mob - that was scheduled by the Sacramento Chorale for the food court at the Galleria Mall there. Having spent a great deal of time in the music community there, I couldn't wait to see the video tonight with expectations of sharing the exuberance and wonder of the Hallelujah Chorus with you. Alas...as I searched I found that the mall had become so packed in anticipation of this event that the fire marshal had to evacuate the mall as people were packed in shoulder to shoulder with rumors of "pops" and "movement" of the second floor ... the flash mob did not go on.


Many approached this season with preconceived notions of how it would be spent, only to have hopes dashed as life's little (and big) curve balls caused a scramble to just "make it." For some "just make it" came in the form of emotional well being, others financial, and still others unexpected hardships - partners they'd hoped to share walks in the cold winter air with ....able to retreat to the warmth of their home after viewing the lovely light displays. Nevertheless...there is good news to share...For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16) and For whatever is (I)born of God (J)overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith. Who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who (K)believes that Jesus is the Son of God? (1 John 5:4-5)

Isn't that amazing?!? As we believe in Him Who had victory over the world, we overcome as well! We can overcome...we can be of good cheer in the midst of our circumstance or dashed hopes - however large or small. And just so you don't leave disappointed...I've included the link to a "flash mob" Hallelujah Chorus for you to be able to lift your head and sing to the glory of God in the highest. (This one brought to you by the Philadelphia Opera Companhy.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wp_RHnQ-jgU

Enjoy with abandon!!!!

A time for renewed hope ...

Every year I look forward the great anticipation to the wonderful Christmas movies that inspire, captivate and touch my heart. Miracle on 34th Street with Maureen O'Hare and Natalie Wood (colorized) is my favorite! It is truly a movie filled with the desire to see someone hope, dream and believe again - not just in another, but in themselves and a future. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in the here and now - the must do's and need to's that we lose our vision, our hope, and our dreams for a future. Yet a great future awaits.



For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11


My hope for you is that you find that spark within yourself that causes you to revisit dreams of your future - and to bring you hope. For those around you - in seeing the very spark in you - will be so inspired to dream again - perchance to hope.

One the second day of Christmas.....

......On the second day of Christmas my true love gave to me .. two turtle doves and

a partridge and a pear tree......

Well, it's Wednesday and the 2nd day of Christmas. A friend shared with me today that her family is gifting her parents with a little meaningful something each day of Christmas. What an amazing, funfilled idea!! What if we determined to celebrate each day of Christmas by making a different person feel special each day with a special surprise - something that shows we know them...and they are special? Are you up to it?

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God and he who loves is born of God and knows God... 1 John 4:7

You are special - amazing - a gift from God...beloved let us love one another.....and others....

So Easy to Give...

There is a wonderful story of a young boy in Africa who had learned about why we celebrate Christmas from a young missionary. Christmas day came and the boy presented his teacher with a gift. It was an incredibly beautiful shell. She asked him where he had found such an exquisite specimen. He told her of the cove that he had retrieved it from. She recognized this was several miles away. The boy told her - the journey was part of his gift. It was his personal sacrifice for his friend. I was so touched by this story, because my greatest joy is in giving the perfect gift. It is in the smile of the recipient where I find my joy. C.S. Lewis said "Nothing is really ours until we share it." How true that is. In the sharing is a wonderful bond that is grown between two.

Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7

We all have dreams of giving grand gifts to others, but often we don't have the means to carry out our desire...but there is so very much we can do.... it is in the little things. A gift of little favorite things tells another that you took time and were thinking of them... pictures taken and placed in a handmade frame...the gift of thought and labor. This year I encourage you to make a sacrifice in order to give to another and show that you care. I am doing the same... for afterall, we celebrate the birth of the One Who gave All for you and I.

Is my name safe in your mouth?

Recently I received an email of children's definitions of love. This one stuck out to me.

'When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different.
You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.' Billy - age 4

Wouldn't it be great if we (believers) became known as those with whom your name is safe; that in the midst of this world we were able to convey scripture by living it out? But my mouth would encourage you; comfort from my lips would bring you relief. (Job 16:5)

Would those that know you say their name is safe in your mouth?

Today - encourage and let the love of the Lord flow through you.

He is faithful - Know it - Live it

“…In my moments of fear….through every pain, every tear, There's A God Who's Been Faithful To Me
When My Strength Was All Gone, When My Heart Had No Song, Still In Love He's Proved Faithful To Me
Every Word He's Promised Is True, What I Thought Was Impossible, I've Seen My God Do
He's Been Faithful, Faithful To Me - Looking Back His Love And Mercy I See
Though In My Heart I Have Questioned - And Failed To Believe
Still He’s faithful – faithful to me.”

Lyrics to a song that was a heartfelt cry …so hard to remember some times all that God has done for us…not just in the theological sense, but today – here – now! Can you look back to a day when you felt you were no longer in His favor…then when He showed you that He knows your name?

Today – I choose to believe… to put my stake in that truth and encouragement to… Be strong and courageous. [I will] not be afraid or terrified for the LORD [my] God goes with [me]; He will never leave [me] nor forsake [me]." Deuteronomy 31:6

And so today – take one step (even a baby step) and He will honor it – He IS faithful beyond our wildest dreams.

Make today count!

Give - and it can't help but bless you...

Have you ever had the great pleasure of giving to someone anonymously? I knew a single mother of four who worked at least 50 hours a week. When no help came from her estranged husband, she called upon God's promise to be a father to the fatherless and upon His name - Jehovah-Jirah (provider). After placing all her trust there, spending her last few dollars on gas money to get to work, the following day money arrived in the mail. It was from an anonymous person in her church. God had placed her and her children upon another's heart and they were faithful. The money was stretched to provide food for the coming week. God had provided, her heart lifted, her faith grown and all because someone was faithful to that still small voice - the tug of the Spirit placing a name and amount upon a heart. Not only did it bless the recipient and her family, she fell to her knees in gratitude and prayed for the one who had given and thanked the LORD.

When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matthew 6:3-4


As you give this season - make it a game to bless someone who will have no idea who has done so. Listen carefully. When a name comes to your mind and the thought to help in some way - do it. Don't let the moment and the opportunity to bless another pass you by. It's not always money. Sometimes it's as simple as a wreath left on a doorstep or a card of encouragement - maybe even a pizza ordered and sent to someone prepaid (anonymously). God bless you as you listen and act this week.

Be Still.....and Exalt.

Just hear those sleigh bells jingling ring ting tingling too. Come on it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you ...... Well there isn't any snow on the ground here, but I sure do love that song. In fact, I've included the very version I grew up hearing in our home for your listening pleasure. It may not feel that jolly or ring ting tingling for you today.... I know a loved one was discriminated against in such a way this week that it took all I had to "Be still and know that I am God," and to remember the rest of the verse "I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." (Psalm 46:10)

While clearly there are injustices in the world - some vague and behind closed doors - others blatant and painful - we must remember that ultimately, God is in control and He always prevails. We may not always see it, but we are assured it to be true. Then we must remember the remainder of the verse and that [He] will be exalted among the nations, [He] will be exalted in the earth." That exultation takes place everytime we stand in the face of unrighteousness and love, everytime we give respect and dignity to another and even when we shout glory in a hymn. While I've included a "fun" song, I've also included one that I hope blesses you greatly and causes you to pause and praise. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFcm4VoS_-E&feature=related I hope it inspires you and the Spirit wells up within you to change this day to be one of joy - regardless of your circumstance - and one of gratitude as each blessing flows through you as you give yourself to the moment and the glory.

God bless you greatly today.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qBEXubFGxw

In Gratitude Outdo Each Other in Kindness

In response to all He has done for us, let us outdo each other in being helpful and kind to each other and in doing good. Hebrews 10:24 (TLB)

Today we all rest warmly knowing we have a home to return to tonight along with a bounty of blessings that are beyond the imagination of some in our country and world less fortunate. So today – whether your wealth is defined by joy, love, family, the material or the eternal. Live out your gratitude ON PURPOSE. How?? Here are some ideas to outdo each other in being helpful and kind to each other and in doing good.

It costs no more than a moment and a smile in your heart to: hold the door open for someone struggling with packages or groceries, or to allow someone with a few items to go ahead of you in the grocery store or a few more moments to help your neighbor with Christmas lights or what about the neighbor you've noticed who normally celebrates big and there's no sign this year....wouldn't a beautiful wreath and a "how are you?" bless them?

ON PURPOSE - Let's outdo one another showing love and compassion toward each other and others.

Saying Thank You

As 2010 comes to a close.. I'm reminded of those who've helped me through challenges and cheered with me along the way. As I replay those scenes in my mind, I'm also left wondering if I always remembered to express my gratitude to them. GB Stern said, "Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone." While I am experiencing a warm fuzzy feeling in remembrance of the blessing, assistance or surprise, did I tell the person who bestowed it upon me that they had blessed me?

So as I thank God ... as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers (2 Timothy 1:3), I also need to simply say thank you - for those times you remained when others walked away, for blessing me with your words or silent presence in the midst of the storm, for reminding me of who I am in Christ when I forget. Are there "thank you"s outstanding in your world? Do you need to say out loud or by note or deed "thank you" to someone who's blessed you and doesn't even know it?

Make today that day...and might I say - thank you. For each of you has blessed me, encouraged me, and helped along the way. May God bless you abundantly today as you go forth with intention to bless another.

Let your inward beauty flow forth

What a beautiful (albeit chilly) day! Let your light shine brightly within it!

What a great day to count blessings! In so doing, allow the gratitude to build from within and well up in you as a beautiful fountain spilling forth upon all you come in contact with. You can't help but overflow.

Think of one thing you could do today to beautify your spirit. Be creative..be kind in a way that no one expects to another.

Be beautiful inside, in your hearts, with the lasting charm of a gentle and quiet spirit that is so precious to God. 1 Peter 3:4

That inward beauty will show and you'll have a whole new glow about you.....Smile, my friends, Smile!!!

In times of Change - Be Still and Know....

Change seems all around me these days and for several months. It's no use "waiting it out" for stabilization...I've been "on hold" in some ways and it's time to get on with living this day with all that it holds - even if on wobbly ground. As the change swirls around me I close my eyes and when I am listening, really listening, I hear that still small voice that says to me...."Be still, and know that I am God; …." (Psalm 46:10)

Another version says – “cease your striving and know that I am God;”

I love to hear that whisper to my heart, my very spirit. I am grateful for that promise today… and I am still in wonder at the beauty, the majesty of our earth and that the Almighty Creator of all of the Universe takes time to speak to me from a love that we can’t come close to imagining, but He calls us to accept. It is truly a miracle that in my infinitesimal being – He speaks to me, loves me and even knows my name. Miracle of miracles – He came here to save us… and I stand in awe – grateful, amazed, blessed and embraced.

Do it for Mikey

Last week and the onset of this have been difficult. Thankfully, I was blessed to recieve the following scripture from a friend and determined that I would make this my focus:

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Colossians 3:12–13

Sadly, I report my week got worse with the news that a loved one had passed away unexpectedly. It was difficult news at best and still facing a cold front, I took a walk and was able to enjoy the sunshine and a long-distance chat with my mother. What I would have given to be having that chat in the same room and to have been comforted by the engulfing embrace of my father. It was during that chat that the scripture above and an idea combined to bring about my "I did it for Mikey" idea. You see, my cousin Mike touched so very many lives. He was a mentor to some troubled young men, a business wiz, a contractor and mechanic with a zest for life and passion for helping people - not by foundations or groups or even in a public way - just anyone he ran in to who needed a hand. So - in honor of my cousin Mike (who had just turned 46) I will be quietly doing something nice for someone each day - something unexpected. I'll be reporting my tributes (retaining confidentiality for all recipients) on the blog and I'd love to hear about your "Mikey adventures" if you would join me.

Let's make today count with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear[ing] with each other and forgiv[ing] whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgiv[ing] as the Lord [has forgiven].

You are known.

Sometimes we find that someone is suddenly treating us differently. As far as we know, nothing has changed, but still we are being treated differently. Inevitably it turns out that an action or expressed thought was misunderstood or misconstrued and the person believed there was a slight and their feelings were hurt. It may take some time before we find out what happened, but ultimately, we have been misunderstood. The person did not understand our intention or heart. Thankfully, there is One who never misunderstands and judges us by our miscommunication.

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

To be "known by the thoughts and attitudes of [our] heart." Ahhhh....simply to be truly and fully known is our heart's very cry. So today - I will seek to understand and to be understood. What would you want people to know as your heart toward them?

Won't you share?

Do not fear - you're flying with a net!!

As we look forward - hearing the voice of our Creator call us forth, often our heads fill with messages of dismay - "but I can't do that... or I'm too old to try that now... or but that's impossible." Sometimes it's not even a "great calling" but simply the prompting just to speak to a stranger or extend a hand to a neighbor that prompts doubt and fear of rejection. But we are told clearly - So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)

Isn't that amazing?!? It means we go through life with a net. As we teeter on the tight rope in the circus of life, feeling frail and weak at times we receive encouragement from the greatest, most powerful One - I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you.

What an incredible promise! Now - run and fly with renewed courage, strength and hope. I am so grateful that I can live my life from this premise. Join me, won't you? I can't wait to see you soar!

Be Inspired - Listen and Go forth

I love movies that inspire...Twister...Remember the Titans...Save the Last Dance...In Pursuit of Happyness...Seven Pounds (mixed feelings), but when the movie's over, maybe you're left feeling as though you didn't achieve all that you'd hoped or questioning what you can do now to contribute in a meaningful way to the world around you. Don't allow yourself to wallow in regrets or self doubt. Remember your Father has a plan and He wants you to realize even more than you can imagine. For one person, it was planting a few flowers every year until her gift to the world was a hillside of daffodils that people come from miles to see and enjoy. For another, it was teaching students every day with dignity and respect so that they knew these attitributes as their own, and for another writing a song, another just being the best at what they do with joy each day. Today - for you - I pray...that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. (Ephesians 1:17-19)

Close your eyes and listen... really listen to what God wants to reveal and call to you. And encourage those around you to do the same in the love that overflows from your new perspective.

Love means a name is safe in your mouth...

Recently I received an email of children's definitions of love. This one stuck out to me.

'When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.' Billy - age 4
Wouldn't it be great if we (believers) became known as those with whom your name is safe; that in the midst of this world we were able to convey scripture by living it out? But my mouth would encourage you; comfort from my lips would bring you relief. (Job 16:5)

Would those that know you say their name is safe in your mouth?

Today - encourage and let the love of the Lord flow through you.