Happy New Year!

My Response

Colossians 3:12-15
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 

My first response was anger.

I'm not usually an angry person. I prefer to live a peaceful life. But when someone hurts the people I love, I get mad. Sometimes, rightfully so.

But I've learned the anger that fills me, also drains me.

More than once, I've had to tamper down my gut reaction and replace my ire with calm. Instead of agitation, I ask God to bring peace.

During the week between Christmas and New Year's Day, I tend to contemplate what the new year will bring. This week I'm not considering what's going to happen, but how I will respond. You see, I may not like what someone says to me or circumstances that come my way. I may not be able to change what happens. But, I can change my response.

If I truly let Jesus rule my heart, I'll also let him guide my emotions and my reactions. 

"God, fill me with compassion, kindness and peace."

If there is someone you need to forgive, make the new year a clean slate and offer forgiveness. If someone made you angry, go to them and resolve the issues. If someone broke your heart. Consider your response with prayer.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. -Romans 8:28

Merry Christmas!

The Sweet Peace of a Baby

Luke 2:29-32

Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant [Simeon] in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation [Jesus] which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.”

I love holding babies. My daughters, grandbabies, nieces and nephews all cuddled in my arms. There sweet fragrance after a bath was the best perfume. The soft coos and even loud cries brought joy to my heart.

Now imagine being Simeon..

Simeon, a devout, old man who lived in Israel, was blessed with the promise that he would see the Messiah before he died. While in Jerusalem, where Mary and Joseph traveled after the birth of Jesus, the Holy Spirit prompted Simeon to visit the temple. Lo and behold, he met Mary and Joseph. When they saw Simeon enter, they placed baby Jesus in his arms. He cradled him and rejoiced.

Simeon's heart rejoiced with peace because he'd laid eyes on the one who came to save the world from sin and give life to those who follow him. Imagine being Simeon, holding sweet baby Jesus in your arms. Oh the joy!

We may not be able to hold that precious babe in our arms, but we can invite Jesus in and hold him in our hearts. At this time of holiday chaos, rest in the peace of the Savior we celebrate.

Open your heart and invite him in.

Peace

Even in the midst of strife, Jesus pours out calm. 

A quietness that soothes the soul.

Through faith, his peace surpasses all of the stresses of life.

 Seek him in the midst of the chaos.

Become Like a Child

Those Shepherds Couldn't Stop Talking

Luke 2:15-18

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 

On December 22, 2009, our grandson Eli was born. Oh how I rejoiced at this sweet little bundle of love. I told my mom and dad, my siblings, my friends of this beautiful boy who would fill our hearts with joy. You see, I was excited. I wanted all to know that Eli was born. On Christmas day, Tim and I had the privilege to celebrate not only Eli's birth, but Jesus as well. We trekked to the hospital to share the day with Elijah Duncan and his mommy and daddy. What a wonderful Christmas that was!

The shepherds, those men on the hill visited by the angels, ran to find the new baby. The one who would change the world, lay in a manger waiting to meet these awestruck men. Once they'd laid eyes on that sweet little babe, those shepherds couldn't stop talking about him. They told everyone they saw about the miracle of Jesus' birth.

What are you talking about this time of year?

I hope amid the busyness of the season we talk about Jesus. His birth. His life. His truth and grace. Let's be like the shepherds and tell everyone about the King.

Shine Hope

Jesus came into the world to give hope. 

As his people, we are called to share his story with the world. 

Your world might be your children, your spouse, your siblings, your best friend. 

Your world may be your workplace, your college, your school or your favorite hang out. 

The next person God sets in your path may be the one who needs the hope of Jesus. 

In this time of giving, shine the beloved light of hope. 

Share the gift of Jesus.

Appearance With Purpose

Luke 2:8-14

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, "Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, 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, good will toward men. -KJV

Imagine you are resting on a grassy hill surrounded by sheep, bleating for your attention. You raise up to check on your charges. Without warning, an angel appears. Your heart races, you tremble and fall back to the ground. You look around at your buddies, their mouths are hanging open, their staffs dropped with a thud. But the angel isn't bothered by your awe. He's made an appearance with a purpose. His announcement will change the world. "No need to fear. I've got great news for you. Jesus has been born. He's in a manger just over the ridge. Go meet the Messiah."

You stand in reverence and nod at the angel. About the time you try to wrap your head around the glory of Jesus birth, a choir of angels burst into song.  "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

You clap your hands together in praise, pick up your staff and head to see the King. Oh what a glorious night!

Angels visited shepherds, every day workers who smelled like animals, and announced the birth of Jesus. What a privilege for the caretakers of sheep to be the first to kneel before the one who would change the world. 

We may not be shepherds on a hill, but we are called to kneel before Jesus. Take time to praise the one who came to earth as a babe, then gave his life for our sins. He is the King of grace and hope.

Oh What a Glorious Night-Sidewalk Prophets

Children's Christmas Book Review: A Christmas Gift for Santa: A Bedtime Book by J. Theron Elkins, illustrated by Ag Jatkowska

Book Description:

Is there a gift waiting for Santa at the North Pole? Cuddle up with your little ones and follow the journey through Santa’s Workshop in search of Santa’s Christmas present. With bright and whimsical illustrations, this new take on the Christmas story is sure to become the newest addition to your holiday reading tradition—especially at bedtime!

Has Mrs. Claus forgotten Santa on Christmas Eve? He searches and searches their cozy North Pole home until he finds homemade gifts waiting for him next to a beautiful handwritten note. But what does it say?

My Review:
This sweet story takes a peek into Santa's time after Christmas. He's delivered all his gifts, now he's wondering if there might be one for him. J. Theron Elkins' rhythm and rhyme creates a fun and engaging story. The bright illustrations drew me into the story. Ag Jatkowska captured Santa's home in the most delightful way, filled with color and fun. This would be a great book for Christmas evening as you tuck little ones into bed. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Lion of Judah

When I turned the calendar to December, I was pleased to see a lion on the page. Why? Because the king of the jungle reminded me of the King of my life. 

Jesus is called the Lion of Judah in the book of Revelation. 

Born into an every day family, in a stable with animals, and shepherds as his first visitors, Jesus grew from a tiny baby to a man who triumphed over death. 

As you celebrate the season of Christmas, spend time thinking and praying about the one who gave his life. The Lion of Judah knows us, understands us, and reaches toward us with a pure love that's beyond imagination.

Movies Parallel Truth

"But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you.” Jesus in John 16:12-15

I love a good movie. So far this holiday season I've watched two; Frozen 2 and A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.

Frozen 2 is a fictional story about two sisters who want to save their kingdom. As Elsa seeks to solve the problem in the movie (no spoilers here) she's encouraged to listen for nature's voice in order to do the right thing.

Lloyd Vogel, a journalist, struggles in A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood with angst against his father. Mister Rogers, a children's show star and minister, shares love and encouragement with Lloyd. In his own fashion, Mister Rogers teaches Lloyd about listening for truth and making the right choice. If you know Mister Rogers' story at all, you know he was a kind man who loved people and encouraged children to recognize and understand their feelings. He also loved God, prayed and read the Bible.

As I watched both movies, I couldn't help but find parallels with some biblical truths. Living life as followers of Jesus, we strive to pay attention to the Spirit's lead and share Jesus' love and kindness with the world. We're called to hear, not nature's spirit but, the Holy Spirit. He carries our prayers to God, connects us to Jesus, and gives us encouragement and advice. By listening to the Spirit, we can make a prayerful, spiritually informed decision to do the right thing. By loving people in the kind, gentle way of Mr. Rogers, we show the world the love and grace of Jesus. Both movies reminded me of God's truth, to love Him and love people.

As you go along this holiday season and interact with others, seek the Spirit's guidance and pour God's love over the folks who cross your path.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.  Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9

Children's Christmas Book Review: A Very Fiona Christmas illustrated by Richard Cowdrey

Book Description:

It’s Fiona the hippo’s very first Christmas, and the zoo is sparkling with holiday spirit. When the adorable little hippo asks her friends, “What’s Christmas?” they set out to show her all the wonders and excitement of the season. With each new experience Fiona lets out a snort, wiggles her ears, and asks, “Is THIS Christmas?”

Amidst the snow, twinkling lights, mistletoe, and stockings, Fiona ends up meeting a new friend at the zoo who helps her discover the true meaning of the holiday: Love. Snuggle up with your little ones and join Fiona and her adorable animal friends for a heartwarming holiday romp through the zoo. 

My Review:
A Very Fiona Christmas is a delightful story of a baby hippo discovering Christmas for the first time. Living near Cincinnati, I am familiar with Fiona. She was born six weeks premature at the Cincinnati Zoo. She survived and thrived and has become a favorite of young and old. Richard Cowdrey's illustrations are fantastic. The color and movement of the beautiful characters will delight children. If you are looking for a gift for an animal lover, and what child isn't, pick up a copy of A Very Fiona Christmas. I won't spoil the ending, but I'll say it is perfect. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving brings joy to many hearts. A time for family, food and gratefulness. 

Every November, I see posts that declare appreciation for many things. 

Today, I'm thankful for all God provides. 

Jesus' grace, loving family, faithful friends. 

May everyone finds something to be thankful for. 

Many folks struggle this time of year. 

Take time to find those who need a helping hand and pour your blessings over them. 

It's Okay to Rest

Matthew 11:29

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 

On our drive to South Carolina to visit Hannah, we admired the autumn leaves. Many had fallen yet the colors that remained held a soft hue. God's beautiful artistry surrounded us. Among the trees with foliage stood many bare limbed giants. Their arms reached for the cerulean blue sky. To me they appeared as lovely as the fall flora. The sun shined on them as they rested from their summer job of shade and growth. I felt a peace as I admired their beauty.

Jesus knew we'd wear ourselves out. He understood we'd push through and exhaust our bodies and spirits to the point we'd need rest. Our spiritual health is as important as our physical health. Jesus took breaks. He'd find a place to be alone and pray. The bare trees reminded me, I need to take time to stop and rest, stop and pray, and stop and give thanks. 

Yet the news about him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. Luke 5:15-16

The holidays bring busyness, stress and exhaustion. Make a mindful effort to rest and renew your spirit in Him.

Fall Findings Friday: Rejoice

In autumn, when the leaves have fallen, 

there are so many other things to see in the woods.

Even the fungi that grows on the logs is beautiful.

Nonfiction Book Review: Losing My Voice to Find It: How a Rockstar Discovered His Greatest Purpose by Mark Stuart, Tim Tebow (Foreword), Roger W. Thompson (Contributor)

Book Description:

The incredible story of a lead singer's rise to fame and his crushing fall when he lost his singing voice, his career, and his marriage--and then found a new calling more in tune with God than he ever thought possible. 

Mark Stuart was the front man of popular Christian rock band, Audio Adrenaline, at a time when the Christian music scene exploded. Advancing from garage band to global success, the group sold out stadiums all over the world, won Grammy Awards, and even celebrated an album going certified Gold. But after almost twenty years, Mark's voice began to give out. When doctors diagnosed him with a debilitating disease, the career with the band he'd founded and dedicated his life to building was gone. Then to his shock, his wife ended their marriage, and Mark believed he'd lost everything.

Unsure of his future, Mark traveled to Haiti to help with the band's ministry, the Hands and Feet Project. When the devastating 2010 earthquake hit, media learned he was present and sought him out for interviews. Ironically, Mark became the scratchy voice for the struggling Haitians, drawing the world's attention to their dire circumstances. In the process, Mark found a greater purpose than he'd ever known before. In this gripping, compelling new book, Mark Stuart overlays his story with passages from the gospel of John, urging his readers to listen for God's voice and to embrace his big love that calls us into a big life.

My Review:
Mark Stuart's story is heart-wrenching and beautiful. If you listened to Audio Adrenaline or not, this book is worth the read. Mark is honest and open about the heartaches of his life and the way God worked. I love stories that show the truth and grace of God, and Mark's does. I enjoyed reading about the influence the band's music had on so many. As Mark ends the book and talks about his ministry in Haiti, I am once again reminded that God has purpose for us. This is an excellent book, written from the heart. I chose to review Mark's book because my daughters and I listened to their music, Kentucky Christian College/University is my alma mater and I grew up with band member, Bob Herdman. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Gratitude

Having an attitude of gratitude can change a dreary day into a day filled with joy. 

Let God, family, friends, acquaintances know you appreciate them.

I Kind of Love my Dishwasher

1 Thessalonians 5:18

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

I propped the dirty plate in the dishwasher, and a weird thought came to me. Or maybe not so weird. "I have a machine that washes my dishes for me." At 62 years old, I'm kind of fascinated with this machine. I washed dishes by hand for many years. Honestly, that was my quiet time, because the rest of the family usually scattered as I filled the sink with suds.

As I type on the keys of my laptop, the sound of the dryer tumbling my clothes dry serves as my background noise. Of course the washer cleaned the clothes for me, first. If you are reading this, you're most likely on a computer or smart phone. I'm not trying to toot technologies' horn, but how much do we take for granted the ease of modern life? How often do we thank God for the things that enhance our lives, that give us time to pursue Bible study, hobbies, prayer, sports or time to help our neighbors or community?

How often do we take time to thank God for our circumstances? 

When I come across a scripture like 1 Thessalonians 5:18, I'm reminded to humble myself and thank God for the numerous blessings of life. Even when life's problems rear their ugly head, I pray God reminds me to be grateful and give thanks in all situations.

 “As with all commandments, gratitude is a description of a successful mode of living. The thankful heart opens our eyes to a multitude of blessings that continually surround us.” – James E. Faust

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. I challenge you to make a list, either on paper or mentally, of all you have to be thankful for. I think you'll find a reason to praise God.

Fall Findings Friday: Bittersweet

My mom gathered bittersweet every autumn. 

She'd arrange a beautiful bouquet of this colorful berry in 

a pitcher and bowl and place it on our dining room table. 

That's when I knew Thanksgiving was around the corner.

Spread the Joy!

Fiction Review: Lake Season by Denise Hunter

Book Description:

A lost letter, a new love, and old secrets beckon this summer at the Bluebell Inn.

When their parents die in a tragic accident, Molly Bennett and her siblings pull together to fulfill their parents’ dream: turning their historic Bluebell, North Carolina home back into an inn. The situation would just be temporary—three years at the most—then they would sell the inn and Molly could get back to chasing her own dreams.

Adam Bradford (aka bestselling author Nathanial Grey) is a reclusive novelist with a bad case of writer’s block. Desperate for inspiration as his deadline approaches, he travels to the setting of his next book, a North Carolina lake town. There he immediately meets his muse, a young innkeeper who fancies herself in love with his alter ego.

Molly and Adam strike up an instant friendship. When Molly finds a long-lost letter in the walls of her inn she embarks on a mission with Adam to find the star-crossed lovers and bring them the closure they deserve. But Adam has secrets of his own. Past and present collide as truths are revealed, and Molly and Adam will have to decide if love is worth trusting.

My Review:
Lake Season is such a wonderful story. I enjoyed the camaraderie between the siblings as they attempt to fulfill their parents' dream of opening the inn. When their first customer stops in to book a room the scene is so funny. Molly's vulnerability is revealed and Adam's sweet side shines. I love how Molly fancies herself in love with a famous author and the joy she finds in reading his novels. But when Molly finds the old letter in the wall the story really takes off. As they work to solve an old mystery, a beautiful story unfolds. Denise Hunter has written another lovely story filled with delightful characters. If you are looking for a great read, check out Lake Season. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thank You

Veterans Day is a day to honor those who have served in the armed forces. 

The folks who fought to give us freedom. 

I'm thankful for the sacrifices of the vets and their families. 

Recently, a little boy told me his dad is a veteran and his brother is in the service now. 

With heartfelt respect he honored his dad and brother. 

I lift up the families of those who serve and have served. Thank you!

My dad served in WW2. Love this photo my daughter, Maggie, snapped.

Gratitude Brings Joy!

Colossians 3:15-17

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Christmas decorations have hit the stores before November 1. Hallmark launched their holiday movies, October 25. Radio stations are already blasting Christmas cheer.

I admit, I'm watching the Christmas movies and listening to the music. I'm making gifts and have a running holiday list.

In the midst of this holiday flurry, my husband asked, "What happened to Thanksgiving?"

I've pondered Tim's question for a few days now. What did happen to Thanksgiving? Not just the holiday, but the earnest, sincere act of thankfulness. When I volunteer at school, it does my heart good when I hear a child say thank you. Let's model this simple act of appreciation for children so they might pass it on. 

The apostle Paul penned a letter to the people of Colossians. He urged them to give thanks to God in everything. How much better would the day be if we lived with a grateful heart? As we prepare for the holidays, Thanksgiving and Christmas, let's stop and praise God. A grateful heart spills joy and hope onto others.

Let's thank God for his love and grace and revive the practice of saying thank you to the people around us.

Fall Findings Friday: A Little Country in the City

Stacked on bales of straw and complimented by a purple mum, I caught this little taste of fall at Newport on the Levee. We'd visited a book festival, Books by the Banks, in Cincinnati, then stopped by Tom & Chee for lunch. 

I grew up in the country and love the fall decorations that echo our agricultural heritage. 

Pumpkins, corn, and chrysanthemum all reflect the beauty of the season.

In Everything

Historical Fiction Review: When Silence Sings by Sarah Loudin Thomas

Book Description:

Colman Harpe works for the C&O in the Appalachian rail town of Thurmond, West Virginia, but he'd rather be a preacher and lead his own congregation. When a member of the rival McLean clan guns down his cousin and the clan matriarch, Serepta McLean, taunts the Harpes by coming to a tent revival in their territory, Colman chooses peace over seeking revenge with the rest of his family.

Colman, known for an unnaturally keen sense of hearing, is shocked when he hears God tell him to preach to the McLeans. A failed attempt to run away leaves Colman sick and suffering in the last place he wanted to be--McLean territory. Nursed by herbalist Ivy Gordon--a woman whose birthmark has made her an outcast--he's hindered in his calling by Serepta's iron grip on the region and his uncle's desire to break that grip. But appearances can be deceiving, and he soon learns that the face of evil doesn't look like he expected.

My Review:
I requested to review When Silence Sings because I enjoy historical fiction set in the Appalachian Mountains. I'm so glad I did. Sarah Loudin Thomas has written a stunning story that encompasses so much of what life looks like when we listen to God. In the time of feuding families, Colman Harpe hears God's call. He wants to run away. As a matter of fact he tries. But after wrestling with angels, a beautiful story unfolds. I loved the journey of Coleman's character. Then there is Ivy. She's just lovely. A sweet woman with a huge heart. I can't forget Serepta. What an interesting character. She brings a dose of apprehension to the story. But in the midst of all the feuding, fear, and family there is faith. Sprinkled with mountain folktales and anecdotes, When Silence Sings is an excellent novel. Cozy up by the fire and soak in this hopeful tale. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Fiction Book Review: Chasing Dreams by Deborah Raney

Book Description:
Joanna Chandler always dreamed of becoming an attorney. But when she left law school to help care for her dying mother, stepping away from her single-minded pursuit gave her space to reconsider. The only question is, if not law, what should she do with her life?

To keep her mind off an uncertain future, Joanna helps her older sister, Phylicia, throw an amazing outdoor wedding on the charming Missouri property the three Chandler sisters own together. That's when she realizes wedding planning could be a thriving business of its own. And Lukas Blaine, the handsome wedding DJ, opens her mind to the possibility of love on the horizon.

But there's more to Luke than meets the eye. The young boy he's been mentoring has lost his mother and become Luke's ward. Mateo is sullen and angry and needs constant attention. How can Luke possibly find the time to start a new relationship or saddle someone else with a wounded child? He may have to let go of the woman of his dreams--and crush her dreams at the same time.

My Review:
I love Deb Raney's books because she delves into the heart of life. Her books dig deep and deal with real struggles as the characters find the desire of their heart. In Chasing Dreams, Jo, the main character, lays out her feelings and fears. She's honest with herself, which brings her great angst. Luke is a sweetheart who has dedicated himself to Mateo. He's a gentleman who wants to draw Jo into his life, yet hesitates because he cares so much. As always, Deb takes the reader through the struggle with the characters and shows how they confront themselves before God. If you enjoy great fiction with an inspirational thread, read Deb's books. Chasing Dreams is book two in the Chandler Sisters' series. Read Phylicia and Quinn's story in book one, Reason to Breathe. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Two Plates

James 5:16

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

Sometimes on my morning walk God hits me with a thought.

As I admired the orange and red leaves on the trees in our neighborhood, they reminded me of the many people I wanted to pray for. When I wandered through my mental list of friends and family and sought God's attention, I pictured two ordinary white plates. One empty and one full. The full one was piled with slips of paper where I'd scribbled the needs of the folks I wanted to pray for. Some had more writing than others. The empty plate showed me I had taken the needs before the Father.

But, here's what sometimes happens. I say "Yes, I'll pray for you." Then I mentally place the prayer request on the serving dish to offer up to Jesus later. Then I forget about the plate and it piles up. Some might even fall off. That's a fail for me.

On my walk, God reminded me to empty my plate. Kind of like when a you're kid and your parents tell you to clean your plate. In James, we're told as Christians to pray for one another. Prayers for our friends, family, or enemy will be heard by God. Our prayers are fueled by the power of the Holy Spirit.

I don't know about you, but I want my prayer plate to be empty. I desire a prayer life that pours the needs of people out to the heavenly Father. He wants to hear our simple and humble words. Seek him and speak from the heart. He's all ears.

Fall Findings Friday: Whoooo???

I found this little owl, Jack-o-lantern, on my neighbor's porch. How cute! I've loved owls for as long as I can remember. I'm not sure if I admired them because they are associated with wisdom, or I just thought they were adorable creatures. I was blessed to see a baby owl in the woods one time. What a joy! God's creation amazes me everyday. 

What's your favorite animal?

Harvest Time

Glory

John 3:34-36

For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.

Since mid-September I've pulled out yarn, wool, crochet hooks and felting needles to create Christmas gifts. If I didn't start early and work faithfully to complete the items, I'd never finish on time. Handmade gifts take time, energy, a dose of love and discipline. Along with creating I've been gathering, making purchases here and there as we find things our family might enjoy. Next week I plan to scribble a list of everything we've tucked away so far and start sorting (and maybe even wrapping.) Yes, I know Christmas is about two months away, but I want to be ready. Why go to all the effort? Because we have family and friends we love. It's that simple.

If I'm spending that much time preparing for the holidays, how much more should I do to be ready for eternity? Everything! Not that what I do will get me into heaven (that's all Jesus love and grace.) Yet for me to have the hope of eternal life with God, I need to keep my focus on heaven, even as I live on earth. Even though I often fail, I start fresh every day and measure life against the truth of the Bible, prepare my heart with an ongoing dialogue between Jesus and me and appreciate the Holy Spirit's work in my heart that helps me produce God's fruit. With discipline, obedience, and faith, I challenge myself to a life dedicated to God.

I pray when I'm finished in this world, that I'll meet Jesus face-to-face. What a glory that will be. In the meantime, I prepare. Why? Because I love Jesus. It's that simple.

Think about life with Jesus in eternity.    

Fall Findings Friday: A Truck Full of Fun

Love this old truck I saw at Burger Farms. 

The lovely plants, scarecrow, and pretty little girl in her pumpkin patch dress 

add joy to my autumn.

Let Go

Historical Fiction Review: A Distance Too Grand (American Wonders Collection Book #1) by Regina Scott

Description:

Meg Pero has been assisting her photographer father since she was big enough to carry his equipment, so when he dies she is determined to take over his profession--starting with fulfilling the contract he signed to serve on an Army survey of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon in 1871. What she doesn't realize is that the leader of the expedition is none other than the man she once refused to marry.

Captain Ben Coleridge would like nothing more than to leave without the woman who broke his heart, but he refuses to wait even one more day to get started. This survey is a screen for another, more personal mission, one he cannot share with any member of his team.

As dangers arise from all sides, including within the survey party, Meg and Ben must work together to stay alive, fulfill their duties, and, just maybe, rekindle a love that neither had completely left behind.

My Review:
I enjoyed, A Distance Too Grand. The story is filled with mystery, adventure and romance. Meg is a strong woman determined to accomplish her goal to be an excellent photographer. Regina Scott created Meg's character as a great example of a lady who not only respects the beauty God created, but a woman willing to take risks. Ben's character has a great capacity for love and adventure. One of the things I like most about the story is the thread of hope, where Meg and Ben both contemplate the love God has for them. The other character that takes center stage in this story is the Grand Canyon. You get an up close view of this incredible work of art. If you enjoy historical fiction set in natural surroundings and filled with adventure, you'll love this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

God Promises Restoration

1 Peter 5:6-10

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 

Living life as a Christ follower is no picnic.

At fourteen years old, I walked down the church aisle and gave my life to Jesus. If you remember anything about the teen years, peer pressure and mean girls infiltrated the school. I'd accepted Jesus the summer between my eighth and ninth grade year. When I entered the doors to my high school years, I waltzed in as a shiny new Christian. Even though many of my friends went to church, my heartfelt love for God took a hit. For some reason, friends turned on me and made fun of me. They couldn't understand why I wanted to devote my life to Jesus. Thankfully, I was part of a great youth group. But even at that, I sometimes felt alone in my stand for Christ. Satan never let up. 

Fast forward to many years later. I worked in an academic library. My surroundings felt like high school all over again. As a believer working in a liberal setting, my faith remained challenged. But this time, I understood why.

God's people are tested every day, all over the world. Satan is relentless. But so is God.  His love and grace surpass anything the devil temps us with. No matter what damage we suffer in this world, God promises to restore his children. He offers his strength and support to give us the courage to continue life for him and the hope of eternal life in heaven.

No matter the struggle, the broken heart, the disappointment, the sorrow, God promises restoration.

Fall Findings Friday: Autumn Through the Eyes of a Child

As an elementary student, I loved kindergarten art. I remember the teacher giving us screens, construction paper, leaves, toothbrushes and cups of paint. We placed the leaves on the paper, dipped the brush in the paint and rubbed it over the screen. The red, yellow, and orange paint splattered over the leaves and left a delightful pattern. 

The other day, as I walked through the elementary where my daughter works, I noticed these colorful works of art on the kindergarten wall. How lovely for the children to express their vision of fall. 

The Poetry of Autumn

I snapped this photo on a field trip in southern Ohio.