Here's to 2012!

Today is the final day of 2012 and another chapter closes. It was a dream of mine to blog and I committed to write every day and have been able to follow through and thoroughly enjoyed it! It has gone quickly and it is hard to believe that 2013 is literally around the corner.

This year has been a wonderful year with both sadness and moments of joy...

two dear kids of ours were married, my father was declared cancer-free, my daughter made it into the nursing program and continues to do well, my son is in his senior year and we are enjoying the events that go with that, a dear friend went home to be with the Lord, another dear friend was diagnosed with cancer, and there are many many more memories-that is what our lives are made up of-events take place and choices we make take us down certain paths and when they are done it is nothing more than a memory.

As I look back over the year, my desire is that through it all, my heart would draw closer to God and that my life would point others to Him.

Maybe it hasn't been a memorable year for you, or maybe it has been one that has been full of sorrow and tears. The Lord knows. As we live one day at a time, we don't know what tomorrow will bring. But, whatever God does allow into our lives, remember that as Christians, we never have to handle it alone.

It has been my honor and distinct privilege to write and have you follow along. I will be continuing to blog but I'm not sure yet how often or on what topics. You still have time to accept Christ as your personal Savior if you haven't made that decision yet and if you haven't then I urge you to do so and make this year the best one of your life!

Jude 24-25

"Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen."

Sick-Blah!

I started not feeling well on Friday night and have continued to go downhill. I finished my responsibilities last night around 9 pm and I think that was when I gave myself permission to collapse in bed and officially be...SICK! Ugh! I have had a fever off and on which means chills and then sweats and you layer and then unlayer. I have been so tired and thankfully have been able to just lay in bed and sleep. My family has been wonderful-helping out. My friends have been so sweet with messages. I am so thankful that this will be a temporary situation and that I will be feeling 100 percent again soon.

But it did remind me that we all have a sickness-sin! It is a permanent situation that we deal with one day at a time. All of us are born sinners.

Romans 3:23

"for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,"

I have to say that I am even more thankful that Christ provided a way for us to be cured from this sickness. It may seem too simple, but all you have to do is acknowledge you are a sinner and repent and accept the gift of salvation given to us by God's only son dying on the cross and taking all of our sins on Him-once! Life may seem gray and you may be in despair but realize that Christ can lift you out of that. He is the one true Physician and although we may have to endure physical ailments, injuries, or diseases, Christ has the cure for the worst one of all that counts. Turn to Him-it will be the best decision you make this year!

Just like you would send a get well card to someone who is sick or take some tea or soup, take the gospel to those around you that you know are not saved and will be dying and going to Hell. You won't regret the time spent in sharing the medicine to those that are sick.

Forever After...a Union of Three

Today I had the privilege to coordinate a wedding for 2 of "our kids". The day started off rough. I was sick with chills and a fever throughout the night. It was raining when we got up and the wedding was supposed to be held outdoors. So, I loaded up on medicine and went off to the church to prepare for 2 weddings-the outdoor one and indoor if we needed it. We pulled the reception inside so we were able to get that whole room decorated. The rain cleared up right at the time we needed to make the call and we believe it was due to many praying and so the Lord would get all the glory for this union. The bride was gorgeous and the groom was stunned. The ceremony was beautiful and the part that stood out to me the most was the fact that they used a unity cord. They took three strands-God, Madeline, and Andrew and braided it to show that God would be in their marriage and that would be what holds them together.

Ecclesiastes 4:12

"And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken."

I am thrilled for these two young people who love each other and love the Lord. It was a wonderful day of celebrating and they are now Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Gay.

It is something we can all take away with us, especially if we are married, As we live one day at a time, we will be stronger if we allow the Lord to be the head of our relationships. Because, we want it to be...forever after!

Rehearse & Coordinate

Today I coordinated the wedding rehearsal for two very sweet young people that grew up in our church, fell in love with each other, and will be married tomorrow. We were able to run through the ceremony and work out all the kinks and go over all the little details so that hopefully tomorrow will run smoothly and they will live happily ever after.  

They were able to rehearse. We are living life one day at a time and we are not afforded a dress rehearsal. What we do and how we live counts now.

One day Christ will return for all those that have accepted Him as their personal Savior. Then we will live happily ever after with Him in Heaven.

We aren't perfect so we will make mistakes and some will stray away. But, once you realize what you have done-confess and run back to the waiting arms of our Savior.

1 John 5:20

 "And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life."

Known by it's Logo

This is the only sign that this store needs and yet just about everyone knows what it stands for-The Apple Store. The only items that are sold in this store are their products. It's the same for a lot of other products as well. When people see the swish they know that it is Nike. I'm sure all of us can name some different companies by their logos. 

As we live one day at a time, can it be said of us that we are known by our branding? Do people see something different in you and know that you belong to Christ? I want to be known as a Christian-a follower of Christ-a daughter of the King. I want to act as Christ would act. I was at a shower for a young bride-to-be and she was asking for advice from the married women. I want to learn things from people that I look up to and want to imitate my marriage after. I wouldn't want to listen to advice from couples that are struggling or don't feel that they love each other as much as they did when they first married.  I want to learn what makes a great marriage-how to overcome conflict, and communicate better, overlook faults, and choose to love, compromise, and keep Christ as the center of my marriage. 

Christ is the groom and we as the church (saved ones) are His bride. We should stand out and be noticeable to others. Our marriages should be stronger and be able to be examples to others around us.

Ephesians 5:25-27
"Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish."

Dealing With Disappointment

Sometimes, the day after a big event or holiday can be a let down. I enjoy the day after Christmas because I normally don't have any obligations and can relax and enjoy the day. Today was that kind of day. I was able to sleep in and then spend the day cleaning and organizing and running out to catch a sale-all things I love to do. But we were planning for an exciting day tomorrow-we were supposed to go on a Hot Air Balloon ride. But, the phone rang at 8:15 pm to tell us that due to the cold front coming through they were canceling our ride-disappointment! We have been planning this trip for the last six months and now we have to re-book it for June. It was a disappointment to all of us. I was excited to be able to go up in the air and take pictures and see the beautiful landscape from the air and be able to experience something I have never done before. As I live one day at a time, there are many disappointments that I will experience in my lifetime.  People will disappoint me at one time or another. Circumstances may not go the way I had planned and will cause me disappointments from time to time. As long as we are here on earth we do not live in a perfect world, due to sin, and disappointments will occur. How you handle them is a testament to your relationship with Christ. Think of some of the disappointments that God has endured over the years. He created a world out of nothing and put everything on it and then created man and woman so that He could have fellowship-only to have man sin and have to be put out of the garden. 

Genesis 3:22-24

"Then the Lord God said, “Behold, the man has become like one of Us, to know good and evil. And now, lest he put out his hand and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever”— therefore the Lord God sent him out of the garden of Eden to till the ground from which he was taken. So He drove out the man; and He placed cherubim at the east of the garden of Eden, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to guard the way to the tree of life."

He had to send a flood during the time of Noah due to all the sin.

Genesis 7:7-12

"So Noah, with his sons, his wife, and his sons’ wives, went into the ark because of the waters of the flood. Of clean animals, of animals that are unclean, of birds, and of everything that creeps on the earth, two by two they went into the ark to Noah, male and female, as God had commanded Noah. And it came to pass after seven days that the waters of the flood were on the earth. In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, on that day all the fountains of the great deep were broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened. And the rain was on the earth forty days and forty nights."

I also think about how Christ chose to come to earth as a man so that He could die on the cross as the ultimate sacrifice and take our sins on Himself so that we can receive the gift of salvation-and then to be rejected by those that He came to save.

John 1:10-11

"He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him."

But He still loves us and wants us to accept Him as our personal Savior. My disappointments pale in comparison to what Christ has endured. Doesn't this help put it all in perspective for you? Take your disappointments to Christ-lay them at His feet and ask Him to help you overcome them.

My picture for today? Another small disappointment-my phone was charging yesterday and there was a short in the cord and it burned my phone. It won't charge anymore and so I am unable to use it until I take it to the store tomorrow and have them look at it (it isn't under warranty any longer and may cost me). We will have to wait and see.

Merry Merry CHRISTmas!

This month as I have lived one day at a time, I have used the phrase 'Merry Christmas' to a lot of people with whom I have come in contact.

It is important to me to say Merry Christmas because this is the holiday that I am celebrating. I don't begrudge anyone else their holidays-some celebrate Hanukkah and other Kuwanza but to me this is more than just a winter break or holiday. Christmas was established in America as a federal holiday in 1870. But to me, Christmas is not just a day off of work or a day to get and give presents to family and friends-although I enjoy all of those things.

Christmas has a wonderful history since it first took place a little over 2000 years ago over in a small town named Bethlehem.

Luke 2:1-7

" And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.

Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn."

We take the time set aside to remember this birth and have a wonderful time celebrating this joyful occasion. He chose to come to earth and live His life on earth so that He could then die on the cross for our sins. Since He was perfect He became the ultimate sacrifice and took our sins upon Him so that we can accept His gift of salvation and have eternal life with Him.

Hebrews 4:15

"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin."

My prayer is that today was a very Merry CHRISTmas for you and yours as you celebrate the true reason for the season.

T'was the Night Before Christmas...

T’was the night before Christmas and all around the ranch
Nothing was stirring not even a branch.
The weather had cooled to give us a taste
Of what Christmas was like in a place we’d left in haste!
My chicks are all home and snuggled in the nest,
Vacation has started and it is at its best!
Presents are wrapped and under the tree,
But it’s great to remember the best gift is free!
Dinner was turkey-the deep fried kind,
corn casserole, cheesy beans and  taters with cheese.
As we continue celebrating one day at a time
Remember not every line has to rhyme.
I’m thankful for family and friends come to stay
To visit and celebrate this very special day.
Remember the babe who came in a manger
Lived here on earth, to most a stranger.
Gave up His life, died on a cross to save us from danger.
He is to us the one true Light!
Merry Christmas to all
And to all, a Good Night!

Isaiah 9:6-7

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this."

G.I.F.T.

Tonight we had a candlelight service of music and the Word at our church. It brought together a conglomeration of different topics. 

The service was light by candlelight. It reminds me that each of us can be a light to the world around us. If the light is extinguished there is only darkness. 

I am so thankful for the one True Light of the World-Christ Jesus.

John 8:12

"Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”

Then we sang songs. It's a wonderful time of year where we sing wonderful carols that tell the story of  the birth of Christ and yet the true reason for His coming-to die on the cross.

Ring the Bells

Ring the bells, ring the bells,

Let the whole world know

Christ was born in Bethlehem

Many years ago:

 Born to die that man might live,

Came to earth new life to give,

Born of Mary, born so low,

Many years ago.

God the Father gave His Son,

Gave His own beloved One.

To this wicked, sinful earth,

To bring mankind His love, new birth:

Ring the bells, ring the bells,

Let the whole world know

Christ the Savior lives today

As He did so long ago!

And then our pastor spoke about how we are in the season of giving and getting gifts.

I am so thankful that as I live one day at a time I can be thankful for the ultimate and best GIFT ever given-Christ himself. But, you can think of the GIFT as Good news Is For The world. Everyone can accept this gift. As you spend time with your family and friends, focus on Christ and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. Be thankful for time together and the gifts that are given to each other in love. Rejoice in the gift of salvation and share with all of those you celebrate.

Counting Down...3...2...1!

Yesterday was the shortest day of the year and the first day of winter. We have friends that live in Alaska and they had about 5 hours of daylight. We have a shorter day as well, but we definitely have more than five hours of sunlight. We normally are pretty warm but a cold front came in and we woke up to temperatures in the 40's. So, it does help it feel a little more like Christmas-although we won't have snow and our trees are palm trees, not evergreens!

Today is December 22nd-I know most of you heard and read the hype about how the Mayans predicted the end of the world was supposed to be yesterday. It didn't happen. Were you surprised? I wasn't. I don't believe that the world will end while we are here. I believe that Christ will return for the Christians and then there will be a seven year tribulation and a millennial reign of Christ and then he will create a new heaven and earth. But, we won't know exactly when Christ will return.

Matthew 24:42

"Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming."

We are three days away from Christmas-a wonderful holiday that celebrates the birth of Christ, who came from Heaven to earth, to grow up as a perfect man, and then die on the cross to take our sins so that ultimately we could receive the best gift ever-Salvation and an eternal home in Heaven with Him.  It's not too late! You can still accept Him as your personal Savior. As we are living one day at a time-today is the day of salvation for you if you haven't accepted yet-it can be the best Christmas ever as you accept the ultimate present from the baby born in a manger who is now the King on the Throne. Don't let time countdown without you-be assured that Christ will come back and I don't want you to be left behind!

Following Sight Unseen

My husband teaches the college and career Sunday School class and we are blessed with a wonderful group of young adults! We had them over to our house tonight for a Christmas party. One of the girls in our class does a great job as the activity director and put the party together. She planned some fun games and activities that had us all involved and laughing. One of the games we played was blind drawing. We each had to place a paper plate on our hear and then draw a scene, one item at a time-as she called it out, until we were done and then take it down and look at the finished product. It was so funny to see how off kilter most of our drawings were. Our ornaments weren't on the tree and most of the stockings didn't make it on the fireplace mantel. We each knew what our finished drawing was supposed to be but it may not have looked like a piece of art worth framing. 

Sometimes, as we live one day at a time, we aren't able to see the big picture. We may be living through one trial after another or thinking of our life as a scene at a time and things don't seem to be fitting together. Or we may not be able to see how what we are experiencing at the moment will affect us later on in life. God orchestrates everything in our lives if we allow Him. He knows and understands how it all works together. 

Romans 8:28

" And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."

We will make mistakes and things may not end up exactly how we thought-but God can bring better results out of our drawings. We may have to allow Him to change the picture or move the items around in our drawing. He can take the pieces and make a beautiful piece of art. 

1 Corinthians 13:12

" For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known."

It may be difficult to let go of control and it may even be frightening to say that you don't know about the future, but it's great to be able to rest in the hands of a God that always knows and is in control and wants to give us more than we could ever have hoped.

Ephesians 3:20-21

"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen."

Is There a Santa Claus?

Which came first for Christmas? Christ or Santa? Well, here is my take on that whole 'discussion'. My family never believed in Santa Claus-my parents never had us confused by wondering if there was a fat jolly man who somehow squeezed himself down our stove pipe and tiptoed around our house to leave presents. They chose to have us focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Christmas is being celebrated because of Christ-hence the name of the holiday being celebrated CHRISTmas! Some may think it is extreme but my thought is that I was not going to let my children believe in an imaginary person and then have to explain it all to them that Santa isn't real but Christ is. My kids knew from the beginning that Santa was a make believe fun character who is found around the Christmas holiday, like an Easter bunny-who leaves...eggs?! Or the tooth fairy that can fly money in and leave it under your pillow!! 

As we are living our life one day at a time I believe that truth is the best option! Christ is truth.

John 14:6

Christ told us, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life."

John 8:32

"And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

Tell your children the truth from the beginning. I believe that you can still have fun traditions and lots of fun activities but you don't have to have lie in order to experience them. Take your kids to sit on Father Christmas' lap but let them know he isn't any more special than any other character that dresses up for an amusement park. Santa can't really be everywhere and see all the boys and girls, but God can.

I am thankful that I can trust and believe in Christ and know that He is always there and even if I make a mistake, I can get forgiveness. Christ is always with me.

While Sugar Plums Dance in their Heads

I love the story "Twas the Night Before Christmas". There have been a lot of twists and versions of that poem. One of the lines in the original version is of the children and how they are snug in their beds with visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads. Do you ever dream about food?  I'm not sure I have but I have to admit that I do love food-but that's another topic and another blog!

Today I was invited to a Christmas Tea where if I had been dreaming the truffles and scones and trifle would have been dancing in my head. They were each delicious and yummy and it was nice sitting and talking with girls.

Have you ever brewed a pot of coffee or made a pitcher of sweet tea and shared a pan of brownies or some scones with girlfriends? Do we ever take the time out of our busy schedule to actually sit and talk and listen. Most of the time we are living one day at a time in warp speed. Do you take the time to sit and really get to know someone? Or maybe you know someone but you don't know what is going on in their life right now...

I don't believe that we have much time left before Christ returns for us, His church. In the time that has been given to us we should be good stewards of what God has given us. We all have gifts or talents. I love to have people over and I love to talk and I enjoy cooking and decorating-I may have the gift of hospitality :)

I need to use it!!

1 Peter 4:10

"As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God."

Think about what you enjoy doing or what gifts or talents God has given you-use them to the best of your ability. Never under-estimate how God may use you in the life of another.

Joy...To the World

Happiness vs. Joy! There is a HUGE difference between these two words. Happiness is based on feelings and circumstances and it is not guaranteed to be there tomorrow. Joy is an emotion that comes from contentment in the Lord. It isn't reflected from the situations we are in. We can have Joy no matter what. We have the true Joy-Jesus Christ. This is the season that the rest of the world is a little more tolerable to hearing about our Joy. Songs are sung about it:

'Joy to the World'

"Joy to the World , the Lord is come!

Let earth receive her King;

Let every heart prepare Him room,

And Heaven and nature sing,

And Heaven and nature sing,

And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing.

Joy to the World, the Savior reigns!

Let men their songs employ;

While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains

Repeat the sounding joy,

Repeat the sounding joy,

Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,

Nor thorns infest the ground;

He comes to make His blessings flow

Far as the curse is found,

Far as the curse is found,

Far as, far as, the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace,

And makes the nations prove

The glories of His righteousness,

And wonders of His love,

And wonders of His love,

And wonders, wonders, of His love."

Psalms 5:11-12 

"But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy, and spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may exult in you. For you bless the righteous, O LORD; you cover him with favor as with a shield."

Over this past week we have had events happen in our country that have resulted in chaos and death and sadness-the very opposite of joy and happiness.

But the world can have true joy! Jesus came to earth for a specific purpose. He is true joy! Those that accept Him as their Savior are given the gift of joy.

Romans 15:13

 "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."

The world is not perfect and your life will not be perfect-you won't be happy all of the time, but you can have true joy in all of the circumstances. Be joyful!

Philippians 4:4

"Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice."

Safe & Secure

We have a security system in our home. It has a dual purpose-it keeps the items or people inside the home safe while keeping those that aren't allowed on the outside. Especially as a parent, you try to protect your children. You only want what is best for them. You try to keep the 'bad' things out while teaching them the 'good' things. But we aren't perfect and we can't protect them from everything. But there is someOne who can protect us and keep us safe and secure as we live one day at a time.

I am so thankful for God who is always there and that He is the one who holds His children in His hands. We as Christians can rest secure in the shadow of His wings.

Psalm 91:4

"He shall cover you with His feathers,

And under His wings you shall take refuge;

His truth shall be your shield and buckler."

The world around us may seem to spin out of control but God is always in control and if we allow Him to lead our lives then the safest place to be is in the center of His will. God has been removed from a lot of places in our country including our schools but He never leaves us or forsakes us. Don't forsake Him. Speak of Him in your homes and with your family and friends and at your work.

Deuteronomy 6:7-9

"You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."

Family & Friends at Christmas

Today we enjoyed brunch with friends that have been connected and intertwined in my life from the time I was born. They have been blessings in my life as we grew up in the church and having their lifelong friendship is something that I do not want to take for granted.  There are no guarantees for a tomorrow. A sad and senseless tragedy took place this week in another part of the United States and many people are asking why and trying to deal with the pain and sorrow. I believe that Christ is soon returning. From the day that Adam and Eve sinned the world has continued on a path of destruction. God saw fit to send his Son a little over 2000 years ago and made a way of escape for us. Our country was initially established on godly principles, but the natural man turns away from God.

I Corinthians 2:14

"The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned."

Many people know the saying-there are only two absolutes in life-death and taxes. I am so thankful that there is another absolute and that is God. He is always there. He is still in control. He is not confused by what happened. He has not lost His power. In times like these-turn to Him-rest in Him. I know for sure that if I were to die-I would be with my Savior immediately in Heaven-praise the Lord-for to be absent from the body means to be present with the Lord. Can you say the same? If you do not know or are not sure-you can be tonight-acknowledge the fact that you are a sinner and cannot save yourself. Accept His gift of salvation and believe in Him. Confess your sins and you too can be assured of a home in Heaven.

Romans 10:9

"that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved."

Joyeux Noel

There are many different languages used around the world and Christmas is celebrated in many different cultures. In french, Joyeaux Noel can be translated to Merry Christmas.  There are many different ways to celebrate while we live one day at a time in the Christmas season. One fun event is a Christmas party. You may have a school Christmas party or a youth group Christmas party or a family Christmas party or an office Christmas party like the one I was able to attend tonight.

I work in a small office with a wonderful Christian boss. He and his wife had us over for dinner to their house tonight. It was nice. I work with great people and I love my job. It's nice to be able to enjoy your job and the people you work with and be able to socialize with them outside the office. I appreciate having a job and know that many people are without work and have trouble financially. The Lord is good and has blessed our family and provided all of our needs and many of our wants. I have a lot of reasons to be joyful.

Philippians 4:4 

 "Rejoice in the Lord alway: [and] again I say, Rejoice."

Romans 15:13 

"Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost."

Whatever job you may have it can be considered your ministry. As Christians we should be the best employees ever. Do your best. And let the joy of the Lord show in your life and testimony to those around you.

Joy To the World

"Joy to the World , the Lord is come!

Let earth receive her King;

Let every heart prepare Him room,

And Heaven and nature sing,

And Heaven and nature sing,

And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing.

Joy to the World, the Savior reigns!

Let men their songs employ;

While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains

Repeat the sounding joy,

Repeat the sounding joy,

Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,

Nor thorns infest the ground;

He comes to make His blessings flow

Far as the curse is found,

Far as the curse is found,

Far as, far as, the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace,

And makes the nations prove

The glories of His righteousness,

And wonders of His love,

And wonders of His love,

And wonders, wonders, of His love."

Just A Few of my Favorite Things...

One of the songs in the Sound of Music is used a lot at Christmas time is 'My Favorite Things'. I am thankful all year long but since we have just gone through the Thanksgiving season and my daughter just got home tonight from college I could go through my entire list again of those that are in my life that are just a few of my favorite things. During the Christmas season I love Christmas trees and singing carols and making Christmas cookies with my kids and shopping for my family and friends. My husband and children and my parents are just a few of my favorite things. I love to listen to music, read a book, and talk on the phone to a friend. As I live one day at a time, I think of my salvation and singing of heaven and memorizing bible verses-these are a few of my favorite things. What are some of your favorite things? Do they lift you up? encourage you? cause you to praise the Lord?

Philippians 4:8

"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things."

'Tis the Season...

...to spend time with family. The Christmas holiday season normally allows you the opportunity to spend a little more time with your family. It can be a wonderful time of togetherness and laughing and talking and eating and enjoying each others' company. But, it can also be a time where tempers run high and words can be short and cutting. As we live one day at a time, we sometimes forget what blessings God has given us, mainly in our family. Some of us may not have our parents around anymore or we may have lost a sibling or spouse. Those of us that have our family around us should not take them for granted. Learn to live one day at a time-enjoying each occasion you may be a part of. Enjoy the moments, relax and be slow to get fired up. Take the time to actually listen and learn about those around you. You can learn a lot about a person that you may not even have known.

James 1:19

"So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;"

You may not have family close but if you are a member a great church then as Christians we are family through the bond of Christ.

1 John 3:1-2

"See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is."

Don't let the busyness of the decorating or parties or shopping or anything else take priority. You won't ever regret the time you spend with others. All other tings will pass away but in the light of eternity only souls that are saved will count. Share the gospel with your unsaved family and friends-what can be a better gift than accepting Christ as your Savior and getting eternal life.

12.12.12

Today was a day that won't be repeated for another 90 years. It was December 12th 2012. 12.12.12. In many peoples' mind it was a very lucky day. For the last eleven years the date has been repeated one time a year-01.01.01, 02.02.02, 03.03.03, 04.04.04, 05.05.05, 06.06.06, 07.07.07, 08.08.08, 09.09.09, 10.10.10, & 11.11.11. It has been a special date for people as they chose that day on which to get married. It's called a golden birthday when you turn the same age of the year. So, people often ask...do you remember what...like what were you doing when man walked on the moon, or when you heard that JFK was shot, or when the Challenger exploded, or when 9/11 happened.

So, today my picture is what I was doing at 12:12 p.m. on 12.12.12.

I was participating in a very normal activity-working and eating my lunch while I was working. It was just another moment in my day. Yet, as I am living one day at a time, can you say like me...can you remember the date or day you were saved? It should be the most important day of the rest of your life. 

I am sure that the people who were there when Christ appeared after his death and resurrection never forgot that day! I can't imagine the excitement! There are many special days in a person's life-first day of school, graduation, your wedding day, the birth of your children, and many others. But remember that those days would never have happened without God. 

Romans 11:36

"For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen

Do You See a Theme Here?

Once a year I participate in a fun Christmas lunch. Ten years ago two friends saw the idea of a themed lunch in a magazine and thought it would be a fun opportunity to share with friends. They each picked six friends and once a year they pick a theme and invite them to one of the girls' home for lunch. You take the theme and decorate your lunch however you want and bring it. We pick numbers and then we each get to enjoy some one else's lunch. This year it was candy. The picture above is the lunch I designed. I drew on the peppermint theme with my place mat, napkin ring, candle, mug, dessert plate, salt-n-pepper shakers and ornament. Sometimes we pick a color and a Christmas song. It's fun to look for items throughout the year  that helps complete your lunch decorations and it's fun to see how the other girls interpret the same theme.

If you have read many of my posts you may see a theme. One, I have talked about living life one day at a time. God gave us life and put us here on earth. I don't believe He wants us to waste our time here on earth. We should not be living for ourselves. Our purpose is to worship and glorify God and live for Him, sharing His Good News with everyone. How can we keep such wonderful news to ourselves? 

Philippians 1:21

" For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain."

Mark 16:15

" And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature."

Exodus 15:2

"The LORD is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation; This is my God, and I will praise Him; my father's God, and I will extol Him ..."

I hope that you have heard the Good News and accepted the gift of salvation so that your life can reflect the theme of praising God and in turn telling others.

It's A Candy Cane Christmas

Candy Canes are normally associated with the Christmas holiday. I love the stories that go with the candy cane. One legend says that in the 1600s a choirmaster used to hand out sugar sticks to children to help keep them quiet. He shaped them into a shepherds crook in honor of the ceremony. It says that at the turn of the century the colors red and white became the normal combination with the peppermint flavor. 

Some people say that you can correspond the white in the candy with Christ's purity, the red with Christ's blood, and the shape can represent a "J" for Jesus and a shepherd's crook to show Jesus as our Shepherd.

Christmas Candy Cane Poem about Jesus

"Look at the Candy Cane

What do you see?

Stripes that are red

Like the blood shed for me

White is for my Savior

Who’s sinless and pure!

“J” is for Jesus My Lord, that’s for sure!

Turn it around

And a staff you will see

Jesus my shepherd

Was born for Me!"

A candy cane is just a tool. It is a type of candy that is made for Christmas and enjoyed by many people. As we live one day at a time we should use items and objects lessons and everyday items and learn how to share the message with those who cross our paths. Take a candy cane and tie this poem to it and give it to your neighbors and friends. Remember the true reason for the season each time you look at or eat a candy candy is Jesus Christ. Remember that He came to earth for the ultimate reason of taking our sins on himself on the cross for our sins.

1 Peter 2:24-25

"who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.  For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls."

Misfits

We watched the Rudolph Christmas special this past week. I have watched it since I was a young child. It was a little scary in parts when I was little. Now as an adult I look at this television special and can laugh at parts because technology has come so far and the scenes look so fake. But, as a child, it was a fun cartoon that had a happy ending. Now I look at some of the messages that is has portrayed. Rudolph was different from all the other reindeer with his red nose. Hermey was different because he wanted to be a dentist instead of an elf. They traveled to the island of misfits and came across a lot of other toys that were different.

As we live one day at a time as Christians, we are to be different from the rest of the world.

Just because we may be a little different doesn't make us any better or worse than the rest of those around us. In God's eyes we are all the same, across the board-we are all sinners.

Romans 3:23

"for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,"

Romans 12:2

"Be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed..."

But, we have been offered a gift of salvation that if we accept it then it will make us different than those that don't accept it. It may mean that we won't fit in the mold that the world has set for success but that isn't success in God's eyes. 

Joshua 1:8

"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success."

We may not have the perfect smile or hair color or body shape or job or the perfect house but we can be considered perfect in God's eyes through his Son and the shedding of His blood to take away all of our sins.

The Reason for the Season...

Today was our annual Ladies' Christmas Brunch at church. It is normally the first event that kicks off our Christmas festivities. The girls in charge do a beautiful job of setting a lovely mood in decoration and ambiance. The food is always delicious and the fellowship with ladies is enjoyable. 

As we close we thank everyone for coming...people's schedules can get quite busy and sometimes you have to pick and choose which activities you will be able to attend. But the most important part is to remember that as we live one day at a time that wherever you go or whatever you do, Christmas is a time to celebrate...Christ.

Food and friends and parties and presents and caroling...are all wonderful things that can be fun in which to take part but the whole reason that we even have the holiday of Christmas is Christ.

Isaiah 9:6

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

Micah 5:2

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,
Though you are little among the thousands of Judah,
Yet out of you shall come forth to Me
The One to be Ruler in Israel,
Whose goings forth are from of old,
From everlasting.”
Christ was born in the shadow of the cross. Christ came to earth in human form in order to live here and minister among us and then die on the cross as the ultimate sacrifice for sin and conquer death so that we can have the best gift of all, eternal life. He is the Reason for the Season.
Take a moment to remember what the focus should be throughout the entire Christmas season-Christ.

"Gloria in excelsis Deo"

Tonight was the annual C.C.S. Christmas concert where our junior and senior high kids perform in song and instruments. It is always a wonderful evening of music where the students perform in choirs and the band. My son is a senior and this will be the last Christmas concert in which he will play.

Part of the program is presented by the above choir-a choir made up of voices that sing their parts live angels in harmony. One song that they sang has 'Gloria in Excelsis Deo' in it-Latin for Glory to God in the highest. 

As I sat and listened to the beautiful music and the message about Christ's birth that was sung about in some of the songs it made me pause and think about another choir that sang many years ago. 

Luke 2:8-14

"Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

 “Glory to God in the highest,

And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

Wouldn't that have been an amazing concert?! I've often wondered what the shepherds thought about it after they got over their fear and listened to the music and message being sung to them. 

Music is a huge part in my life. I love to listen to music and sing and play the piano and whistle. I sing in a choir at our church and I love to hear the different parts all sung together.

As I live one day at a time, I am thankful that God gave us music and that I am able to enjoy it being singing and hearing it. Yet, even as beautiful as music can be down here on earth I don't believe it can begin to compare to the choir that we will one day be a part of in Heaven as we sing our praises to God!

Psalm 95:1

Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!

The sweetest song that is sung is one that is sung in praise to our Lord for all He has done!

Christmas season is when we think more about when the angels sang to the shepherds and announced the birth of our Savior! Take a moment and sing-sing a song of praise giving God the glory!

Oh Tannenbaum

'Tis the season...to have a Christmas tree. I love to sing and I think of the song, O Tannenbaum. So those of you who have read some of my posts know what I like to do...google and do some research on the subject of which I am talking.

Here is the English translation of a German Carol:

"O Christmas Tree, O Christmas tree,

How lovely are your branches!

In beauty green will always grow

Through summer sun and winter snow.

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,

How lovely are your branches!

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas tree,

You are the tree most loved!

How often you give us delight

In brightly shining Christmas light!

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas tree,

You are the tree most loved!

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas tree,

Your beauty green will teach me

That hope and love will ever be

The way to joy and peace for me.

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas tree,

Your beauty green will teach me"

The interesting tidbit I learned, this song was not even written about a Christmas tree. The author, Anschutz, was writing a tragic love story comparing a fir tree to a faithless lover back in 1824.

Trees that stayed green all year long held special meanings to people. Some felt it would keep evil spirits away. The Germans were credited with having Christmas trees first. Many believe a legend about Martin Luther who saw the stars outdoors and a snow covered fir tree and wanted to show his family what he saw so he structured a tree in his house and hung candles from the branches. In the 1850's Queen Victoria made having a Christmas tree fashionable and the traditions started. Ornaments made their appearance by the turn of the century.

To many Christians, a Christmas Tree reminds us of another tree-a tree that was cut down and roughly hewed into a cross upon which our Savior died-to take upon himself the sins of the world.

Galatians 3:13-14

"Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”),

1 Peter 2:24

" who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed."

As we live one day at a time and enjoy each day of the Christmas season, maybe your view of your Christmas may change just a little. Remember not only the lowly birth of our Savior in a stable but look ahead also to His death on a cross made from a tree. His death and then conquering death allows us to have the most wonderful gift ever given-salvation!

"Oh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree, how lovely are your branches!"

Translated Into My Language & Yours

Tonight at church we heard the testimony from another member in our church who was a missionary to the field of Japan. I have known her for about 12 years and yet I learned some interesting facts that I didn't know. She graduated from college with a teaching degree but after one year felt she wanted to do something else so she applied with the army and was sent as a civilian to Japan. There she met the man she would marry and they came back to the United States t o prepare to go back to Japan as missionaries. They stayed on the field until 1995 when he passed away. He was Japanese and was used greatly on the field as an interpreter and speaker. She told how he turned all conversations toward Christ and shared the love of God with all those they came in contact.

At one point he drew the above verse for her. It read "God love is" in Japanese. She explained how there are over 3000 kanjis and students must learn 1800 in order to graduate. She learned 300. And yet she knew enough to read this verse that he wrote out for her. It gave a message that they lived out in their lives.

I John 4:8

"He who does not love does not know God, for God is love."

God is love can be translated into many languages:

spanish-Dios es amor

german = Gott ist die Liebe

greek = Ο Θεός είναι αγάπη

french = Dieu est amour

italian = Dio è amore

rusian= Бог есть любовь

hebrew = . אלוהים הוא אהבה

afrikaans = God is liefde

And yet it doesn't matter what language it is written or translated into, it still has the same meaning.

As we live one day at a time, God is always there and He IS love to everyone. He gave the ultimate-His life, to show His love for all of us. And you can know His love-you only have to accept it and then we need to show God's love to everyone else.

I John 4:9-11

"In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."

What's in the Box?

December is normally a month where the mail increases and a few more boxes appear on the porch. It's always fun to open the boxes and see what is inside but when Christmas is approaching then it probably means that there are presents in those boxes and you should only open the box if your name is on it. It's hard to keep the identity of the contents a surprise but it make Christmas morning a lot more fun when you open the present and are truly surprised! As we live one day at time, the days following up to Christmas seem so much longer. When you were a child did you ever peak into closets to try and find where the presents were hidden so that you could see what you might be receiving? One time I remember pestering my parents until they finally told me...I was shocked (that they actually told me) and then a little disappointed because I had spoiled it for myself.

Well, you know what? There is one present that came wrapped in swaddling clothes a little over 2000 years ago and you don't have to wait until December 25 to open it. It is a gift that was given to all of us and we only have to accept it. I remember the illustration about how a gift isn't any good if you don't ever open it.

God sent His Son to earth in human form as a baby born of a virgin so that He could grow up among men and minister to them until He died on the cross to take our sins on Himself.

John 3:16

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." A gift-to anyone who believes and accepts. You can also give this gift to everyone. It is a gift that never runs out and one size does fit all. It also never has to be returned and it has a lifetime warranty! 

1 Corinthians 15:51-55

Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?”

Who wouldn't want to open that box or gift?!

Name Dropping

I saw a blurb about this and I couldn't pass up the topic. Name dropping...what's in a name? If you were with friends and someone said that they had been to Michael Jordan's house there would be a lot of ooohhh and ahhing and disbelief and questions about how it was. Why? Because he is a sports icon and is popular and rich and people think it would be amazing to meet him. It would be the same to say that if you met or personally knew the president or any other iconic figure in today's entertainment or sports world.

 A lot of times people drop names because they want to be the center of conversation and thought highly of and made important because of WHO they know. But you know what? It doesn't really matter to a lot of people. Yes, if you name drop it may advance your career a little or get certain doors opened for you but you had better be able to advance on your own qualifications because you can't always ride on the coattails of another person. There are people that feel very insecure and they feel better if they continually let people know about their associations. In the end, what will last? Who you know or how you have lived your life one day at a time? There is a name that is important and I love to be associated with it-the name of Jesus Christ. He is my best friend. Sadly, to many people He is not considered important but to me He holds the key to my future. I want to be one that is always talking of Him and sharing His name with all of those I come in contact with.

I would also love to be known as a person that is always name dropping....your name-to God in prayer!

Philemon 1:4

"I thank my God, making mention of you always in my prayers"

Isn't that an amazing thought? I am humbled each time I find out that others have been praying for me. As humans we sometimes think a little too highly of ourselves. There are many things for which we need prayer and we should be willing to ask to be remembered. I know that a lot of times when there were trials or difficulties in my life, I was so thankful for those that were praying for me. Those prayers encouraged and uplifted me as I continued on my walk.

Be a name dropper. Take time to pray for others-all the time-to our Father-because He already knows all about us!

Isaiah 43:11

"But now thus sayeth the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel; fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name, thou art mine.
John 10:14
"I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own."

From 0-18 in a Flash!

In just a few months my youngest child will be turning 18 and graduating from high school. As we took the time yesterday to get senior pictures done I realized it was another memory made but it was also another event that showed the passage of time and how quickly it has gone by.

I can still remember the day that my son was born. It was Easter Sunday and he arrived on the scene around 1:00 p.m. He was a tiny little bundle that brought joy into our lives. Raising a child comes with its ups and downs, joys and challenges but I am so thankful that God allowed us the blessing of raising two children.

Psalm 127:3-5

"Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate."

There have been plenty of lessons that we have learned and there have been times that we have made mistakes and had to ask for forgiveness. But God has always been there, leading and directing. As I look back on it all if someone were to ask me what I would share to help new parents I would have to say...Take one day at a time. Enjoy every single moment for time goes by so quickly. Teach them about God and His love for us from the time they are born so that they can come to a saving knowledge of Christ at a young age and live a full life for Christ avoiding a lot of mistakes.

Deuteronomy 6:7

"You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."

Always tell them the truth and be willing to ask for forgiveness if you are wrong. It opens communication and lets them know you are human. Show them that trust must be earned and then it must be kept.

But most of all, LOVE them!! Love on them-hug and kiss and spend time with them-there aren't any substitutes for you! 

Proverbs 22:6

"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."

3 John 1:4

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."

Tablets of Stone...

I've been reading through the Bible this year and have thoroughly enjoyed it! It is the chronological version and it has been neat to see how the different books of the Bible weave in with each other according to the time they were written.

Yesterday part of the portion that I read came from II Corinthians 3:3

"You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts."

It came to my mind again today as I was with my youngest when he was having his senior pictures taken.

We went to a college campus and an old private home on the water that had some some beautiful stone on its buildings and steps.

We live one day at a time now in the age of Grace. We are no longer under 'the law'.  Christ died so that we can have eternal life with Him and His law should be on our hearts-not just commandments that we follow because they were written down for us as laws. This verse tells us how that we should live so that others can see Christ through us by sharing God's love with others and show God that we love Him with our lives.  When you look at someone else that you may not know anything about, you make all of your opinions or judgments based on impressions you get from the outward appearance and actions that you can see. But God has told us that He looks at men very differently.

I Samuel 16:7

"But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” This is how we also should look at those with whom we come in contact.

But we each must remember that our walk (our daily life) and our talk should match. I'm sure you have heard the saying, "your talk talks and your walk talks, but your walk talks louder than your talk talks.'

Don't be someone who says things and then turns around and lives the opposite.  Be a person who's talk and walk match and someone that others can see an example of Christ shining through you.