She walked to the edge of the field and stared.
The wind twirled her long straw-colored hair. It blew apart like a handful of straw caught in a large gust, and shimmered in the sunlight.
She was watching. And waiting. At any moment, her Pa would drive into the drive in his navy blue pickup. It was a beaten but faithful old truck. She wondered if he had made a grocery run or not today. Ma had mentioned needing flour. Alaina hoped he hadn't, so that they could go together later, probably with her younger sister Janie too.. It was so fun to go into town. It was just different. It didn't hurt that the clerk's son who also helping in the store, a year older than she, was an attractive young fellow. Perhaps a little too boyish to take seriously yet, but for whatever reason she hoped he'd be there.
After a few seconds more of staring poetically into the distance, she became bored, so turned to contine on the path to the creek. She wanted to find smooth stones to give to Janie, who was working on a flower garden. The stones would be pretty border decorations. They would need a lot though, so Alaina had resolved to take trips on occasion, whenever time found itself open.
She would look for any more treasures the ravens had left, too. One tree held a raven's nest, and it seemed like every time she looked at it something new was there. Why, she had even seen her mother's broach (missing after church one day) in the nest last time she had visited. Along with some strands of horse hair and one of her own shoelaces. The family dogs would announce the arrival of her Pa, so she needn't worry about keeping her eyes out for the pickup going down the lane.
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
His ear is fluffier.
Thankful for new perspectives.
Today I sat outside with my dog, sitting on the cement patio. I journaled. I read old entries and prayers. then I began snapping pictures on my phone of my dog. I focused in on the texture of his fur on his back, on the lighter fur around his leg, on his fluffy ear, on his red collar. On his wet beard after getting a drink of water and on his mouth as he started to yawn (accident). I turned my camera to the dry leaves crinkled on speckled pavement after that, and the old red vase with moss crawling across the sides, faded red and green to crisp orange and forest evergreen. I saw a flower glowing where shade had missed a spot and photographed it a few different ways. I photographed myself, like I had my dog, just simple, looking straight ahead, my hair, eyes closed, and as I was writing. Then I saw soo many other opportunities for photos, but my phone was about dead and laundry was waiting on me. I could only afford a couple more photos before heading in.
Shooting from such angles is nothing new. Art students do it to get perspective and better know how to recognize and illustrate detail.
I noticed that the world seemed a lot more magical when I photographed in this manner. I just photographed what was there... not a moment or a put- together pose. In a way, I distanced myself and just examined the many qualities of what was in the lens. It even made me appreciate how I look in a different way, when the photos sit next to ones of flowers, moss, vases, and my dog.
People do that in their day to day lives, too. Step back. Distance themselves for a while from a situation that is consuming or overwhelming you. Examine their questions about the present and future with a camera, snapping the pretty light that falls and the shadows that they can't quite name.
They don't know what is in the shadow... and that is OK.
The grass yonder is a little fuzzy, unfocused.... and that is how the picture is, for now, right now.
It has been peaceful people that have done this in my experience. People who have faced a lot of punches in life, but while I've known them at least, remained calm and true blue in the midst of it. I think of my grandma. When her son was in terrible condition, she of course felt bad. But she prayed. She still welcomed whoever came to the door. She still set out a little something sweet, in case anyone might be hungry or have a sweet craving. Grandma didn't cave in. She looked at what was there, and tacked that photo to the wall.... she didn't cry and complain that the situaion existed.
She examined it, and accepted it.
Christ did very much that, too, in the Garden of Gathsemene. He knew what God wanted Him to do. He talked to God about it, sweating and crying. "If you will, take this cup from me." If You will it, God, take this away. "If Your servant must take this cup, then I will." If I must do it, God, I will do it.
He owned up to His fear. He owned up to what God wanted Him to do. Because of His love for us, and Him being THE WAY to forgiveness---the ONLY WAY- He accepted it and did it. He died on the cross.
And rose.
--
Remember God's perspective. He sees every angle of every matter.
That comforts me.
Faith is a decision.... It is trust that God is who He claims to be and that He does what the Bible says He does.
Will you be able to stand if thing don't go how you imagined, hoped for, or outlined? just a question.
Some of the best artworks were accidents. Some of the best inventions were never intended. Go, google it. (Makes me wonder about fire.... :) )
Here is a video that takes a different spin on urban life and what hundreds of people pass by every day. He did this with his secondary camera while he waited for the new "good" one to come in so he could start a project... It is pretty cool!!!
http://accidentalart.wordpress.com/
Done rambling. Have a great day and God bless!!
Today I sat outside with my dog, sitting on the cement patio. I journaled. I read old entries and prayers. then I began snapping pictures on my phone of my dog. I focused in on the texture of his fur on his back, on the lighter fur around his leg, on his fluffy ear, on his red collar. On his wet beard after getting a drink of water and on his mouth as he started to yawn (accident). I turned my camera to the dry leaves crinkled on speckled pavement after that, and the old red vase with moss crawling across the sides, faded red and green to crisp orange and forest evergreen. I saw a flower glowing where shade had missed a spot and photographed it a few different ways. I photographed myself, like I had my dog, just simple, looking straight ahead, my hair, eyes closed, and as I was writing. Then I saw soo many other opportunities for photos, but my phone was about dead and laundry was waiting on me. I could only afford a couple more photos before heading in.
Shooting from such angles is nothing new. Art students do it to get perspective and better know how to recognize and illustrate detail.
I noticed that the world seemed a lot more magical when I photographed in this manner. I just photographed what was there... not a moment or a put- together pose. In a way, I distanced myself and just examined the many qualities of what was in the lens. It even made me appreciate how I look in a different way, when the photos sit next to ones of flowers, moss, vases, and my dog.
People do that in their day to day lives, too. Step back. Distance themselves for a while from a situation that is consuming or overwhelming you. Examine their questions about the present and future with a camera, snapping the pretty light that falls and the shadows that they can't quite name.
They don't know what is in the shadow... and that is OK.
The grass yonder is a little fuzzy, unfocused.... and that is how the picture is, for now, right now.
It has been peaceful people that have done this in my experience. People who have faced a lot of punches in life, but while I've known them at least, remained calm and true blue in the midst of it. I think of my grandma. When her son was in terrible condition, she of course felt bad. But she prayed. She still welcomed whoever came to the door. She still set out a little something sweet, in case anyone might be hungry or have a sweet craving. Grandma didn't cave in. She looked at what was there, and tacked that photo to the wall.... she didn't cry and complain that the situaion existed.
She examined it, and accepted it.
Christ did very much that, too, in the Garden of Gathsemene. He knew what God wanted Him to do. He talked to God about it, sweating and crying. "If you will, take this cup from me." If You will it, God, take this away. "If Your servant must take this cup, then I will." If I must do it, God, I will do it.
He owned up to His fear. He owned up to what God wanted Him to do. Because of His love for us, and Him being THE WAY to forgiveness---the ONLY WAY- He accepted it and did it. He died on the cross.
And rose.
--
Remember God's perspective. He sees every angle of every matter.
That comforts me.
Faith is a decision.... It is trust that God is who He claims to be and that He does what the Bible says He does.
Will you be able to stand if thing don't go how you imagined, hoped for, or outlined? just a question.
Some of the best artworks were accidents. Some of the best inventions were never intended. Go, google it. (Makes me wonder about fire.... :) )
Here is a video that takes a different spin on urban life and what hundreds of people pass by every day. He did this with his secondary camera while he waited for the new "good" one to come in so he could start a project... It is pretty cool!!!
http://accidentalart.wordpress.com/
Done rambling. Have a great day and God bless!!
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
GF in God devo, crosswalk.com
July 24, 2012
Don’t Give Up!
Sharon Jaynes
Today’s Truth
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” - (2 Timothy 4:7 NIV).
Friend to Friend
It was the first swim meet of the year for our newly formed Middle School Aquatics team. The atmosphere on the three hour bus ride was electric with anticipation as the band of forty-eight adolescents thought of nothing but victory. However, the electricity turned into shock as our minnows filed off the bus and stared in disbelief at their muscle clad, Neptune-like opponents.
The coach checked the schedule. “Surely there’s been a mistake,” he thought. But the schedule only confirmed that, yes, this was the right place and the right time.
The two teams formed a line on the side of the pool. Whistles blew, races were begun, and races were lost. Halfway through the meet, Coach Huey realized that he had no participants for one of the events.
“OK team, who wants to swim the 500 yard free style?” the coach asked.
Several hands shot up, including Justin’s. “I’ll race coach!”
The coach looked down at the freckle faced youth and said, “Justin, this race is twenty lengths of the pool. I’ve only seen you swim eight.”
“Oh, I can do it coach. Let me try. What’s twelve more laps.”
The coach reluctantly conceded. “After all,” he thought, “It’s not the winning but the trying that builds character.”
The whistle blew and the opponents torpedoed through the water and finished the race in a mere four minutes and fifty seconds. The winners gathered on the sidelines to socialize while our group struggled to finish. After four more long minutes, the last exhausted members of our team emerged from the water. The last except for Justin.
Justin was stealing breaths as his hands slapped against the water and pushed it aside to propel his thin body forward. It appeared that he would go under at any minute, yet something seemed to keep pushing him onward.
“Why doesn’t the coach stop this child?” the parents whispered among themselves. “He looks like he’s about to drown and the race was won four minutes ago.”
But what the parents did not realize was that the real race, the race of a boy becoming a man, was just beginning.
The coach walked over to the young swimmer, knelt down and quietly spoke.
Relieved parents thought, “Oh, he’s finally going to pull that boy out before he kills himself.”
But to their surprise, the coach rose from the concrete, stepped back from the pool’s edge, and the young man continued to swim.
One teammate, inspired by his brave friend, went to the side of the pool and walked the lane as Justin pressed on. “Come on Justin, you can do it! You can do it! Keep going! Don’t give up!”
He was joined by another, then another, until the entire team was walking the length of the pool rooting for and encouraging their fellow swimmer to finish the race set before him.
The opposing team saw what was happening and joined the chant. The students’ contagious chorus sent a chill through the room and soon the once concerned parents were on their feet cheering, shouting, and praying. The room was pulsating with energy and excitement as teammates and opponents alike pumped courage into one small swimmer.
Twelve long minutes after the starting whistle had blown, an exhausted, but smiling, Justin Rigsbee swam his final lap and struggled to pull himself out of the pool. The crowd had applauded the first swimmer, as he crossed the line, first place. But they gave Justin the greater cheer, for finishing the race.
In 2 Timothy 4:7, Paul writes, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (NIV). On some days, when the swimming or running grows difficult – on those days when I want to quit, I long for friends and family who will walk the course with me cheering me on. “Come on Sharon, you can do it!” “Don’t give up! You’re almost there!”
But there are days when I look around and there seems to be no one there to cheer me on. That’s when I need to look a bit closer, listen a bit more intently, and hear the still small voice of my Heavenly Father. He’s always there to pick me up when I fall, hold me when I cry, hug me when I’m feeling alone, cheer for me when I’m victorious, and love me when I’m just me. And He’s there for you too.
Our Heavenly Parent is cheering for you, my friend. He’s saying, “Keep going! Don’t give up! You are precious to Me! You’re not alone! You can do it!”
Today, feel God’s embrace and listen closely as He speaks to your heart. I think I hear Him now…
Let’s Pray
Dear Heavenly Father, sometimes I feel like I’m not going to make it. Thank You for friends that come alongside me and cheer me on when I feel like I’m about to go under. Most of all, thank You for always being with me and cheering me on in the great race of life. I love You!
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Don’t Give Up!
Sharon Jaynes
Today’s Truth
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” - (2 Timothy 4:7 NIV).
Friend to Friend
It was the first swim meet of the year for our newly formed Middle School Aquatics team. The atmosphere on the three hour bus ride was electric with anticipation as the band of forty-eight adolescents thought of nothing but victory. However, the electricity turned into shock as our minnows filed off the bus and stared in disbelief at their muscle clad, Neptune-like opponents.
The coach checked the schedule. “Surely there’s been a mistake,” he thought. But the schedule only confirmed that, yes, this was the right place and the right time.
The two teams formed a line on the side of the pool. Whistles blew, races were begun, and races were lost. Halfway through the meet, Coach Huey realized that he had no participants for one of the events.
“OK team, who wants to swim the 500 yard free style?” the coach asked.
Several hands shot up, including Justin’s. “I’ll race coach!”
The coach looked down at the freckle faced youth and said, “Justin, this race is twenty lengths of the pool. I’ve only seen you swim eight.”
“Oh, I can do it coach. Let me try. What’s twelve more laps.”
The coach reluctantly conceded. “After all,” he thought, “It’s not the winning but the trying that builds character.”
The whistle blew and the opponents torpedoed through the water and finished the race in a mere four minutes and fifty seconds. The winners gathered on the sidelines to socialize while our group struggled to finish. After four more long minutes, the last exhausted members of our team emerged from the water. The last except for Justin.
Justin was stealing breaths as his hands slapped against the water and pushed it aside to propel his thin body forward. It appeared that he would go under at any minute, yet something seemed to keep pushing him onward.
“Why doesn’t the coach stop this child?” the parents whispered among themselves. “He looks like he’s about to drown and the race was won four minutes ago.”
But what the parents did not realize was that the real race, the race of a boy becoming a man, was just beginning.
The coach walked over to the young swimmer, knelt down and quietly spoke.
Relieved parents thought, “Oh, he’s finally going to pull that boy out before he kills himself.”
But to their surprise, the coach rose from the concrete, stepped back from the pool’s edge, and the young man continued to swim.
One teammate, inspired by his brave friend, went to the side of the pool and walked the lane as Justin pressed on. “Come on Justin, you can do it! You can do it! Keep going! Don’t give up!”
He was joined by another, then another, until the entire team was walking the length of the pool rooting for and encouraging their fellow swimmer to finish the race set before him.
The opposing team saw what was happening and joined the chant. The students’ contagious chorus sent a chill through the room and soon the once concerned parents were on their feet cheering, shouting, and praying. The room was pulsating with energy and excitement as teammates and opponents alike pumped courage into one small swimmer.
Twelve long minutes after the starting whistle had blown, an exhausted, but smiling, Justin Rigsbee swam his final lap and struggled to pull himself out of the pool. The crowd had applauded the first swimmer, as he crossed the line, first place. But they gave Justin the greater cheer, for finishing the race.
In 2 Timothy 4:7, Paul writes, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (NIV). On some days, when the swimming or running grows difficult – on those days when I want to quit, I long for friends and family who will walk the course with me cheering me on. “Come on Sharon, you can do it!” “Don’t give up! You’re almost there!”
But there are days when I look around and there seems to be no one there to cheer me on. That’s when I need to look a bit closer, listen a bit more intently, and hear the still small voice of my Heavenly Father. He’s always there to pick me up when I fall, hold me when I cry, hug me when I’m feeling alone, cheer for me when I’m victorious, and love me when I’m just me. And He’s there for you too.
Our Heavenly Parent is cheering for you, my friend. He’s saying, “Keep going! Don’t give up! You are precious to Me! You’re not alone! You can do it!”
Today, feel God’s embrace and listen closely as He speaks to your heart. I think I hear Him now…
Let’s Pray
Dear Heavenly Father, sometimes I feel like I’m not going to make it. Thank You for friends that come alongside me and cheer me on when I feel like I’m about to go under. Most of all, thank You for always being with me and cheering me on in the great race of life. I love You!
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
On a Tuesday
Thankful today for...
families,
and
wind.
Another new family with an accent visited today. They had a 10 month old daughter whom they treasure. They were Extremely kind, and even encouraged me before they left about going into ministry. Their little girl was quietly curious about everything and had big brown eyes.
Then in general I just love windy days.
families,
and
wind.
Another new family with an accent visited today. They had a 10 month old daughter whom they treasure. They were Extremely kind, and even encouraged me before they left about going into ministry. Their little girl was quietly curious about everything and had big brown eyes.
Then in general I just love windy days.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Laughing, Thanking, Breathing!
Thankful for the love and hope our Lord and Savior gives and brings.
I saw a photo of a boy who had to have surgery (it was successful!) to remove his arm, laughing and smiling beside his friend. Precious, adorable little boys.
Some other people helped the family afford the surgery, too.
I read praises and thankfulness in writings by my friends at the goodness of God.
I saw my new baby second cousin in photos.
After seeing those three things, my heart for a moment was so filled, that tears came to my eyes. I think sometimes God gives us samples of the love HE feels- it is overwhelming!!...
Thanks and Praise You, God, for Your BIG Love!
I saw a photo of a boy who had to have surgery (it was successful!) to remove his arm, laughing and smiling beside his friend. Precious, adorable little boys.
Some other people helped the family afford the surgery, too.
I read praises and thankfulness in writings by my friends at the goodness of God.
I saw my new baby second cousin in photos.
After seeing those three things, my heart for a moment was so filled, that tears came to my eyes. I think sometimes God gives us samples of the love HE feels- it is overwhelming!!...
Thanks and Praise You, God, for Your BIG Love!
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Wow!
I'm thankful for friends and acquaintances that continually refresh me and inspire me to chase after God further. You know, they show me many differeny ways of chasing!
My brother strives to be always available and willing to lend a hand- to serve others and Christ;
My friend Morgyn has such a compassionate heart... she listens to others' woes and then uses humor to get them to laugh. She also is brave enough to go against a crowd to do what she knows to be right.
Elyse is taking God at His Word and stepping forward, again and again, to meet Him.
Megan is willing to go the extra mile for those she loves, most of all Christ, and bravely follows Him.
Garrett inspires me to be bold for Christ and helps raise up leaders in the Body of Christ.
Alicia always loves to contribute her gift of helps and practical wisdom to a cause.
Kari prays so very fervently, interceding and adoring her God...
Kacie is leaving behind what she loves for the Lover of her soul, obeying His call to move.
Rachel waits on Him, trusting Him and letting His presence DRENCH her.
Laura encourages others through listening prayer, big smiles, and sooo much love and encouragement, whenever she can offer it!!
Two Brians I know love to mentor those younger than them, discipling them.
Corey is going to another country to encourage the broken hearted and share the gospel, as well as plant churches!
My dad is a confidante for anyone who needs advice or help, and sacrificial in his love for family.
My mom has compassion and love written all over her.
Grandma accepts Everyone.
Grandpa is an example of a real man.
Zak is ever loyal and kind in a hushed way, serving God without seeking applause (maybe EVADING applause)!
Nikki is relentless in pursuing her King.
Emily is humble, servant-hearted, eagerly obedient to Christ, and nurturing.
Josh is willing to be used by God however He wants and is such a riot,
Sarah would go the extra mile for anyone and loves deeper than most.
Joy truly would do anything to help a child,
And that isn't half of the people who bless me. God uses you all so amazingly! Love you all!
My brother strives to be always available and willing to lend a hand- to serve others and Christ;
My friend Morgyn has such a compassionate heart... she listens to others' woes and then uses humor to get them to laugh. She also is brave enough to go against a crowd to do what she knows to be right.
Elyse is taking God at His Word and stepping forward, again and again, to meet Him.
Megan is willing to go the extra mile for those she loves, most of all Christ, and bravely follows Him.
Garrett inspires me to be bold for Christ and helps raise up leaders in the Body of Christ.
Alicia always loves to contribute her gift of helps and practical wisdom to a cause.
Kari prays so very fervently, interceding and adoring her God...
Kacie is leaving behind what she loves for the Lover of her soul, obeying His call to move.
Rachel waits on Him, trusting Him and letting His presence DRENCH her.
Laura encourages others through listening prayer, big smiles, and sooo much love and encouragement, whenever she can offer it!!
Two Brians I know love to mentor those younger than them, discipling them.
Corey is going to another country to encourage the broken hearted and share the gospel, as well as plant churches!
My dad is a confidante for anyone who needs advice or help, and sacrificial in his love for family.
My mom has compassion and love written all over her.
Grandma accepts Everyone.
Grandpa is an example of a real man.
Zak is ever loyal and kind in a hushed way, serving God without seeking applause (maybe EVADING applause)!
Nikki is relentless in pursuing her King.
Emily is humble, servant-hearted, eagerly obedient to Christ, and nurturing.
Josh is willing to be used by God however He wants and is such a riot,
Sarah would go the extra mile for anyone and loves deeper than most.
Joy truly would do anything to help a child,
And that isn't half of the people who bless me. God uses you all so amazingly! Love you all!
Saturday, July 21, 2012
"And He won't let go"
These lyrics were in an article here: http://setapartgirl.com/article-SEPT-warriorpoetmanhood.html
Really encouraged me this evening.
She's in Love, by According to John.
What a beautiful smile
Really encouraged me this evening.
She's in Love, by According to John.
What a beautiful smile
A radiant girl
Fell in love first time I saw her
She stays on my mind
I’d give anything
To know everything about her
There’s light in her eyes
And I know it’s all for Him
She carries on and on
Like He was her best friend
Chorus:
She’s in love
It’s not hard to see
But I would like to believe it was with me
Someone got a hold of her heart
And He won’t let go
And I know
She’s in love
She looks to the sky
When she talks about Him
She believes He hung the moon
Said He had to go away
She waits for his return
Says He’s coming for her soon
How can this be fair?
This guy can walk on water
Don’t guess I’ve got a prayer
He’s written love letters to reach her
She worships the ground He walks on
She just smiles when she says His name
It’s a match made in heaven
I can’t compete with the King of Kings
Rest!
Thankful for...
the fact that we can REST in Christ!
Isaiah 30:15 : In returning to Me and resting in Me you shall be saved; in quietness and trust shall be your strength. (AMP)
Read that verse in a devotional today, Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young. I will go ahead and type out the rest:
"Rest in my presence when you need refreshment. Resting is not necessarily idleness, as people often perceive it. When you relax in My company, you are demonstrating trust in Me. Trust is a rich word, laden with meaning and direction for your life. I want you to lean on, trust, and be confident in Me. When you lean on Me for support, I delight in your trusting confidence.
Many people turn away from Me when they are exhausted. They associate Me with duty and diligence, so they try to hide from My Presence when they need a break from work. How this saddens Me! As I spoke through My prophet Isaiah: In returning to Me and resting in Me you shall be saved; in quietness and trust shall be your strength."
Verse cited: Proverbs 3:5, Isaiah 30:15.
Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart;lean not on your own understanding.
(Ginny again!: )
It is such a blessing to know that I can rest with God and trust Him to renew me, and help me accomplish whatever He asks me to. I'm weak but He is my strength. I'm fearful, but He is my confidence. I need His help, and I try to tell Him so everyday. Like, loving people. It always feels like I'm about to leap from a tall building when I think of reaching out to love someone I have never met or talked to much, but God faithfully enables me to love when I take that step in faith- when I lean back on Him like a child and listen to His voice. "Go ahead," and totter forward. I'm glad to say the tottering is turning, as time goes on, into a walk with purpose. People say I am one of the most loving people they know--- THAT is a God thing. Imagine, one of my biggest obstacles, is what people identify me by.
People in the Bible are that way, too. David was just a young boy, but he defeated a giant. Joseph was the baby of the family and betrayed by his brothers into slavery, but Joseph became second to the king of Egypt or something like that and saved a lot of people from famine. Paul was a killer and persecuted Christians, but God made him the author of a big chunk of the New Testament and someone who founded churches (an apostle). Deborah was a woman, which made you low status in OT times; but she lead the Israelites to victory and a time of peace and prosperity. It goes on and on. Our God seems to be a God of paradigms. As we trust and lean on Him, He can do more than we ever thought possible.
But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 1 Corinthians 1:27
For nothing is impossible with God. Luke 1:37
How are you today? Have you had a busy week? Hope you can have a Restful weekend, whatever you are doing... God can meet us wherever we are. (oh, how wonderful!)
Keep on!
:) Ginny
the fact that we can REST in Christ!
Isaiah 30:15 : In returning to Me and resting in Me you shall be saved; in quietness and trust shall be your strength. (AMP)
Read that verse in a devotional today, Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young. I will go ahead and type out the rest:
"Rest in my presence when you need refreshment. Resting is not necessarily idleness, as people often perceive it. When you relax in My company, you are demonstrating trust in Me. Trust is a rich word, laden with meaning and direction for your life. I want you to lean on, trust, and be confident in Me. When you lean on Me for support, I delight in your trusting confidence.
Many people turn away from Me when they are exhausted. They associate Me with duty and diligence, so they try to hide from My Presence when they need a break from work. How this saddens Me! As I spoke through My prophet Isaiah: In returning to Me and resting in Me you shall be saved; in quietness and trust shall be your strength."
Verse cited: Proverbs 3:5, Isaiah 30:15.
Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart;lean not on your own understanding.
(Ginny again!: )
It is such a blessing to know that I can rest with God and trust Him to renew me, and help me accomplish whatever He asks me to. I'm weak but He is my strength. I'm fearful, but He is my confidence. I need His help, and I try to tell Him so everyday. Like, loving people. It always feels like I'm about to leap from a tall building when I think of reaching out to love someone I have never met or talked to much, but God faithfully enables me to love when I take that step in faith- when I lean back on Him like a child and listen to His voice. "Go ahead," and totter forward. I'm glad to say the tottering is turning, as time goes on, into a walk with purpose. People say I am one of the most loving people they know--- THAT is a God thing. Imagine, one of my biggest obstacles, is what people identify me by.
People in the Bible are that way, too. David was just a young boy, but he defeated a giant. Joseph was the baby of the family and betrayed by his brothers into slavery, but Joseph became second to the king of Egypt or something like that and saved a lot of people from famine. Paul was a killer and persecuted Christians, but God made him the author of a big chunk of the New Testament and someone who founded churches (an apostle). Deborah was a woman, which made you low status in OT times; but she lead the Israelites to victory and a time of peace and prosperity. It goes on and on. Our God seems to be a God of paradigms. As we trust and lean on Him, He can do more than we ever thought possible.
But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 1 Corinthians 1:27
For nothing is impossible with God. Luke 1:37
How are you today? Have you had a busy week? Hope you can have a Restful weekend, whatever you are doing... God can meet us wherever we are. (oh, how wonderful!)
Keep on!
:) Ginny
Thursday, July 19, 2012
:)
*http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMdAZ-u2Lgs&feature=related You are For Me
love this...
and this.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YXygCLso9U The More i Seek You
love this...
and this.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YXygCLso9U The More i Seek You
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Temples
Oh my goodness!
Today a family entered the church just as I was leaving in the early afternoon. It was a father, his son, and two daughters. The father greeted me with a smile before he walked into the church office, and his kids gazed around the hall, taking in this new place. The secretary was on the phone, so I approached and asked if he was looking for someone. He said in a thick accent, somewhere from Europe:
"Yes. My son, by the grace of God, wants to play basketball. Praise God." He smiled kindly the whole time. "Someone told me that they have basketball program here. Where can I find information?"
His son smiled at me, and the other children observed me, too. I let him know there was indeed a basketball program, and took him and the kids to Pastor Larry's office. Pastor Larry greeted and invited the small herd into his office. I peaked in and remained by the door before returning downstairs.
"yes, nice to meet you! Thank God, my son wants to play basketball...."
Encountering this family left my heart light and a smile plastered to my face. Would you believe, tears even came to my eyes! (I am emotional..)
The man I encountered was simply full of God's grace. I don't know ANYTHING about him really. But I just met him for a couple moments, and I gathered that:
He was absolutely thankful and dependent on God; totally concerned with the spiritual health of his children; and loving, greeting me and Pastor Larry with a warm smile, kind eyes, and words of praise and thanks to God on his tongue. I hope that the man I encountered is who he is "full time". ...I sincerely think it was.
I was going to go to the sanctuary before leaving, and after waiting outside the door for a few moments, went downstairs and to the right to do so. That's when my eyes became wet and I thanked God for families like that and fathers so devoted to God and their children. I prayed for a few moments more when a woman named Kris also entered the sanctuary. She was surprised to see me but greeted me with ease and told me about her missing Bible, which we looked for for a couple moments. After looking and failing, she told me about herself and told me about a potluck on Thursday. She invited me without being pushy, which is quite gracious. Apparently she goes to Fishers in the summer then back to Texas for the rest of the year, helping with Katrina relief on the way.
She told me about a Herron family she used to babysit for as their parents went squaredancing on Friday nights. Late in the evening while the kids were in bed, and she waited on the parents, she could only listen to one Radio Station, from TN with a woman who definitely sounded like she was bred and raised in TN. The station dug into God's Word, spoken with a twang-- and Kris told me, "That taught me so much about God!"
She wished me luck and left the church. I returned to the santuary again to sit for a moment. I thanked Him for people like Kris.
And then I left, heart about to spill and hardly able to keep from squirming in the driver's seat. Anyone would have thought I was bizarre had they been watching me, but I looked at the church as I drove away and laughed. I thanked God for how He uses the church and prayed it be blessed and do all He wants it to. Then I thought of all the churches across the U.S.
All little docks where God is welcome. How blessed they are, and how the world needs these docks, at church, and the supermarket, and concerts, and bars and schools and restaurants. The man I encountered was a beacon of light, and so was Kris. If they are the same out of church as in church... and it seems like they are- then they take that consecration and blessings of God with them wherever they go.
All that above doesn't make much sense. But what I'm getting at, is... Church is a building. It is also a collection of people... "The Body of Christ." And, it is individuals.
Jesus refers to the body as a temple.
John 2:21 But the temple he had spoken of was his body.
And other Scripture does, too.
1 Corinthians 6:19 Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself.
2 Corinthians 6:16 What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people."
1 Corinthians 3:16 Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?
Am I, are you, are we being the Church? The man I met was. So was Kris.
Today a family entered the church just as I was leaving in the early afternoon. It was a father, his son, and two daughters. The father greeted me with a smile before he walked into the church office, and his kids gazed around the hall, taking in this new place. The secretary was on the phone, so I approached and asked if he was looking for someone. He said in a thick accent, somewhere from Europe:
"Yes. My son, by the grace of God, wants to play basketball. Praise God." He smiled kindly the whole time. "Someone told me that they have basketball program here. Where can I find information?"
His son smiled at me, and the other children observed me, too. I let him know there was indeed a basketball program, and took him and the kids to Pastor Larry's office. Pastor Larry greeted and invited the small herd into his office. I peaked in and remained by the door before returning downstairs.
"yes, nice to meet you! Thank God, my son wants to play basketball...."
Encountering this family left my heart light and a smile plastered to my face. Would you believe, tears even came to my eyes! (I am emotional..)
The man I encountered was simply full of God's grace. I don't know ANYTHING about him really. But I just met him for a couple moments, and I gathered that:
He was absolutely thankful and dependent on God; totally concerned with the spiritual health of his children; and loving, greeting me and Pastor Larry with a warm smile, kind eyes, and words of praise and thanks to God on his tongue. I hope that the man I encountered is who he is "full time". ...I sincerely think it was.
I was going to go to the sanctuary before leaving, and after waiting outside the door for a few moments, went downstairs and to the right to do so. That's when my eyes became wet and I thanked God for families like that and fathers so devoted to God and their children. I prayed for a few moments more when a woman named Kris also entered the sanctuary. She was surprised to see me but greeted me with ease and told me about her missing Bible, which we looked for for a couple moments. After looking and failing, she told me about herself and told me about a potluck on Thursday. She invited me without being pushy, which is quite gracious. Apparently she goes to Fishers in the summer then back to Texas for the rest of the year, helping with Katrina relief on the way.
She told me about a Herron family she used to babysit for as their parents went squaredancing on Friday nights. Late in the evening while the kids were in bed, and she waited on the parents, she could only listen to one Radio Station, from TN with a woman who definitely sounded like she was bred and raised in TN. The station dug into God's Word, spoken with a twang-- and Kris told me, "That taught me so much about God!"
She wished me luck and left the church. I returned to the santuary again to sit for a moment. I thanked Him for people like Kris.
And then I left, heart about to spill and hardly able to keep from squirming in the driver's seat. Anyone would have thought I was bizarre had they been watching me, but I looked at the church as I drove away and laughed. I thanked God for how He uses the church and prayed it be blessed and do all He wants it to. Then I thought of all the churches across the U.S.
All little docks where God is welcome. How blessed they are, and how the world needs these docks, at church, and the supermarket, and concerts, and bars and schools and restaurants. The man I encountered was a beacon of light, and so was Kris. If they are the same out of church as in church... and it seems like they are- then they take that consecration and blessings of God with them wherever they go.
All that above doesn't make much sense. But what I'm getting at, is... Church is a building. It is also a collection of people... "The Body of Christ." And, it is individuals.
Jesus refers to the body as a temple.
John 2:21 But the temple he had spoken of was his body.
And other Scripture does, too.
1 Corinthians 6:19 Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself.
2 Corinthians 6:16 What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people."
1 Corinthians 3:16 Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?
Am I, are you, are we being the Church? The man I met was. So was Kris.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
wrapping paper
You who spin and sway as the music blares,
who skips across the room and laughs in childlike delight....
You who sit quietly pondering, musing the reasons why
Today was as it was and what the next steps are....
You who buzz around talking to every person you see,
Waking them up from silence,
You who observes the room, enjoying the sounds and voices
And learning about all these people around you,
You who came out of pure loyalty with a dislike for parties,
But love for your friends-
You who plays cards with the others, cheering inwardly
At the victory about to be yours,
You running around the kitchen, providing for every
Stomach, one thing after the next-
All of you! How delightful you are! How neat the gifts you were made with, and the
Choices you make.
You who spin, God made you to be a light and to help others see awe in the world as you do. You are a reprieve from routine and a fresh breeze in a stuffy week.
You who ponders quietly, God made you as one able to get things done! Such logic is invaluable, helping yourself and others to do what needs done, and to recognize those needs!
You social butterfly, you welcome those who feel as if they didn't belong, and help people in general feel a lot less alone.
You calm observer, what eyes you have! You see beyond the surface, understanding people and beauty, and seeing opportunity upon opportunity for something different.
You loyal friend, what a treasure you are! Friends like those who are there for you even when it is unpleasant or unnatural, are the best kind who live out Christ-like love, indeed.
You competitive card player, what a fun and driven person you are. You go all-in, whatever you are doing. Such drive is the much needed foundation of getting things done and living life fully, not as a bystander.
You flitting around the kitchen, what eyes you have for what is needed and what a heart for serving! You might not be having fun, but you feel content in just providing for others. How beautiful and selfless that is, much like Christ as he healed and taught!
Everyone- you are gifted! Do not neglect to see your worth and your strengths! Remember you are delighted in, and needed.
who skips across the room and laughs in childlike delight....
You who sit quietly pondering, musing the reasons why
Today was as it was and what the next steps are....
You who buzz around talking to every person you see,
Waking them up from silence,
You who observes the room, enjoying the sounds and voices
And learning about all these people around you,
You who came out of pure loyalty with a dislike for parties,
But love for your friends-
You who plays cards with the others, cheering inwardly
At the victory about to be yours,
You running around the kitchen, providing for every
Stomach, one thing after the next-
All of you! How delightful you are! How neat the gifts you were made with, and the
Choices you make.
You who spin, God made you to be a light and to help others see awe in the world as you do. You are a reprieve from routine and a fresh breeze in a stuffy week.
You who ponders quietly, God made you as one able to get things done! Such logic is invaluable, helping yourself and others to do what needs done, and to recognize those needs!
You social butterfly, you welcome those who feel as if they didn't belong, and help people in general feel a lot less alone.
You calm observer, what eyes you have! You see beyond the surface, understanding people and beauty, and seeing opportunity upon opportunity for something different.
You loyal friend, what a treasure you are! Friends like those who are there for you even when it is unpleasant or unnatural, are the best kind who live out Christ-like love, indeed.
You competitive card player, what a fun and driven person you are. You go all-in, whatever you are doing. Such drive is the much needed foundation of getting things done and living life fully, not as a bystander.
You flitting around the kitchen, what eyes you have for what is needed and what a heart for serving! You might not be having fun, but you feel content in just providing for others. How beautiful and selfless that is, much like Christ as he healed and taught!
Everyone- you are gifted! Do not neglect to see your worth and your strengths! Remember you are delighted in, and needed.
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Jenny Sue
I'm thankful for lives that impact you for the better. One such life was that of Jenny Sue Booth.
Jenny Sue passed away yesterday. I'm glad she doesn't have to deal with medical problems that frustrated her quite a lot, but I grieve that I won't get to see her until I get to heaven. That is about all you can grieve- why would I be sad that she can walk, run, leap, spin in heaven? I and others are sad she is gone; but she? She is happy. She is face to face with Jesus. She served him in so many ways, one of the major ones being just loving others. She loved others with notes, phone call, and cooked goods. I will never forget her freezer labeled and stuffed with goods for church families and mission trips. I kid you not, HUNDREDS of cookies. One way she served was baking and sharing, always with just a little extra vanilla.
I want to be a lot like Jenny Sue. No matter how she felt, she loved others when the opportunity arose. I think it became habit, after years of it, to hunt for opportunities!
I want to do that.
She also loved everyone as if they were family. This woman had tons of friends, and that is probably why. She just automatically loved and welcomed people. I wonder if she has always been that way?
I want to love like that. And...
...bake a lot of cookie bars.
Thanks Jenny Sue!, and thanks God for her life.
Jenny Sue passed away yesterday. I'm glad she doesn't have to deal with medical problems that frustrated her quite a lot, but I grieve that I won't get to see her until I get to heaven. That is about all you can grieve- why would I be sad that she can walk, run, leap, spin in heaven? I and others are sad she is gone; but she? She is happy. She is face to face with Jesus. She served him in so many ways, one of the major ones being just loving others. She loved others with notes, phone call, and cooked goods. I will never forget her freezer labeled and stuffed with goods for church families and mission trips. I kid you not, HUNDREDS of cookies. One way she served was baking and sharing, always with just a little extra vanilla.
I want to be a lot like Jenny Sue. No matter how she felt, she loved others when the opportunity arose. I think it became habit, after years of it, to hunt for opportunities!
I want to do that.
She also loved everyone as if they were family. This woman had tons of friends, and that is probably why. She just automatically loved and welcomed people. I wonder if she has always been that way?
I want to love like that. And...
...bake a lot of cookie bars.
Thanks Jenny Sue!, and thanks God for her life.
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