He Doesn't Give Up

Jeremiah 4:3-4
This is what the Lord says to the people of Judah and to Jerusalem:

“Break up your unplowed ground
    and do not sow among thorns.
Circumcise yourselves to the Lord,
    circumcise your hearts,
    you people of Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem,or my wrath will flare up and burn like fire
    because of the evil you have done—
    burn with no one to quench it.

An angry sky loomed overhead.

As we drove, the sky turned gray and the clouds rolled. Tim commented that the sky looked angry. Indeed, it did. No sun peeked through, only gray. The sky darkened the further we drove, and within the hour the clouds burst with torrential rain.

I've been reading the book of Jeremiah, which is not warm and fuzzy. It's full of anguish—God's anguish over Jerusalem and the Israelites. They had turned their back on God and gave their attention to the idols they created. As I was reading, I understood and recognized God's deep feelings for these people.

I write a lot about how much God loves us, and He does, more than we can comprehend. Along with the emotion of love, God feels all the other ones, like anger, frustration, and hurt. He made us in His image, with all the feels, so of course He experiences the same emotions.

God and the Israelites had journeyed together for years. He'd saved them so many times, yet they turned on Him and chose to sin rather than follow God. His righteous wrath was well founded and His heart broke over these people who betrayed Him. Sounds kind of familiar. God sees similar behavior out of people today that He saw from the Israelites, yet even in His anger and hurt, He longs for us to turn to Him and seek forgiveness.

Later in the chapters, He offers to forgive the Israelites if they will repent. He doesn't give up on them regardless of how they made Him feel. God's heart breaks over people, yet He loves fiercely.

Seek God. Turn to Him and give Him your heart.

Throwing the Rug in the Wash

Ephesians 1:7-10
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding,  he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.

I’d put off cleaning the bathroom.

Confession—I don’t like to clean. Oh, I love the results, a shiny sink, sparkling toilet, and glistening shower, but I need motivation to make it happen.

After I gave Rosie May a bath, and I got as wet as she did, I scrubbed the shower, shined the mirror and overall cleaned the bathroom. We have a beautiful crocheted rug, in a hue of rainbow colors, a friend made for me. I tossed that one and the shower mat in the washer. After everything sparkled, I laid the rugs on the floor. The difference between the dirty rug I washed and the clean rug I pulled out of the dryer was remarkable. The colors shone and brightened the room.

At times in my life, my heart resembled the dirty rug. Muted colors replaced vibrancy. Like the dirt, sin darkened my joy and sucked the life out of me. Then Jesus took my sin, my filth, the garbage in my life, and washed it all away. He carried sin to the cross and died with it there, but the beautiful thing is, He rose on the third day and with open arms offers a way out of negativity, addiction, sorrow, suffering, mistakes—you get the idea. In Jesus, there is hope. Through Jesus, God wants to lavish His grace on us. His grace cleanses the soul and restores vibrancy with joy and hope.

I’m thankful Jesus loves me more than I understand.

Seek Jesus and ask Him to cleanse your soul.

Walking With God

James 4:7-10

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and He will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

Have you ever walked away from God? 

There was a time, years ago, when I inched farther and farther away from God. Let me tell you—it was a dark and lonely place. I went through the motions—going to church, praying empty prayers, and smiling when I didn’t feel like it, then God pounded on the door of my heart and called me to come back home. He pursued me, and I answered. I grieved over the distance I’d placed between God and me, over the sins in my life, and the sorrow in my heart. You know what? God opened His great big, beautiful arms to me and welcomed me back to Him. Ever since that day, I’ve not stepped away again. Instead, I’ve found comfort, peace, strength, joy, and hope in the arms of the Lord, and He has blessed me with opportunities to share His great love.

The book of James holds many nuggets of wisdom and truth. “Come near to God and He will come near to you,” is a promise I can count on. I’ve experienced His closeness in my life, and I’m thankful for God’s constant presence. I’m also thankful for Jesus and His grace, for forgiveness and His unfailing love.

In this month of Thanksgiving, I’m grateful for the Bible which gives me wisdom, God who holds me close, and Jesus who gave His life for my sins so I can someday meet Him in heaven.

This world is not an easy place, but with the Lord by our side, we will thrive.

Draw close to God and He will draw close to you.

Second Chances

Ephesians 4:22-24
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

God gives second chances.

I am overwhelmed with gratitude every day because I have a God who gives grace and forgiveness. Growing up in church I learned a lot about the rules. Do this, don't do that. In the midst of those teachings, I heard of God's love for me, but being a shy, quiet, rule follower, my focus stayed on right and wrong. I thought if I did everything right, I'd earn my way to heaven. Boy was I wrong. As a human, I didn't have the capability to live a perfect life.

As I grew older, I experienced life. Some good, some bad. The more I learned about Jesus, the more I realized I couldn't go through life focusing on rules. At times Satan tried to push me away from the whole "religion" thing, but God brought me to my knees. Not to punish me, but to remind me of his beautiful, perfect grace.

You see, He loves me unconditionally. Regardless of poor choices, doubts, or frustration, He continues to wrap His arms around me and show His mercy. Once I turned my life, my decisions, my actions, my everything over to Him, I understood. Granted I need to be obedient, I must seek His will, and I have to stop and listen. I'm not in this alone, I'm in this life with the One who created me. And guess what? God wants me to succeed. He has plans for me and a future.

I'm forgiven. Do I still mess up? Yep. But I hit my knees and ask for grace. I praise God with thanksgiving for his Son who took my place and for the Holy Spirit who guides me. I'm thankful for this precious second chance.

Part of the Freedom

Romans 5:3-4
Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. 

I fell down, but I got back up.

No, I didn't actually fall to the ground, but so many times I've fallen in my walk with Jesus.

One of the last days of school this year, I helped in my daughter's first grade class. We stood in the hallway waiting for the children to finish their bathroom break, and one of the little ones had done something they shouldn't. I witnessed the most wonderful conversation. The child's sorrowful face dripped a few tears and my daughter leaned near and asked, "I appreciate that you are sorry for what happened, but what did you learn? We all make mistakes, but most important is to learn from them and do better next time. Don't let one mistake ruin your day."

I'd actually been thinking about this topic recently in reference to my writing. I can sit and cringe over the mistakes I make, or I can learn from them, and move forward. One of my book signings didn't go exactly the way I had hoped, but now I know what to do to make the experience better next time. I could have stewed about it, but I chose to see the whole picture, and know this is a lesson learned.

Confession time, I sin and make mistakes even though I'm a Christian. I'm not perfect, but thank goodness Jesus is. If I stew in past mistakes instead of looking at myself as a forgiven soul, my spiritual life will wither and die. Instead, I have to let go, seek forgiveness, re-evaluate, apply what I learned, forgive myself, and keep moving forward as God intends.

Romans reminds me to persevere, finish my work, and move toward maturity in Christ. I want to take those teachable moments like my daughter did and apply them to my life, so I grow in my walk with Jesus and not sit in my own mess. God is the God of second chances, He calls his followers to seek forgiveness and try again. That's part of the freedom I have in being a disciple of Jesus.

Seek the lesson to be learned and keep moving forward.

Contemporary Romance Review: What Remains True by Nancy Naigle

Book Description:
Working at a little shop on Main Street in a small town is exactly the break that executive Merry Anna Foster needs following her divorce. She’s made a bet with her ex-husband that she can live on the amount of money she’s giving him in alimony. If she can do it, then Kevin will have to stop complaining and leave her alone. But after three months of this new life, will she even want to leave Antler Creek? 

Adam Lockwood, bull rider and owner of the local feedstore, is having the best year of his rodeo career. He’s also a bit distracted by the pretty new neighbor living in his old bunkhouse. But Adam has no time for matters of the heart. He’s got his future all mapped out, and that future doesn’t involve a woman just yet. It doesn’t involve parenting a little girl either. However, Carly Fowler still suddenly leaves five-year-old Zan—the daughter Adam didn’t know he had—in his care. 

Is it possible that the future holds a life even better than what Merry Anna and Adam had each dreamed of? One that includes both tenderness and even love—not just for each other but for Zan too.

My Thoughts:
A story of second chances, folks who take care of each other, and small-town charm are at the heart of What Remains True. Merry Anna (I love her name) sets out to figure out her life after she steps away from the family business and the man who broke her heart. She lands in a charming town with people who want the best for her. Adam is dead set on making his mark on the rodeo circuit, but when he finds out he may have a daughter, his life is turned upside down. I love that Merry Anna's determination to try new things gives her courage as she learns to stand up for herself, and the way Zan wraps Adam around her heart. If you enjoy a sweet romance set in a small town, this one is for you. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Her Firstborn Son

Luke 2:6-7
While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

When a baby is placed in my arms; I feel giddy. 

Twelve years ago, on December 22, Sara gave birth to our grandson, Elijah Duncan. He spent his first Christmas in the hospital with his mom and dad. When we stopped by on the twenty-fifth to celebrate the holiday, we found him swaddled in his baby blanket and cuddled in his mother's arms. I couldn't wait to get my hands on him.

What a blessing that Christmas was.

Imagine the wonder Mary felt when she held baby Jesus. As a mother, I know what incredible joy a new baby brings. Consider this—the baby Mary held grew to be the man who became King of Kings, the One who sacrificed His perfect life to forgive sin. Because of Jesus I have the hope of heaven. All He asked of me was to believe, have faith, repent, be baptized, and obey.

Every day I seek Him and ask Him for guidance. The Holy Spirit gives me wisdom and clarity, but my part is seeking, listening, and obeying. I love Jesus and thank Him for forgiving my sins and loving me so much.

As we celebrate this beautiful season of love and giving, focus on the One whose life started as a babe in a manger and grew to be the man who would give his life for us all. The words, "Jesus loves me this I know," come to mind when I think about Jesus. He loves us and wants us to love Him and believe in Him.

Believe, this Christmas, in Jesus.

Thankful for Freedom

2 Corinthians 3:15-17
Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

The children waved flags in their honor.

Mrs. Blankenship's art classes made this beautiful flag.

On Veteran's Day, I had the privilege to watch the program the school put on to honor the men and women who served in the military. The children lined the halls and waved flags and the vets marched around the school. The scene brought back memories of an old-fashioned, small-town celebration. After the march, the children gathered in the gym. My daughter, Sara, sang The National Anthem, then the men spoke about their time in the military. A student from each class got to ask a question and hear the responses. I admit at times I had tears and chills.

One of the gentlemen in the group was a very special guest. Former Superintendent William Bick, who the school is named for, spoke to the students. At ninety-eight years old, he told them he served in WW2. What a treasure to have met this honorable veteran.

All the veterans who spoke represented the freedom they fought for and the safety they defended for our country. They gave their time to protect our freedom.

My dad served in WW2, my husband as an Air Force Reservist, my brothers in the National Guard. I've always had great respect for our military.

Our American freedom is not the only freedom we have. Believers and followers of Jesus hold a freedom that can never be taken away. When we receive the Holy Spirit, we also gain freedom from sin through repentance, freedom to live a life following the Savior, and freedom from the world. No matter what goes on around me, I know Jesus is with me and He comforts me.

I thank God for the veterans and military persons who serve, and I thank God for the One who gave His life as a sacrifice for our sins. Jesus loves us so much. He wants us to have the freedom He offers, the freedom to love, forgive, and hope.

On Thanksgiving, give thanks for our military and for Jesus, the one who sets us free.

Contemporary Romance Book Review: Riverbend Gap by Denise Hunter

Book Description:
She came in search of the family she’d always wanted—and found the kind of love she’d never dared to imagine.

When Katelyn Loveland’s car veered off a winding Appalachian Mountain road, she thought she was done for. That is until Cooper Robinson, local sheriff’s deputy, came to her rescue. And though Katie narrowly escaped her brush with death, she still fell. Hard.

She wasn’t the only one. But soon Cooper learns that the woman he’s more attracted to than any he’s ever met is his brother’s new girlfriend—and therefore unquestionably off limits. Yet, despite his best efforts, Cooper and Katie can’t seem to avoid running into each other. Or ignore the undeniable chemistry between them.

As they grow closer, Katie shares the secrets of her past and the real reason she moved to their small North Carolina town. She also wins over Cooper’s welcoming and bighearted family. But they don’t know that her feelings for Cooper keep growing—all while she’s dating his brother. Soon the stakes of their emotional connection become higher than either of them could have imagined. Katie stands to lose the first family she’s ever had, and a scandal could doom Cooper’s campaign for sheriff’s office. Suddenly they find themselves on the edge of another precipice—and they’re forced to make a decision that could change their lives forever.

My Thoughts:
Life can throw you into an unexpected situation. Such is the case for Katelyn and Cooper. At first, I wasn't sure I liked the premise of Riverbend Gap, but as usual, Denise Hunter delivered an excellent story filled with emotion and romance. Cooper Robinson is swoon worthy and Katelyn Loveland is adorable, but even better, they both have kind hearts. Cooper's brother, Gavin, is dating Katelyn and she loves his family. Boy, is she surprised to find out Cooper is her boyfriend's brother. So begins a situation filled with hope, regret, confusion, forgiveness, and family love. This is a lovely story that portrays a family who cares about each other. For Katelyn, that's huge. As a foster child, she's searching for the kind of love she's missed out on, which adds another layer to the story. I loved the setting in a small town on the Appalachian Trail and the tidbits written about hiking. If you enjoy romance, family, and a good story, you'll want to read Riverbend Gap, book one in the Riverbend Romance story.  I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

All Things Good

For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.

1 Timothy 4:4

When I came across this verse, I paused and read it again.

Everything God has created is good.

When I am outside, I am always in awe of God's creation.

All that he has made is good.

This beautiful heron posed for me at Old Woman's Creek Estuary.

To me, herons are such graceful birds.

They remind me of God's grace when people, like me, sin.

Even when I've failed and marred the good,

God through Jesus restores the good all over again--through forgiveness.

Praise God--His grace covers all my sin.

 

His Rest Restores

Matthew 11:28-29
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 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.

I was concerned I’d worn her out.

Our seven-year-old granddaughter, Ella Cate, spent the night on Monday. What a delight! (I’m not prejudice, nope, not at all.) On Monday, we played on the playground, swam in the community pool, watched cartoons, drew pictures, and ate kid food with Grammy’s requirement of fruit. She blessed every meal with a sweet prayer and went sound to sleep that night. On Tuesday, we spent most of the day at the pool, met her parents for dinner, then she went home to sleep in her own bed.

On Wednesday morning, I went to her house and discovered a tired little girl. A good tired, mind you, but tired nonetheless. We watched a movie, then went with my daughter to lunch and patio furniture shopping.

When I called Ella Cate on Thursday and heard her perky voice on her momma’s phone, I knew she’d gotten her pep back. A restful morning on Wednesday and a good night’s sleep helped restore her sweet little self.

Ella Cate and I had so much fun, but even in good times, we got tired. A night of rest restored our energy and carried us through.

Jesus offers rest for the weary and burdened. Who does that entail? All of us. Folks worn out from the stress of life. People burdened with sin and folks concerned for family and friends. Jesus knew we’d grow tired, he knew, when he died on the cross, he’d take on the weight of the world. The very picture of Jesus gentle and humble heart reminds me how much he loves me.

In Jesus, I rest in the assurance of grace and forgiveness and the promise of eternal life in heaven. 

Seek Jesus for relief from this weary world.

Historical Fiction Review: A Lady in Attendance by Rachel Fordham

Book Description:
Five years in a New York state reformatory have left a blemish on Hazel's real name. So when she takes a job as Doctor Gilbert Watts's lady in attendance in 1898, she does so under an alias. In the presence of her quiet and pious employer, Hazel finds more than an income. She finds a friend and a hope that if she can set her tarnished past in order, she might have a future after all.

As Gilbert becomes accustomed to the pleasant chatter of his new dental assistant, he can't help but sense something secretive about her. Perhaps there is more to this woman than meets the eye. Can the questions that loom between them ever be answered? Or will the deeds of days gone by forever rob the future of its possibilities?

Rachel Fordham pens a tender tale of a soft-spoken man, a hardened woman, and the friends that stand by them as they work toward a common purpose--to expunge the record of someone society deemed beyond saving--and perhaps find love along the way.

My Thoughts:
I ended this book wondering what the rest of Hazel and Gilbert’s life would look like. If an author gets me to think about the characters long after I’ve closed the final chapter, they’ve written a book worth reading. At first, I wasn’t sure I’d like the story, but once the characters got into my head and heart, I loved this tale of redemption and second chances. Hazel is forth coming and bold, Gilbert is quiet and serious. But don’t be fooled by Gilbert’s soft-spoken ways, he is a true hero who comes to the rescue in times of trouble. As friendships unfold and foes join forces with them, Hazel finds out who truly cares. If you enjoy historical fiction with well-written characters and an interesting story, you’ll want to read A Lady in Attendance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

She Washed His Feet With Her Tears

Luke 7:44-47
Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair.  You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.”

Washing another person’s feet is a humbling experience.

At church camp, the counselors and teachers taught us to experience the times that Jesus lived. In Jesus day, folks wore sandals or walked barefoot on the dusty roads. They didn’t wear the latest model of tennis shoes or work boots. As a greeting and welcome to visitors, the host provided water and washed the feet of their guests.

Our camp teacher paired us up, and we removed each other’s shoes and rinsed each other’s feet. I’ll admit as a teenager I thought it a bit weird, but the act increased my understanding of the ancient times.

When a Pharisee invited Jesus to dinner, he failed to provide water for Jesus’ feet. Jesus never complained or questioned, but when the woman who stood in the shadows approached him, he welcomed her. She bowed before him and cleansed his feet with her tears. The tears may have been carried in a jar where she collected them, or she may have cried over him. Either way, she humbled herself before Jesus and as an act of worship poured perfume over his feet.

The most beautiful part of the story is Jesus’ offer of forgiveness. Because the woman humbled herself and believed in Jesus as Savior, he forgave her sins on the spot. She walked away free of the burden of her past into a life of gratitude and love.

She loved much, because she was forgiven of much.

Jesus arms are open to invite you in. He loves us so much and wants nothing more than for us to believe and live for him.

Be the person who loves much.

Jesus Delivers and Forgives

Jesus forgives.

Jesus loves.

Jesus restores life.

I live a life of gratitude and praise because of Jesus' grace.

Had I not experienced sin on this earth, I wouldn't understand the love Jesus offers.

He comforts me and guides me. 

Jesus grace has saved my soul.

 

If You Feel Hopeless

Luke 8:12-15
Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. Those on the rocky ground are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.

My garden breathed the breath of new life. 

Ohio’s temperatures teased us with hints of spring. At our condo, the lawn care folks hauled wheel barrows loaded with mulch. They mulched around the trees and the perimeters of the buildings. 

In my little area around our porch, I’ve planted flowers and decorated with garden ornaments. Before the guys mulched our corner, I removed decorative rocks and pulled out dead leaves. I cleaned out the mess the finches made, dropping their leftovers on my flower bed, and dug out a few weeds.

After the landscapers added the mulch, I rearranged the shredded wood chips around the blooming crocus, hyacinth sprouts, and unfurling tulip leaves. As spring approaches, I’ll witness new life as it pushes through the soil and blooms as beautiful flowers.

My garden appeared refreshed, clean, and ready for growth.

I’ve been a Christian for many, many years. At times, I’ve carried rocks in my heart. Stones of guilt and anger weighed me down. Sin disguised as colorful ornaments tempted me. Self-deprecation filled my mind with debris. Yet even in all the darkness of sin and shame, the beauty of being a Christ follower shined through. Jesus reached out and accepted all the rocks, stones, and dirt. He took all of the burdens from me and renewed my life. He’s encouraged me to grow and bloom; to be the best person I can be.

Granted, I still struggle, and I still sin. I’m not perfect. But I know Jesus continues to hear my cries for mercy, and for that I am thankful.

If you feel hopeless, turn to Jesus. In him there is hope, joy, peace, and rest. He wants to take your burdens and replace them with grace. Jesus died to give life to whomever chooses to follow him.

Seek the one who renews life. Jesus loves you.

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Start Fresh

1 John 1:8-9
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 

I’m sorry Mrs. McGinnis.

He looked at his feet as he placed the picture book, swollen with water damage, on my desk. Every single page rippled. Mold had started growing around the edges. The book, deemed ruined, lay there like a sad proclamation of what not to do. The little guy had left the book under the tree in his backyard. That evening the skies opened and the rain poured. By the time he found the book, the water had done its damage.

What a brave boy to bring the book back to me and confess what happened. Embarrassed, he stood before me no doubt wondering what kind of punishment he’d receive. I knew he had little money and couldn’t replace the book, so I had to think of a way to instill the care of books without him thinking it was okay to leave a book outside.

I knelt in front of him, and we talked about what happened. He understood he couldn’t do it again, but there might be consequences. I asked him if it was okay with him if I showed the book to the class and talked about what water damage does to a book. I promised not to use his name. He beamed over helping the class, even as he showed remorse over his mistake. You see, I forgave him, and he knew he got a second chance.

God gives me second chances (notice the plural.) I know I sin. Whatever the sin is, God has mercy and grace and will forgive me, if I ask. Yes, it’s on me to communicate with God and let him know how sorry I am, and I won’t do it again.

Often, consequences result from sin. Like the little guy with the book. He had to own up to his error and he knew there would be some repercussion. But he was willing to seek forgiveness and do what needed done to right the wrong.

When I sin and seek forgiveness, God pours his grace over me and says try again. Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead as a sacrifice for all sins. He gave his life for mine. That blows my mind, he loves me so much.

I am overwhelmed by the beauty of Jesus' love for me.

When you sin, seek God. In his great wisdom, with grace and mercy, he forgives. Then start fresh with renewed hope.

Historical Fiction Review: A Dance in Donegal by Jennifer Deibel

Book Description:
All of her life, Irish-American Moira Doherty has relished her mother's descriptions of Ireland. When her mother dies unexpectedly in the summer of 1920, Moira decides to fulfill her mother's wish that she become the teacher in Ballymann, her home village in Donegal, Ireland.

After an arduous voyage, Moira arrives to a new home and a new job in an ancient country. Though a few locals offer a warm welcome, others are distanced by superstition and suspicion. Rumors about Moira's mother are unspoken in her presence but threaten to derail everything she's journeyed to Ballymann to do. Moira must rely on the kindness of a handful of friends--and the strength of Sean, an unsettlingly handsome thatcher who keeps popping up unannounced--as she seeks to navigate a life she'd never dreamed of . . . but perhaps was meant to live.

My thoughts:
Jennifer Deibel creates an incredible picture of life in a small 1920s village. A Dance in Donegal engaged the senses and left me wanting to walk in the village and on the shore. Moira’s story is one of delight and despair. She’s traveled to a foreign country and knows no one, as she strives to fulfill her mother’s last wish. She meets some charming, warm, and friendly people and some who scare the wits out of her. In the book Moira meets Sean, a kind-hearted man who loves his village and people. I am fascinated by the legend and lore in the story, as well as the sprinkling of dialect. Jennifer Deibel lived in Ireland for six years and has captured the magic and beauty of the island. If you enjoy a tale well told, you’ll love this book as much I do. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Fiction Review: The Sowing Season: A Novel by Katie Powner

Book Description:

After he's forced to sell the family farm he's labored on his whole life, 63-year-old Gerrit Laninga doesn't know what to do with himself. He sacrificed everything for the land--his time, his health, his family--with nothing to show for it but bitterness, regret, and two grown children who want nothing to do with him.

Fifteen-year-old Rae Walters has growing doubts and fears about The Plan--the detailed blueprint for high school that will help her follow in her lawyer father's footsteps. She's always been committed to The Plan, but now that the pressure to succeed is building, what was supposed to unite her family in purpose, may end up tearing it apart.

When their paths cross just as they each need a friend the most, Gerrit's and Rae's lives begin to change in unexpected ways. Can they discover together what really matters in life and learn it's never too late for a second chance?

My Review:
I love this heartwarming story of hope and forgiveness. Gerrit Laninga spent years working the family dairy. The whole time he carried guilt. When he finally lets go of the farm, he's faced with what to do with his life. He loves his wife Hannie, but lots of mending needs to be done. In comes Rae Walters, a self-driven teenager who needs to stick with The Plan. These two go on a path that leads them to self-examination and discovery. Katie Powner's debut is beautiful. This is a great read as we go into the season of thanksgiving. I enjoyed the country setting and all the characters who matter to Gerrit and Rae. If you enjoy books with a redemptive thread and a family/community theme, you'll love The Sowing Season. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

It's Messy

Matthew 6:14-15
For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

Forgiveness is hard.

I was probably five years old when I learned my first lesson in forgiveness. Our family visited my aunt and uncle. On their coffee table sat an enticing bowl of candy (I'm trying to blame the bowl.) When we got ready to leave, I snatched a couple of pieces and stuck them in my pocket. When Mom tucked me in she

picked up my pants and out fell the two pieces of foil wrapped delight. "Did Uncle Lynn give these to you?" My little head shook a slow no. "Did you ask before you took them?" Another head shake no. "Tomorrow we'll take them back and you can apologize to your aunt and uncle." I'm sure my eyes were big as saucers as I nodded. "Now you need to tell God you're sorry for taking something that didn't belong to you." I prayed and asked God to forgive me.

I often write about grace and the beautiful act of God's love. But I think sometimes I forget about the messiness of forgiveness. The word of God, in black and white (sometimes red) lays out what God considers sin. As I think about the many acts God points out as sin, He's selected them to protect me. But the thing is, God gives me the choice to follow his wisdom or not. But I know, even when I fail, God has my back. He's given me a way to come clean through the blood of Jesus Christ.

Forgiveness frees us from sin, and the act of forgiving another person frees us from hate and anger. Yes—it's messy. Sometimes it's easier to hold a grudge or become complacent. But the anger toward the other person burns a hole in the heart. I've been there, both needing forgiveness and offering forgiveness. In both situations, God lifted my burden and filled me with peace.

God offers forgiveness and hope to everyone. Seek him.

True Freedom

Until I seek forgiveness and give forgiveness, I'm bound by the chains of sin and despair. 

True freedom comes from reconciliation with God and people.