A learning process...

We affectionately called them "light bulb" or "ahh haa" moments!  While teaching, it was a thrill to see students "get it."  It was obvious in their facial expressions, body language and enthusiasm.  We knew...that they knew...and the joys of those moments built a foundation for future moments, too. 

I must admit.  I also love those "ahh haa" moments!  The more I learn, the more I want to learn.  Yes, I was the child that asked questions relentlessly...until my very patient Dad would finally say out of controlled exasperation..."it's that way just to make little girls ask questions."  I haven't changed. Whether learning a new instrument, writing a new devotion, composing a new song or making a new creation in the kitchen...I love learning.  I am also "one of those" people that loves to spend time in bookstores in multiple areas of interest.  Of course, I love learning about my passion--crisis and trauma counseling.  But it's not unusual for me to review resources about music, plants, horses, carpentry, cooking, refinishing or upholstering furniture, ballet, home decorating, fitness, floor plans....and the list goes on. I love learning. 

Yet, totally against my nature, I have learned that there are times when I will not learn what I desire.  There will not be answers to  how...why...when...what...or even who.  For a "curious since birth" individual, this is challenging. I joke about taking a list with me to Heaven...but somehow I don't think my list will be so important anymore.

Until then, I wonder how to handle questions along this journey.  Uncertainties.  Disappointments.  Inconsistencies.  Heartbreaks.  Shocks.  Unexpected.  Thankfully, there is direction for my curious mind and seeking heart. 

Colossions 4: 2 says:  "Devote yourselves to prayer, be watchful and thankful." Very simple but most essential. My questions and learning find direction in three ways:  praying, watching and thanking.    Knowing He hears my every prayer calms my searching spirit.  Watching for Him keeps my focus on Him, His Word, His promises and His purpose.  Thanking Him...reminds me of His Presence, peace, protection and provision. 

This journey is a learning process.  Yet I find that the most important lesson is learning to trust Him. Continually.  Completely.  There are answers I may never find.  But knowing The One Who is The Answer...is the best "ahh haa moment" I will ever experience.♥~thl

Write for now....

It happened again.  Often, I evaluate my life on various levels.  That includes my time spent writing and sharing it on Facebook, as well as on my blog site.  With much going on in my life otherwise presently, I feel it is wise to check on what is working and what is not...and what needs to change.

I love being in touch with friends all over the world on social media.  There are so many friendships I enjoy and treasure.  Yet sometimes, I truly wonder if what I am doing is making any difference at all.  Sure, I love to write.  I love to try to encourage someone on their journey.  I love to stay connected with those I love and miss.  But if it is no longer making a difference, perhaps I should make some changes and consider other options.

I will be blatantly honest.  Last week, I was ready to withdraw from social media completely.  Oh, there were people I would have shared my contact information with so we would stay connected.  Truthfully, I was one click away from closing this chapter in my life...temporarily, at least.  Perhaps permanently.

Then a very dear person shared that something made a difference in their life.  I was honestly shocked.  So I prayed...and listened....and wondered...and re-evaluated.  As a minister's wife, I know the work and preparation that goes into a message each week.  As a former teacher, I know the work that goes into lesson plans, preparation and presentation.  As a musician, director and writer, I know the effort that goes into preparation, practice and delivery.  As a counselor, I know the time that goes into research, studies, analysis and practice.  But there's one thing I had forgotten.

Somehow, I lost sight of Who I am serving and why I do what I do in this life.  It's not about expectations...or experience...or results....or responses.  It is totally, completely, no holds barred on doing what God has called me to do, in this season of my life, as long as He calls me to do it...for Him.  He is the reason for my every breath.  He is the reason for every word I write, speak, sing or select.  He is the reason I try so share, try to encourage and try to make a difference.  Instead of evaluating what I think needs to be done or how effective my life is in various aspects, I simply need to listen to Him...do what He asks...honor Him above all else...and leave the rest to Him.  If I am ineffective, He will close this door and open others.  If there is another direction He desires for me, I will do so. Immediately.

But for tonight...for this time...in this way...I will simply listen to Him and do what He asks me to do.  I will know if/when this season changes.  He will bring a peace into my heart, new opportunities into my life and make His direction obvious, as I clearly ask of Him daily.  Whatever we do, wherever we are, however we serve, whenever the season allows...may He be the One we serve ultimately and faithfully.  Thank You, God, for allowing me to offer these simple words...for Your glory...for now.♥~thl

"'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the Lord.'  As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways highter than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts."  Isaiah 55: 8>9

I can't but I will...

I wish I had all the answers.
But I don't.
I wish I always knew what to do.
But I don't.
I wish life always made sense....
But it doesn't.
I wish I could change many things.
But I can't.

But one thing I can, and will, do...
Is remember Who listens, leads and loves me. I will cling to Him through it all. ♥~thl

"'Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet My unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor My covenant of peace be removed,' says the Lord, Who has compassion on you." Isaiah 54: 10

Unfolding moments...

The journey unfolds moment by moment.
One moment is filled with warmth and wonder.
Another moment is heartwrenching and confusing.

Yet the journey unfolds moment by moment.
Its twists and turns are unannounced and unknown.
But I know the journey is not one I travel alone.

His Presence is with me.
His Love sustains me.
His Peace surrounds me

I do not know what lies ahead.
But I know Who holds me through it all.
I move forward...as the journey unfolds.♥~thl

"But now, Lord, what do I look for?  My hope is in You."  Psalm 39: 7

The difference in a day...

The day began differently than it ended.  After struggling with allergies, I realized the fight had escalated.  Now the asthma was worsening. But I would not give in.  I awoke realizing how much work needed to be done today.  My agenda was full.

Everything changed around noon.  It became obvious that this battle had taken another turn.  So I developed a strategy and adjusted my agenda.  This day would not be surrendered to a mere battle with pollen and airways.  Things changed again.  By late afternoon, I was sitting in our doctor's office.  My schedule, menu, goals and activities had come to a sudden halt.  Now I was doing something totally unexpected and unplanned.  Things were not going my way.  Frustration crossed my mind.

Yet something else crossed my mind.  Gratitude.  Enormous gratitude.  I reconsidered what had just happened.  When I had a need that could not continue over the weekend, I was able to make a call, drive to the hospital and visit our incredible doctor and staff.  Not only was the need addressed but kindness, concern, encouragement and even laughter were shared.  I drove to the pharmacy where I was able to pick up several medications and many smiles, too. 

Yes, my schedule changed.  My agenda was adjusted.  Projects were delayed.  But people who cared and shared, when I needed them most, touched my life much deeper than anything I had planned for my day.

I began wondering.  What a difference it would make if we were more aware, receptive and responsive to the lives of others!  Although schedules may need changed, lives may actually be changed for eternity.  We never know what a day will bring.   Let's make a difference.♥~thl

"Be devoted to one another in brotherly love.  Honor one another above yourselves.  Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.  Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayers.   Share with God's people who are in need.  Practice hospitality."  Romans 12: 10>13

"YANAAAL"...

It's an acronym I created to share with my loved ones:  YANAAAL.  It stands for...You Are Never Alone And Always Loved.  I always want those dear to me to know that there's never a single moment they are not surrounded by my love, thoughts and prayers.  Even more, I want it to remind them that God is with them and loves them even more than I do.

What I didn't realize however, was that this little "acronym of affection" would become so essential  in my own life.  It's easy to feel God's Presence and love when life is going well and the journey is unfolding smoothly.  Yet when our path becomes more challenging, confusing or concerning, it is often difficult to remember that we are not alone. 

Raised to be fiercely independent, there are times I am grateful for that tendency.  Yet as my journey has progressed, I have learned that it is essential to realize my total dependence on God.  My every breath comes from Him.  My every heartbeat comes from Him.  My every moment is a gift from Him.  All that I am able to do...is a gift from Him.  And what I cannot do...He handles that, too. 

What also amazes me is that He is Present with me...every single moment.  No matter where I am, what I face or what lies ahead, He is with me.  Not only is He available...but He is also accessible!  I can talk to Him...anytime, anywhere, about anything.  I have always "known" that.  Yet only recently have I learned the incredible value of that in my life in a very real...and, yes, even dependent...way.  Knowing I am not alone...for He is with me....and I am always loved...for He will never forsake me...makes all the difference on this precious journey.♥~thl

"I love the Lord, for He heard my voice; He heard my cry for mercy.  Because He turned His ear to me, I will call on Him as long as I live."  Psalm 116:  1>2   

Dark nights and bright stars...

It's a moment when I once again thank God for the precious people He has put in my life.  As those closest to me know, this year has included some major challenges.  Yet...each step of this journey, I am reminded that I am never alone...and I am always loved.  I am so grateful for the dear friends who care, pray, hug, hold, listen and love me authentically and consistently.  It is indeed true that in the darkest nights, the stars shine brightest. I have incredible, beautiful and amazing stars in my life...and I continue to learn so much from those who shine along this path.  May we all reach out to each other with compassion and sincerity.  Each life matters.  Each moment makes a difference.♥~thl

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."  Ephesians 5: 1

Screech owls and searching hearts...

It's chilling, to be quite honest.  We love living in the country for many reasons.  Occasionally, however, there are experiences that aren't always easy to handle.  Snakes and coyotes are my least favorite confrontations, so far.  But there's something about hearing a screech owl nearby that sends chills through me.

I'm not referring to the usual "hoot" of a common owl.  What we have heard recently is a piercing call that is alarming, eerie and distinct.  I realize it's an owl...but the sound is uncanny and unpleasant to hear night after night.  I am sure there are reasons for its call, but it certainly captures our attention.

I began thinking. Perhaps there are other sounds we don't enjoy hearing, either.  Sometimes we deliberately ignore the cries of people who are hurting, searching, struggling or lost. Perhaps it would require leaving our comfort zones to acknowledge and and assist someone with a need.  Maybe we feel that it is up to someone else to assist them.  Maybe we simply don't know what to do or say.  Maybe we find it challenging to listen to someone else because we are working much too hard to ignore our own pain. 

Obviously, there are situations that require and deserve more specialized care and treatment.  However, I wonder what difference it would make if we showed more compassion, concern and commitment to hurting hearts, wounded lives and struggling souls.  I wonder what continued prayers, listening ears, tender hearts and amazing love would do in this heartbroken world.  May we never forget that the piercing sound of shattered lives...bring opportunities to share His life-changing love and hope.<3~thl

"Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."  Galations 6: 2

Looking up...

Thank You, God, for holding us...
when we stumble,
when we fall,
when we lose our way,
when we hurt,
when we don't understand,
when our tears fall,
when we bury pain,
when our loved ones are ill,
when we miss loved ones,
when we don't know what's ahead,
when our past haunts us,
when our present is overwhelming,
when we have nothing left...
But You.

Thank You for loving us each moment.
May we never lose sight of You.♥~thl

"Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always."  Psalm 105: 4

It's time...

Dear God~
So many hurting hearts...
So many unanswered questions...
So many broken lives...
So much unspoken pain...

May we take time to notice.
May we take time to pray.
May we take time to reach out.
May we take time to care.♥~thl

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, Who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God."  2 Corinthians 1: 3>4

Because of Him...

His Presence is undeniable.
His Peace is unmistakable.
His Hope is unforgettable.
His Promises are unbreakable.
His Power is unmatchable.
His Love is unconditional.
Because of Him, my journey remains possible.♡~thl

"I can do everything through Him Who gives me strength." Philippians 4: 13

His hands are holding...

It's another moment when I just can't get dear loved ones off my heart and mind. My heart, thoughts and prayers surround my parents each moment of every day. Oh, how I love and miss them. I am so thankful that God holds them in His hands as I long to hold them in my arms.♡~thl
#livingfarawayhurts
#trustingHimandmissingthem

"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4: 7

Candle collection...

It's a new centerpiece on our dining room table.  Tim and I recently purchased a collection of battery-operated candles in various sizes.  Not only are they beautiful as they glow and flicker during the night hours, but they also have a timer which regulates the hours they are used.  Adding seasonal touches to the arrangement is enjoyable.  But as my closest loved ones know, I absolutely adore candlelight and the ambience it provides.

I began thinking.  If such beautiful light can influence the atmosphere, mood and feel of a room so effectively, I must wonder about the way the Light of the world, Himself, can influence our lives.  As we set the timer for our candles to glow in the darkest part of night, I am reminded that our Lord is present with us continually...including times when this journey seems so dreary. 

I am also reminded of the various shapes and sizes of our candle collection.  Some are tall.  Some are short. Some are medium.  Yet each one shares its light.  Individually, each candle is beautiful.  United, the candles present even more influence.  That could be said for each life God has created to shine for Him.  Each light is beautiful and unique.  Together, the light becomes more visible and powerful. 

May we each realize that our hope, strength, purpose and peace come from Him.  May we reflect His love to a world so desperately seeking His light.  May we shine and share Him each precious step of this journey. Someone needs Him this very moment.♥~thl

"When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, 'I am the light of the world.  Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'"  John 8: 12 

This day...

It was one of those days. 
Not a bad day. 
Not my best day. 
Yet another day of life.
I am very grateful.
Much on my heart.
Much on my mind.
Many questions.
Very few answers.

But this I know for certain.
He loves me.
He holds me.
He hears me.
He carries me. 
He will never leave or forsake me.
He knows His plans for my life.
I never alone and always loved.
I will trust Him.♥~thl

"'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,' declares the Lord. 'As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.'"  Isaiah 55: 8>9

Soaring jewelry, precious friendship, amazing God...

It began so uniquely.  I love hearing stories about how friendships and relationships originate.  This one is no exception.  

It started with an earring.  My family and I were attending a Church service and I was very focused on the worship songs.  After singing a few songs, I did what any southern gal would do.  I ran my hands through my hair to make sure all was as it should be.  Then it happened.  One of my four earrings went soaring through the air.  Yes, it literally flew through the air before hitting the floor and rolling down a couple rows.  I tried to remain calm but my thoughts were racing between embarrassment and panic.  What if that earring had hit someone in the head?  What if it had landed on the platform with the praise team and band?  What if it had hit someone in the face or..(gasp)...open mouth while singing?  And this wasn't just any earring.  It was one of my dressy, gold hoops.  It has enough weight to make a point.  Oh yes...there was the part of the earring that goes through the ear.  That was a dangerous point, literally.  Then I began to feel sad.  Those earrings had been a birthday gift. How sad if it was stepped on before I located it after the service...or lost.  The scenario was not improving as I considered all risks in this simple, unexpected departure of my jewelry. 

But then, she appeared.  A precious family we had noticed repeatedly, was sitting a few rows in front of us.  The wife/mom reminded me so much of my lifelong best friend. Same sweet smile.  Similar height.  Similar eye shape and color.  During greeting time, Dorothy turned around and handed me my airborne earring.  She had noticed its escape, kindly rescued it and was now returning it to its partially empty, ear-lobed owner.  I was so touched by her kindness.  Little did I know how the case of the fly-away earring would lead to an incredible friendship. 

Not a day goes by that I don't thank God for Dorothy and her dear family.  Dorothy is one of those precious, tender-hearted, fun-loving and "do anything in the world for you" kind of friends.  She is a friend in great times, tough times, fun times and even in the "I am praying for you" times.  She is a friend I could call in the middle of the night or anytime during the day.  She makes people smile with her Christ-like spirit, genuine heart, constant joy and amazing faith. 

When I consider the beautiful ways God has touched my life, I definitely think of Dorothy.  What an example of God's amazing love and provision.  Only He could use an escaped earring, in the middle of a Church service, to provide opportunity for a treasured friendship.  Isn't that just like God?  He touches our lives each day with His amazing love in the most unexpected and beautiful ways.  I am blessed.  I am amazed. I am grateful.  Thank You, God for Your love, for the wonderful ways You touch our lives...and for my sweet friend, Dorothy.♥~thl

"And now these three remain:  faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."  1 Corinthians 13: 13

More and more...

Years ago, I found a wonderful song in a new worship songbook. I began playing it immediately for preludes and other service opportunities. Recently I ran across the song again...and it tugged at my heart...even stronger than before.  What a reminder that no matter how many years, seasons, experiences and moments pass by, I need Him more and more.  This journey may seem very long at times...but it is always a gift from the One Who holds my hand and gives me strength.♥~thl  

"I need You more,
More than yesterday.
I need You, Lord,
More than words can say.
I need You more
Than ever before.
I need You Lord.
I need You Lord." (Lindell Cooley)

"How lovely is Your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty!  My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God."  Psalm 84: 1>2

With me...

Step by step, He walks beside me.
Hand in hand, He never leaves me.
Moment by moment, His love surrounds me.
Breath by breath, He tenderly sustains me.
I am grateful. I am blessed. I am loved.♡~thl

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path."  Proverbs 3 : 5 > 6

Gratefully led...

He leads me....and I am never alone. So thankful He is with me on this journey Home.♡~thl
Isaiah 26: 3

Seasons for reasons...

Driving home this evening, I noticed much cooler temperatures.  I realized that our daylight hours are already an hour and a half shorter.  I saw the fallen leaves on the ground.  Now that I want to bake pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread...and already made venison chili this week...means fall is here.

Where did summer go?  Why are my flowers beginning to fade?  Why am I beginning to think about pulling hoodies from my fall/winter closet? And why am I already pondering my very favorite wassail recipe as I compile my grocery list?

Those who know me well know that I love spring and summer.  I am not a winter person.  At all.  Fall is beautiful...but I never welcome hay fever season.  Yet spring has come and gone.  Summer is fading fast.  Fall is upon us. Winter will arrive soon.  Although my favorite seasons are behind us for this year, there is certainly beauty in the seasons ahead.  Winter will never be my favorite season...but wassail sure tastes wonderful on a cold, winter's night.  Fall may bring more pollen and sneezing, but those pumpkin pies will smell great as I lift them out of the oven.  It will also be wonderful to have time with friends and family when holidays are here.

Isn't life like that?  One season may be more enjoyable than another.  But there are certainly blessings in each season if we seek them.  Some seasons may be full of celebration and excitement.  Others may be challenging and overwhelming.  Yet knowing that God is with us as we face each season gives me hope, peace, strength and joy.  His Presence makes this journey beautiful and each season purposeful.  And that makes all the difference as we travel Home with Him.♥~thl

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:"  Ecclesiastes 3: 1

Another look...

In the days, weeks, months and years following the horrific "9-11" tragedy,  we tried to process something we had never experienced before.  Shocked, saddened, angry and seeking our way through the unthinkable, we wondered where to begin.  A local congregation held an emergency prayer service that night.  It was unlike any other service I have attended.  We learned that the most important things we could do...was to look to Him...and pray.  We had no answers.  We were overwhelmed.  But He was with us.  He is still with us.  He hears us.

Whitney Houston once sang a song with these lyrics:  "I look to you, I look to you.  After all my strength is gone, in you I can be strong.  I look to you.  I look to you.  And when melodies are gone,
in you I hear a song. I look to you."

As we remember that horrific time in our lives, I pray we will continue to look to Him.  Not just on the "9-11" anniversary.  Not just in times of war and dissention.  Not just in times of stress and uncertainty.  Not just in times of pain and turmoil.  Not just when we don't know what else to do.  But each moment of every day. It's time for our country, our congregations, our families, our relationships and our individual lives to return to focus on Him above all else.  He is with us.  He knows what we face.  He will never leave us.  He cares.  He listens.  He loves.♥~thl

"I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world."  ~Jesus  (John 16: 33)

Thirteen years...then and now...

Dear God~
It's been thirteen years since everything changed.
We needed You then.  We need You now.
Terror and torment ravaged through our country.
Lives lost.  Hearts broken. Destruction abounded. 
We grieved.  We hugged.  We prayed.

Our world continues to change.
We need You so very much.
Uncertainty, cruelty and apathy are prevalent. 
Lives are lost,  Hearts are breaking.  Hopelessness abounds.
We hurt.  We wonder.  We pray.

May we look to You, dear Father.
May we seek Your Truth.
May we share Your Love.
May we seek Your hope and healing.
May we bless You...and May You, O God, bless America.♥~thl

"If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."  2 Chronicles 7: 14

Time share...

During a recent phone conversation, I found myself quite frustrated.  Those who know me best realize that it usually takes awhile for frustration to become an issue for me.  I admit this was an exception. 

The person with whom I was conversing is genuinely kind and loving.  They care about others in authentic and generous ways.  It's just that...well...they didn't stop talking...and had difficulty listening.  As we addressed the present task, I tried to respond to their previous details...only to realize nothing I had said was heard.  The individual continually changed the subject, shared more details, repeated previous details and continued to talk...incessantly.  As my schedule eventaully required ending the conversation, I politely told the individual that I needed to go.  The individual continued talking with no response to my situation.  Once more, I said I had to go because someone was at the door.  The individual seemed shocked that my phone time had to end. 

After the conversation, I was very annoyed.  It seemed that I had only been a sounding board.  Nothing I said was heard.  Nothing.  The individual had a need for my assistance in some matters.  But there was no need to listen to me.  I began to analyze and, yes, even criticize the situation in my frustration.  Then it hit me.

I wonder if God ever feels this way.  How many times do we tell Him about our wants, needs or plans...without listening to what He says?  How many times do we seemed "shocked" when He doesn't seem to answer our requests, demands or plans the way we thought He should?  Why are we more prone to incessantly talk without intimately listening? 

There is no question that God desires for us to talk to Him.  Yet, as in any healthy relationship, it is important to listen to those we love.  He listens.  He loves.  He cares. He knows.  May our relationship with Him be so precious and meaningful that we make time to listen...truly listen...to our Heavenly Father.  He has much to share with us, too.♥~thl

"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations.  I will be exalted in the earth."  Psalm 46: 10

All in a name...

It has been said that before naming a baby, parents should go outside and shout the entire name several times.  That helps the parents determine whether or not they want to keep that name.  After all, they will call it countless times in the years ahead. 

It has also been said that if a child is called by its first name, it is wise to listen.  If the first and second names are called, it is wise to listen more closely.  If the first, second and last names are called, the child should listen with absolutely no hesitation whatsoever!  I know that truth all too well...from both parenting and childhood experiences. 

There's just something about names.  Hearing my name called at high school and college graduations was surreal...yet exciting.  Hearing the names of our children at graduations took joy to a whole new level.  Naming our children after loved ones is an honor.  Seeing our name attached to a house or vehicle brings responsibility.  Names matter. Names influence identity.

Yet when I think of the most important Name of all, I am amazed.  For I know that His Name was chosen by our Heavenly Father.  His Name is powerful, precious and perfect.  His Name is called in praise, sorrow, gratitude and despair.  His Name is wonderful...and His Presence is continual. 

Life brings moments when I don't know what to say...or do...or feel...or think.  However, I am certain of one precious truth.  When I simply call His Name, He hears me.  He still loves me, cares, holds and sustains me. He doesn't ignore or abandon me.  There is no other Name like the name of Jesus.  And that makes all the difference.♥~thl

"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness.  We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express."  Romans 8:  26 

Knowing...

Knowing He knows me by name...
Knowing He cares about my heart...
Knowing He loves me....anyway...
Knowing He holds me in His hands...
Gives me strength and trust in Him.♡~thl
 
"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trust in You."  Isaiah 26 : 3

Held and heard...

His Presence brings me peace.
His love brings me hope.
His power brings me strength.
His grace brings me to my knees.
And when I realize that I have fallen again, He cleanses me with forgiveness once more.
He picks me up. He holds me close. He listens, heals, saves and restores.
I am grateful that He loves me...still.♡~thl

"Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor His ear too dull to hear." Isaiah 59: 1

One hug...

Sometimes there are no words for what lies within the heart. 
Sometimes life makes no sense.
Sometimes answers are not found.
Sometimes I simply need a hug from Him.
Then I am reminded that He is, indeed, faithful.♥~thl

"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail.  They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.  I say to myself, 'The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for Him.'"  Lamentations 3: 22>24

He truly cared...

Recently our alma mater, Kentucky Christian University, experienced the unexpected loss of their dear friend and co-worker.  Bill went into the hospital one day and went to Heaven the next. As I read many comments about his life, a recurring theme was evident.  Bill...truly...cared.

Tim and I met Bill and his sweet wife, Donnette, thirty-one years ago during my summer internship at Northwest Avenue Church of Christ in Tallmadge, Ohio.  I wish I could remember every name from that wonderful congregation.  But I don't.  I do remember several precious families' names.  The Bondurant family is definitely one of them.

When our daughter moved to KCU twenty-four years later, our hearts soared for her...yet ached at how quickly the years had passed.  Yet knowing there were precious people working there, including Bill, made the transition much easier.  How deeply he touched her life, as well as ours.  No matter how busy the days were, Bill always took...time...to...care.  He encouraged.  He listened.  He smiled.  He always had something positive to say.  After Rachel's graduation, Bill was one of the last people we saw before leaving campus.  As always, he stood on the sidewalk, spoke kind and gentle words, told Rachel how proud he was of her...and encouraged our family...yet again. 

His example has been on my mind so much since his sudden transition to Heaven.  What was it that made His life so effective, so respected, so purposeful, so positive, so peaceful, so precious to countless lives?  Again, Bill...truly...cared. Each day. Each person.  I am reminded of another life who took time to care.  He took time for the sick, the sinners, the scorned, the scarred, the hurting, the lost and "the least" of them.  It is the One Who truly cared for each life...that I believe Bill reflected each moment of his life. When I think of Bill's kind, gentle, patient, joyful, humble and loving spirit, I see that he genuinely lived for his Lord.  Now he is in the Presence of the One he loved and served so dearly.

I have always longed to make a difference in this world.  I have searched for ways to do so more effectively.  Yet it seems quite simple when I remember that loving God...and loving others...makes all the difference.  May I make time.  May I listen.  May I care.  May I treat others with compassion and concern.  May I love freely.  May I meet each person with kindness, gentleness, patience, joy, love and hope.  May I stand for truth while serving with tenderness.  May I see value in each life.  May I honor the One who knows me best and loves me most. 

Thank You, God, for lighting this world with Bill Bondurant.  Thank You for our hope of seeing Bill again soon.  Please hold his family close as they hold onto You so faithfully.  Thank You for Your love that carries us each day...and then carries us Home.♥~thl

"Let Your gentleness be evident to all.  The Lord is near."  Philippians 4: 5

Breaths of Gold...

I wouldn't wish it on anyone.  Unfortunately, most of us have experienced having the breath knocked out of us...literally.  It has happened to me more than once.  It happened after a fall.  It happened with an out of control baseball bat.  It happened in a car accident.  It happened a few other times.

There is no comparison, however, to having the breath knocked out of us by someone else's words and actions.  I have been on the receiving end...many times.  I have also hurt others with careless words and thoughtless actions.  

It hurts.  Deeply.  It is destructive.  Even brutal.  Sometimes devastating. I totally disagree with the old adage, "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me."  I have had broken bones.  They healed with time.  I have also experienced brokenness from others' words and deeds.  Healing came...but it took required much more than a cast and crutches. 

From my earliest memories, I have known about "The Golden Rule."  It is simple.  It is easy to understand.  If followed, it can change lives tremendously.  Somehow, it seems dismissed much too easily.  May our hearts be softened...our minds be opened...our tongues be tamed...our actions be considerate...and our lives be life-changing...by realizing the importance of loving Him...and loving others.  Each breath is a gift.  May we treat it...and others...as such.♥~thl

"So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." ~Jesus (Matthew 7: 12)     

A change of plans...

Plans change.  It's understood that what is planned in life is not what always happens.  This weekend was no exception.

My family and I planned a trip over Labor Day weekend.  It didn't happen.  When we came down with the flu, it changed everything.  Lists had been made for traveling, packing, cooking and other details.  Yet the focus soon became recovering.  We were disappointed, to say the least. Yet in the middle of so much change, we realized the blessings in taking care of each other, slowing down and simply being together.  (Tylenol, cough medicine, sleep and movies helped, too.)

I began thinking.  Although plans changed for our trip, we found much for which to be grateful.  Isn't life like that, too?  Life brings change on many levels.  Our plans don't always go as we had hoped.  We find ourselves in very different places and situations than we ever imagined.  Some changes are very positive while others are very challenging. 

I am thankful that in the middle of countless changes in life, there is One Who never changes.  His Presence remains.  His love remains.  His hope remains.  His peace remains.  His power remains.  He remains the same...yesterday, today and forever.  Knowing He holds me in His hands...holds me together.  Thank You, God.♥~thl

"For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations."  Psalm 100: 5

Day Five of Thankfulness...

 1. I am thankful for independence. I was taught very early in life to decide what I must do...and do it...no matter what others say. Regardless of the opinions, discouragement or expectations of others, I was taught to do what I felt led to do. That sense of independence gave me the persistent determination to never give up. Never.

2. I am also thankful for dependence. Just as independence has its place in life, I also learned to depend on others who earned my trust. This is definitely a more challenging, ongoing lesson. My main dependence is certainly on God. He is trustworthy and true. However, there are times He works through the precious lives of others. I appreciate the sincerity, authenticity and integrity of each sweet life that reflects Him so beautifully...as they touch mine.

3. I am eternally grateful for forgiveness. He extends it to me daily. I am so thankful He doesn't give up on me. He has taught me much about forgiveness...even when there are no apologies or answers. I will trust Him. I will depend on Him. No matter what.♡~thl

Day Four of Thankful Thoughts...

 1. Not a day goes by that I do not consider my heritage. To my parents, grandparents, great grandparents...and all those who came before me, thank you for your lives which made mine possible. I wish I could have known each of you and I continue to search for information about you. Knowing that I am of German, Cherokee, English and French descent, plus allowed to live in the USA, makes me appreciate so very much.

2. I am thankful for my education. From a small country elementary school to a small high school to a small private university, I was privileged to learn for a lifetime. I also met wonderful people who touched my journey forever.

3. I am thankful for God's amazing creation. From water and air, mountains and seas, trees and sand, plants and animals, I am so grateful for the beautiful reminders of His love and faithfulness. I never cease to be amazed by His Presence, power and creativity.

Each day is truly an incredible gift from Him...past, present and future.♡~thl

Day Three of Thankful Thoughts...

1. I am very thankful for new beginnings. Sometimes it is essential to evaluate where we have been, where we are presently and where we want to be in the future. How amazing that we learn from the journey behind us in order to improve the journey before us. I am so thankful for God's love, mercy and grace along the way.

2. Where would my life be without hope?   No matter what happened before, what happens now or what will happen later, knowing God is present gives me hope.

3. I am thankful for my home. To have a place to call ours...a place to rest, eat, relax and refresh...means so much to me. Many folks don't have a place to call home. Wherever we live now or in the days ahead, I want our home to be a way to honor and share Him. There's no place...like home.
♡~thl