My new year resolution is to seek out peace in my all areas of my life and relationships.
Wow.
That feels lofty after writing it down.
Not that my life is not peaceful. there are moments.
But with 4 kids, a dog, sports, school, work, a house, bills and life, that feeling of peace often goes out the window.
Ah ha and therein lies the problem for me- the feeling of peace goes out the window
So peace must be more than a feeling.
A practice?
A part of my character?
I'm not exactly sure what to call it right now but I hope to find out.
This morning, I read psalms 4 and verse 4 really spoke to me:
do not sin by letting anger control you
think about it overnight and remain silent
So many words to replace anger came to mind-
do not sin by letting jeaously, fatigue, negative thinking, criticalness, impatience...control you
think about it overnight and remain silent.
Remain silent. For I know that in silence peace can be found.
Jesus, please help me remain silent at times when my emotions threaten to steal my peace and therefore the peace of those around me. Remind me to choose silence today over sin.
Friday, December 28, 2012
Thursday, December 27, 2012
A Baby Changes Everthing
Early every morning, before anyone else in my house is awake, I get up and go for a walk.
It's dark and it's cold, but it's also wonderfully peaceful.
It's my time.
My time to pray, think or listen to music.
It's one of my favourite parts of the day.
Last month, I started to listen to Christmas music while walking and one of my favourites quickly became the song; "A Baby Changes Everything."
It's true.
Jesus' birth, God sending His son to earth as a baby, changed everything; for you, for me, for all of humanity.
A baby's birth. God's son coming to earth. A beautiful, yet quiet declaration of His love for us. Setting the path for us to eternal life. Giving us hope.
Having children does change everything.
I have four children; 3 boys and 1 girl, ages 12,11,8 and 6. Being a parent is so much harder than I ever expected it to be. I mean, if you're in it, then you're in it, right? As a mom, I know that I need to teach, coach, and come along side my kids as they find their way in life. And I have dreams for them. Lots of dreams. Most of all, I want them to be good people. To live the life they were called to live. To be difference makers in this world and in the lives of others.
One of the most unexpected blessings for me as a mom, has been the way my kids encourage and teach me. Last summer, the five of us, biked to the beach regularly. Attached to my bike was the trailer that Carys sat in, surrounded by various items- snacks, flippers, towels, chairs. Each of the boys carried some items in their backpacks to help lighten the load, butthe trailer was often still heavy. Biking back was sometimes hard for me. It was uphill and windy most of the way. And there were several times that I just didn't think I could do it. Carys would always be cheering for me to keep going from her spot in the trailer. And two of my sons kept leading the way and cheering me on from ahead. And it was my 11 year old son, who came back to bike with me. Zachary rode beside me, keeping the same speed I was, telling me over and over - you can do this Mom. And I did. Because of them.
My kids have also taught me that there are things I still need to work on. Um hm, like patience, maybe?
My children teach me in small ways everyday, and a few weeks ago my daughter taught me something big.
In the fall, we found out that my husband needed to have surgery. Nothing major, Just day surgery but they would be running some more tests after just to make sure nothing was really wrong.
Now if you know my husband at all, you know that doctors, hospitals, surgeries are really not his thing. He has passed out getting his blood pressure taken. So needless to say he was feeling very anxious about his upcoming procedure. And I was worried too about how he would do and what the outcome of the tests would be.
A week before his surgery, we were at the rink. My daughter had just gotten off the ice and was playing with a friend. Suddenly I heard crying and my daughter's friend came running to tell me that Carys was hurt. I folllowed the sobs and found Carys, eyes wide as saucers holding her hand against her. "My fingers did the splits Mommy!" she said. I looked at her hand and her pinky was not where it should have been. It was sticking out sideways. Her finger had done more than the splits- it was broken.
We arrived at the hospital and everything happened very quickly. Within 45 minutes, Carys was assessed, xrayed, put under and her finger reset. It wasn't until I was waiting for her to wake up that it all hit me. Sitting there alone beside her hospital bed my thoughts started race. Would she be ok when she woke up? Would she be in pain? How would her finger heal? How am I going to keep her from injuring it more while it heals? What about Mark? How is he going to do? What will the tests show? And then there's.... And so on and so on.
By the time Carys did wake up, I was in quite a state. I felt anxious. I felt fragile. I felt alone.
As Carys stirred I leaned close to her and asked her; Are you awake honey? Are you ok?
Nodding her head, she turned her precious little face toward me and whispered three words; "Trust in God".
Then she closed her eyes I went back to sleep.
Trust in God.
So simple. So completely true.
I settled back in my chair in stunned silence and allowed her words to wash over me. And as they did, all the fear and anxiety that had gripped my heart began to fade away. And I felt a peace I hadn't had in a long time.
Trust in God. We can. Because of his love for us. Because of the way He demonstrated that to us by giving us His son. Baby Jesus. Changed everything. Turning our hopelessness into hope. Replacing our fears with joy.
It's dark and it's cold, but it's also wonderfully peaceful.
It's my time.
My time to pray, think or listen to music.
It's one of my favourite parts of the day.
Last month, I started to listen to Christmas music while walking and one of my favourites quickly became the song; "A Baby Changes Everything."
It's true.
Jesus' birth, God sending His son to earth as a baby, changed everything; for you, for me, for all of humanity.
A baby's birth. God's son coming to earth. A beautiful, yet quiet declaration of His love for us. Setting the path for us to eternal life. Giving us hope.
Having children does change everything.
I have four children; 3 boys and 1 girl, ages 12,11,8 and 6. Being a parent is so much harder than I ever expected it to be. I mean, if you're in it, then you're in it, right? As a mom, I know that I need to teach, coach, and come along side my kids as they find their way in life. And I have dreams for them. Lots of dreams. Most of all, I want them to be good people. To live the life they were called to live. To be difference makers in this world and in the lives of others.
One of the most unexpected blessings for me as a mom, has been the way my kids encourage and teach me. Last summer, the five of us, biked to the beach regularly. Attached to my bike was the trailer that Carys sat in, surrounded by various items- snacks, flippers, towels, chairs. Each of the boys carried some items in their backpacks to help lighten the load, butthe trailer was often still heavy. Biking back was sometimes hard for me. It was uphill and windy most of the way. And there were several times that I just didn't think I could do it. Carys would always be cheering for me to keep going from her spot in the trailer. And two of my sons kept leading the way and cheering me on from ahead. And it was my 11 year old son, who came back to bike with me. Zachary rode beside me, keeping the same speed I was, telling me over and over - you can do this Mom. And I did. Because of them.
My kids have also taught me that there are things I still need to work on. Um hm, like patience, maybe?
My children teach me in small ways everyday, and a few weeks ago my daughter taught me something big.
In the fall, we found out that my husband needed to have surgery. Nothing major, Just day surgery but they would be running some more tests after just to make sure nothing was really wrong.
Now if you know my husband at all, you know that doctors, hospitals, surgeries are really not his thing. He has passed out getting his blood pressure taken. So needless to say he was feeling very anxious about his upcoming procedure. And I was worried too about how he would do and what the outcome of the tests would be.
A week before his surgery, we were at the rink. My daughter had just gotten off the ice and was playing with a friend. Suddenly I heard crying and my daughter's friend came running to tell me that Carys was hurt. I folllowed the sobs and found Carys, eyes wide as saucers holding her hand against her. "My fingers did the splits Mommy!" she said. I looked at her hand and her pinky was not where it should have been. It was sticking out sideways. Her finger had done more than the splits- it was broken.
We arrived at the hospital and everything happened very quickly. Within 45 minutes, Carys was assessed, xrayed, put under and her finger reset. It wasn't until I was waiting for her to wake up that it all hit me. Sitting there alone beside her hospital bed my thoughts started race. Would she be ok when she woke up? Would she be in pain? How would her finger heal? How am I going to keep her from injuring it more while it heals? What about Mark? How is he going to do? What will the tests show? And then there's.... And so on and so on.
By the time Carys did wake up, I was in quite a state. I felt anxious. I felt fragile. I felt alone.
As Carys stirred I leaned close to her and asked her; Are you awake honey? Are you ok?
Nodding her head, she turned her precious little face toward me and whispered three words; "Trust in God".
Then she closed her eyes I went back to sleep.
Trust in God.
So simple. So completely true.
I settled back in my chair in stunned silence and allowed her words to wash over me. And as they did, all the fear and anxiety that had gripped my heart began to fade away. And I felt a peace I hadn't had in a long time.
Trust in God. We can. Because of his love for us. Because of the way He demonstrated that to us by giving us His son. Baby Jesus. Changed everything. Turning our hopelessness into hope. Replacing our fears with joy.
"My whole life was turned around.
I was lost but now I'm found.
A baby changes everything."
Thank you Jesus for coming to earth and changing our world.
As we celebrate your birth, help us remember that no matter what lies ahead of us,
all we need to do is trust in you.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Just had to share this today
The Mystery of Answered Prayer
I asked God for strength, that I might achieve;
I was made weak, that I might humbly obey
I asked for health, that I might do great things;
I was given infirmity, that I might do greater things
I asked for riches, that I might be happy;
I was given poverty that I might be wise
I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men;
I was given weakness that I might feel the need for God
I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life;
I was given life, that I might enjoy all things
I got nothing I asked for but everything I hoped for
Depsite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered
Friday, March 23, 2012
"you can do this by adding goodness"
It has taken me a few days to unpack the next part of this verse.
I am all about measuring goodness. Am I good enough? Was that good enough? Are my kids good enough? Ugh. It can drain me.
Over the years, I have learned (and tried to put into practise) that the only way I can ever be "good enough" is to keep my eyes and heart focused on Jesus. Not on other people or the things the world points to as measures of goodness or success.
It is still a struggle though for me at times.
So I wasn't really sure what to say about this part of the verse.
How can I focus on goodness without getting caught up in measuring my worth by it?
Then this morning, I came across this quote by John Wesley:
Do all the good you can
by all the means you can
in all the ways you can
for all the people you can
at all the times you can
for as long as you can.
In other words, ask to be a simple conduit of God's goodness; allowing His goodness to flow through me at all times. It's not something I can do or add to my life except through God.
Monday, March 19, 2012
growing
Yesterday I posted some "words to live by".
One of the quotes, I have decided to make my year's verse.
Here it is:
One of the quotes, I have decided to make my year's verse.
Here it is:
Do your best to grow your faith.
You can do this by adding
goodness, understanding, self-control, patience,
devotion to God and concern for others.
This will make your life useful and meaningful.
2 Peter 1:5-8
Wow. Do I ever LOVE this verse.
Over the next while I'd like to spend some time, meditating on it and thinking of ways that I can really apply it to my life.
So here goes.
"Do my best to improve my faith"
Just like I try to "improve" my health or tackle a project with excellence, so I must also be diligent and active about strengthening my faith.
How can I do this?
- reading and memorizing God's word
as Colossians 3:16 says;
Let the message of Christ, in all it's richness
dwell in me richly
as Colossians 3:16 says;
Let the message of Christ, in all it's richness
dwell in me richly
-asking Him to lead me throughout my day
-listen for and obey His voice (even if it seems crazy!)
-thank Him daily for all my blessings
-trust Him daily for all my needs
-journal His faithfulness, keep a record and review it when I need reminders
of faithful Jesus has been to me
of faithful Jesus has been to me
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Words to LIVE by
I came across these great words to LIVE by and couldn't resist posting.
I pray they will INSPIRE you.
I pray they will INSPIRE you.
Gratitude can not always change
your circumstances
But
It CAN
help you see beyond them
To make the best use of your
INTUITION
think less and
LISTEN more
With disappointment comes a decision
you can either fall back
or find another way to move forward
Stop seeing life as a problem to be solved
and rather as a gift to be enjoyed
And my two favourites
Give BEYOND what you think will help
Do your best to improve your faith.
You can do this by adding goodness, understanding, self-control
patience, devotion to God and concern for others.
These will make your life useful and meaningful
2 Peter 1:5-8
Finding time to improve my faith can be a challenge. That's why I am so excited to begin on the 18th of March Melissa Taylor's on-line bible study called "An Untroubled Heart" based on the book by Micca Campbell. You can check it out at melissataylor.org
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
kites, cravings and ginger root tea
Someone once said that "coincidence is when God chooses to remain anonymous." Well over the past several weeks let me tell you that there have been just too many coincidences for me to not stand up and notice that God is at work in my life.
It started with a fairly innocuous comment I made to my husband. I told him I wanted to start cooking healthier meals for our family. Not that I don't try to offer healthy choices each day, but with our hectic schedule, I felt that I had fallen into a bit of a rut. A rut that consisted of chicken, potatoes and either a green, orange or white vegetable.
A few days later, the kids and I stopped into Chapters to spend some left over gift cards from Christmas. I just happened to see Lysa TerKeurst's (one of the most inspiring women to me!) new book; Made to Crave, and since I love her books and had been interested in reading this new one, I picked it up.
I devoured it (pun intended)! It's a great book about food, women and most importantly the precious, unfailing love of our heavenly father.
The book really made me think about the foods that I crave, when I crave them and why.
I don't think I'm a bad eater, nor do I have issues with my weight, but I have to admit their are times that I rely on food rather than on Jesus to fill up my soul.
As Lysa suggested, I started praying more through my day about the foods I was eating. And a really neat thing happened. The more I did this, the less I found myself craving "bad foods" and the more I found myself craving foods that were less processed and ultimately better for my body. Coincidence? I don't think so!
A day or two later, I recevied an email from a local health food store promoting it's spring veggie box program. I had been receiving these emails weekly and as quickly as they entered my inbox, I deleted them. But not this day. No, backed by prayer, I read this email and realized what an awesome idea it was. Basically, once a week, I can bring home a box filled with local, organic veggies. The content of which would vary by the week. As I read through the vegetable and fruit options, I grew more and more excited- this was a great way to break me out of my chicken, potato and green, orange or white veggies rut!
So, today I picked up my first box and have spent the better part of this evening trying to find kid friendly recipes for Kale and ginger root! Any ideas?
While it would have been so much easier to pop into the large grocery store just down the street from our house than to drive the extra 20 minutes, out of my way, it felt really good to bring all those veggies home and to know that I was supporting our local farmers and decreasing my family's carbon footprint.
No doubt God is challenging me to rethink my views about and relationship with food.
I have a feeling He is going to be taking me on a journey that may require me to stray a bit from the "norm" or the way things have always been done.
Not necessarily a bad thing.
After all, kites rise highest against the wind, not with it.
And the ginger root. I've decided to pamper myself a bit and make it into a cup of tea!
It started with a fairly innocuous comment I made to my husband. I told him I wanted to start cooking healthier meals for our family. Not that I don't try to offer healthy choices each day, but with our hectic schedule, I felt that I had fallen into a bit of a rut. A rut that consisted of chicken, potatoes and either a green, orange or white vegetable.
A few days later, the kids and I stopped into Chapters to spend some left over gift cards from Christmas. I just happened to see Lysa TerKeurst's (one of the most inspiring women to me!) new book; Made to Crave, and since I love her books and had been interested in reading this new one, I picked it up.
I devoured it (pun intended)! It's a great book about food, women and most importantly the precious, unfailing love of our heavenly father.
The book really made me think about the foods that I crave, when I crave them and why.
I don't think I'm a bad eater, nor do I have issues with my weight, but I have to admit their are times that I rely on food rather than on Jesus to fill up my soul.
As Lysa suggested, I started praying more through my day about the foods I was eating. And a really neat thing happened. The more I did this, the less I found myself craving "bad foods" and the more I found myself craving foods that were less processed and ultimately better for my body. Coincidence? I don't think so!
A day or two later, I recevied an email from a local health food store promoting it's spring veggie box program. I had been receiving these emails weekly and as quickly as they entered my inbox, I deleted them. But not this day. No, backed by prayer, I read this email and realized what an awesome idea it was. Basically, once a week, I can bring home a box filled with local, organic veggies. The content of which would vary by the week. As I read through the vegetable and fruit options, I grew more and more excited- this was a great way to break me out of my chicken, potato and green, orange or white veggies rut!
So, today I picked up my first box and have spent the better part of this evening trying to find kid friendly recipes for Kale and ginger root! Any ideas?
While it would have been so much easier to pop into the large grocery store just down the street from our house than to drive the extra 20 minutes, out of my way, it felt really good to bring all those veggies home and to know that I was supporting our local farmers and decreasing my family's carbon footprint.
No doubt God is challenging me to rethink my views about and relationship with food.
I have a feeling He is going to be taking me on a journey that may require me to stray a bit from the "norm" or the way things have always been done.
Not necessarily a bad thing.
After all, kites rise highest against the wind, not with it.
And the ginger root. I've decided to pamper myself a bit and make it into a cup of tea!
Saturday, March 10, 2012
my 41st
Wow. Another year has gone by. And I'm turning the big 4-0!!
If I didn't have so much to be thankful for I might be depressed. But I'm not because thankfully I do.
Not that my life is perfect, far from it.
But it's packed full of crazy chaos and love.
And it's times of reflection like this that make me realize how blessed I am.
Around the time of my birthday I try to come up with a list of things I'd like to work towards in the coming year.
Over the past several days I've been contemplating this list. Here it is...
In my 41st year I'd like to:
Explore and discover more about myself and the world through photography, crafts and journalling.
Plant and grow seeds of love in my community- starting with blessings in a backpack
Be foolish! Follow God's promptings no matter how crazy they seem!
Get even silly sometimes. LOL with my kids each day!
Run my first (and most likely last) half marathon! Despite the protests of my body even before I've started training- Disney Princess here I come!!
Eat more peacefully, naturally and locally starting with veggie box program
Take time out.
Make time for others.
Enjoy life! Not in a self centered way but with appreciation and wonder.
If I didn't have so much to be thankful for I might be depressed. But I'm not because thankfully I do.
Not that my life is perfect, far from it.
But it's packed full of crazy chaos and love.
And it's times of reflection like this that make me realize how blessed I am.
Around the time of my birthday I try to come up with a list of things I'd like to work towards in the coming year.
Over the past several days I've been contemplating this list. Here it is...
In my 41st year I'd like to:
Plant and grow seeds of love in my community- starting with blessings in a backpack
Be foolish! Follow God's promptings no matter how crazy they seem!
Get even silly sometimes. LOL with my kids each day!
Run my first (and most likely last) half marathon! Despite the protests of my body even before I've started training- Disney Princess here I come!!
Eat more peacefully, naturally and locally starting with veggie box program
Take time out.
Make time for others.
Enjoy life! Not in a self centered way but with appreciation and wonder.
Nurture my soul's craving for God
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Isn't it amazing how things in the dark can seem to have more power? In the light of day, the shadows that cause my kids to call out in fear, return to their normal state- a bookshelf, a table, a lamp.
It's the same with things that are unspoken.
Concerns, fears, issues, left silent gather strength and can easily overwhelm and isolate us.
Last week, I posted about fear and how it is a thief. And a powerful one at that.
Today, I want to post about the antidote to fear.
The love, grace and sweet presence of Jesus.
He calms our fears.
He relieves us of the shadows that burden us.
He can shine His light into the darkest parts of our heart and soul and fill us with hope.
Fear may be a thief.
But it is no match for the love of Jesus.
Trust Him today.
It's the same with things that are unspoken.
Concerns, fears, issues, left silent gather strength and can easily overwhelm and isolate us.
Last week, I posted about fear and how it is a thief. And a powerful one at that.
Today, I want to post about the antidote to fear.
The love, grace and sweet presence of Jesus.
He calms our fears.
He relieves us of the shadows that burden us.
He can shine His light into the darkest parts of our heart and soul and fill us with hope.
Fear may be a thief.
But it is no match for the love of Jesus.
Trust Him today.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Fear is the thief
Fear is a thief.
It robs us of joy.
It robs us of hope.
Fear robs us of love.
It robs us of peace.
It robs us of trust.
Fear robs us of faith.
We all have seasons in our life where we have to face the fear and step into the unknown.
Thankfully, we have a beautiful friend who will walk with us and with His perfect love; cast out our fear.
If you are facing a difficult issue. If fear pressing in hard on all sides. I pray that you would feel Jesus' sweet presence in your life today, and know that;
It robs us of joy.
It robs us of hope.
Fear robs us of love.
It robs us of peace.
It robs us of trust.
Fear robs us of faith.
We all have seasons in our life where we have to face the fear and step into the unknown.
Thankfully, we have a beautiful friend who will walk with us and with His perfect love; cast out our fear.
If you are facing a difficult issue. If fear pressing in hard on all sides. I pray that you would feel Jesus' sweet presence in your life today, and know that;
"Your steps are established by the Lord. And he delights in you.
If you fall, you will not be hurled headlong
For the Lord is the One who holds your hand."
psalm 37:23-24
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Legacy ...
Don't worry about scale
Or if it is enough
We all leave a trail
Realizing what ours is and trying to make it
Positive is what leaving a legacy is all about
- R Lucy
Or if it is enough
We all leave a trail
Realizing what ours is and trying to make it
Positive is what leaving a legacy is all about
- R Lucy
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
With Him
It has not been my best morning. Or night either.
The stomach flu has hit our house and whenever that happens, I suddenly lose it.
Colds, fevers, bad marks, moderate injuries, arguments, and most other things that come with mothering don't phase me. But give me a kid whose vomiting and I crumble. I mean they are the ones sick but I am the one crying.
Ah not something I'm proud of.
And this morning, everyone in the house knew I was not coping well. Words were said. My voice was raised. Cupboards were slammed.
Oh how I wish I could just erase all of that.
But I can't.
So here I sit at the feet of Jesus, pleading for forgiveness and asking Him to undo any damage that I did to the hearts or souls of my precious family.
I'm also asking Him to release me of the guilt I feel and help me forgive myself.
To let it go and embrace His amazing grace.
Help me trust You Jesus, always, even when I feel like I can't do this. Help me remember that with you I can.
The stomach flu has hit our house and whenever that happens, I suddenly lose it.
Colds, fevers, bad marks, moderate injuries, arguments, and most other things that come with mothering don't phase me. But give me a kid whose vomiting and I crumble. I mean they are the ones sick but I am the one crying.
Ah not something I'm proud of.
And this morning, everyone in the house knew I was not coping well. Words were said. My voice was raised. Cupboards were slammed.
Oh how I wish I could just erase all of that.
But I can't.
So here I sit at the feet of Jesus, pleading for forgiveness and asking Him to undo any damage that I did to the hearts or souls of my precious family.
I'm also asking Him to release me of the guilt I feel and help me forgive myself.
To let it go and embrace His amazing grace.
Help me trust You Jesus, always, even when I feel like I can't do this. Help me remember that with you I can.
Friday, February 17, 2012
I scrambled to find more tissues for my friend while tears poured down her cheeks.
I was also looking for the right words to say.
Words of comfort. Hope. Peace.
Her daughter is in a lot of trouble.
As my friend cried out the details to me, I felt a rush of emotions.
Disbelief. Anger. Fear.
How could this be? What had happened to this sweet little girl? More importantly, how can we help her?
It's every parent's nightmare. You try to do everything right. You pray. You hope. You trust.
And then suddenly the dreams you have for your child are broken. Crushed by their rebellion, their choices, their words of bitterness and hate.
I wished I had the magic answer for my friend. The perfect solution that would simply wipe this all away and give her her daughter back.
But I didn't.
And so all I could do was promise that I would be there with her to walk with her through this. She would not have to face this alone.
And when she didn't feel she could trust, hope or pray any more, I promised that I would for her.
She doesn't have to be strong.
Her Saviour will be that for her.
I was also looking for the right words to say.
Words of comfort. Hope. Peace.
Her daughter is in a lot of trouble.
As my friend cried out the details to me, I felt a rush of emotions.
Disbelief. Anger. Fear.
How could this be? What had happened to this sweet little girl? More importantly, how can we help her?
It's every parent's nightmare. You try to do everything right. You pray. You hope. You trust.
And then suddenly the dreams you have for your child are broken. Crushed by their rebellion, their choices, their words of bitterness and hate.
I wished I had the magic answer for my friend. The perfect solution that would simply wipe this all away and give her her daughter back.
But I didn't.
And so all I could do was promise that I would be there with her to walk with her through this. She would not have to face this alone.
And when she didn't feel she could trust, hope or pray any more, I promised that I would for her.
She doesn't have to be strong.
Her Saviour will be that for her.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
You will make my people and the people around my hill a blessing and you will
cause showers to come down in its season, there shall be showers of blessings. Ezekiel 34:26
Thank you Jesus for you presence with us.
Thank you for you unfailing love and blessings.
Thank you for our health, for all the many things you have given us; food, clothing, a warm house, security, peace and so much more.
Thank you that my children are beginning to recognize how blessed our life is and are starting to ask questions about helping others.
Please guide me Jesus as I direct my children's hearts to you. Help them hear the calling you have placed on their lives.
May our always hearts remain with yours.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Here's the truth.
My 7 year old son is a liar.
My husband and I used to excuse his "stories" away as just that- stories, or as lapses in his memory, or due to a lack of understanding since he was still young.
But this morning, after he had told me that he had made his bed (and he hadn't), that he had packed his school bag (and he hadn't) and that he had brushed his teeth (as I stood there holding his bone dry tooth brush), my husband and I looked at each other and realized we had a problem.
My husband talked with him and then I did. We tried to explain again why it is so important for us to tell the truth. We talked about how lying always hurts us in the end because the truth always has a way of coming to light. Before he went to school, I prayed with him and reassured him that Jesus would help him make good choices. While I do believe in miracles, I'm pretty sure we'll have to have a few more conversations with Jonah before he fully understands the importance of always telling the truth.
One of the (many) great things about being a mom is that as my children grow and learn through life, I am often challenged to examine areas in my own that need some attention!
So as I went about my morning, I found myself thinking about lying and while I can honestly say I'm not carrying around lies of my own, I do hear them and quite often believe them. The enemy is the father of lies and if I'm not careful, I can believe his whispers of deceit.
I'm not good enough.
I don't do enough.
I'm not forgiven.
I'm not loved.
Thankfully, when we recognize those lies for exactly what they are- lies and ask Jesus to fill our hearts and minds with His truth. He is faithful and will do that and so much more. He will walk with us through our day and whisper words of love and encouragement. He will tell us how much we mean to Him; not because of anything we do or have done but simply because of who we are. His.
My 7 year old son is a liar.
My husband and I used to excuse his "stories" away as just that- stories, or as lapses in his memory, or due to a lack of understanding since he was still young.
But this morning, after he had told me that he had made his bed (and he hadn't), that he had packed his school bag (and he hadn't) and that he had brushed his teeth (as I stood there holding his bone dry tooth brush), my husband and I looked at each other and realized we had a problem.
My husband talked with him and then I did. We tried to explain again why it is so important for us to tell the truth. We talked about how lying always hurts us in the end because the truth always has a way of coming to light. Before he went to school, I prayed with him and reassured him that Jesus would help him make good choices. While I do believe in miracles, I'm pretty sure we'll have to have a few more conversations with Jonah before he fully understands the importance of always telling the truth.
One of the (many) great things about being a mom is that as my children grow and learn through life, I am often challenged to examine areas in my own that need some attention!
So as I went about my morning, I found myself thinking about lying and while I can honestly say I'm not carrying around lies of my own, I do hear them and quite often believe them. The enemy is the father of lies and if I'm not careful, I can believe his whispers of deceit.
I'm not good enough.
I don't do enough.
I'm not forgiven.
I'm not loved.
Thankfully, when we recognize those lies for exactly what they are- lies and ask Jesus to fill our hearts and minds with His truth. He is faithful and will do that and so much more. He will walk with us through our day and whisper words of love and encouragement. He will tell us how much we mean to Him; not because of anything we do or have done but simply because of who we are. His.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
the difference
Learn from yesterday
Live for today
Hope in tomorrow
There is a history of depression that runs deep among the women in my family.
My maternal great-grandmother and grandmother suffered and my aunt and mother still struggle with mental illness today. To spend a day, a week, a month or several years in bed is not out of the norm for them. In fact, growing up, I thought most women spent the majority of their lives either sick or sleeping.
Thankfully, at the tender age of 8, I heard the Lord calling my name and responded to that call by inviting Him into my heart.
Jesus saved me then and has been my saviour in so many ways since.
From that very early age, I knew that I wanted my story to be different. I can't tell you how I knew or even what that "difference" looked like to me back then. All I know is that I was determined that generations of depressed women in my family was going to stop with me.
If only it were that easy!
It's been a battle. One that I need to arm myself for everyday. And one that has only been possible through the enormous support of my husband, closest friends and continual prayer.
To be honest, there are days I'm not sure the battle is even being won.
I look at my kids, my house, my life and find it's so easy to see the negative and feel like it would be so easy to just lay down and take a nap!
But then, this morning, I came across this verse and was reminded again that God changes things.
But when the people came in through the north gateway to worship God, they must leave by the south gateway. They must never leave by the way they came in , but must always use the opposite gate. Ezekiel 46:9
God does not leave as we are. And we are never the same after spending time with Him.
And despite the fact that I am not perfect, nor is my life, when I really think about it, I see that there is a huge difference between the life that I am living and the ones that were modelled for me growing up.
Some days I struggle with thoughts of does any of this matter. Laundry, meals, cleaning chores, volunteer work...I mean really, is there any significance in what I do?
Some days it's hard to see how or what my "different" is and yet I am choosing to trust that God knows.
I am choosing to believe that His plans for my life (no matter how insignificant it may seem) are perfect.
And I am trusting that the way I am embracing life will enthusiastically impact my precious children and the generations that are to come.
Thank you Jesus that when we seek after you, you answer our prayers.
Thank you that you don't leave us as we are but change us according to
your perfect will for our lives.
Thank you Jesus that through you and you alone can we really be different
and all that you have called us to be
Monday, January 30, 2012
my heavenly father
No matter what our relationship is like with our earthly father or mother, we have a heavenly father who loves us unconditionally.
Today it is good for me to remember that;
My Father....
loves me john 3:16
forgives me matt 6:26
cares for me psalms 103:12
pursues me luke 19:10
heals isaiah 53:5
redeems job 19:25
renews isaiah 40:31
is loving and kind psalm 86:15
Today it is good for me to remember that;
My Father....
loves me john 3:16
forgives me matt 6:26
cares for me psalms 103:12
pursues me luke 19:10
heals isaiah 53:5
redeems job 19:25
renews isaiah 40:31
is loving and kind psalm 86:15
Thursday, January 26, 2012
hope
And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts, by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. Romans 5:5
I keep running into this verse. It came on a Christmas card a few weeks ago. A friend handed it to me on a little note last week. And I just came across it again while reading through a Christian parenting magazine.
It's a awesome piece of scripture. Awesome and powerful.
Because it reminds us who our Hope is in and therefore why, no matter what our current situation involves, we can live, joyfully and victoriously. With Hope.
Hope in Jesus does not disappoint.
He is here.
Always.
His plans are perfect for our lives and for the lives of those we love.
All we have to do is trust in Him.
Living in such a broken world it is so easy to lose hope, to assume the worst, to expect disaster.
But God's word tells us otherwise.
God has blessed us with the Holy Spirit to comfort and encourage us. To keep Hope alive in our hearts.
May the hope, love, peace and joy of Jesus' sweet presence fill you and complete you today.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
simple truths
"No one wants to be my friend." my 5 year old daughter announced at the dinner table last night. I could hear the pain in her voice as she went on to explain what some of the kids had been saying to her at school.
I've been there before. Haven't we all? Kids can be mean (hey adults can too!). Learning how to deal with different people and difficult situations is a huge part of attending school.
Still it breaks a mother's heart to hear her child being called "silly", "annoying" and told she's not wanted in "the group."
I put down my fork and pulled Carys onto my lap.
As her tears flowed, I whispered; "Honey you are not those things. You are beautiful and kind and funny and smart and you can always be in my club."
She settled down, climbed off my lap and headed away to her room to play.
Our conversation got me thinking about how everyday we come against situations or people that can cause us to question who we are and what we are worth.
What my daughter is going through right now in Kindergarten is a battle most of us will face, if not daily, then at some point during the rest of our life.
As I was cleaning up the dishes, I started thinking about a book by Beth Moore that I read several years ago. It's called "Believing God". In it, Moore reminds us who we are as a child of God. No matter what the world tells us. No matter what we may "feel" at a given time. These truths do not change.
I pray that I would remember this; for myself and for others. Thank you Jesus for your sweet, precious love.
I've been there before. Haven't we all? Kids can be mean (hey adults can too!). Learning how to deal with different people and difficult situations is a huge part of attending school.
Still it breaks a mother's heart to hear her child being called "silly", "annoying" and told she's not wanted in "the group."
I put down my fork and pulled Carys onto my lap.
As her tears flowed, I whispered; "Honey you are not those things. You are beautiful and kind and funny and smart and you can always be in my club."
She settled down, climbed off my lap and headed away to her room to play.
Our conversation got me thinking about how everyday we come against situations or people that can cause us to question who we are and what we are worth.
What my daughter is going through right now in Kindergarten is a battle most of us will face, if not daily, then at some point during the rest of our life.
As I was cleaning up the dishes, I started thinking about a book by Beth Moore that I read several years ago. It's called "Believing God". In it, Moore reminds us who we are as a child of God. No matter what the world tells us. No matter what we may "feel" at a given time. These truths do not change.
We are loved.
We are chosen.
We are adopted.
We are blessed.
We are forgiven.
And we are redeemed.
I pray that I would remember this; for myself and for others. Thank you Jesus for your sweet, precious love.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Who are my Ninevites?
I always thought the story about Jonah and the whale was about just that- Jonah and the whale.
Well yesterday I learned that the story about Jonah refusing to go to Nineveh and God rescuing him in the whale is about so much more. It is actually a story about God's incredible, never ending love for people. All people. Especially those that are far away from Him.
If you're familiar with this story, you know that, Jonah didn't want to go to Nineveh because he ultimately didn't like those people and was afraid that if he prophesied in that city, the people would repent and God would forgive them.
Jonah! That's awful! How could you not want someone to receive God's forgiveness and mercy.
Oh wait.
Maybe I should ask myself that same question.
Maybe I should take a moment and see if there are any Ninevites in my life?
The people that continually hurt me or disappoint. The people that are just, well, difficult to be around. The people that do things that stir up my condemnation.
The people, to be completely honest, I believe deserve God's judgement more than His grace.
I'm embarrassed to admit this, but I have a few.
And while God hasn't sent a whale to stop me from looking the other way, I know that I need to make a radical change in my heart and attitude towards these people.
I need to stop judging and start praying for them.
I need to stop licking my wounds and start trying to heal theirs.
I need to stop asking God to help me and start looking for ways that I can help them.
Most of all I need to thank God for the love, mercies, grace and blessings that He gives me daily and I need to ask Him to do the same for them.
Well yesterday I learned that the story about Jonah refusing to go to Nineveh and God rescuing him in the whale is about so much more. It is actually a story about God's incredible, never ending love for people. All people. Especially those that are far away from Him.
If you're familiar with this story, you know that, Jonah didn't want to go to Nineveh because he ultimately didn't like those people and was afraid that if he prophesied in that city, the people would repent and God would forgive them.
Jonah! That's awful! How could you not want someone to receive God's forgiveness and mercy.
Oh wait.
Maybe I should ask myself that same question.
Maybe I should take a moment and see if there are any Ninevites in my life?
The people that continually hurt me or disappoint. The people that are just, well, difficult to be around. The people that do things that stir up my condemnation.
The people, to be completely honest, I believe deserve God's judgement more than His grace.
I'm embarrassed to admit this, but I have a few.
And while God hasn't sent a whale to stop me from looking the other way, I know that I need to make a radical change in my heart and attitude towards these people.
I need to stop judging and start praying for them.
I need to stop licking my wounds and start trying to heal theirs.
I need to stop asking God to help me and start looking for ways that I can help them.
Most of all I need to thank God for the love, mercies, grace and blessings that He gives me daily and I need to ask Him to do the same for them.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Yesterday, while waiting for my two youngest children to come out of school, I decided to use the time to respond to a few emails and clear out my inbox. In the process, I came across this beautiful, sweet, simple prayer from Proverbs 31 Ministries; "Jesus, help me to remember that the demands I feel in my life, do not give me permission to be demanding of others."
Ah. What a perfectly timed reminder.
I found myself repeating that prayer many times yesterday and started my day with it this morning.
If you're anything like me, your heart's desire is to be gracious to others, and again, if you're anything like me, the stress and pressure of super busy days can make that grace all but disappear.
Thankfully Jesus understands the life of a mom.
He is abounding in grace; for us and for others. Always. No matter what.
Ah. What a perfectly timed reminder.
I found myself repeating that prayer many times yesterday and started my day with it this morning.
If you're anything like me, your heart's desire is to be gracious to others, and again, if you're anything like me, the stress and pressure of super busy days can make that grace all but disappear.
Thankfully Jesus understands the life of a mom.
He is abounding in grace; for us and for others. Always. No matter what.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Monday, January 16, 2012
What you DO speaks so loud
I can't hear what you say.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson
Actions speak louder than words.
I know that.
Many times throughout my life I have been both victim and perpetrator of spoken hypocrisy.
This morning, I was reviewing the list 10 Ways to Love and the second item; "speak without accusing" jumped out at me.
I admit this is an area of struggle for me. I absolutely LOVE my family but they might not always feel that from me. It takes a lot of organization to keep this home running and sometimes I feel that my role is to bark one order after another at my troops.
Wait a minute, my role? Or the role I've assumed?
I want to be the type of mom that speaks words of life over my children. That inspires them, encourages them and assures them they are loved.
There is a time and place for direction but lately that feels like all I am doing with my kids.
And this I would like to change.
Sweet Jesus, please help me speak words of life over my children. Convict me when I don't and show me how I can be different.
Thank you for giving me the privilege of being their mom.
Friday, January 13, 2012
The Lord God is with me. He is mighty to save.
He will quiet me with His love.
And rejoice over me with singing. Zeph 3:17
This morning, I ran into an acquaintance who I hadn't seen since early December. She was standing with a group of other women so I approached her and asked how her Christmas had been?
Fine, she replied tersely, looked away and then immediately resumed her conversation with the woman standing beside her.
Ouch.
Left standing awkwardly, I managed to tell her to "take care" before I started walking away.
Seconds later I felt the hurt seep in.
What had I done? Why does she sometimes treat me like this? Why did I even try- with her I never know if the reception I get will be warm or icy cold.
Ultimately I know I shouldn't let people get to me so much.
But I do.
I always seem to wear my heart on my sleeve. Which can be an enormous source of blessing in my life. But it can also cause me a lot of pain.
How comforting it was then to spend some time meditating on today's beautiful (and thank you Lord- perfectly timed) verse!
God is with me -even if others are not
He is mighty to save -and comfort me
He will quiet -my anxious thoughts and heart- with His love
He will rejoice over me with singing - and heal my hurt
I don't know what my acquaintance is going through. I don't know all the issues she has in her life. But God does.
And so I will pray this verse for her today as well and trust that even at this very moment God will be drawing her close to Him and meeting her every need.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
A new year. A new me?
Unfortunately for most of us , the goals we set in the time frame we give ourselves , are not easy to achieve. Frustration sets in. Old patterns creep back. And by mid January we have all but given up on this brand new year.
Hmmmm maybe what we all need right now is just a little bit of inspiration.
I came across a list on a blog called the change.
I love lists, especially ones that inspire me to be someone better. This list does exactly that. It's called 10 principles for personal development. And coming right on the heels of the list; 10 ways to love that I posted the other week, it's given me even more to think about and work towards.
Here it is. I hope it just might inspire you too!
In 2012 I will:
- Be loving toward all I meet
- Forgive all who harm me
- Become what I think therefore I will only think great things
- Look for ways to strengthen those around me
- Seek the truth
- Be honest
- Never waste what I have been given
- Appreciate what I have
- Cultivate a spirit of optimism
- Deepen my faith in God
By the way, the picture at the top of this post is from the summit at Sugarloaf. Amazing and completely inspiring in itself!
We are off to ski for a few days. So while I will be of taking a break from exploring the theme of trust, packing up the van with four kids to go skiing requires some measure of that, right??
There is something so soothing about a still, wintery day. The earth appears to be resting under a soft covering of snow.
Traveling today the landscape could hardly be described as anything other than bleak. Gray mixed with brown, a hint of green, all sprinkled with snow.
And yet despite staring at this for hours from my passenger window, I felt peace. Not boredom but contentment. Interrupted every few moments by the giggles and yells from the backseat!
There is something so soothing about a still, wintery day. The earth appears to be resting under a soft covering of snow.
Traveling today the landscape could hardly be described as anything other than bleak. Gray mixed with brown, a hint of green, all sprinkled with snow.
And yet despite staring at this for hours from my passenger window, I felt peace. Not boredom but contentment. Interrupted every few moments by the giggles and yells from the backseat!
Friday, January 6, 2012
an image of trust
Hope does not disappoint us because God has poured out His love in our hearts through the Holy Spirit whom He has given us. Romans 5:5
Just as this cold, frozen branch is still green with life so can our hope be when we place our trust in Jesus. Just like this ice covered branch waits for a new day, a new season, a coming spring, we too can look beyond our present circumstances and trust in the perfect plans God has for our life.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted. My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you. Job 42:12
What better example of a man who's trust in God could be understandably shaken than Job? Yet while his family, home, crops and health failed, God was planning on giving him double of what he had lost. Job didn't know that though. Yet his trust in God remained firm.
Sometimes it's because of my past.
Sometimes it's my present circumstances that shake my trust.
Sometimes it's just that little voice in my head that says if God really loves you then why...?
In Hebrews Paul reminds us that "Faith is being sure of what we hope for and confident of what we can not see."
Just as King Hezekiah never wavered. Just as Job's faith held strong, so I want my trust in God to be.
Sweet Jesus please help me keep my eyes on you and you alone so that no matter what I am facing in my life, my trust in You will not be shaken.
What better example of a man who's trust in God could be understandably shaken than Job? Yet while his family, home, crops and health failed, God was planning on giving him double of what he had lost. Job didn't know that though. Yet his trust in God remained firm.
Sometimes it's because of my past.
Sometimes it's my present circumstances that shake my trust.
Sometimes it's just that little voice in my head that says if God really loves you then why...?
In Hebrews Paul reminds us that "Faith is being sure of what we hope for and confident of what we can not see."
Just as King Hezekiah never wavered. Just as Job's faith held strong, so I want my trust in God to be.
Sweet Jesus please help me keep my eyes on you and you alone so that no matter what I am facing in my life, my trust in You will not be shaken.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Yesterday I posted this verse:
Hezekiah trusted the Lord, the God of Israel and there was no other king like him in all of Judah. 2 Kings 18:4-6
I had never heard of King Hezekiah but since I was intrigued by the statement that there was no other King like him, I did some research to try and discover what made him so unique. I found out that this King was courageous. He was wise. He was careful with his speech. He was not afraid to do the right thing. He reigned for 29 years. And in those 29 years, never wavered.
Other than the fact that the bible says he trusted the Lord, I don't know any other details about Hezekiah's relationship with God.
However a relationship of trust must be based on time spent with someone. I have no doubt then that Hezekiah spent time talking with and listening to God. 2 Kings Chapter 18 also says that Hezekiah was faithful to God. In good times and in bad. Because he trusted Him.
Trusted without wavering.
Hezekiah trusted the Lord, the God of Israel and there was no other king like him in all of Judah. 2 Kings 18:4-6
I had never heard of King Hezekiah but since I was intrigued by the statement that there was no other King like him, I did some research to try and discover what made him so unique. I found out that this King was courageous. He was wise. He was careful with his speech. He was not afraid to do the right thing. He reigned for 29 years. And in those 29 years, never wavered.
Other than the fact that the bible says he trusted the Lord, I don't know any other details about Hezekiah's relationship with God.
However a relationship of trust must be based on time spent with someone. I have no doubt then that Hezekiah spent time talking with and listening to God. 2 Kings Chapter 18 also says that Hezekiah was faithful to God. In good times and in bad. Because he trusted Him.
Trusted without wavering.
Thank you Jesus for introducing me to King Hezekiah
and inspiring my heart through his legacy of trusting you.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
remaining in trust
2 Kings 18:4-6
And when Daniel was lifted from the den, no wound was found on him, because he had trusted in his God.
Daniel 6:22-24
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:12-14
Monday, January 2, 2012
trust without wavering
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
Lean not on your own understanding
In all ways acknowledge Him
He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust Jesus. Trust His love, faithfulness, grace, mercies. Trust His compassion, his concern and care for you. Trust in His plan for all the days, hours, minutes of your life.
Lean on Him. Lean into Him when times are tough. Cry on His shoulder. Turn to Him for wisdom. Thank Him for the joys and celebrations. Stay by His side.
Acknowledge Him. Always. Seek His will. Praise Him for everything good thing- big or small- that you have in your life.
Depend on Him to watch over your life. Knowing that He will make your way clear. Even if you can't see the road ahead. Even if the situation seems hopeless. Even if you start to doubt. Especially then.
Trust.
Lean not on your own understanding
In all ways acknowledge Him
He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust Jesus. Trust His love, faithfulness, grace, mercies. Trust His compassion, his concern and care for you. Trust in His plan for all the days, hours, minutes of your life.
Lean on Him. Lean into Him when times are tough. Cry on His shoulder. Turn to Him for wisdom. Thank Him for the joys and celebrations. Stay by His side.
Acknowledge Him. Always. Seek His will. Praise Him for everything good thing- big or small- that you have in your life.
Depend on Him to watch over your life. Knowing that He will make your way clear. Even if you can't see the road ahead. Even if the situation seems hopeless. Even if you start to doubt. Especially then.
Trust.
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