tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71815638381510635452024-03-13T09:18:18.386-04:00Simple Stories Timeless TruthsSimple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.comBlogger55125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-47655276888714250842015-03-05T17:20:00.000-05:002015-03-05T17:20:29.142-05:00What Kind of Man?<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">After the birth of our daughter, we received cards and
congratulations from so many gracious people. They came in addressed to Mr. and
Mrs. Dowell, the Dowell family and sometimes even to Miss Libby Dowell. But the
letter I’m remembering today was the only one addressed “Mark and David
Dowell.”</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vZYO3yfGpPU/VPjVeD1omsI/AAAAAAAAAfU/8-L1AKbhFRc/s1600/Wayne%2BJohnson%2Bletter%2Bjpg2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vZYO3yfGpPU/VPjVeD1omsI/AAAAAAAAAfU/8-L1AKbhFRc/s1600/Wayne%2BJohnson%2Bletter%2Bjpg2.jpg" height="320" width="282" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Written the day after her birth, this letter arrived full of
congratulations and excitement over Libby’s birth. But rather than focus solely
on her arrival, this letter explained how Libby was going to have exciting
times with the boys. It encouraged them that little sisters like big brothers,
and as big brothers they could teach her lots of things. The letter went on to
talk about Joye and Jeff and the special relationship they shared. How they had
little arguments sometimes, but that they were important to each other and how
nice this would be for Libby. This letter encouraged our sons to pray for Libby
and pray for their mom and dad. It told our boys that God made them, He made
Libby and that everything God makes is special. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We were surprised by this letter? Yes. Amazed by this letter?
No, because, my boys had Wayne Johnson as a part of their life. He baptized
both of them. He was their director, he was a role model to them and he was
their pastor. The arrival of a baby sister was a big deal for them, so it was
worth being addressed by “Mr. Wayne.” But what kind of man takes the time to do
things like that? Wayne did. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As the director of The Light, Wayne not only led our ragtag
band of troupers in telling the story of Christ every year, but he pastored our
group. He taught us from the Bible, he prayed with us over our concerns, he
visited the hospital and he rejoiced when new babies came. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">How do we remember this kind of man? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I will remember him when I see middle schoolers bouncing up
and down shouting, “Mr. Dowell, Mr. Dowell!” and watch as David responds with
patience and compassion to his theatre students. I will be reminded where he
first learned and observed those qualities in a director sitting through hours
of rehearsals in The Light. I will think about the days I was so grateful to
have a teenage son whose biggest hero was not a movie star, but a pastor. I
will remember Wayne. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I will remember him when I see Mark produce content under his
band label of “I Like Wolves,” smiling at the memory of the man who laughed
loudest and longest when Mark first uttered that phrase as a six year old slating
to audition for the Light. I will remember Wayne. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I will remember him when Libby performs knowing that he was
the first director to ever cast her, before she was even two months old. He had
quite the good time giving her notes for changing her previously silent role to
a speaking part when she screamed into Irma’s microphone. I will remember
Wayne. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I will remember him when I speak the word of God out loud to
the pressing needs of my life. Those rehearsals where he taught us that the
word of God has unexplainable power when spoken out loud left their mark. I
will remember Wayne. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I will remember him in the gift of so many incredibly
significant friendships that have impacted my life and lasted long beyond our
days together in the Light. Jan Bowlin and her family, Shauna Bartel and her
family, Barbara Hawxwell, Bey Christian and her family in England, Roger and
Lynda and their family in Wales and so many others – they are all gifts his
leadership in the Light gave to me. I will remember Wayne. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Thank you to Carol, Jeff and Joye for sharing your husband and
father with us for all those years. We have not forgotten him or you, for the
impact of his life lives on for so many of us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">What kind of man makes such an impact? I imagine if you had
asked Wayne that question, he might have said an ordinary man. The difference,
for all of us, was that he loved and served an extraordinary God. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-by5gSyLV0mE/VPjWOX1JYpI/AAAAAAAAAfc/QT2M6GFj2I0/s1600/The%2BLight%2B%40%2BSt.%2BDavid's.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-by5gSyLV0mE/VPjWOX1JYpI/AAAAAAAAAfc/QT2M6GFj2I0/s1600/The%2BLight%2B%40%2BSt.%2BDavid's.jpg" height="218" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-74847134687290553372012-06-28T15:23:00.000-04:002012-06-28T15:23:44.861-04:00Wedded to War Book Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y40Kq1K_d5g/T-yu7assmJI/AAAAAAAAAQI/rL_A4erVBbY/s1600/wedded3d-245x300.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="245" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y40Kq1K_d5g/T-yu7assmJI/AAAAAAAAAQI/rL_A4erVBbY/s320/wedded3d-245x300.png" /></a></div><br />
“We will be feeling these days for the rest of our lives, perhaps-but now is our one moment to do. To act.” Wedded to War, by Jocelyn Green<br />
<br />
As a young woman of refined society in 1861 New York, Charlotte Waverly already was pushing the bounds of societal expectations and her mother’s anxiousness by volunteering in the notorious Five Points section of New York. But as the country descends into Civil War, a call for women to serve as nurses to the military reveals to Charlotte a drive in her heart even she seems to have never truly suspected. Despite her young age, which does not meet the commission’s qualifications, Charlotte manages to secure a place in the training program for Union Army nurses.<br />
<br />
What follows is an adventure involving not only Charlotte, but a cast of engaging characters that one cannot help but become deeply involved with as the story grows and develops with each chapter. With incredible accuracy and historical research, Jocelyn has created a picture of the Civil War era which leaps off the page. Very quickly, you will find yourself choosing sides, cheering for some characters while despising others. The mesmerizing story absolutely pulls you in.<br />
<br />
Not only is this an incredibly enjoyable read, it is also a story of encouragement and hope revolving around the themes of grace, redemption and what one can do when you listen to the voice of your heart and your God, instead of the surrounding culture. For a story that will enthrall and encourage, read Jocelyn Green’s Wedded to War.<br />Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-83078720838068642892012-05-07T18:12:00.000-04:002012-05-07T18:12:51.497-04:00Sometimes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F4UjDbEgkQA/T6hFJm9mk1I/AAAAAAAAAP4/6N9lY2VnBHY/s1600/Mom%252C%2BDad%2Band%2Bme%252C%2B1962.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F4UjDbEgkQA/T6hFJm9mk1I/AAAAAAAAAP4/6N9lY2VnBHY/s320/Mom%252C%2BDad%2Band%2Bme%252C%2B1962.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Sometimes, I still miss her so much it takes my breath away. It has been almost thirteen years since God allowed my mom to lay down her battle with the monstrous disease of scleroderma and go home to be with Him. Though I would not have wanted her to suffer even one day longer, I still shed tears of loss.<br />
<br />
I cry because I wish she could hug David and tell him how proud she is of the amazing man that he has become. I cry because I wish she could know our precious Brittany. I cry because she is not here to say, “I told you not to count that Mark out,” when I brag about the man he is today. And I cry that she will not be able to watch Libby don her cap and gown next month. <br />
<br />
In the midst of my tears though, I have so much to be crazy thankful about. I am grateful for:<br />
<br />
<i>a momma who loved me every single day of our life together, even when I know she wanted to strangle me sometimes<br />
<br />
a seamstress who spent hours making my clothes on the Singer machine that Libby now treasures<br />
<br />
a woman’s whose amazing impact on me is so much of who I am as a mom, a mother-in-law, a mentor to young moms and a woman<br />
<br />
memories of laughter together<br />
<br />
thoughts of the days when we shared Taco Bell <br />
<br />
each of my babies getting to know and remember their Gram<br />
<br />
the way she loved my Daddy<br />
<br />
the way she loved God<br />
<br />
the way she taught me to love God<br />
<br />
that she no longer hurts or suffers, but rests in the arms of Jesus</i><br />
<br />
Momma, I miss you. But I will be ever thankful, to you and to Jesus, for the many gifts you gave – and continue to give –to me. <br />
<br />
Happy Mother’s Day.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-38844131432397300172012-03-21T20:20:00.004-04:002012-03-21T20:52:20.179-04:00Centerpiece<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uOa-uV5BNZw/T2pwcCW54iI/AAAAAAAAAPs/NBnfxoTE3t4/s1600/DSC06145.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uOa-uV5BNZw/T2pwcCW54iI/AAAAAAAAAPs/NBnfxoTE3t4/s320/DSC06145.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722509903499223586" /></a><br /><br />One of the great blessings of my life is being able to work with one of the most awesome group of military wives in the world - Hearts Apart at Immanuel Bible Church. Maureen Fowler and Sallie Tillman work every month to put together a wonderful meal with the help of all our department heads. Every month they also develop a theme and decorate our room so the military wives we are serving have a beautiful place to be for a couple of hours each month. <br /><br />Last night, Maureen made beautiful centerpieces using mason jars, fresh forsythia, lemons and limes. This picture is my attempt to replicate Maureen's creativity. Thanks Maureen for an delightful spring showpiece.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-59197100053369596192012-03-06T10:58:00.002-05:002012-03-06T11:05:13.754-05:00Plate Licker<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S4SINehvp4E/T1Y05JBj29I/AAAAAAAAAPg/PSSeEWtAfXc/s1600/00000038.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 210px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S4SINehvp4E/T1Y05JBj29I/AAAAAAAAAPg/PSSeEWtAfXc/s320/00000038.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716814933273074642" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">And oh, my dear Timothy, guard the treasure you were given! <br />1Timothy 6:20a (The Message)</span><br /><br />The happy mother of two boys who had both launched into elementary school was back at work after years of staying home. I loved my new job and was thoroughly enjoying a season of great contentment. During this time, I began to feel ill and became convinced that I had mono – at least until the pregnancy test came back positive. So after thinking that our family was most likely complete, suddenly we launched again into the journey of having another baby. Libby was no mistake, just a surprise. How thankful am I that God is so much smarter than I.<br /> <br />After the typical initial adjustments common to all families who are blessed with a new baby, we began to settle into our new routine of family life. It was fascinating watching Libby grow and seeing how she became not just another child, but kind of our family project. We all diapered, rocked, sang, bathed, and shared the joy of raising her together. As we were approached by people who consistently commented about how excited we must be to “finally get a girl,” I found myself looking for a more accurate word picture that would help me wrap my brain around our new family life.<br /> <br />Leave it to this “live to eat” girl, the picture would be about food, specifically cake. I have always loved cake, but have never been someone to prefer simply cake or simply icing. To me, having one without the other is a certain kind of loss. You need both together to have the best experience. God graciously showed me that the boys were our cake and Libby was the icing. Life would not have been the same if we were missing either one. Though we had been eating just cake for years and loving it, adding the icing was a delightful gift. <br /> <br />Fast forward eighteen years. The boys have been become adults we treasure. Our firstborn has given us another gift by adding our precious daughter-in-law to the family. The icing has grown up and become a senior in high school. And I find myself a woman wondering where the years have gone. <br /> <br />Just a few short months from now, we will pack our car and take our icing to a university hundreds of miles from home. And though there were many days in which parenting seemed like an unending journey, looking back, it seems as if the years have flown. Just like every little old lady at the grocery store always told me they would. <br /><br />Raising our children has been a treasure for Rob and me. As Paul told Timothy, we have done our best to guard that treasure. Having adult sons has taught me that parenting does not end, it simply changes. Watching them become amazing adults is a treat. That being said, things are different once they leave home. <br /> <br />Honestly, when I eat cake, I tend to enjoy it thoroughly. And it has not been beyond me to lick the plate to get that last taste of icing that was left behind. So it seems so appropriate to me that I spend this last year of having our icing around the house licking the plate. Enjoying every single moment. Laughing at every joke. Drying every tear. Just thankful, each day, for the gift of having been able to be her mom. <br /><br />Next fall will bring an exciting transition for Rob and me. We are excited about picking up the journey again where we departed from it 28 years ago – on the road of two. It will be a wonderful time. <br /><br />But for now – you will find me – licking the plate.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-43616596868399163182011-07-28T21:28:00.003-04:002011-07-28T21:32:31.087-04:00No Other Can Save<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-voat1JOpAPs/TjIM-vTnhfI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/wh2DC1VCi4w/s1600/DSC02234.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-voat1JOpAPs/TjIM-vTnhfI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/wh2DC1VCi4w/s320/DSC02234.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634580355784082930" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">“for no other god can save in this way.”<br />Daniel 3:29b (NIV)</span><br /><br />The story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, captive young Israelites who dared to defy King Nebuchadnezzar by refusing to worship his golden idol, ends with a very exciting conclusion. After being bound and thrown into a fiery furnace for disobeying the king, our three friends are seen by an amazed Nebuchadnezzar walking around unbound in the fire, along with a fourth friend. The king calls them out of the fire. Everyone saw that not only were these young men unharmed, but they had no smell of smoke on them. The king declared that no one would be allowed to speak against the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. Nebuchadnezzar was amazed not only by their devotion in the face of horrific consequences, but in their God’s ability to save them. <br /><br />It is amazing to think that three young men, captives living in a foreign land, were able to make such a deep impression on the pagan king. Their stand of obedience and devotion to God in the midst of severe trials caused Nebuchadnezzar to declare the ability of God to save. So therein lies the question for me. <br /><br />Some days, life is hard. Sometimes, I struggle with doubt when things are not going according to my plan. But if a pagan king can declare God’s unique ability to save, what business do I, a child of God who has seen His mighty power in my life, have ever doubting that God will provide deliverance? <br /><br />How about you? Where can you, along with Nebuchadnezzar, declare aloud your belief today in God’s ability to save you in whatever area you need deliverance?<br /><br />No God can save like ours.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-84974997952739125712011-07-19T10:11:00.004-04:002011-07-19T10:24:34.658-04:00Able<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjrw6-geR54/TiWRWMKYAWI/AAAAAAAAAPI/VUU5zg-jMNo/s1600/DSC02234.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjrw6-geR54/TiWRWMKYAWI/AAAAAAAAAPI/VUU5zg-jMNo/s320/DSC02234.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631066719504564578" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">If this be so, our God whom we serve is <span style="font-weight:bold;">able</span> to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and <br />He will deliver us out of your hand, O king.<br />Daniel 3: 17 (ESV)</span><br /><br />Daniel, chapter 3, contains the exciting story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, three young men who had been taken captive from their native Israel to serve the king of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar. The king had built a golden idol and required everyone in the land to bow and worship his idol, but our young friends refused to obey. When Nebuchadnezzar furiously demanded a change in their behavior and threatened to throw them in a fiery furnace if they disobeyed, the men responded that they did not need to answer to the king. Our young friends went on to address the king in our verse above by telling him that their God was able to deliver them.<br /><br />How many things in our lives would be different if we could simply absorb and confidently state this truth during our struggles? <br /><br />Unemployment or underemployment in a tough economy? Our God is able.<br /><br />Illness of a loved one or ourselves? Our God is able.<br /><br />Heartbroken, lonely or sad? Our God is able.<br /><br />Struggles with our children? Our God is able.<br /><br />Frustrations of daily life? Our God is able.<br /><br />Life can be difficult and challenging. Though there are often no easy answers to our struggles, how awesome is the truth that our God is able? <br /><br />Where is your heart and mind struggling today? Ask God and He will help you rest your trust in His abilities today. He is able.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-63625143116715463312011-07-12T14:58:00.004-04:002011-07-12T15:13:12.970-04:00No Need to Answer<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bkUikssr7EM/ThyarH0HkEI/AAAAAAAAAPA/zmr8pa12GZg/s1600/DSC02234.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bkUikssr7EM/ThyarH0HkEI/AAAAAAAAAPA/zmr8pa12GZg/s320/DSC02234.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628543699928977474" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego answered and said to the king, <br />“O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter.”<br />Daniel 3:16 (ESV)</span><br /><br />Have you ever felt out of your element and/or under the gun? I wonder if that is how Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego felt in our verse today. Young men of Israel who had been taken captive and brought to the homeland of a pagan king, these individuals were being asked to bow down and worship an idol. When the king discovered they were disobeying his order, he raged and asked them who was going to deliver them from his hands. Our verse today was their reply. <br /><br />What was the cause for such bravery? Nebuchadnezzar (the pagan king) was known for his fiery temper and extreme consequences for those who disobeyed his orders. (Daniel 1:10; 2:5; 2:13) The young men had been warned that refusal to worship the idol would mean being thrown into a fiery furnace. They had good reason to be afraid. As we look closer, we see that their bravery was not based on guarantees of their safety, but belief in their God. They would give their allegiance to no one but Him. He was the only one to whom they had to answer.<br /><br />What a powerful response. How much I want to follow their example. Though I have never faced a pagan king or the threat of a fiery furnace, situations do arise in my daily life which call me to be brave. At these times, the only safe haven of confidence I have is knowing the power of the God I serve. My fears may taunt me, but I have no obligation to answer them. <br /><br />What about you today? Are there fears in your heart and mind that seem to be demanding a response from you? Why not take some words from our young friends and tell your fears that you have no need to answer them? Your God is able.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-24560602812897443692011-06-28T15:46:00.005-04:002011-06-28T16:01:20.500-04:00Sassy Struggles<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aQrnWsdtwtg/Tgoy--6F1cI/AAAAAAAAAO4/276_YQt-L50/s1600/DSC02234.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aQrnWsdtwtg/Tgoy--6F1cI/AAAAAAAAAO4/276_YQt-L50/s320/DSC02234.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623363142345414082" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">“And who is the god who will deliver you out of my hands?” <br />Daniel 3:15b (ESV)</span><br /><br />The story of Daniel’s three friends, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego has always been one that intrigued me. Imagine being separated far from your families and culture, finding yourself in a strange place you never imagined you would be, and having to learn new ways to live out your life. Isn't that a difficult concept to wrap your brain around? For military wives and others living overseas, it is part of their every day life. <br /><br />When asked to bow down to a statue of Nebuchadnezzar, the ruler of Babylon, these brave men simply said, “No. We worship God alone.” While I will probably never be physically dragged in front of a gold statue and asked to kneel, I do face daily struggles in my life. And sometimes, these struggles get just as sassy as Nebuchadnezzar and begin to taunt me.<br /><br />“Things are not going to come together this time.” <br /><br />“Neither you nor your family will survive this season of struggle.”<br /><br />“No one is going to deliver you.”<br /><br />Here is the good news. My sassy struggles do not have the ultimate power over me. The United States military does not have the ultimate power over me. My husband’s next assignment or deployment does not have the ultimate power over me. None of these things have any more power over me than Nebuchadnezzar had over Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. Sure, they can create a lot of smoke and drama. But ultimately, I don’t have to listen to their sass because they have no ability to stand against my God. My Father has the ultimate power over me.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Begin fully persuaded that God had power to do what He had promised. <br />Romans 4:21 (NIV)</span><br /><br />So which of your struggles is giving you some sass today? Remind yourself and that struggle that God has the power. :)Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-75447653449292469032011-05-06T13:32:00.005-04:002011-05-06T13:50:22.417-04:00But<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wDFQ_qFTvvE/TcQz8PZ3FfI/AAAAAAAAAOs/kPS4g5lLuyw/s1600/Deedah.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 281px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wDFQ_qFTvvE/TcQz8PZ3FfI/AAAAAAAAAOs/kPS4g5lLuyw/s320/Deedah.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603660946375906802" /></a><br />I have been blessed with a wonderful mother-in-law. Through the years we have had glorious times laughing with and at each other. Like the time we decided to perm each other’s hair and instead of adding relaxer in the final step, my mother-in-law put more permanent solution in my hair. True story. Ridiculous hair, but really good times.<br /> <br />Known as Deedah to our family, she has always been great about allowing us to tease her. One of our favorite things to tease her about was giving advice to us. You always knew when you were going to get advice from Deedah. She would preference her words by saying, “Now I don’t want to be bossy but . . . . “ These words would always be followed by ideas about which she totally wanted to be bossy – or at least heard. <br /> <br />Sometimes, God says “but” when talking to his children also. However, when God says “but,” it tends to have totally different implications than giving advice.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">"I am going to bring floodwaters on the earth to destroy all life under the heavens, every creature that has the breath of life in it. Everything on the earth will perish. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">But</span> I will establish my covenant with you, and you will enter the ark-you and your sons and your wife and your sons’ wives with you."<br />Genesis 6:17-18 (NIV)</span><br /> <br />God is talking to Noah about building the ark in this passage. He is warning Noah that everything on the earth will perish. But, in the midst of this everything proclamation, God lets Noah know what he is willing to do for him and his family.<br /><br />Many of us, like my Deedah, tend to use “but” to say we did not really mean what we said in the first place. When God says “but,” it tends to be His deliverance of a totally new option. God tends to deal with us in His ability to reverse our situation. You deserve _____________ or you could be experiencing _______________, “but,” says God. Suddenly a situation that seemed poised to be a negative for us is changed. Because of His grace, His totally unmerited favor in our lives, God steps in and takes what was meant to be a negative and turns it into a positive. <br /><br />Today, I want to remember and think about the times God has said “but” in my life. Times when the world or my circumstances pointed to a negative, or maybe even horrific, outcome, but God stepped in to deliver another option. I want to tune my ears to hear what He has to say when it appears that things in my life are going downhill. How about you? Does God have a “but” coming just around the corner that you need to hear? Why not ask Him today?Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-36519325845412459302011-03-18T10:41:00.008-04:002011-03-19T12:37:16.530-04:00Jigglypuff and the President<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ylSNZhaGHas/TYTbkwMXyMI/AAAAAAAAAOY/mqrR8dtJOGA/s1600/DSC03919.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ylSNZhaGHas/TYTbkwMXyMI/AAAAAAAAAOY/mqrR8dtJOGA/s320/DSC03919.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5585830862304823490" /></a><br />Every year at Halloween, our church hosted a community fall festival event. Children dressed in costumes and came with their families to play games, chase greased pigs, and eat candy and junk food. Since this particular October fell a few days before a presidential election, some elected officials were scheduled to stop by and speak briefly to the crowds. <br /><br />The event was a fairly large-scaled one. It was tough for us and our friends to keep track of our kids. When the officials were getting ready to speak, the children were asked to huddle in the front of the crowd. Being as short as Zaccheus must have been, the large crowd on flat ground meant there was no way I could see my daughter or her friends. So as my husband and our friends kept guard around the back of the crowd, I circled up to a nearby hill and kept watch on the kids from a higher level. <br /><br />The main speaker of the evening was former President George Bush. After several officials spoke and shared their message, the president stepped to the podium. During his speech, he addressed the children in their different costumes, mentioning several of the characters they represented. Our daughter, dressed as a round, pink Pokémon character named Jigglypuff, began yelling “Jigglypuff”, hoping the president would call her character’s name. Much to our surprise, the President stopped his speech, acknowledged Jigglypuff and invited her to join him on stage. As I looked on, my daughter was shuffled by Secret Service agents until she stood onstage between Barbara Bush and the mayor of Orlando. <br /><br />When the President finished his speech, he turned, bowed and began to have a conversation with our daughter. As I watched from my perch, unable to coach or give any quick lessons about how to properly address the President of the United States, Mr. Bush turned to the microphone and asked for everyone’s attention again. He then picked Libby up in his arms and held her up to the microphone while she sang a song about Jigglypuff. Yes, our six year old actually asked a former President of the United States to pick her up so she could sing a song. Trust me, Zaccheus was falling out of her tree. <br /><br />As a six year old, our daughter had basically no fear. She seemed to feel everyone was equally accessible and did not hesitate to ask much of anything from much of anyone. Her life verse in those days could have been:<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Yet you do not have because you do not ask. James 4:2b (NKJV</span>)<br /><br />While her encounter with the President was both thrilling and unnerving for me as a parent, I have to admit I loved her spirit in the whole event. <br /> <br />I have a Father in heaven that has both made me and bought me. And He has called me to ask Him for what I need. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. <br />Matthew 7:7 (NIV)</span><br /><br />My problem is that too often I find excuses to keep my needs to myself or share them in sad tales to my friends and family who truly have no power (outside of prayer, of course) to do anything for me but graciously listen. Too often, I forego the total access I have to the Creator of heaven and earth that has all authority and has already told me to ask Him about my needs. No Secret Service to scoot through. No yelling my name just waiting to be called. No protocol lessons necessary. All the requirements have already been met for me by Jesus, when He hung on the cross. <br /><br />How about you? What do you need to ask your heavenly Father for today? You will need no clearance or have to wait to be noticed. He waits to hear your requests and answer your prayers. And when He does, it will be even more exciting than Jigglypuff meeting the President.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-74891457278132802382011-02-28T14:30:00.001-05:002011-02-28T14:34:42.541-05:00SurgeryOn a regular mom day, many years ago in our home, my son came marching through the kitchen with his toy tool box, followed by his best friend from next door. They looked like very determined little men as they paraded through with eyes straight ahead. I was working at the sink, but paused long enough to ask them what they were doing. My son kept walking without a response or a moment’s hesitation, but his friend quickly called out, “Surgery.” <br /> <br />Deciding this was a comment worth pursuing, I paused in my work to follow them. When I arrived in the den, I saw my son standing on the back of the couch removing his father’s stuffed duck from the wall while his friend was getting out the plastic saw. Apparently, the decision had been made that their toy tool box contained the proper tools for performing an operation, needed or not, on my husband’s treasured wall hanging. After some words along on the lines of “stop” and “don’t” echoed through the room, the duck was returned to its rightful place on the wall and the boys set off, looking for their next victim. <br /> <br />I’m not sure what surgical success they could have actually attained with a plastic saw, but they were very serious about their work. And that’s when I was reminded of some habits in my own life.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">God means what He says. What He says goes. His powerful Word is sharp as a surgeon’s scalpel, cutting through everything, whether doubt or defense, laying us open to listen and obey.<br />Hebrews 4:12 (The Message)</span><br /> <br />Sometimes, I long to see changes in my attitudes or behaviors or sometimes I am looking for answers to questions and concerns in my life. I run around, kind of like a chicken with my head cut off (as my momma used to say), asking advice, researching books and hunting for answers. Often, these efforts are about as effective as surgery on an already dead duck with a plastic saw. <br /> <br />When I choose to go to God’s word for my counsel, life change, attitude adjustment or new thought pattern, I find a tool that has real power for achieving actual results. I love that the book of Hebrews tells us His word is powerful enough to cut through everything, even my doubts and defenses. As I read God’s word, copy it, meditate on it, say it aloud, pray it and memorize it, the power only a real tool can deliver is at my disposal. <br /> <br />So how about you? Where are you struggling today? Are you choosing to work diligently, but using ineffective tools? What if you put away the plastic saw of your own efforts and starting using the powerful scalpel of God’s word? God’s word is a powerful tool for whatever surgery your life needs today.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-19612239214942176622011-02-03T17:06:00.011-05:002011-02-04T16:09:21.437-05:00Making Mistakes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TUsm8uWp8PI/AAAAAAAAAMc/2otXidyFKnE/s1600/00000004%25281%2529.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 247px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TUsm8uWp8PI/AAAAAAAAAMc/2otXidyFKnE/s320/00000004%25281%2529.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569588188850811122" /></a><br />There were those big brown eyes. You could get lost in the pools they formed. There were the chubby cheeks and the delightful thunder thighs. There was the perpetual smile on his face. He was the most precious thing I had ever laid my eyes on and God had given him to me. How could I be anything but totally and completely in love?<br /><br />My firstborn son caused emotions to rise in me I did not even know existed. Yes, I was crazy about his father but, wow. These mom feelings were a whole new ballgame. And out of all that love and emotion came a deep desire to be the best mother I could possibly be. Parenting was something I desperately wanted to get “right.” <br /> <br />But here is my sad news. I didn’t. That sweet baby boy God gave me was completely deserving of the perfect mother, but frequently I just did not manage to get it right. I made mistakes. Lots of them. When people ask about my mistakes as a mom, my first response is always, “Would you like them alphabetically or chronologically?”<br /> <br />So what happened? Did I channel my tiger mother too much? Or not enough? Did I not have enough knowledge of parenting? Did I not love him enough? <br /> <br />Have you ever asked yourself similar questions? Have you ever, like me, wanted so badly to get something right? Did you also find yourself on the failing end of that equation? If so, I have some good news for you.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9</span><br /><br />Before my son was ever born, God knew I would make mistakes. He understands all of my weaknesses better than I understand them myself. And like any loving parent, I think my heavenly Father smiles at my attempts to get it “right,” even if that means I make a big mess in the process. He graciously comes alongside me and says, “It’s okay Bettina. My power is made perfect in your weaknesses.”<br /> <br />So how about you? Where are you frustrated today that you have not been able to get something “right” that you desperately wanted to do well? You only need to open your hands to God who wants to use the very places where you are making mistakes to show His strength in you.<br /> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TUxqRrD9ShI/AAAAAAAAAM0/fvqjJ3P11r0/s1600/I_0327.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TUxqRrD9ShI/AAAAAAAAAM0/fvqjJ3P11r0/s320/I_0327.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569943691000105490" /></a><br />That precious baby boy who had such a mistake ridden mother? He is an incredible man today that makes his mom smile. If you asked him about the mistakes, he would probably softly chuckle and smile and tell you he didn’t remember any. That’s just the kind of man he is – a man who had a mistaken ridden mom and a God who showed off His strength in those very weaknesses.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-84429165162259324802011-01-15T10:52:00.011-05:002011-01-19T14:39:42.768-05:00Excitable<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TTHKXgAB_PI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/5RnTaz-ynSA/s1600/DSC02078.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TTHKXgAB_PI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/5RnTaz-ynSA/s320/DSC02078.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562449519855140082" /></a><br />As the kids were growing up, one of the comments we received repeatedly was, “It must be so <span style="font-weight:bold;">interesting</span> living at your house.” Trust me; this was rarely issued as a compliment. We were/are loud. Passionate. Argumentative. And definitely, excitable. Yes, there are wildly different and varying personalities within the group, but over all - well, it’s interesting. Just ask my poor daughter-in-law. <br /> <br />Some of this can be delightfully fun. Something wonderful happening in your life? We will party and celebrate with you till the cows come home. Going through a difficult time? We consider it a privilege to walk by your side with empathy. But sometimes, in the midst of all the drama and excitement, details do get overlooked. <br /> <br />In the book of Acts, there is a wonderful story about Peter’s escape from prison. Peter had been arrested by Herod and was surrounded by four squads of soldiers. During the night, an angel came to the prison and brought Peter out of prison. After realizing he was not dreaming but truly had been set free, Peter went to the house where other believers were gathered and praying for him. When Peter knocks, our excitable sister Rhoda comes to the door.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">When she recognized Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back <br />without opening it<br />and exclaimed, “Peter is at the door!” Acts 12:14 (NIV)</span> <br /> <br />“Without opening it.” Boy, can I relate to this girl. Begging God for change in my life or in the lives of others, asking for Him to do what only He can do, but so excited and overjoyed when He moves, I forget to answer the door. Why is that? Am I in shock? Did I have too little faith? Did I doubt God wanted to move in my life? Or am I just aware that what I ask for may not be what I need? Understanding my motives is not something that comes easily.<br /> <br />You will be happy to know that Acts 12 tells us that while Rhoda tried to convince the house that Peter was really there, he continued to knock until the door was opened for him to come in. In my excited moments, I have to remember to continue to open doors. Often, when God moves in my life, He then asks me to follow with choices of obedience. <br /><br />No matter the motivating behaviors behind my shock, I think being excited and overjoyed can be a positive thing. How often, as adults, do we become so mired down in the struggles of our life that we forget to be excited over the things God is actually doing in our life? Are we so depressed over the difficult realities we are facing that we miss the joys of everyday things? <br /> <br />So how about you? Where are you struggling today to see any excitement in your life? Can we both work to open our eyes just a little wider? Maybe, in the midst of struggle, we have missed seeing the hand of God at work in our lives. When you see what He is doing in your life, get excited, but also remember to open the door. Walking the excitable life, you never know what <span style="font-weight:bold;">interesting</span> days God might have in store for you.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-44251864155849116592010-12-18T11:19:00.006-05:002010-12-20T08:16:43.082-05:00When Christmas is Hard<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TQzsqD5p6cI/AAAAAAAAAL8/WmTEmBY76tI/s1600/DSC03532.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 282px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TQzsqD5p6cI/AAAAAAAAAL8/WmTEmBY76tI/s320/DSC03532.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552072647986768322" /></a><br />In my senior year of high school, my family was celebrating the holidays and preparing for Christmas much as we had every other year. The house was decorated, presents purchased, wrapped and under the tree, groceries being laid in for holiday feasts and parties being attended. Everything changed for us in an instant that holiday when my fifteen year old only brother was suddenly killed in an accident three days before Christmas.<br /> <br />Having a funeral for a teenager is never easy, but something becomes extra difficult when you have to rush in order to complete it before Christmas Eve. The shock of the loss echoed not only through my family, but throughout our small town. Some students, who were my friends at the high school, were unable to complete their exams as they dealt with the shock of what had occurred. Students at the junior high had to deal with the blow of coming to school and looking at an empty seat that had just the day before been full. <br /> <br />Our church was a large community in a smaller town. Not only did they struggle with the loss of my brother, but we also lost a young mom of three small children to cancer that same weekend. The pain of it all seemed too much to bear. These were the circumstances my pastor had to face that Christmas Eve when he stepped in the pulpit. <br /> <br />It is difficult to imagine the task Bro. Wilson had as he looked on our congregation. What do you say in a season that is supposed to be filled with joy yet is reeking with so much pain? Though I cannot give you exact quotations these many years later, I will never forget the message he brought that day.<br /> <br />Christmas is not always a time of joy. Sometimes it is a day of pain. But whether it is a day of pain or a day of joy, there is something we must never forget. Jesus still came. Jesus still comes. In the midst of our brightest shining moments or in the midst of the darkest pain, Jesus comes. <br /> <br />So where does Christmas find you this year? Are you struggling with estrangement from a loved one, unemployment, missing a spouse or child who is away from home, serious illness, loss of a loved one or a difficulty that no one knows but you? Do the carols that once brought joy to your heart bring tears to your eyes this season? May I encourage you today as Bro. Wilson encouraged me those many years ago? Wherever Christmas finds you, Jesus still comes. And because He came, your pain is not in vain. Nor is it the end of your story. Jesus came to die and pay the price for the wrongs that separate us from God. Because He came, we can accept His payment for the bill we owe. And when we accept that payment, this is what we will be a part of one day:<br /><br /><em>For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their<br />Shepherd;<br />He will lead them to springs of living water.<br />And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.<br />Revelation 7:17 (NIV)</em><br /><br />And Christmas will be hard no more.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-18739905816907705702010-12-01T17:05:00.006-05:002010-12-03T10:45:04.092-05:00Christmas Cookies<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TPbG_hHU24I/AAAAAAAAAL0/UdJYiGBo_XY/s1600/DSC03412.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TPbG_hHU24I/AAAAAAAAAL0/UdJYiGBo_XY/s320/DSC03412.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545838785676499842" /></a><br /> <br />Going to my Aunt Dot’s and Uncle Don’s house for Christmas has always been a treat. Very few places on earth feel as comfortable, warm and accepting as being in their home. One of our favorite things about Christmas though is Aunt Dot’s cookies. She starts very early in the season preparing and freezing cookies of every variety imaginable. No dieting or scrimping in these cookies. They are filled with butter, sugar and many other yummy ingredients. When we arrive, there is always a tray out filled with these delicious delights. <br /> <br />There is only one problem with all this sugary yumminess. Sometimes, I find myself grabbing “just one cookie” so many times during the day that when the mealtime arrives, it is hard to eat. Like a five year old, I have already filled up on cookies, leaving no room for the main meal my body needs to actually nourish me and satisfy my true hunger. So like my spiritual condition at times.<br /> <br />God knows I am hungry – and wants me filled up – on Him. But too often, I have filled up on cookies and have no room left for the food that will actually nourish and fill me. Then, in spite of the fact that I have eaten, my body ends up hungry for the nourishment it requires. <br /> <br />Let me share with you some of the spiritual cookies that I have used to fill me up in the past:<br /><br />1. Having the perfect house (ok, realistically, I was never even close on this one!)<br />2. Being the perfect parent (might have made this one except for those “imperfect” children I had to raise – just saying)<br />3. Getting everything “done” on my list (yeah, that was going to happen)<br />4. Being the hostess with the mostest (Martha Stewart, look out)<br />5. Having a career/job I loved and valued (somehow this rings very hollow from a currently unemployed person!)<br /><br />Here is the real truth. God and His word are the only things that will actually satisfy the empty hungry places in my soul. <br /><br />How do you know if you have hungry places that are unfilled? Maybe your anger with your spouse, your frustration at your job, or your fear of the future is actually unidentified hunger pain. Today, can you let go of some of the cookies you have been stuffing on and fill yourself with the only thing that will actually truly satisfy? <br /><br />Cookies are great, especially when made by my Aunt Dot. But they are treats, never meant to actually satisfy deep hunger or provide extended nourishment. So, enjoy your cookies this holiday, but make sure you are filling your soul with the things that will feed your hunger. <br /><br /><em>Open your mouth and eat what I give you.<br />Ezekiel 2:8b (NIV)</em>Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-33972871067518675972010-11-15T13:25:00.002-05:002010-11-15T13:32:02.625-05:00Winner - Battlefield and Blessings<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TOF7brbyMNI/AAAAAAAAALs/j49K6Pqt65A/s1600/bbiraq.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 253px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TOF7brbyMNI/AAAAAAAAALs/j49K6Pqt65A/s320/bbiraq.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539844732088365266" /></a><br /><br />Thanks to everyone who commented to enter the drawing for a copy of Jocelyn Green's book, "Battlefield and Blessings - Stories of Faith and Courage from The War in Iraq and Afghanistan." My sixteen year old completed our very "official" drawing this morning and the winner is Jodi. <br /><br />For more information on this book and the entire series, visit www.battlefieldsandblessings.comSimple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-78917898293406443922010-11-10T19:08:00.011-05:002010-11-10T19:35:46.519-05:00Battlefields and Blessings<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TNs0F2Hmi0I/AAAAAAAAALk/8ZtUYcT6PLg/s1600/bbiraq.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 253px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TNs0F2Hmi0I/AAAAAAAAALk/8ZtUYcT6PLg/s320/bbiraq.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538077441813547842" /></a><br /><br />In honor of Veteran's Day, my friend, Jocelyn Green (www.jocelyngreen.com) has graciously given me a copy of her book, "Battlefields and Blessings - Stories of Faith and Courage from the War in Iraq and Afghanistan" to offer as a free giveway this week. Below, you will find my review of the book along with a link to Jocelyn's web site where you can find more information about the book. Please leave a comment, including your email address, at the end of this article to be included in the drawing for the book. I will announce the winner next week and send the winner's book along it's way. A special thanks this week to all America's veterans! <br /><br />In the recent 2010 congressional elections, polls indicated that the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan were not anywhere near the top of many voters’ minds as they went to the polls. But every day, our troops and their families continue to sacrifice and serve in both of these wars. "Battlefields and Blessings – Stories of Faith and Courage from The War in Iraq and Afghanistan" is the much needed call to remember not only the sacrifices our troops and their families have made and continue to make in these regions, but how the hand of God is ever present in times of trouble. <br /><br />Written as a daily devotional, the book shares the stories of members of the armed forces, parents of service members, spouses, children, missionaries who have served in these countries and also politicians and civilians who serve our military. A source of encouragement amidst stories that could otherwise be overwhelming and disheartening, each day includes an inspirational story from the conflicts, along with an applicable Bible verse and a one or two sentence prayer. The varied perspectives from not just those who have served in the conflict, but many others affected by these wars, gives the reader a multifaceted look at not only the challenges, but also the positive outcomes in times of battle.<br /><br />One of my favorite entries was the story of Stephanie Olsen, wife of military police officer Joe Olsen. Stephanie talks about how she answers when people ask her how it feels to be the wife of a serviceman. Her one word answer is “personal.” Thanks to the efforts of Jane Hampton Cook, Jocelyn Green and John Croushorn, we have in-depth and encouraging insight into the very personal world of those affected by the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and the blessings given by the One who watches over all of them. <br /><br />Visit www.battlefieldsandblessings.com for more information about the entire series.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-61757347139339256362010-11-10T18:52:00.004-05:002010-11-10T19:01:59.653-05:00Pushing<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TNsyaqNijVI/AAAAAAAAALc/bT0pfnBhxvc/s1600/DSC03309.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TNsyaqNijVI/AAAAAAAAALc/bT0pfnBhxvc/s320/DSC03309.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538075600371223890" /></a><br />One of my favorite things about fall is the abundance of fresh delicious apples. In Virginia, picking apples in the country orchard and bringing them home to eat fresh or use in yummy recipes has become one of the activities that just says fall for our family. There are few things better than a fresh picked juicy apple right off the tree.<br /><br />Several years ago we bought an apple slicer which is put to good use every autumn. With one quick push, the apple is cored and cut into convenient slices, ready to eat. One afternoon, as I was trying to prepare a snack for Libby and her friend, I pulled the apple slicer from the drawer. After centering it on the apple and pushing down once, I realized this apple was going to be a little difficult. Being more determined, I centered the slicer once again on the apple and gave it another push, but still did not have my conveniently sliced snack when I was done. Being determined, I squared my shoulders for another attempt, only to hear the handle of the slicer snap – to the hilarious entertainment of my daughter and her friend. I had pushed too far this time. <br /> <br />True confession – I am a pusher. Some people would dress it up in fancy clothes and call it determination, which is usually viewed as a positive quality. But the reality for me is some of what I do is not determination – it’s pushing. And what happens to those around me when I push? Just like the apple slicer, sometimes things get broken. Sometimes people get broken. But there is another role model I can choose to imitate.<br /><br /><em>God can do anything, you know-far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, His Spirit deeply and gently within us.<br />Ephesians 3:20 (The Message)</em> <br /><br />God chooses to deal with me, not by pushing, but by working deeply and gently within me. I love thinking of God and realizing how He is ever the gentleman – never demanding His way into my life, but constantly ready to show me the way home to peace and forgiveness when I look to Him. He doesn’t push for me to follow Him, be with Him or even listen to Him. He simply waits for me to turn to Him. <br /> <br />How can God’s model of gently working in me apply to the way I deal with those I encounter each day? What happens when I come against situations that seem just too tough to slice? I know I can not be the Holy Spirit to anyone else, but what might happen if instead of pushing the issue just one more time, the next time I disagree with someone or something, I backed off and allowed some gentleness to do its work? Maybe, the person, or obstacle, I have come up against would soften. Maybe, I would find an alternative answer to my dilemma. Or maybe, just maybe, I would have time to realize I was wrong about where I thought things needed to go in the first place. <br /> <br />How about you? Is there someone or something you are pushing in your life today? Is it causing grief or anxiety for you and/or them? What might happen if you followed God’s model of gentleness? Maybe we would all end up with the results we truly need without the brokenness in the process.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-33248926356207454822010-10-05T12:06:00.007-04:002010-10-05T20:44:32.123-04:00You Suck<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TKtNvYDJ-LI/AAAAAAAAALM/DMAyYczMUPo/s1600/DSC03344.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 176px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TKtNvYDJ-LI/AAAAAAAAALM/DMAyYczMUPo/s320/DSC03344.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524594844204923058" /></a><br />So, the thing with the crutches was not going as well as I had hoped. So, healing was coming much slower than I had anticipated. So, even though I had known in advance that everything would be more difficult on three legs, it was not making my lack of perceived progress any less discouraging. In spite of all these factors, I had not really anticipated the response from my sweet 16 after she had to listen to yet another speech concerning my frustration over not moving more quickly.<br /><br />“You know Mom, of all the fruits of the spirit I think the one you have the least amount of is patience. When it comes to patience, you suck.”<br /><br />Ouch. Impertinent teen. How dare she. . . . except, didn’t my buddy just tell me the same thing in an email last week? “I wish I could help out with your inability to walk as I know you are not the most patient person in the world.”<br /><br />Now sisters, when your buddy and your daughter tell you the same thing in one week - it’s time to listen. Even if the words you hear are not the ones you wish had come to your ears. So what did I need to learn about this area where it was pretty obvious that I sucked?<br /><br />It is nice to know that the Bible is full of people who struggled with weaknesses. Paul was just one of those people. In his second letter to the Corinthians, he describes dealing with something he calls a “thorn in the flesh.” Paul does not tell us what this specific weakness is, but He does tell us that He begged God to take it away. And God’s response is one of my favorite verses in the Bible:<br /><br /><em>“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in <br />weakness.”<br />2 Corinthians 12:10 (NIV)</em><br /><br />How exciting is that? The very area I may be struggling with the most, right where life is challenging and everyone in sight can see that I am struggling - that is the very place that God comes along with His grace (unmerited favor; have to love that concept!) and power in me. <br /><br />So, let’s put our big girl panties on and talk. Where are you struggling? No one may have told you (at least this week) that you suck, but we all struggle somewhere. What would happen if we turned to God and asked Him to show us how those very areas where we struggle are the places where His grace and power can come shining through? What difference might it make in our life and the lives of those around us if we stopped trying to “fix” everything that was wrong with us, admitted our struggles to each other and then let God’s grace and power do the rest? <br /><br />I do not know what this might look like in your life. But in mine, it means that when my daughter says, “You suck,” we can look at each other and laugh. Because the child is right. I do. But I serve a God who specializes in being gracious and strong right where I am weak. And that, my friends, is something worth smiling about.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-31300531294350113222010-09-25T10:43:00.005-04:002010-09-25T11:12:49.397-04:00Saying No, Being Still, Gaining Perspective<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TJ4RR8CY5GI/AAAAAAAAALE/s4K-Liuo3uM/s1600/DSC03337.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TJ4RR8CY5GI/AAAAAAAAALE/s4K-Liuo3uM/s320/DSC03337.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5520869193074402402" /></a><br />Once upon an autumn, life took me by surprise. The news came causing some unexpected changes in my life. This news was not tragic, not really dramatic, but just enough to require some major adjustments in my schedule over the weeks that spread out in front of me. <br /> <br />As is my nature, my brain kicked into overdrive. I rapidly began with phone calls, emails, paperwork, and rescheduling to make the needed adjustments in our lives. But within twenty four hours or so, after the initial flurry of activity slowed down, the questions in the night began. So how will all of this really work out? Am I making the right choices? Will everything be ok? <br /> <br />I backed out of a previous commitment (thanks to an incredibly understanding and gracious friend) in order to complete necessary work to prepare our home and family for the upcoming changes. But as I began the day, God called me first to sit with Him before I tore into my list of projects. And with a warm cup of coffee in my hand, He sweetly spoke again into my life.<br /><br /><em>There’s more to come: We continue to shout out praise even when we’re hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next. In alert expectancy such as this, we’re never left feeling shortchanged. <br />Quite the contrary-we can’t round up enough containers to hold everything God generously pours into our lives through the Holy Spirit. <br />Romans 5:3-5 (The Message)</em><br /> <br />The news I felt was turning my world upside down (at least temporarily) was not a surprise to God. And if I would let Him redirect my perspective, I would be able to see some passionate patience developed in my life, along with some of the tempered steel of virtue. All of this could leave me in a place of alert expectancy, busy rounding up containers, but always falling short of having enough to hold all God was generously pouring into my life. Somehow this was a markedly different view than my questions of “will it be okay.” What a cozy place to be, warming my heart as my coffee warmed my throat. <br /> <br />The interesting thing about my new perspective was that the details of my life’s quandaries had changed not one iota. The challenges were still real and present. They just looked different when viewed through my Father’s eyes.<br /> <br />So how about you? Where in life could you use some new perspective? May I share some advice from a woman who has screwed up many, many times? Unless I had been willing to say no, which went against every unwritten rule in my little mind (you don’t back out once you make a commitment!!), I would never have had the time to hear God’s voice. Sometimes, you have to say no to other things, in order to say yes to God. And yes, sometimes, you will not look good in the eyes of others when you say no or "I can't." But what are you looking for in your life? Peace in your heart or a good reputation? <br /> <br />Once I had said no (and risked looking like the shirker who just can’t seem to get her act together, again), I had to stop and listen for God’s voice. This was not my default thinking. My mind told me there were innumerable tasks that had to be completed. It also threw me that famous lie, “If you don’t do it, it won’t get done.” My to-do list screamed loudly, but my Father spoke gently, “Let me give you the strength to complete your work. Come sit with me first.” So I sat. Not because I had the time, but mainly because of the painful memories of how many times I had chosen not to sit and come up later with an empty tank when I needed strength the most. <br /> <br />This is not a formula, nor is it rocket science. It is just another simple story of a woman who had an unexpected curve ball thrown her way, but was met in the batter’s box by a loving Father. So what is crossing your plate as you stand up to swing today? What if you choose to say no, be still and gain some new perspective? The same Father who met me, waits anxiously to meet you.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-26951895799270043982010-09-16T15:11:00.013-04:002010-09-16T16:16:26.700-04:00TheWhisper of "Is it Enough?"<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TJJ3-UIDptI/AAAAAAAAAK8/y_IZzlFFAxw/s1600/DSC03324.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TJJ3-UIDptI/AAAAAAAAAK8/y_IZzlFFAxw/s320/DSC03324.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517604405920376530" /></a><br />Talking with a friend, the subject of schedules came up as it so often does between women. My friend remarked that she never says anymore that she is busy. When I inquired why, she shared a story with me about a conversation between her and another mother. Let’s call my friend Suzie Sensible and the woman she was talking with Betty Busy. Suzie and Betty were comparing schedules. When Suzie began discussing her life, Betty surprisingly informed Suzie that she could not possibly be as busy as Betty was. In spite of the fact that Suzie has three children in elementary school, a husband, a house to care for, works a part time job and runs her own small business, Betty quickly assured Suzie that she was not busy enough to be in the league with Betty. After that day, Suzie decided to never being a “busy” discussion with another woman. Probably a smart idea, but what was most intriguing to me was what my friend, Suzie said next. She looked me in the eyes and said, “Am I doing enough?”<br /> <br />Isn’t that the question we all struggle with at some time or many times in our lives? The root of the question is as old as creation. Since the dawn of time, the enemy has continued to sell women the same tired line, though it may take on different appearances from generation to generation. The heart of the question still remains the same. Is it enough? Is God enough? Am I enough?<br /> <br />Our struggles with finances often come from listening to this question. We look around and do not observe the almost obnoxious abundance we have in this country that the rest of the world readily sees. We choose instead to look at our neighbors, relatives, and friends and see only scales out of balance and not in our favor. We take jobs to make more so we can spend more so we can have more and on the vicious circle rolls.<br /> <br />Hearing the question of “Is it enough?” can cause us to become unhappy in our family relationships. I wish I was single, I wish I was married, I wish I had children, I wish the children were grown and gone, I wish my husband was different, I wish my children were different. When things are viewed in the light of “Is it enough?” too often we end up observing what we lack, not the numerous gifts we have.<br /> <br />As important as all these areas are in our life, nothing rocks us like the final two questions.<br /><br />Is God enough?<br />Am I enough?<br /> <br />Here is the good news. Our God is always, forever and ever ENOUGH. The Alpha and the Omega, the Author and Finisher of our Faith, Omnipotent, All powerful, the I AM. To rest in His amazing power and awesome strength is always a safe place for our hearts. Interestingly enough, the fact that He is enough answers our final question also. <br /><br /><em>This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.<br />1 John 4:10 (NIV)<br /><br />But God demonstrates His own love for us in this:<br />While we were still sinners, Christ, died for us.<br />Romans 5:8 (NIV)<br /><br />And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.<br />I John 4:16 (NIV)</em><br /> <br />We have a Father who is enough and has made us enough in Him. Let’s tell the enemy to take a hike the next time he tries his worn out line on us. We are daughters of the King. We are princesses. We are enough.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-26144284405750088272010-09-08T12:59:00.012-04:002010-09-09T12:05:46.318-04:00The Trump Card<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TIj_-JQ49YI/AAAAAAAAAKc/tousNnhbpmo/s1600/DSC03308.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TIj_-JQ49YI/AAAAAAAAAKc/tousNnhbpmo/s320/DSC03308.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514939186818905474" /></a><br />We all come from so many different places and not just geographically. Some are born into families where they are wanted, loved and treasured. Others, like me, come along as a “problem” to those who bear them. Some of these “problems” are placed for adoption in wonderful homes, some grow up in families where they are constantly reminded of being an inconvenience and so many are aborted before they ever see the light of day. So what effect do these beginnings have on the rest of our lives?<br /> <br />Modern science is making landmark progress today in the study of what happens to us in our mothers’ wombs. We know more than ever about the psychological effects on the unborn of what happens during pregnancy. Some experience emotional pain from those days which they carry throughout their lives. The good news is God has a trump card, no matter what our beginnings or where life finds us today.<br /> <br />The trump card was not a concept I truly began to understand until I started dating Rob. When I began to meet his family, I quickly learned playing bridge was a favorite family pastime. Not wanting to be left out, I set out to learn the game only to find I was not a quick study. Rob patiently taught me the manners, rules and strategy of the game, but I struggled to master the trump card concept. I would excitedly lay down my ace, sure of winning a trick. Imagine my shock when another player pulled out a trump card to snatch away my win. I would end up wondering how this happened when I was holding an ace, seemingly a sure win card. The truth of bridge that I struggled to internalize and remember was that the trump card overrides any card of another suit, no matter how high that card’s value. Trumps always win. <br /> <br />Here is God’s trump card about our origins:<br /><br /><em>Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name,<br />He gave the right to become children of God – <br />children born not of natural descent, <br />nor of human decision or a husband’s will,<br />but born of God.<br />John 1:12-13 (NIV)</em><br /> <br />By sending His son, God played the trump card which covers all other aces. No circumstance of my origin, or in my daily life, is larger than the trump of being His child. Events often occur in our lives which make it seem as if the enemy holds all the aces. Thank you Father for the trump card you played of making me your child. Nothing has been done to me, nothing will occur in my life that is larger than my God. <br /> <br />God laid down the trump, but I won the trick. I became His child.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-58705184357525070482010-07-01T12:28:00.003-04:002010-07-01T12:34:29.991-04:00A Chapter Closes<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TCzDQ3HaZLI/AAAAAAAAAKU/YcUX0zS6H3M/s1600/DSC02735.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/TCzDQ3HaZLI/AAAAAAAAAKU/YcUX0zS6H3M/s320/DSC02735.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488976740298155186" /></a><br />This day was always in our future, but it seemed so very far away. Today, CDR Robert Dowell, USNR becomes CDR Robert Dowell, USNR – retired. After 29 ½ years of serving in the United States Navy, this chapter of our lives comes to a close. <br /><br />We married one week after Rob accepted his commission at Newport, Rhode Island. After six years of active duty, Rob transferred to the Navy Reserves. He has served in our community and around the world. We have walked through more nights of “Well, they said they might be sending me to . . . .” then I care to remember. We will go to sleep tonight knowing there will be no more orders in our future. <br /><br />As I try to process what this new chapter in our life means, I looked to the Bible to read the farewell speech of another military commander – Joshua. In chapter 24 of the book of Joshua, the mighty leader of Israel speaks to the nation at the close of his military career. In typical Joshua style, he does not rehearse the great achievements of his service, but continues to remind them of what God has done for them. After he recounts the many struggles God has brought them through, Joshua presents the nation with a charge:<br /><br /><em>But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you,<br />then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. <br />But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.<br />Joshua 24:15 (NIV)</em><br /><br />Probably the thing I will remember the most about our military career was the constant uncertainty. When you sign up to serve, you turn over certain freedoms in exchange for being ready to go when called. While I struggled frequently with this lifestyle, Rob always continued to quietly trust in God, even when things did not go well. He always trusted that while we had surrendered certain parts of our life to the Navy, the Navy always rested in the hands of a sovereign God who ultimately decided our course. When Rob was called to postpone retirement and serve in Iraq, he felt it was not the military who sent him, but God. Because Rob had made the choice for himself and our household to serve God, he had the strength to do the hard things. <br /><br />As a chapter closes and another begins for us, I want to be like Rob and Joshua - so assured in my choice to follow God, that the trials and tribulations that come to us in life do not rock my boat quite so hard. Chapters close and others begin sometimes over years, sometimes in a moment’s notice, bringing circumstances that can challenge us beyond what we feel we can bear. I do not know what circumstances challenge you in life today, but would they be made easier by reminding yourself whom you have chosen to serve? <br /><br /><em>But as for me and my household,<br />We will serve the Lord.</em>Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7181563838151063545.post-89366487386578878822010-04-03T22:57:00.004-04:002010-04-03T23:17:04.166-04:00Our Hero Comes Home<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/S7gAVSdnElI/AAAAAAAAAKM/IWhPECXOKLw/s1600/DSC01964.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xBaOyqCcMgY/S7gAVSdnElI/AAAAAAAAAKM/IWhPECXOKLw/s320/DSC01964.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456111314292642386" /></a><br /><br /><em><em></em>as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many. 2 Corinthians 1:11 (NIV)</em><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The moment we have waited for so many months has finally arrived. At an airport terminal in Baltimore, we screamed, we cried, we ran, we hugged, we kissed, and we were reunited with our Commander. It was a wonderful culminating moment of a incredible journey. <br /><br />We are thankful to a Father who graciously allowed Rob to come safely home to us. We are grateful to the many family and friends who have prayed for us. We find ourselves incredibly appreciative of the gift of everyday things like being able to reach out and hold one another's hands. <br /><br />May I ask you a question this Easter? Are you aware that there is a Father who awaits your homecoming with more anticipation than we ever had for Rob's homecoming? Though we were busy with multiple homecoming preparations, they can not hold a candle to what God has done to bring you home to Him. He has given the gift of His only Son to give you a way to come home. If you have not accepted His gift and come home, will you do that today? If you have, will you remember today how much He has done to bring you home?<br /><br />Homecoming is a wonderful thing.Simple stories girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17179289161645669145noreply@blogger.com2