Linda's Patchwork Quilt

Chasing Silhouettes

2012-01-29T09:38:00.002-06:00

You will also find me here today. My precious friend Emily has honored me by using some of my words on her blog Chasing Silhouettes. It is a "place of hope and healing for families and caregivers on the eating disorder journey."

If you have never met her, please take a moment to visit her there and at her other blog imperfect prose. You will be blessed. I promise.

Thank you so much Em.

Blessings,
Linda

Sunday: New Life

2012-01-29T09:18:00.002-06:00

"This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!"
II Cor. 5:17

Joining Deidra's Sunday gathering today:

Blessings,
Linda

Choices

2012-01-24T21:40:00.000-06:00

Choices

He made the choice,
confronted by the former prince
standing humble with tightly held staff,
with hardened heart and stubborn pride
to let the plagues begin.

His choice
bringing disaster upon disaster
not to him alone
but to everyone
in his care.

My choices do not stop
at the borders of my heart.
They reach out
to touch everyone around me.
Guard my heart, O Lord,
and give me wisdom and grace
to choose less of self
and more of You.

Blessings,
Linda

Increase/Decrease

2012-01-23T17:36:00.000-06:00

Increase/Decrease

When I seek You,
Draw close to You,
I find myself turned upside-down.
Your ways are not mine;
Your thoughts beyond my reach,
And I struggle to understand
just the way it is.

The me I am dreams dreams,
ones that bring You honor
but also make me grow bigger
in the eyes of others,
this me who is forever
longing for acceptance,
secretly seeking praise.

You must increase,
and I must decrease;
that is the way of Your kingdom.
But will I become so small
I simply disappear,
left lonely and forgotten?

A tiny sliver opens in the heavens
I catch a glimpse of
decrease in You.
Peace, joy, hope, grace, mercy, life -
It doesn't look like diminishing.
Your increase brings me riches
no account on earth can tally.

Blessings,
Linda

Sunday

2012-01-22T09:58:00.001-06:00

"Ah Lord God! Behold, Thou has made the heavens and the earth by Thy great power and by Thine outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for Thee."
Jeremiah 32:17

Joining Deidra and friends for Sunday

Blessings,
Linda

Vivid Memories

2012-01-20T08:29:00.000-06:00

The days seem to be slipping through my fingers like running water. My mind can't seem to catch up to the numbers on the calendar. It is Friday already and time for another writing prompt from Lisa-Jo - just five minutes to write about

Vivid

start:

Often it is the memories that are most hurtful or filled with regret that are the most vivid. But if I allow myself a moment to look back past all the painful moments I find the ones that are filled with joy - the ones I want to hold close.

I remember a little boy who rode his first little tyke bike at lightning speed and the way he loved to march around the house making a circle from the kitchen through the living room on to the dining room and high stepping back into the kitchen.

I remember the blond curls of the second one and the way he followed big brother wherever he led. And the day he lost his footing on a slippery little hill and turned to us and said, "My shoes have no gription!"

My mind is filled with the image of a little girl dressed in her pink ruffly nightgown and matching robe walking around on tip-toe. I used to wonder how her poor little toes could stand it.

I have a vivid picture of myself riding in the backseat behind my Daddy belting out hymns in a wonderful duet.

stop

Please join us in this Five-Minute Friday get-together. It's such a delight.

Blessings,
Linda

One of a Kind

2012-01-19T08:14:00.001-06:00

I felt a curious mix of emotions the first time I saw her. Taken with her beauty and elegance - the way she gracefully tip-toed her way around the water's edge - there was a sense of sadness for her solitary state. She was the only one. Surrounded by ducks and birds of various "feathers," she stood alone on impossibly long, thin legs - clothed in white.

For many days she remained aloof from the others, but life can get very lonely when you choose that path. Gradually, with dainty, timid steps, she began to approach some of the others. The ducks seemed to want to keep themselves to themselves - not willing to make room for the awkward looking stranger. The grackles were another story. They were happy to admit this beautiful dancer into their little circle.

She seemed to enjoy their company. Certainly she was in no hurry to leave. I wondered, as I watched them interact, if she thought she was one of them. Did she see herself with short legs, black feathers, and stubby neck? She went to great lengths to be accepted, walking where they walked and perching where she had seen them perch - never knowing, perhaps, how beautiful she is. Could she have had just one glimpse of her own reflection, she would have known.

There have been times when I've longed to fit in, to be just like everyone else- forgetting that I am unique. The Father has made each of us according to His design, and if we could just catch a reflection of who we are in His eyes we would know how very beautiful we are.

"I will give thanks to Thee, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;"
Psalm 139: 14a

linking to Emily:

and Jennifer:

Blessings,
Linda

Nothing Too Small

2012-01-18T08:44:00.000-06:00

The sun bounced off the surface of the water, leaving diamonds in its wake. A crisp, cool breeze ruffled the leaves in the small trees planted along the edge of the sidewalk. It was a perfect day for a walk, one of those days that somehow draws us a little closer to heaven.

I walked breathing in the cool, fresh air and, as often happens when I walk alone, I began to pray. There have been so many desperate needs in recent months – needs that are beyond the ability of mere humans to meet. Apart from the Lord’s intervention, there would be no hope. It is a comfort to place the burden into His capable, gracious hands and know that He hears and answers prayer.

The rest of my devotional is at Laced With Grace today. Care to meet me there?

Blessings,
Linda

Prone to Wander

2012-01-16T11:35:00.000-06:00

I stand with them as their great warrior leader bids farewell. He is 110 years old and still his words and spirit inspire those who have just come through years of fighting. He knows them well, their strengths and weaknesses, and is encouraging this prone-to-sinning people to remain faithful.

Joshua has been their leader from the time of the crossing of the Jordan River to this day. It is time for him to leave them. They will have to finish the work he began. The past seven years have brought great victory to this chosen group of people. They have seen God work miracle after miracle on their behalf. There is, however, still work to be done - more enemies to conquer - and Joshua will not be there to lead them.

He reminds them that it is the Lord who has done these great things and urges them to renew their commitment to worship the one true God and obey all that He has told them. Reminding them of God's faithfulness and the certain fate that will be theirs if they abandon Him, He calls them to choose whom they will serve.

With one voice the people declare, "We will serve the Lord!"

In an unbelievably short time their resolve fails, and we find this wayward group
falling away from all they pledged to do. They failed to completely destroy the surrounding inhabitants, settling instead for half-measures. Before long they were drawn in, intermarrying and worshiping foreign gods. Promises were forgotten; the Lord was forsaken; the results were all too predictable.

It is, perhaps, easy to understand how it all happened. They had lost their great leader. Weariness from years of fighting had worn them down. Little by little they compromised not realizing where it would lead them. It must have seemed easier, noble even, to tolerate the beliefs of their enemies than to have to fight and utterly destroy them.

I stand with them and hear Joshua speak the words the Lord had given him, and my heart is touched with their relevance. How often have I begun the journey strong only to find I have, almost without realizing it, wandered from the path He has set before me. One day of being "too tired" or "too busy" multiplies into weeks and months. Compromising just a "little" and tolerating sin in the name of "getting along" begins to carve a deep chasm between the Lord and I.

Woven in and through the history of the Children of Israel is the shining thread of grace. Over and over they sinned; over and over God rescued and forgave them. They were monumentally slow learners, but we can find ourselves in them and learn from their failings.

We have a God who has said He will fight our battles for us. He has given us everything we need in Jesus. There will be times of great victory and times of equally great failure. There is grace for those times. Grace to grow in wisdom and understanding; grace to break the cycle; grace to get back on the path and finish well.

"I have discovered this principle of life - that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God's law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord..."
Romans 7:21-25a

Linking to Michelle's blog today:

and Laura's blog

Blessings,
Linda

Quiet

2012-01-12T11:38:00.000-06:00

Finding contentment in the quiet just now:

- reading good books
- knitting a blanket for a little one we haven't yet met
- playing piano
- walking in the clear, fresh air

and pondering what to do with this blog.

Blessings,
Linda

My Word (for now)

2012-01-09T14:43:00.000-06:00

If someone were to say of me I don't have a good "follow through," they would be telling the truth. I look back and see a trail strewn with great beginnings that somehow never made it to the end.

I am eager, and among the first to sign on, to the newest and greatest thing - especially if it is something I believe will help me to grow spiritually. I begin with great energy and determination. But with the passage of time I begin to slack off a bit until eventually I am at a complete stand-still.

In previous years I have embraced the notion of having a word for the year. The first couple of years I faithfully and prayerfully worked at incorporating that word into my life - well, fairly faithfully. Last year I felt the Lord impressing the word "quiet" on my heart. I dutifully recorded it on my blog and set about trying to live it out.

Several weeks ago, when someone mentioned considering what her word would be for this coming year I realized that I couldn't even remember what my word was. I had to dig back into my archives to unearth it.

One would think that after such a dismal failure I would give up the notion altogether, but I can't seem to ignore that still small voice. This time, however, it is whispering something new. The suggestion of more than one word - perhaps different words for different seasons throughout the coming year - would be better suited to this rather lazy girl.

We are in the midst of building a new house. With all of the difficulties and headaches that brings, comes the fun of planning what will go into it when it is completed. I look at decorating websites and dream dreams of the beautiful rooms I want to create. I have visions of beautiful flower gardens, front porches and backyard patios.

Then comes a gentle whisper: "Content."

It has become a rather steady drumbeat in time to the thumping of my heart. I look around at all that I have - so much I am not at all sure it will all fit into this new little home - and I know that this is the word He is calling me to live right now.

I have been blogging for over five years now. It began innocently enough, but although I have found so many blessings within this community I dearly love, it quickly became a constant struggle to find a balance. The need for approval that simmers just below the surface of my heart began a slow boil. That longing for acceptance can cause the purest of motives to change into something unrecognizable.

Then comes a gentle whisper, "Content."

I looked up all the verses I could find on contentment. One of the footnotes in my Bible says contentment "results from an inner satisfaction with the situation that God has ordained for me. It is a relying on Him to meet my needs according to what is best for me."

Another author put it this way: "When I become materialistic (or dissatisfied) I am saying God can't take care of me - or not in the way I want."

I can become dissatisfied in so many areas of my life, particularly when I feel my most important needs are not being met in the way I think best. To understand what that attitude says to the heart of the Father makes me want to weep.

One more footnote: "How can you find true contentment? The answer lies in your perspective, your priorities, and your source of power."

It is knowing the Source that makes all the difference. This year will be like any other if I depend on my own resources. I am easily drawn into wanting more. It isn't the wanting more that is so bad, it's the more that I want. This year, this moment, I want to be content with what He has given me. I only ask for more of Him.

Blessings,
Linda

picture: photobucket

Sunday: Thirsty

2012-01-08T12:41:00.001-06:00

"As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul pants for Thee, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God;"

Psalm 42: 1,2a NASB

Joining the Sunday group at Deidra's

Blessings,
Linda

Don't Be Afraid or Discouraged

2012-01-02T14:35:00.001-06:00

After forty years of wandering through the wilderness the Children of Israel stood on the brink of promise. A whole generation had died during the wandering and a new generation stood poised to enter the land flowing with milk and honey.

" The houses will be richly stocked with goods you did not produce. You will draw water from cisterns you did not dig, and you will eat from vineyards and olive trees you did not plant."
Deuteronomy 6:10,11

It was a promise from the Lord - the One whose word never fails.

However there was the matter of a river overflowing its banks and great armies populated by men who looked like giants that stood between them and the fulfillment of that promise. It would require something of them if they were to finally enter that land of promise.

Knowing their frailty the Father spoke another promise into their hearts:

"Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; He will neither fail you nor abandon you."
Deuteronomy 31:8

They would not be going alone. He would be with them every difficult step of the way.

We too stand on the brink of promise - a new year filled with possibility and hope. Its minutes, hours and days carry with them the gift of new beginnings, and we long to embrace it. But, in our frailty, we stand still knowing we cannot see beyond that bend in the road. There are places we know we must travel that cause us to be fearful and discouraged.

Has there has been a diagnosis that brings you to your knees in fear; or a family member whose chosen path is leading them to certain grief; the uncertainty of employment or financial problems; aging family members whose health is failing - just a few of the "giants" in the land.

He sees and knows and gives us the same promise He gave to His children thousands of years ago. He will PERSONALLY go ahead of each of us; He already knows the way. But He won't get out of sight, He has promised to be WITH us. He is in the process of bringing us to a land flowing with milk and honey.

Whatever this year holds, whether great sorrow or great joy, whether riches or poverty, whether sickness or health - He has promised that He will never fail us or abandon us. We can walk into this new year with great hope and courage.

"For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."
Jeremiah 29:11

Blessings,
Linda

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T13:30:00.000-06:00

"Do not call to mind the former things, or ponder things of the past. Behold I will do something new, now it will spring forth; will you not be aware of it? I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, rivers in the desert."
Isaiah 43:18,19

Blessings,
Linda

Stopping and Listening

2011-12-26T14:51:00.001-06:00

I hope your Christmas was filled with moments to cherish.

I am going to take this week to ponder the moments and listen for that still, small voice. Typically I feel a little "let down" after Christmas. So much anticipation and all too quickly it is gone. Everything seems to have lost its sparkle.

This time I want to carry Christmas with me all year long. Surely that is what we are meant to do - to take the gift, wrapped in the form of a tiny baby, and open it daily. All of the promises fulfilled, all the hope to come, all the grace to live, love beyond measure and so much more - given to each of us.

Blessings,
Linda

painting: Jean Honore Fragonard

Christmas Wishes

2011-12-21T10:28:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas Dear Friends.

"For a child will be born to us (to you and to me!), a son will be given to us..."
Isaiah 9:6

From our home to yours we send love and wishes for a joyous, blessed Christmas.

Blessings,
Linda

This, Too, Is Christmas

2011-12-19T16:48:00.002-06:00

Christmas comes in unexpected ways and unplanned moments. Four generations gather; casual conversation turns to deep and little ones ask about Christmases past. They sit wide-eyed listening to stories about life when little boys slept three in a bed and there was no money for presents or even Christmas trees.

Great-grandpa shares long-go memories and puts things treasured into young hands;

Grandfathers and grandsons lean into one another;

a Grandson brings Grandma into his world;

the children ask about the spinning wheel that lives in the corner of the living room and watch in fascinated wonder;

the girls spy the wedding dress in the portrait hanging in the bedroom and wonder ...
yes, she has it stored away on the high shelf in the closet.

I watched through tear-dimmed eyes as years were woven into story and the story became a part of young hearts. Family - drawn together by words and love and memories passed from one generation to the next.

This, too, is Christmas.

Linking to Laura today:

Blessings,
Linda

His Hands

2011-12-19T13:26:00.000-06:00

I am writing at Laced With Grace today. If you have a moment, I would love to have you join me there.

blessings,
Linda

The Journey Begins

2011-12-17T22:37:00.002-06:00

"So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child."

Luke 2:4,5

blessings,
Linda

Five Minute Friday - Connected

2011-12-16T11:52:00.000-06:00

Joining the others at Lisa-Jo's Five Minute Friday today with the word

Connected

start:

It is easier to stay connected these days than our Great-Grandparents ever could have imagined. We carry our lines of communication with us and, theoretically, we can always reach one another.

However, it has been my experience that despite cell phones and computers it is still often impossible for me to reach my loved ones. I am invariably given over to voice-mail and must wait until they check their messages. These marvelous devises, designed not doubt, to give me a great measure of control in my life are somehow sadly lacking.

There is one connection, however, that is one hundred percent reliable. The moment I utter a word to Him or a single thought flies heavenward, He bends down to listen. There is never a time He is too busy or hands me off to voicemail. There are no menus with numbers to push, no automated voices. He is always there - in person, listening with all His heart.

This is the one instance where I am totally in control. I am the only one who can break the connection. His desire is that I be connected at all times.

stop

Blessings,
Linda

photo: photobucket

Anticipation

2011-12-13T19:39:00.000-06:00

"But when the fullness of the time came,God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law,"
Galatians 4:4

Christmas approaches,
days filled with anticipation.
We sing the songs,
bake the cookies,
decorate our homes and trim the tree.
We search for the perfect gift
and wrap it with hope.
We read the ancient story, light the candles
and wait for His coming.

And what of heaven over two thousand years ago?
How to calculate
the sense of anticipation
or know its parts?
Was it made up of an equal measure
of joy and sorrow,
as the Father gazed at His only Son?
Was there a small portion of regret
as He held Him in His arms?

The days counted down;
all of heaven must have held its breath,
watching love send the most
precious of gifts
to hearts that were waiting,
and to hearts that would not care.
He came.

Blessings,
Linda

On, In and Around Mondays: Jesus

2011-12-12T10:32:00.001-06:00

The choir sang the powerful message of Christmas; the children joined them, sweet voices, proclaiming the birth of the King of kings; the dancers moved to the music with beauty and grace. Resounding applause filled the huge auditorium.

A hush fell as the lights were dimmed - a single beam, center stage. Josh Lopez quietly began to sing the names of Jesus. Savior, Light of the World, Redeeming Friend, Counselor, Prince of Peace... The choir sang softly in the background and the volume began to increase until one name, repeated over and over, echoed across the vast expanse:
"Jesus. Jesus. Jesus. Jesus..."

One by one people rose to their feet - arms lifted high to the One whose name is above all names. "Jesus. Jesus..." - hundreds of people standing before the One, the only One, who is worthy of all our praise.

And Christmas came.

Linking to L.L. Barkat's On, In and Around Mondays

and Laura's Playdates

Blessings,
Linda

The Gift

2011-12-07T13:26:00.002-06:00

The gentle whisper has been quite persistent in recent months. I listen, nod in agreement and in a shamefully short period of time slide right back to where I began. Still the whisper persists. I hear it in the voices of Ann, Lisa-Jo, Emily and a number of other much admired women. "Yes," my head says, but the stubborn heart refuses to be moved.

The gentle whisper increases in volume when it is filtered through the pages of scripture. I hear it in the most unlikely places. Reading through the Old Testament stories - walking through the wilderness with the Children of Israel - and it speaks so clearly I am brought to tears.

"Then Moses spoke again to Korah: 'Now listen, you Levites!. Does it seem insignificant to you that the God of Israel has chosen you from among all the community of Israel to be near Him so you can serve in the Lord's Tabernacle and stand before the people to minister to them? Korah, He has already given this special ministry to you and your fellow Levites. Are you now demanding the priesthood as well? The Lord is the one you and your followers are really revolting against! For who is Aaron that you are complaining about him?"
Numbers 16:8-11

Here I stand again, with those Children I used to shake my head in wonder over. How often have I compared myself to others and wished I could be more like them? How many times have I looked longingly at their gifts and wished they were mine? If I look deeply into my own heart I find those same seeds of discontent and longing.

And the voice of Moses carries down through the centuries and implores me to embrace the gift I have already been given and to be content to serve in the way that the Lord has chosen for me.

It is the season of giving. A beautifully wrapped package sits under the tree with my name on it. Will I open it or will I look around at the other beautiful gifts and wish I could have them too? This gift is mine, the one He chose especially for me. It will only have value if I open it, embrace it and then give it away.

He has special gifts for each one of us - gifts that are uniquely chosen just for you by the One who knit you together in your mother's womb and wrote your story before you ever drew one breath. Every gift is of equal value - for each of us is equally loved and cherished.

linking to Emily's imperfect prose:

and:

Blessings,
Linda

picture: my dear friend Mary's home all dress up for Christmas

Happy Birthday Jesus

2011-12-06T10:33:00.001-06:00

The birthday cake made its first appearance when our children were young. I got the idea from a Christmas devotional I had been reading. The author was writing about her family's Christmas traditions, and the idea for the birthday cake was tucked in among the others. Every Christmas she baked a birthday cake for Jesus - a reminder to her young children of what we are celebrating.

That Christmas, after all the Christmas cookies had been safely stored away in tins awaiting the big day, I baked the birthday cake. Double layer - frosted in creamy chocolate. On Christmas Day, after the tumult of gift giving and feasting on the traditional lasagna dinner I slipped into the kitchen and put the candles on the cake.

A hush settled over the dining room as I walked in. We dimmed the lights and struck a match to light the candles. In the soft glow we sang "Happy Birthday dear Jesus."
It seemed such a simple thing - not very "spiritual" in comparison to some Advent traditions - but it did something to our hearts as we gazed at the brightly lit cake and sang a birthday song to the One who had given so much for us.

These days it is the youngest grandchildren who blow out the candles. There are more voices joining together to sing birthday wishes to the King of kings. And I am filled with gratitude - for each one, from the seven year old to the one who is in his nineties, holds Him in their heart. He has given us the most precious of gifts.

Happy Birthday Jesus!

linking to the High Calling writing project at Charity's blog

Blessings,
Linda

photo: courtesy of photobucket

Thankful for Christmas

2011-12-05T17:55:00.001-06:00

Winter has arrived in South Texas. We huddle under quilts at night and hunch our shoulders as cold winds buffet - but I remember those seemingly endless days of triple digit weather and smile with gratitude as I shiver my way to the car.

I am thankful for Christmas. It is, I think, my favorite time of year. When I was younger, the season was all wrapped up in Santa, presents, tins of cookies from my Mom's kitchen, caroling, Christmas programs and wishing for snow.

As I got older, I continued the traditions in my own home, but slowly, quietly, the emphasis has changed. My longing is to move slowly through the days with eyes lifted heavenward - to somehow take in the wonder of His coming and wait with hope for His coming again.,

Yes - I am so thankful for Christmas:

- a Savior who left the glory of heaven to become one of us
- a Father who sent His beloved Son to live and die that I might live
- a young girl who willingly surrendered her life to the call of God
- an honorable man who willingly bore the shame
- a group of shepherds, who heard the news and believed
- wise men who followed the star, worshiped the tiny King, and defied the evil one
- a Father who could not contain His love for His Son and sent angels to herald His birth
- a love I could not possibly deserve come to life
- a promise fulfilled - Unto us a child is born!
- the Word - the perfect Word of God that traces the promise from beginning to end

He came quietly - a baby's cry breaking the silence of 400 years. He came, and nothing will ever be the same. He lives, and He still offers the gift of His sacrifice. The gift of eternal life.

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16

Joining the Gratitude Community at Ann's today.

Blessings,
Linda

The Magnificat

2011-12-04T12:54:00.000-06:00

"Oh how my soul praises the Lord.
How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!
For He took notice of His lowly servant girl,
and from now on all generations will call me blessed.
For the Mighty One is holy
and He has done great things for me."

Luke 1:46-49

Linking to Deidra's today:

Blessings,
Linda

painting: Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato

Waiting

2011-12-01T12:25:00.000-06:00

T'is the season of waiting:
Zechariah waiting in silence
for the promised son;
a young girl waiting expectantly
for the Word to become flesh;
a star waiting
for the mighty to bow low;
a world waiting, groaning
beneath the weight of despair.

At just the right time
He came.

T'is the season of waiting:
for peace, when life is filled
with turmoil and worry;
for comfort, when sorrow
fills the heart;
for grace, when the worst
we feared comes calling;
for love, when we feel
so unlovely and unworthy.

At just the right time
He comes.

Linking to Emily's imperfect prose:

Blessings,
Linda

picture credit http://www.patheos.com/blogs/markdroberts/series/introduction-to-advent/

Time

2011-11-29T08:53:00.000-06:00

It seems to me time, like a comic super-hero, has magical powers. It has an ordinary appearance, marching along in carefully measured ticks - never deviating from one day to the next. And yet....and yet, it can take a little girl and change her into a young woman in the blink of an eye - turning a deaf ear to pleas to just stand still for a little while.

When I saw her, after long months of separation, she took my breath away. Once again time flexed its muscles, and I was catapulted back in time to a day when I was younger than she is now. A dreamy high school girl, discovering love and dreaming of the day when I would marry and have children. Two little boys danced in my imagination - boys that looked remarkably like my high school sweetheart.

As I stood in the present moment, looking at my Granddaughter, I marveled at the blessing. The Father took the dreams of my youth and added such bounty. Not just two little boys - but a little girl too. Watching them grow into adults as time spun the moments into years. And then, the gifts I hadn't even known enough to dream - Grandchildren. My children's children embracing the legacy of faith passed down through the generations - through time.

I hugged her close and wondered at the grace and love that gives such good gifts.

Joining Emily today for Tuesdays Unwrapped.

Blessings,
Linda

Sunday

2011-11-27T09:40:00.000-06:00

"For you will go out with joy, and be led forth with peace; the mountains and the hills will break forth into shouts of joy before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands."

Isaiah 55:12

Joining Deidra today:

Blessed Sunday,
Linda

Thanksgiving Wishes

2011-11-24T09:42:00.000-06:00

Sending all of you wishes for a blessed Thanksgiving Day. Praying that no matter what circumstances you find yourself standing in, you will know that the Father is there with you, and that He loves you with an everlasting love. May His peace, joy and love fill your hearts with a gratitude that goes beyond the bounds of circumstances.

The Laced With Grace Team has put together a special Thanksgiving post. Please join us there as we number the blessings He has poured into our lives.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

With love,
Linda

The Other side of Gratitude

2011-11-21T15:06:00.000-06:00

There she sat, in the middle of torn wrapping paper, ribbons and a pile of new toys, crying in frustration because there were no more presents to open. I remember the swift play of emotions - humor, compassion, and a touch of disappointment. I had expected something different in return for all we had given.

I thought of that moment as I found myself standing on the flip side of gratitude. I felt a bit like that little one who thought the gifts would come all wrapped in beautiful paper and tied with shiny ribbon and that there would be an endless supply.

To be sure, the gifts have come - lovely, numerous and better than I imagined. However, there have been other gifts - ones I've chosen not to label as such. Ugly ones that I didn't expect - one piled on top of another. And rather than give thanks for everything, I chose to focus on the ones I didn't want and stepped from gratitude to complaining.

Unfortunately, a heart that starts to complain doesn't stop there. It begins a downward cycle into self-pity, envy, and anger. Finally it goes a step too far and a gap between the Father and the heart begins to open and grow wider with the passage of time. Until there is an emptiness - a silence - that becomes unbearable.

The miracle of love, God's love, is that it is never exhausted. All I need to do is turn around and step back into His embrace. Repentance is met with grace. And in return there can be only the deepest gratitude.

Thank You Father for:

- the gentle whisper of conviction that never condemns

- times of disappointment

- problems that seem to have no easy solution

- weariness and sickness

- disasters that loomed on the horizon and then disappeared

- the newly poured foundation of our home

- the well, that didn't cost twice what they estimated

- rain

- planes, carried on the wings of prayer, that bring a much loved daughter safely across the ocean and back

- friends that pray

- visits with family

- Old Testament stories that speak today's truths to my heart

- Christmas music

- holidays given true meaning and real joy because of Him

- the anticipation of a visit from a precious granddaughter

- the lightness when the burden is lifted

- forgiveness and grace

linking with Ann's Gratitude Community

Blessings,
Linda

Refreshment for the Soul

2011-11-20T11:45:00.000-06:00

"He knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with Him."
Daniel 2:22

"God is too wise not to know all about us, and what is really best for us to be, and to have. And He is too good, not to desire our highest good; and too powerful, desiring, not to effect it. If then, what He has appointed for us does not seem to us the best, or even to be good, our true course is to remember that he sees further than we do, and that we shall understand Him in time, when His plans have unfolded themselves; meanwhile casting all our care upon Him, since He careth for us."
Henry Parry Liddon (1829-1890)

Joining Deidra today to celebrate Sunday:

Blessings,
Linda

If You Love Me

2011-11-18T11:55:00.001-06:00

I am writing at Laced With Grace today. It's about nail biting and loving the Lord. Would you come visit me there? Thank you so much

.

Blessings,
Linda

Accountable Forever

2011-11-17T09:33:00.001-06:00

When it is time to decide on a new memory verse, I begin leafing through my Bible zeroing in on the verses I've highlighted over the years. Occasionally, though, a verse will pop out at me - one I had somehow overlooked - and it will resonate in my heart.

"The Lord our God has secrets known to no one. We are not accountable for them, but we and our children are accountable forever for all that He has revealed to us, so that we may obey all the terms of those instructions."
Deuteronomy 29:29

My heart beats a little faster when I read it. I have been given the priceless gift of a lifetime of Bible teaching. My parents, Sunday School teachers, Pastors, Bible studies all adding to the store of knowledge. We are privileged to have so much available to us, and we are accountable for all that has been revealed to us.

Having said that, one would think it would be enough to keep us busy. Yet there seems to be more than enough time to not only quibble about the things we do know, but we also seem determined to argue about those secrets known only to God.

We know that we cannot know the mind of God, but something compels us to try anyway. Then when we think we have it figured out, we are ready to take on anyone who disagrees. I am afraid that we sometimes are so consumed with getting it right we miss the mark altogether.

We are to love one another, to care for the poor, to share the gospel in word and deed. Whether or not we like a certain type of music in church doesn't even make the list. Pre-tribulation or Post-tribulation isn't there either.

I think there is a yearning to get back to those things He has revealed to us - to be the church He gave His life to establish. I see it in the young people I worship with. I read it in your posts. I hear it in my Pator's heart.

"This is my commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you."
John 15:12

linking to Emily's imperfect prose

Blessings,
Linda

No Providing

2011-11-16T21:58:00.000-06:00

My internet service provider had a bad day and didn't do any "providing" until late tonight. Tomorrow is my day with my Mom - so I will try to catch up with everyone just as soon as I can. And I had such big plans....

Blessings,
Linda

One of the Children

2011-11-15T14:49:00.001-06:00

"Why did you bring us out here to die in the wilderness? Weren't there enough graves for us in Egypt? Didn't we tell you this would happen while we were still in Egypt...It's better to be a slave in Egypt than a corpse in the wilderness!"
Exodus 14:11-12

After 450 years of waiting - of fervent, unceasing prayers for deliverance from the cruel bondage in Egypt - they joyously marched their way to freedom. Of all the answers to prayer, surely this was the greatest they had known. And yet, just days into their journey to the Promised Land the complaining began.

In recent days, I humbly admit, I have stood in their number. Whining and complaining and wishing I could just "go back to Egypt." Yesterday was a particularly trying day, and I was in top form. It was all I could do to pick up my Bible and read where I had left off days ago.

Seated in my little flowered armchair, I was transported to that moment in time when the Children of Israel started what seemed like a perpetual whining about their circumstances. God has a way of getting to the heart of a matter.

We have just come through a season of remarkable blessing - of long awaited answers to prayer that were beyond anything we could have imagined. It was all joy.

It didn't take long, however, for unanticipated problems to surface - and for anxiety to crowd out joy. My focus shifted from Him to the circumstances, and I whined and complained.

He "spoke" to me as I sat surrounded by my worries and fears and reminded me that I had much to be thankful for. There was never a moment when the Children of Israel were separated from His love and protection. They simply had a hard time remembering who He was when what seemed like insurmountable problems stood in their way.

When I walk through days like these, I have a tendency to become immobile. Everything is just too much effort. I make foolish decisions based on my feelings. Yesterday I decided I would shut down the blog...I didn't have anything worthwhile to share.....and if I did, I wouldn't write it well anyway....and on and on.

Today I read...
"After the victory, the Lord instructed Moses,'Write this down on a scroll as a permanent reminder..."
Exodus 17:14

Clearly the Father reminded me of the reason this all began in the first place. I wanted a place to write for Him; a place to pile the stones of remembrance as an altar to His faithfulness.

And so I write.

Blessings,
Linda

Heavy

2011-11-09T15:25:00.001-06:00

For some reason, unknown even to my silly self, I have been running from writing this post for the past couple of days. It isn't anything profound or new; it has all been said by others with much greater skill. But the little voice persists.

Heavy

It is all so heavy Lord,
so many needs that
weigh the heart down.
Sickness that has no cure
holding the future of precious lives hostage.
Waiting and hoping that
all we can do will be enough.

And I pray
because You have said "All things are possible."
I wrestle the burden off our shoulders
and lay it at Your feet.
You slip the yoke around my neck
and begin to walk beside me.

You take each need, each cherished soul,
and hold them to Your heart.
You sing softly,
fill bottles with tears
whisper words of love.
You tuck each one safely under Your wings
and gently number the strands;
with Your love You calm all their fears.

And the spirit flies free and weightless
on wings of promise.

linking to Em's imperfect prose:

Blessings,
Linda

His Values

2011-11-07T14:05:00.001-06:00

I come to the computer screen eager to read their posts. I am excited for them, thankful for them, praying for them - but, I confess, a part of my heart longs to be part of them. To go somewhere far from all that is familiar and comfortable and do something BIG in His name.

My mind understands that we are not all called to the same thing - of course it does. It understands that prayer is powerful and miraculous and a high calling. It understands that circumstances, those things that truly do come to us through His hands, don't permit all of us to go to those faraway places. It knows that the Father uses both big and small things to accomplish His greater purposes. But still there is this longing heart.

And into this heart He whispers words of love. He tells me of the plan He has for my life and assures me that it is good. He asks that I be content and grateful. He has given more than I can possibly hold in my hands. In my longing to give Him more, I must be careful to calculate it according to His scale. When I give Him all that I am, no matter how insignificant it looks in my eyes, He counts it as priceless. I give Him the gift of my heart, and He asks me to trust that He will use it well.

With contentment and gratitude:

- time spent with a precious daughter

- cool, clear days

- walks

- good books

- discovering a new library

- filling music folders for choir practice

- an evening with the kids and grand-kids

- granddaughter hugs

- the joy in my son's face

- a husband who gives selflessly

- answered prayer

- praying for family and friends

- a "v" of ducks flying overhead

- abundant provision

Linking to Ann's Gratitude Community today

Blessings,
Linda

Five Minute Friday - "We Will Remember"

2011-11-04T10:48:00.000-05:00

Today's word is:

Remember

(If you only have five minutes today, please scroll down and listen to the words of Tommy Walker's song rather than reading mine. They are words that will minister to you in a profound way. I'm sure of it.)

We sang it again in choir rehearsal this past wednesday night. It is my favorite Tommy Walker song. It gives me goose-bumps and I can hardly make it through to the end without the tears flowing. It is called "We Will Remember."

As we sing our way through the verses, my mind goes back - back through the years to the time I first met Him - a little girl who wanted so desperately to be sure she raised her skinny little arm every time the invitation to accept Jesus as Savior was given.

Back to a time when, even though I knew Him, I chose to walk the path of my own choosing. A time when I hurt Him with my selfish rebellion and childish anger. Back to a time when He forgave me for even that.

Back to a time when I thought He had finally turned His back and allowed the very worst of my nightmares to come true - to that time when I thought I might walk away for good. I remember how patient He was - how He listened to my angry accusations and bitter complaints against Him - how He loved me anyway. I remember the way He patiently waited and drew me back with love.

stop:

Blessings,
Linda

Don't Quarrel

2011-11-03T11:25:00.002-05:00

The Old Testament stories are so familiar to so many of us. We have heard them told and retold since we were old enough to sit on those little wooden Sunday School chairs. However, the truth is, no matter how familiar a passage of scripture may have become, if we listen closely the Spirit will whisper something new.

The story of Joseph is one of those familiar ones. I reread it the other day and found a few words I had never noticed before. They were tucked into Genesis 45, the moving scene where Joseph finally reveals his identity to his brothers. He has given them ample provisions for the journey back to Canaan - back to a father who doesn't know that the son he thought dead for so many years is still alive.

As he watches them go, Joseph gives them these parting instructions:

"Don't quarrel about this along the way!"
Genesis 45:24

They had just experienced grace and mercy beyond anything they could have imagined. Thinking they would be dealt with in the severest of ways, they found instead love and forgiveness. This brother, whom they had sold into slavery, had not only forgiven them he had saved their lives and the lives of everyone in their families.
Was it possible they would quarrel about it?

I have learned not to judge the lives of others too harshly. The minute I do, I am reminded of my own failures and failings. All too often they are precisely the ones I find so distasteful in others.

How often have I received grace when I deserved condemnation only to turn right around and begin to grumble and complain about something else? Or the times I have been forgiven only to try to justify my part or blame the whole thing on someone else? Or, having received forgiveness, continue to rehash the past with "if onlys."

Surely there were things the brothers could have quarreled about. Joseph knew that it would do no good to argue about past wrongs. It was a time for new beginnings. He had given them that - a full measure of grace and forgiveness.

Blessings,
Linda

Thanks In the In-between

2011-11-02T10:43:00.001-05:00

My eyes have learned to focus
on the blessings
those that stand in stark relief
against the ordinary every day
and those easily overlooked
the ones that hide in the shadows.

My eyes have learned to see
through tears and shattered dreams
to find the blessing hidden
under the heavy pile of
hurts and disappointments
of fear and doubt
of loneliness and despair.

But what of those moments
when the little annoyances
the petty grievances
the little stings of envy
the perceived injustices
cloud my vision?
Can I see through anger and
hurt feelings to the blessings within?

It is true
I have learned to give thanks
in the little and the big.
Help me, Lord,
to have eyes to see the blessing
in the in-between moments
those moments I choose to
look away and see only self
those moments when
my feelings blur my vision
and I cannot see You.

linking to Em's imperfect prose today

Blessings,
Linda

Thankful

2011-10-31T14:33:00.000-05:00

I sit listening to her talk, basking in the glow of her joy - remembering back nearly forty-four years to the early days of my own marriage. The words bubble with laughter, and I silently give thanks. From the time she was a tiny girl we prayed for the one who would one day share her life. The one who would be there for all the joys and sorrow, the sunny days and the ones dark with rain clouds.

Thank you Father for answered prayer:

for time spent with these two beautiful women

for cooler days and brisk morning walks

for the work begun on our new home - the forms for the foundation that will support it all

a doctor who takes the time to be thorough - and then leans back to talk and laugh about all the things going on in our lives

the changing of the seasons - a constant reminder of His faithfulness

our adult choir joining forces with the middle school choir - watching with full heart as they worship

the heartfelt gratitude for four generations still sharing love and laughter and life

music

words - life-giving, live-changing words shared in this community

new neighbors - help us to be salt and light Father

linking to Ann's Gratitude Community

Blessings,
Linda

Five Minute Friday - Relevant

2011-10-28T10:26:00.001-05:00

Friday comes quickly, and it is time for another Five Minute prompt. Today's is "relevant," and I find I'm struggling a bit with this one - worried about getting the definition just right. I will just go with what has popped into my little brain and hope for the best.

start:

Relevant

There was a time in my life, okay there are still times in my life, where being relevant was so important to me. Being accepted and part of the "right" group was high on the list of priorities. It was, too often, the way I judged my own self-worth. I needed to wear the right things, say the right things, read the right things - be included in all the right things.

I am of an age now where that matters less and less. I am learning to number the days, the hours, the minutes - trying to make them relevant in the way I live them out. More and more I want to be relevant in His eyes - to switch my focus from me to Him - to find my worth in what He deems relevant.

It is easy to slip back into the old patterns - to look around at what others are doing, where they're going, what they're saying and want to be part of it all. It is sometimes hard to find contentment in less until I begin to realize that the less is more.

"He who has found his life shall lose it, and he who has lost His life for my sake shall find it."
Matt. 10:39

I am praying for that sort of relevance.

stop

Linking to the Gypsy Mama - Lisa-Jo

Blessings,
Linda

Giving What He Has Given

2011-10-27T10:42:00.001-05:00

The land is ready and waiting. Soon the heavy equipment will arrive - to drill for water, to lay the foundation, to build the framework for our new home.

We have pored over plans, spent hours deciding on colors and cabinets and faucets and lights and all the myriad things that go into making a house a home - for us at least.

The email arrived in my inbox the other day - the answer to whether or not we could give an extra gift to the boy who has become part of our family, the boy whom we have never seen in person but who has taken up residence in our hearts. World Vision must be very cautious about this matter of giving, especially in countries where the poverty is so devastating. It would make things difficult if one family seemed to be getting so much more than others. So they carefully, wisely, make these heartbreaking decisions.

"...we learned that due to the fact that the family lives in one room - house,
what is more immediate and necessary for them are the interior doors of
their unfinished house...In this case we think that
the entire GN would go to the family needs."

I thought my heart would break. We know that they have been working on this tiny home for years. I had imagined something just a bit more.

"One room; no interior doors."

I am bowed low with the weight of all we have been given. We have always had doors.

We have always had rooms. We are blessed with such abundance.

I am grateful - for all we have been given and for all that we might give.

My most recent memory verse is this:

"But who am I, and who are my people, that we could give anything to You? Everything we have has come from You, and we give You only what You first gave us."
I Chron. 29:14

Everything I have comes from His hands - everything. My only resources are those things that have been given to me by a Father who loves me with an unending love. Help me, Father, to give back what You have so graciously given to me. All I have is Yours; let all I am be You in me.

Linking to Emily's imperfect prose.

Blessings,
Linda

Thank You For the World So Sweet

2011-10-23T17:05:00.001-05:00

One of the things I knew I would miss, once we moved, was our walk. My feet had traveled that little country road for years. When I began, it was a simple dirt road. On the rare occasion when a car or truck drove by, I was lost in a cloud of dust.

Eventually, when the Christian School took up residence not far from us, it was paved. I had to learn the best times to walk, as another school and then a small subdivision were added. It was a bit treacherous when the school buses and parents delivering children to the schools were out and about. Still I walked - sometimes alone, then with a friend, then with my husband.

It was when the stores joined the ever growing community, I knew the days of walking along this stretch of country road I had come to love were numbered.

We have found a new place to walk near our apartment. It is much more urban than I would like. I felt the loss for a while, but then I began to notice the gifts the Father had scattered along the way. Truly, He is always there sending love and grace - if we only have eyes to see.

There is something so calming about water - and water that dances and bubbles over is sheer delight.

Even in this man-made pond the little ducks find a home.

A beautiful "bouquet:"
Texas Sage

a lovely "etching" right in front of my feet!

acorns - in spite of the drought - containers filled with the potential for new life

the wind making the grasses dance

a field of sun flowers

tiny beauties

a "portrait" painted against an impossibly blue background

a splash of color

And this! I couldn't believe he would sit so quietly as I carefully approached. Amazing!

And these two elegant ladies

"Thank you for the food we eat,
Thank you for the world so sweet,
Thank you for the birds that sing,
Thank you God for everything."
(Mrs. E. Rutter)

Linking to Ann's and the Gratitude Community

Blessings,
Linda

P.S. Our daughter is here for a visit from Paris. I will be spending as much time as I can with her. Please excuse me if I don't get to visit as much for the next couple of weeks.

Five Minute Friday - Beyond

2011-10-21T09:18:00.001-05:00

Our word for today's Five Minute Friday is:

Beyond:

I waited and waited. Sometimes I waited with patience and hope. More frequently I waited tapping my foot, arms crossed, whining and complaining about not getting an answer. Any answer would do at that point, but the silence was killing me.

Some days I had hope that persistence would win out. Other days I was convinced I should just accept the emptiness as a silent "no" and move on.

None of my efforts to manipulate the Lord worked. It seems He really does keep His own counsel, and really does only do what He deems best. He also does it in His own time.

The day came when the silence was broken and the answer came. It came in ways I could never have imagined. It came with blessings I hadn't thought to ask for. It was above and beyond anything I could ask or think.

He is a God who is beyond my own meager thoughts and means.

stop

Come join us at Lisa-Jo's. Encourage and be encouraged as we share our writer's hearts.

Blessings,
Linda

Unwrapping the Graveclothes

2011-10-19T09:40:00.000-05:00

It is a familiar story, the one in John 11 where Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. The miracle, the power, the glory, the depth of compassion all step out of the pages of scripture and minister to our hearts in a myriad of ways. It seems we can read the same verses at different seasons in our lives and find something fresh and new from the heart of the Father who knows our every need.

This past weekend I heard someone speak on this passage in a way that I had never considered before. He was speaking on recovery, and He was talking to Christians. Somehow we have gotten the idea that when we take that first step of faith and accept Jesus into our hearts as Savior everything from that moment on is going to be good.

Please join me and my little friend Timmy at Laced With Grace today for the rest of this devotional. We'd love to see you there.

Blessings,
Linda

Five Minute Friday - Catch

2011-10-14T09:27:00.002-05:00

Today's Five Minute Friday's word is change.

GO:

I went, humbled by the gift of answered prayer and unconditional love. I went simply wanting to receive what He had for me - trying hard to set aside my own agenda. He went before me, and from the very first moments he whispered, "Catch."

Catch the wonder of relationships formed with words becoming warm hugs, beautiful smiles and anointed words.

Catch the beauty of my creation - the wonder of My Artist's heart.

Catch the words of wisdom and knowledge so generously shared.

Catch the joy of simply knowing that I am here.

Catch the spark that I want to ignite in your heart.

Catch the quiet of the still, small voice.

Gather it all and then give it back to me that others might catch the glory and the wonder of who I am.

stop

Joining Lisa-Jo and the other beautiful hearts at Five Minute Friday. Come join us.

Blessings,
Linda

Aunt Fannie

2011-10-12T11:50:00.001-05:00

Aunt Fannie always saw the glass half empty. It's just the way she was. I can remember my Mom describing the letters she received from my two Aunts living on that tiny island off New London, Connecticut. Aunt Fannie and Aunt Josie would often write about the same events - one letter filled with all the joyful news, the other with a darker view of things.

She was the middle sister of five - with a dashing younger brother thrown in for good measure. She was not the pretty one or the popular one or the one with the sunny disposition. I'm not sure if that was the reason for her pessimistic view of things and her rather sharp tongue, but so it was.

When all the other sisters were married off and busy with families of their own, Aunt Fannie remained the spinster sister still living at home and taking care of Mama.

When my Grandmother died, the question of what was to become of Aunt Fannie was a difficult one. My own mother, young enough to be Aunt Fannie's daughter, and my kind-hearted Dad offered to give up their own little apartment and move into Aunt Fannie's larger one.

I know it wasn't easy for my Mom. She had been so delighted with her own little place - sewing and decorating and making it into a cozy home. And Aunt Fannie was not the easiest of souls to get along with. There was that caustic tongue to contend with.

I was two years old when Aunt Fannie came to live with us. In spite of herself, a little hidden soft spot emerged as she became my champion - the one who felt I could do no wrong. Mom gently laughs as she recalls the times Aunt Fannie took my side when matters of discipline arose.

She patiently taught me to knit and spent countless hours with me. I remember her smile and the way her shoulders she shook when she laughed.

There came a day when my champion left our home and went to live on that little island. A quiet, gentle man entered her life, and much to everyone's amazement, carried her away to live happily (well as happily as anyone who sees life through dark colored glasses can) ever after. The fact that she even set foot on that ferry in spite of her terror of water was a testament to her love for Uncle Joe.

She loved to tell me stories about the summer I went to visit her all by myself. I think I was about four at the time. I wish I could remember it myself, but I loved to hear the stories. The memories of that special time, formed of her words and the black and white pictures in my photo album, are precious to me.

Life for Aunt Fannie seemed to run full circle. In her later years, when Uncle Joe had passed away, she went to live with a younger sister who was also a widow. My Mom often says that we don't really change much when we get older; we just get "more so." I think that's the way it was with Aunt Fannie. She really didn't mellow. The pessimistic outlook remained as did the sharp tongue, but always there was that tenderness she did her best to cover up.

There came a day when she just didn't feel well. She took to her bed and seemed to make up her mind that it was time for her to step from this life into the next. I got to see her one more time before she died quietly in a nursing home in Pennsylvania. She had that sweet smile for me and promised she would do her best to get better. I miss her.

linking to the group writing project at High Calling - (Why not join us with a story about someone special to you?)

and Emily's imperfect prose

Blessings,
Linda

picture: the lighthouse we passed on the way to visit Aunt Fannie on her little island

Like Elijah

2011-10-11T11:23:00.000-05:00

I walk and think about this concept of being real in our writing. If I am real in my writing this morning, chances are it will come off sounding full of self pity - like a plea for sympathy. I like to be encouraged as well as the next girl, but that is not what I am after. I simply want to be obedient to what I believe the Lord would have us do.

Elijah, with his mountain-top experience and subsequent dive into depression, has been my traveling companion for days now. My experience doesn't parallel his in every detail, of course, but I think I am feeling a little bit of what he felt.

My days at Laity Lodge lifted my spirit high. I came away filled so full I could hardly take it in. The gift of an answer to a prayer long held in my heart ignited a little flame, and I was determined to come home and burn brightly.

I did - for a little while. Then the dailiness of life with all the same old troubles threatened to douse that tiny flicker. I find I am at a loss for words. The admonition to "just write anyway" seems an impossible one.

I think again of Elijah and the Lord's answer to his self-pitying cry in I Kings 19. After ministering to his physical needs and treating Elijah to an incredible display of power, He spoke in a gentle whisper.

The LORD said to him, “Go back the way you came..."

The prescription He handed Elijah was simply to get up and get going. In the process He provided strength, wisdom and a friend (Elisha) to share in the work He had called Elijah to do.

The Father, who is no respecter of persons, has given me all of those things and more. So...enough. Time to get writing.

Blessings,
Linda

Thank You

2011-10-09T22:30:00.001-05:00

It is a song we've sung many times and every time it touches something deep inside me. We sang it last evening. It says everything I long to say to a Father who loves me so well.

Thank You For Loving Me by Tommy Walker

What love the Father has lavished on us
That we should be called His sons and daughters
Precious in His sight
Greater love this world had never seen
When He hung on that tree
O why would He do such a thing
For dirty sinners like you and me?

Chorus:
O God thank You for loving me
When on the cross You made history
Lord You died for me
Forever my praise will go to Thee
O God thank You for choosing me
To be Your child and bear Your name
O Jesus I will never cease to sing Your praise

Verse 2:
Your love is patient and humble and kind
It's greater than all my sin
It always protects and trusts and hopes
And will have no end
It's Your love that lifted me up from the depths
Set my feet on a solid rock
With a firm place to stand
Lord I always will trust in Your loving hand

Bridge:
How wide how long
How high how deep
How endless is Your love for me
How wide how long
How high how deep
How endless is Your love for me

I look back over the past few weeks and am overwhelmed at the grace and love the Father has poured into my life.

Thank You Lord for:

- answered prayer beyond anything we could have asked or thought

- the gift from Your heart through hers to mine

- the joy of spending time with friends I had only known through their words; for binding our hearts together in such a special way

- perfect weather - the relentless heat of summer releasing its grip

- for rain - good rains that begin to replenish this drought-parched land

- giving clear direction

- the beauty of your creation

- the peace found in quiet moments

- the written word

- shared laughter and tears

- caring about the "little" things that loom so large in my life

- going before us to make the way smooth

- encouragement

- good conversation with dear friends

- loving me

linking to Ann's and the Gratitude Community

Blessings,
Linda

"Nothing But The Blood"

2011-10-09T13:32:00.001-05:00

The gentle strains of a guitar, the beautiful harmony of voices singing the words of redemption, and His presence filling the room. Tears flowed, hearts were touched in ways known only in heaven, and we were blessed.

Nothing But the Blood

What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Refrain:
Oh! precious is the flow, that makes me white as snow;
No other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus.

For my pardon this I see - Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
For my cleansing, this my plea - Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Nothing can for sin atone - Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
Naught of good that I have done - Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

This is all my hope and peace - Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
This is all my righteousness - Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Blessings,
Linda

One Song

2011-10-06T21:19:00.001-05:00

I handed her a little piece
of my heart
with that familiar mix
of hope and fear,
knowing it would no longer
be just mine.

Reading the words,
I tried hard to hide
the tremor
Listening to them read,
I hoped no one would hear
the hammering of my heart.

She spoke into the quiet,
"It sounds like a ballad."
"Yes," a gentle voice replied,
"like a hymn."

The reel rewinds;
I sit on piano bench
waiting with that familiar mixture
of hope and fear
while she plays the notes
of the words I have written.
"It sounds like a hymn."

"If a bird has one song,
it sings it." she had said.
Perhaps He has given me a song.

my poetry workshop group

Linking to Emily's imperfect prose

Blessings,
Linda

Hidden Artist

2011-10-04T19:29:00.001-05:00

One of the lovely "extras" offered during our stay at Laity Lodge was the opportunity to spend time at the Cody Center. Kathy Hastings, a gentle, patient and extraordinarily talented artist, came armed with all sorts of things to encourage us to experiment with art.

One afternoon I made my way down the red path, past a sweet lady sound asleep in one of the hammocks, and into the Cody Center. After tying an apron around my waist and finding a spot at one of the tables filled with art supplies, I eagerly awaited instructions on how to use them.

I pause here to confess that I have no hidden artistic talent. Ever the optimist, however, I thought perhaps I would somehow produce just a teeny "masterpiece" or two. We began by learning different techniques with water colors.

I'm afraid that's as far as I got. It all started out fairly well, but I became increasingly frustrated with my awkward attempts at painting. The perfectionist part of me, the one I try to keep under control, began to take over. If I couldn't do this thing well....I was just not going to do it! I couldn't find a trash can, so I just left my little pictures by my place, took off my apron and slithered off to nurse my bruised ego. The word childish springs to mind...

I walked around the beautiful, peaceful grounds and eventually found my feet crunch, crunching their way back along the path that led to the Cody Center. About half way there I saw Patricia coming the other way. She called out to me, beaming with the knowledge of a special secret. Patricia is an absolute delight. I was drawn to her the minute I met her. She is out-going, warm, kind and has a delicious sense of humor.

"Look what we did!" Clutched in her hand were my discarded art projects - beautifully framed and wrapped in plastic covers. She said the others couldn't understand why I didn't want them. They decided to rescue them and return them to me as a gift. I was overwhelmed by their kindness and generosity. They had taken my feeble attempts at painting and made of them something beautiful.

As I think back over that special moment, I realize it is symbolic of what the Father wants to do for me. He will take my "little" and make of it something very special indeed. All He asks is that I remain faithful.

I don't have to do the big, perfect thing all on my own. In fact, I can't do the big, perfect thing on my own. Only He can do those things. The amazing part is He allows me to have a small part in it (sort of like those loaves and fishes "thing" in Mark 14: 14-22).

Blessings,
Linda

In Our Midst

2011-10-03T09:48:00.002-05:00

"For where two or three have gathered together in My name, there I am in their midst."
Matthew 18:20

We came together. He was right there with us. It was a little taste of heaven on earth. I was filled to overflowing because:

where He is there is hope

where He is there is peace

where He is there is love

where He is there is sweet fellowship

where He is there is joy

And we carried Him away with us - filled that we might pour out.

linking to Laura's blog today

Blessings,
Linda

I'm Going!

2011-09-27T21:06:00.000-05:00

On September 2nd I wrote this post - prayerfully, hopefully. When I didn't get picked in the drawing, I resigned myself to the fact that this particular dream was not going to come true.

I have often prayed about something I have dearly wanted, thinking that I was willing to accept whatever answer the Father gave. My words certainly testified to that willingness, but I quickly discovered that often the heart says something entirely different. When the answer is no, I am not always content.

This time was a bit different. I meant it when I left the dream of a Writers Retreat in His hands. It was too important to let my rebellious self push its way ahead. I wanted more than anything to know if the dream was mine alone or somehow one He had placed in my heart.

I had planned to attend the retreat, but when our house finally sold after all that time I knew it simply wasn't in the budget. We were so grateful for this gracious answer to prayer I just couldn't be disappointed. The drawing at High Calling gave a glimmer of hope but even when that didn't work out I knew it would be all right. I determined to be content - to accept His will without debating, whining and complaining. I truly wanted to know if writing was His plan for me.

The email found its way to my inbox long after I had stopped even thinking about the Retreat. When I saw who it was from, my heart skipped a beat. She is such a precious friend, and I love getting even just a small note from her. Her life has changed dramatically over the past year, leaving her with little time to write.

She was writing to say that the Holy Spirit had been nudging her, and she was giving me a gift. She is making it possible for me to attend the retreat. I am still overwhelmed at such a gift. The tears still come when I think about it. I cannot imagine such a gift.

It comes wrapped in her love and tied with the ribbon of God's unending grace. That He would love me so much - I simply cannot take it in.

I am going - to this beautiful place with some of the most amazing writers I know. I am going with a heart filled with wonder and gratitude. I am going with a determination to listen and learn. I am going!!!

Thank you with all my heart my precious friend. I love you.

Blessings,
Linda

Joyful Songs

2011-09-27T11:21:00.000-05:00

Before we ever began the moving process I determined I wouldn't let my walking and work-out routines slide. I think the appropriate quote here would be, "The best laid plans of mice and men go awry." (Robert Burns) I haven't worked out in three weeks, and we've only managed a couple of walks.

I am determined to repent of this slothful behavior! We went for a walk this morning, and my legs have registered their protest. It is a very different walk from the one we took at our old house. Instead of a little country road, we follow sidewalks through a well-manicured area of rehab facilities, retirement apartments and nursing homes.

There is a little man-made lake with lovely fountains spouting plumes of water into the air. We pass other walkers, some with their dogs bounding along beside them. There is a distinct lack of hills, but I enjoyed the walk.

I took along my index cards with my memory verses printed out - another sadly neglected part of my usual routine. I struggled to remember the words as the wind wound circles around us and the water fountains caused the water to dance.

One of my verses (Zephaniah 3:17) has a line that says: "He will rejoice over you with joyful songs." I had just recited the words as we walked through the gates of our apartment complex. The clear, beautiful notes of a little unseen bird filled the air, and I thought - "Yes, He rejoices over me with joyful songs." It was a beautiful melody and oh how it brightened the morning.

Blessings,
Linda

The picture is one I found on-line - I seem to have neglected taking pictures too. I am slowly making my way back to "normal."

Tea and Conversation

2011-09-22T20:31:00.000-05:00

I began to write what I thought was a "deep" post this morning. Half way through it was time to leave for my Mom and Dad's so I left it to simmer.

On second thought it doesn't seem worth finishing. I confess that my poor little brain is a tad tired these days. I have been going in too many different directions for a few weeks now, and I think it has taken a toll. I am running on empty.

It seems a good idea to go slowly, to rest and reflect a bit. I need to sort out all of the thoughts running through my mind into a coherent whole. It is a bit of a dilemma - I am longing to write, but I am just a bit weary of writing.

For now I think visiting you and listening to what you have to say is just the ticket! You are a delight - an encouragement - and dear friends. Might I have a cup of tea too?

Blessings,
Linda

Remember to Smile

2011-09-20T19:47:00.001-05:00

It has been nearly two years since I wrote these words. How is it that I can so easily forget the words gently spoken into my spirit? How is it that the daily living of life, with its joys and sorrows, can rub the sheen off a shining gift? The something I thought I would never forget had somehow slipped away.

I walk with head down along the unfamiliar walk to the mailbox. Everything is new, the familiar left behind to become someone else's every day. I feel that old shyness dogging my steps as I pass faces unknown to me. Then it comes - a gentle reminder of a long ago spoken word: "Smile."

Smile. I had forgotten. Forgotten the seemingly small ministry with the huge potential He had given to a heart longing to do something BIG. My head tilted up just a bit - eyes looking for the eyes of stranger.

Sometimes I cannot will the eyes of another to look into mine, but there are moments of connection. That is when the smile does its work.

If I had any doubts (and oh how prone I am to such things), that very evening as we descended the stairs from the choir loft a friend grabbed me in a hug. "You are such a blessing, she said. You have a beautiful smile."

I'm not so sure about the beautiful part, but the smile - oh yes. The Father gave me that smile, and He has asked me to use it for Him.

Have you discovered the ministry of a small thing? If you have, how does the Father turn your little into something BIG?

Blessings,
Linda

Hear It On Sunday. Use It On Monday - Jesus Is Praying

2011-09-18T16:09:00.000-05:00

It has been a long, exhausting two weeks. It is difficult to describe in one word but the one that comes to mind is stressful. Many times during the process I thought of Pa and Ma Ingalls. When that inevitable urge to move hit Pa, they simply loaded all their earthly belongings into a small covered wagon, lifted in the girls, whistled for the dog and headed west. We seem to be burdened by an abundance of things!

There have been a couple of very difficult, unexpected complications, and I found myself simply coming undone. I did all of the things I know I shouldn't do. I worried, I allowed fear to overwhelm my heart, I imagined all sorts of ways everything was going to go wrong, and I forgot whose child I am.

My practical, wise, deeply spiritual Pastor, quite without knowing my need, reminded me of it last evening. He took us to the seventeenth chapter of John and Jesus' prayer for His disciples and for you and me. On the eve of His betrayal and the journey to the cross, He poured out His heart to His Father - and we were on His mind.

The first time I read this prayer with understanding I wept. It is such a beautiful prayer filled with a love that is beyond comprehension. It is deeply personal and cannot fail to move the most indifferent of hearts.

In the fifteenth verse Jesus makes this request of His Father:

"I'm not asking You to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one."

Knowing all that the enemy would be likely to throw at me, He prays for my safety. He looked ahead in time and saw the ways and the times that I would feel abandoned and afraid. He placed my life, your life, in the hands of the One He loved more than His own life.

Implicit in His words is the promise that He continues to pray for us - for our safety. He lives to make intercession for us. When it seems as though my world is falling apart around me, He is praying. When I am fearful of what the future holds, He assures me that He is already there - waiting to help me through. When I feel abandoned, He reminds me of His promise to never leave me or forsake me.

Quietly sitting listening to the words of Jesus, I felt my heart begin to slow and rest. I confessed my sin to a Father who has already covered it with His grace. And He gave me His peace.

Linking to Michelle's Hear It On Sunday. Live It On Monday.

Glad to be back. I've missed every one of you.

Blessings,
Linda

picture: our apartment complex - home while we wait for our new house to be built

A Moment's Pause

2011-09-05T20:39:00.000-05:00

These days my brain is filled with visions of cardboard boxes, paper, tape and magic markers. It is befuddled with puzzling over what goes into each box and then which pile the filled box should join - the one going to storage, the one going to the shop or the one going to the apartment. The images fill my dreams leaving me very little space for anything creative.

When I need a little break, a few moments for breathing deeply, I just look out the window. Want to see?

Haven't the babies grown? They are nearly as big as Mama. I am so delighted that she has managed to take such good care of them under very difficult circumstances. This drought is devastating, but they are thriving.

Time for a little community bath.

Mrs. Roadrunner usually has the bath to herself.

This little guy is endlessly entertaining. He is an acrobat par excellence and, to my mind, as cute as can be.

This Dandy announces his intention to take a drink long before he actual flies in. When I hear loud squawking, I know he is about to make his grand entrance.

But alas, there isn't much time for wool-gathering. Do you think I have too many books? (Yes the boxes are filled with books too, and I really did sort through and give away a whole bunch of them.) Surely not. I am preparing my defense for moving day, when the guys all make fun of how many boxes of books there are.

We are counting down the days. My big worry (I really am a terrible worry wart) is that I won't be able to get set up quickly with a new internet provider (mine doesn't service the area where our apartment is located), and I will vanish from blogland forever! :-)

Blessings,
Linda

Dreaming Dreams

2011-09-02T20:17:00.001-05:00

I sit, homemade planner on my lap, the white Holiday Inn pen with the blue top in my hand, and the thought comes unbidden - "I love to write!" Just the physical act of putting words on paper brings a sense of satisfaction. When those words take the form of ideas and stories that encourage and entertain, it is sheer joy.

I long to do it well, to learn to be a skilled craftsman. There is nothing I like more than listening to writers talk about writing, to learn from those who do it with excellence. A close second would have to be just plain talking about writing with those who love the written word - iron sharpening iron.*

I have dreamed dreams about writing but often felt I've let too much time go by, that I am too old now to make the dream come true. I'd like to have the time and the opportunity to explore the possibilities.

The staff at High Calling is providing a place to do just that, at Laity Lodge. Set in the Texas hill country, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, it is the perfect place to come away for a short time and concentrate on writing. You can read all about the Writers Retreat here at their website. If you are a member of the High Calling Community and would like a chance to attend the conference for free, you can get all the information here.

Blessings,
Linda

*Proverbs 27:17

Time For a Break

2011-09-01T19:34:00.005-05:00

We have begun to count down the days. Soon we will close the door to the home my husband built twenty-eight years ago and walk into a new adventure. We would covet your prayers as we go through these last steps, that all will go well.

In the meantime, there is much to do. I feel as though my rather feeble little brain has somehow turned to jello! It is time to take a break from this place I love and concentrate on the task at hand. I will try to do a bit of writing - because somehow that brings a sense of peace and completeness for me - but I won't have much time to visit and comment.

In a couple of weeks, I should be back to blogging - in a new little temporary home. We are walking through this with a deep sense of gratitude and a complete dependence on the Father who works everything together for good. He is so faithful.

Love to all of you,
Linda

No Condemnation: Hear It On Sunday. Use It On Monday

2011-08-29T13:02:00.001-05:00

The sound of enthusiastic applause filled the church when Dr. Henry Cloud concluded his message this weekend. He spoke about a struggle common to all of us. He spoke with great wisdom and understanding. We recognized ourselves in the stories and were thankful to find that, as always, the answer to our questions was tucked away in the pages of scripture.

He spoke from the thirteenth chapter of Luke - the parable of the fig tree (13:6-9) - a lesson on "Getting Unstuck." Dr. Cloud provided a recipe whose simple ingredients are: Dig - Fertilize - Year.

Before we can use the recipe there is something we need to understand - the "why" I cannot seem to break the cycle of "try to change - fail - guilt - try harder - fail..." It was this that the Spirit wrote in bold letters across my heart; this that I need to make my own once and for all.

Like the fig tree in the parable, there are things in my life that need to change so that I can produce fruit. I know these things well and struggle to change only to fail over and over again. The man's solution to the problem of the barren fig tree was "Cut it down. It's just taking up space in the garden." (verse 7) It is the voice of judgement - living under the law. Sometimes it is the voices of others. More often it is a far more familiar voice.

"When I fail to live up to my own expectations, I hear my own condemning voice and call it conviction," said Dr. Cloud. I put myself under the law, and in so doing the fruit I produce is anger, guilt, shame and condemnation. I simply cut myself down.

Left in this state, I will repeat that old cycle over and over and over again. However, just like the poor fig tree, I have an advocate. The gardener in the story came to its rescue, "Sir, give it one more chance. Leave it another year, and I'll give it special attention and plenty of fertilizer. If we get figs next year, fine. If not, then you can cut it down." (verses 8,9)

Jesus comes to my rescue and stops the voices of condemnation. "Leave her alone," He says. Before I can get better, I need no condemnation, and this is what grace offers me. Grace - from the One who took all my sin and gave me His righteousness.

When I accept grace, I am ready for the recipe: Dig - Fertilize - Year. We dig, with help, to find what is hidden under the surface - the real reason we cannot seem to make the change we know we need to make. Grace comes next, the fertilizer that provides what we cannot do for ourselves. It comes from the hand of a loving Father. Then we need to give ourselves time. It takes time to get better.

There is no need to hurry. We are on a journey - one that is filled with joys and sorrows and circumstances we could never have imagined. It is a journey that takes a lifetime. Jesus takes you by the hand and walks it with you. It is His delight.

"So there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus."
Romans 8:1

"Who then will condemn us? No one - for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and He is sitting in the place of honor at God's right hand, pleading for us."
Romans 8:34

Linking to Michelle's: Hear It On Sunday. Use It On Monday.

That Beautiful Name

2011-08-28T11:25:00.000-05:00

The hymn that is on my heart this morning appears to be a rather "quiet" one as far as the internet is concerned. I was tempted to look for one that might be a bit more popular, but I can't seem to walk away from this one.

It was written by Jean Perry who was born on November 25, 1871 and died on May 5, 1937. There is little to no information on her. She penned these beautiful words and then passed the poem on to Mabel Johnston Camp hoping she would put them to music.

Mrs. Johnston composed the music but was unhappy with the result. She tore the manuscript up and threw it in the waste basket. Some time later her husband spotted the pieces and decided to take a look. He carefully put it back together, thought that the music was perfect for the words and convinced his wife to publish the song. I'm thankful he did. I love this old hymn.

That Beautiful Name

1 I know of a Name, a beautiful Name,
That angels brought down to earth;
They whispered it low one night long ago,
To a maiden of lowly birth.

Refrain:
That beautiful Name, that beautiful Name,
From sin has pow'r to free us!
That beautiful Name, that wonderful Name,
That matchless Name is Jesus!

2 I know of a Name, a beautiful Name,
That unto a Babe was giv'n;
The stars glittered bright throughout that glad night,
And angels praised God in heav’n. (Refrain)

3 The One of that Name, my Savior became,
My Savior of Calvary;
My sins nailed Him there, my burdens He bare.
He suffered all this for me. (Refrain)

4 I love that blest Name, that wonderful Name,
Made higher than all in heav'n.
’Twas whispered, I know, in my heart long ago--
To Jesus my life I’ve giv’n. (Refrain)

Blessings,
Linda

Five Minute Friday - Older

2011-08-26T10:00:00.000-05:00

Friday - and five minutes to write straight from the heart - no editing or second guessing. The word for today is:

Older

start...

I look in the mirror some days and wonder who that older woman is. When did all those lines make an appearance, and whose neck is that anyway? Most days I don't look too closely. I never really have. I just sort of wash my face, brush my teeth, comb my hair and face the day with just a touch of lipstick.

There I am with my beautiful young daughter and equally beautiful older mother. I find I don't long for the days of my youth and I don't dread my later years. It is true, that thing I've heard older women say - I don't feel any older on the inside. The heart, it seems, is ageless - forever young. It is the part of me that still leaps and dances, the part that still dreams. It is the part He sees when He looks at me. He doesn't see that face in the mirror - He sees "me."

stop....

Come on over to Lisa-Jo's and perhaps add your words or just read what others have to say about "older."

Blessings,
Linda

Don't Give Up!

2011-08-25T10:19:00.001-05:00

"I love the Lord because He hears my voice and my prayer for mercy. Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath."
Psalm 116:1,2

Our hearts are overwhelmed by grace these days. Prayers we have uttered day after day have been answered in ways we could never have imagined. Many times it seemed as if the heavens were brass and our words were ricocheting back to us like hollow echoes. Certainly there were times of doubt and despair. But always there was a knowing that He loves us; that His word is true; that He would surely do what was best. We had learned the hard lesson; He is worthy of our trust - oh so worthy.

So we prayed.

The days, weeks, months, years slipped through our fingers, and we waited. The urgency of one particular need pressed us to our faces. It began to look as though all was lost.

Then the phone call came. A ray of hope was filtering through the darkness, and we began to see Him move in powerful ways. Our hearts were overwhelmed at the magnitude of His goodness, at the wonder of His ways.

I write to give Him praise. I have done nothing to warrant such love and grace. He is good; He is faithful; He is everything we could ever desire and so much more.

I write to encourage anyone who has lost hope. To the one who fears that the deepest cry of their heart has not reached His ears. It can never be so. He hears each voice as though it were the only voice calling out to Him. He answers prayer - in His way and in His time. When things don't seem to be going the way we planned; when the answer is "wait" or even "no," rest assured that He will answer in ways that will bring greater blessing than we could ever have imagined.

I write to give Him thanks. That word seems too small to hold all the things we feel at this moment. My husband quoted the words from one of his favorite songs this morning, "...so unworthy of such mercy.." The depth and the riches of His love and mercy are unfathomable. And we give thanks!

"Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness,
and for his wonderful works to the children of men!"
Psalms 107.8

linking to Emily's imperfect prose today

Blessings,
Linda

Forgiving Me

2011-08-24T10:35:00.001-05:00

I sat transfixed, that last evening of our Women's Retreat, as she spoke about forgiveness - more specifically forgiving ourselves. A mixture of fear and hope whirled around in my heart. Could I possibly, once and for all, forgive myself for the things that haunted my nights and sometimes even my days?

I am a good forgiver - some even say I too easily forgive and forget, that sometimes things need to be forgiven and dealt with. I'm not very good at confrontation. But that is something for another time.

The one I find most difficult to forgive is me. I know that my sins are covered by the blood of Jesus - that His death on the cross was all the sacrifice needed for every sin I could ever possibly commit. I know that. It is the forgetting that is so difficult.

Over and over again, the things I most regret run through my mind like a video set on never ending replay. The nights are the most difficult. Once begun, the list runs back through the years unearthing all the things I've confessed, all the things He's forgiven with such grace and love.

She spoke that night about such things - this inability to let go of the past. Then she asked us to take paper and pen and write them down, all those things that stalked with weapons of guilt and shame. With those opposing emotions of fear and hope I wrote.

Then she told us to fold the paper tightly and place it in the container she was passing around. It made its way around the room, filling with the grief and weight of so many burdened hearts.

"I am not going to read these," she said. "I'm going to take them outside to the campfire and toss every one of them in. They are going to burn up and disappear, never to be whole again."

That was all, but I felt something stir deep inside. There was a lifting of a tremendous weight and an overwhelming sense of peace. Something about knowing that paper would be forever destroyed made forgiveness real. It was a picture of what the Father had been saying all along. He forgives and remembers no more. How, I wondered, is it possible for the God who knows all things to forget the terrible things I've done? I believe it is simply that He chooses to do so. He clears my record of guilt (Ps. 32:2) and puts my sin out of sight (Ps. 32:1).

There are times I am tempted to look back over my shoulder, but I remember that fire and my sins all burned to ashes. And I accept grace.

linking to Ann's today

Blessings,
Linda

picture courtesy of photobucket

Making the Complex Simple

2011-08-21T16:55:00.003-05:00

Church has, quite literally, always been a part of my life - an integral part of my life. I have attended several different churches over the years, from the little country church pictured above to the mega-church we now attend.

The personalities of the Pastors of these churches were as varied as their size, and God has used each one to touch my life in unique ways. My current Pastor's name is Robert - the very first one who prefers to be called by his given name. It is, perhaps, an indication of the gift we treasure in him. He has a God-given ability to take the complex and make it simple. It is no small thing to struggle over some deep spiritual question and then have it put into terms that make it suddenly clear.

Last night in church Robert said he was going to sum up the work of the Holy Spirit for us in one simple sentence:

"Everything that makes God real and personal to you is the work of the Holy Spirit."

Deep sigh of relief. To say that at one time I struggled with this would be an understatement. Without going too deeply into it all, suffice it to say that some people's views on what it means to be filled with the Holy Spirit nearly destroyed my faith. I was left feeling inadequate - and something of a spiritual failure.

How simple to read John 14:15-17; 16:12-15 and learn what Jesus says about the Holy Spirit - that He guides us into truth, brings peace, reveals Jesus to us, and so much more. When I hear a Christian song and the hair on the back of my neck stands up and my skin is all goose-bumpy, it is the Holy Spirit. When I read the Bible, and the words jump off the page and right into my heart, it is the Holy Spirit. When someone needs encouragement and I somehow find the right words, it is the Holy Spirit. He brings different gifts into each life and there is no "one size fits all" way to measure His work.

I need never worry about having enough of Him. I am filled and refilled daily. All I have to do is ask. He will never leave me; I am sealed for all eternity.

Miraculous thought - I walk around in this far less than perfect body, filled with the Spirit of the One who is perfect in every way. I read someplace that we have all of the Spirit we will ever need. The question is, how much of me does He have.

Joining Michelle for Hear It On Sunday. Use It On Monday.

Blessings,
Linda

"In The Garden"

2011-08-21T10:29:00.001-05:00

"Will you please consider taking over the ladies Bible Study at the Nursing Home in Granville?" It was our Pastor's voice on the other end of the line. I hesitated for a moment, but quickly understood that it was something I needed to do.

I travel back thirty years in time to that small farming community in Upstate New York, to the little country church that was the center of our lives, to a Pastor whose teaching changed my life, to an old nursing home with aging ladies who would come to bless me more than I could ever hope to bless them.

We began each Bible Study with a little hymn sing. I always asked for requests. There was one sweet elderly woman whose hand always shot up first, and whose choice was always the same: "In The Garden."

I can still hear the sweet warbling voices and see in their dear faces what the words of that hymn meant to them. I can never hear it without thinking of them. I remember the morning that same lady came up to me and pressed something into my hand. It was a long piece of bright pink lace edging she had tatted. I still have it - a treasured gift from a tender heart.

"In The Garden"

I come to the garden alone
While the dew is still on the roses
And the voice I hear falling on my ear
The Son of God discloses.

Refrain:

And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.

He speaks, and the sound of His voice,
Is so sweet the birds hush their singing,
And the melody that He gave to me
Within my heart is ringing.

Refrain

I’d stay in the garden with Him
Though the night around me be falling,
But He bids me go; through the voice of woe
His voice to me is calling.

Refrain

This hymn was written in March, 1912 by C. Austin Miles, a pharmacist who wrote gospel songs and had a love of photography. One day while waiting for film to process in his dark room he opened his Bible to John 20. Here in his own words is what happened:

"As I read it, that day, I seemed to be part of the scene...My hands were resting on the Bible while I stared at the light blue wall. As the light faded, I seemed to be standing at the entrance of a garden, looking down a gently winding path shaded by olive branches. A woman in white, with head bowed, hand clasping her throat as if to choke back her sobs, walked slowly into the shadows. It was Mary. As she came to the tomb, upon which she placed her hand, she bent over to look in amd hurried away. John, in flowing robe, appeared, looking at the tomb; then came Peter, who entered the tomb, followed slowly by John.

As they departed, Mary reappeared, leaning her head upon her arm at the tomb. She wept. Turning herself, she saw Jesus standing; so did I. I knew it was He. She knelt before Him, with arms outstretch and looking into His face, cried, 'Rabboni!'
I awakened in full light, gripping my Bible, with muscles tense and nerves vibrating. Under the inspiration of this vision I wrote as quickly as the words would be formed the poem exactly as it has since appeared. That evening I wrote the music."
(taken from the book "Then Sings My Soul" by Robert J. Morgan)

Blessings,
Linda

Five Minute Friday - New

2011-08-19T10:48:00.001-05:00

Time for Five Minute Friday again (my how quickly the days are flying by!).
This week's word is:

New

start:I heard the truck horn toot, looked out the kitchen window and saw the familiar bright yellow truck in the driveway. Mel, our mailman, was waiting with a package in his hands.

"Don't tell me you're moving!" I told him about the contract and the plans to move in the next few weeks. "I am going to miss you so much."

I will miss him too. He is a mailman extraordinaire - always going above and beyond. His familiar tuneless whistle has been a pleasant part of my morning for years.

It is funny - the way we long for something new and when the time comes, we look back at the old with a certain yearning. We have been waiting for this "new" for a very long time. It is here and suddenly the old becomes very precious - something to be treasured.

It is the same in my spiritual life. I long for the new, but when faced with stepping out of my comfort zone the old begins to look very appealing...

stop

Please join me at Lisa-Jo's for Five Minute Friday.

Blessings,
Linda

Miracle Man

2011-08-18T16:59:00.001-05:00

I believe in miracles. I believe that sometimes people are miraculously healed. I also believe that sometimes healing comes in other ways. Mine came in the form of a gentle, soft spoken surgeon, who looked me in the eye and said, "You must have this operation."

I had been to others over the years - ones who left the choice to me. I had also seen what scoliosis surgery involved. The surgical instruments looked unsettlingly like the tools my husband had in his shop, and I always decided I'd just wait.

So that day in Dr. Sanders office I said, "I need someone to tell me what to do." And he did. The curve in my back had progressed to the point of threatening my pulmonary function and my heart. If nothing was done, the prognosis wasn't good.

My fifty-first birthday was an eventful one. I slept through most of it as Dr. Sanders and his team painstakingly inserted three rods into my back, re-sectioned the ribs on my right side, and put me all back together again. Several months later I was walking around with a not perfect, but much improved back.

The day before my surgery, Dr. Sanders checked me over one more time. Before I left his office he said, "I'm going to church tonight, and I'll be praying for you." I felt such a sense of peace and gratitude.

I saw Dr. Sanders this morning. I go once a year just to make sure everything is still where it's supposed to be. It will be the last time I see him as his patient. He is now seventy-nine years old and will be retiring at the end of the month. He is such a kind, dear man. I reluctantly said good-by when the exam was over and then walked over and gave him a hug. He kissed me on the cheek.

He is the miracle the Father used to heal my poor, sick back.

linking to Emily's imperfect prose

Blessings,
Linda

The Door

2011-08-16T21:40:00.000-05:00

Jesus is so many things to us. He is Savior, Redeemer, peace, hope, joy, life abundant. He is our righteousness and our victorious Lord. He is a friend like no other. He is very God.

He called Himself the Bread of Life, the Living Water, the Good Shepherd. He also said that He is the Door.

John 10:9
I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.

I imagine myself standing in a room with many doors, each one opening to a different path. The choice is mine. Isn’t that always the most difficult part – the choosing? How much easier if there were just the one door – the right door. Then I could walk right through and all would be well.

I am at Laced With Grace today (wednesday). For the rest of my devotional, please join me there.

Blessings,
Linda

The Grommer

2011-08-16T14:11:00.003-05:00

The chairs are arranged in rows facing the flat screen tv fastened to the wall. When we walked into the waiting room that day, we had to make our way to the front of the room. It was a busy morning at the V.A.

We found our seats and settled in for the wait. I always, always bring a book. It is my insurance against having to wait abnormally long periods of time. My husband quietly watched the latest news flash across the screen.

Soon the familiar sound of a cell phone ringtone filled the air. I nearly jumped out of my seat as the loud "Hello!" rang around the crowded room. Evidently the caller was hard of hearing or this guy thought long distance meant you have to yell louder.

It must have been some time since they'd spoken. The whole waiting room was treated to all the latest family news. "Yeah, she didn't even know she was pregnant. Uh huh - twins!"

It was all I could do not to turn around and get a good look at this guy. On and on he chatted, growing increasingly louder. "Yeah - she went back to work. She's a groomer. A groomer. A Groomer!!!" Yup - definitely hard of hearing.

Cell phone guy upped the volume another notch - "You know, a groomer - G.R.O.M.M.E.R.!"

I haven't laughed that hard in a long time. I will admit I was annoyed at his rudeness for a long time, but he redeemed himself.

Blessings,
Linda

The "Reveal"

2011-08-14T20:24:00.001-05:00

On November 10, 2006 I celebrated my birthday with the good news that after two years on the market we finally had a buyer for our house. I was so excited I even wrote a post about it.

Two months later that celebratory post was followed by this one. To say we were disappointed would be a huge understatement.

We continued to pray that the house would sell. There were times when I told the Lord that unless He directed otherwise, I was going to unpack every single box (I had unpacked some) and assume He didn't want us to move. And every time, someone would show up to view the house - a gentle whisper to keep waiting.

And praying....praying open-handedly, wanting more than anything else His will.

At the end of July we got a call from our indefatigable real estate agent. There was a couple that wanted to come and see the house. We have learned to temper our excitement, but, honestly, it is hard to not hope just a little.

They came; they looked; they left. Same old story.

But....on July 31st they made an offer on the house, and a week later we had come to an agreement. The contract has been signed. We are still pinching ourselves.

We are also still praying fervently for the Father to go before us. I don't think I'll truly rest easy (a testament to my tendency to worry) until the end of the month when we have the closing.

In the meantime, we've picked up where we left off four and a half years ago. Our builder kindly kept our plans on hold. Our five acres is patiently waiting for us. We are moving forward.

I cannot tell you how grateful we are. Not too long ago my husband was talking about prayer and questioning how long we should pray for something when it seems that nothing is happening. As so often happens, a short time later we heard a sermon that answered his question. As long as the Lord hasn't given a definite "no" - keep praying. He continued to pray daily for a buyer for our home.

When I think of all that is going on in this world, the suffering, the heartaches, the sickness, the poverty, the injustices.... to see that He cares about the seemingly insignificant things - our dreams and desires - is overwhelming. His love is unfathomable.

Truly, if He never gave me another thing, He has already given me far more than I could ever deserve - priceless treasures of eternal value. But He delights to give us good things. He is so very good.

Soon we will say good-bye to this dear place. I have lived here longer than any other house - twenty-eight years. It has held us in its embrace through times of joy and sorrow. It is filled with precious memories.

Another family will fill its rooms with life and love, and we will begin to make memories in a new place.

Thank you for your prayers - your faithful prayers. It has been such a long journey, and you have encouraged and blessed me with such love. I never could have imagined, when I began blogging five years ago, the rich blessings that would come with it. Some might wonder how blog posts could possibly foster relationships. We have come to know that, far more than words on a screen, something special has happened here. We have become dear friends in every sense of the word. We share from our hearts and are bound together with cords of love and faith. My life has been greatly enriched by you.

Thank you,
Linda

linking to Ann's gratitude community

Thank You

2011-08-09T20:12:00.000-05:00

Stopping by to say thank you for all the sweet comments. I don't mean to be mysterious - just have to wait a little while before I share our news.

I don't know what I would do without you dear friends. You sure do bless my life.

Blessings,
Linda

Big "Doin's"

2011-08-08T20:49:00.000-05:00

Big "doin's" around here. I won't have much time to visit for the next few days, so please forgive. I'll share just as soon as I am able.

Blessings,
Linda

God Wants To Hear You Sing

2011-08-06T12:09:00.005-05:00

I am going to do something a little different this weekend. While we deeply love the old hymns of the faith, my husband (the best bass singer I know) and I love Southern Gospel music. I'd like to share this song by Greater Vision with you. I can never listen to it without tears and goosebumps - without feeling drawn into His presence.

It was written by Rodney Griffin, Greater Vision's baritone singer. A truly gifted song writer, he has been named song writer of the year every year since 1998 as well as favorite baritone. I am thankful the Lord gave him this song.

If you are going through a difficult time, I pray this song will minister to you. There comes a time in each of our lives when we must walk a path that seems hopeless. It is during those times God longs to know that we love Him still, for He will never stop loving us.

Their chains were fastened tight
Down at the jail that night
Still Paul and Silas would not be dismayed
They said, “It’s time to lift our voice, sing praises to the Lord
Let’s prove that we will trust Him come what may”

God wants to hear you sing
When the waves are crashing ’round you
When the fiery darts surround you
When despair is all you see
God wants to hear your voice
When the wisest man has spoken
And says, “Your circumstance is as hopeless as can be”
That’s when God wants to hear you sing

He loves to hear our praise on our cheerful days
When the pleasant times outweigh the bad, by far
But when suffering comes along
And we still sing Him songs
That is when we bless the Father’s heart.

Blessings,
Linda

Five Minute Friday - Whole

2011-08-05T16:24:00.001-05:00

I am late to the party - again - but I am here nevertheless. I think I'm in a bit of a silly mood. It may have to do with being tired and stressed over some things.

Be that as it may...here is the word Lisa-Jo has handed us this Friday:

WHOLE

start:

Reading today's word, my first reaction was to think of a deeply spiritual application. After all, being made whole is what it is all about; Jesus taking this mess of me and making something of value of it all. However, the more I thought about "whole" and kept saying it over and over again to myself - the funnier it sounded.

I kept coming up with ideas like: the whole enchilada, or the whole wide world, or the whole doggone thing. I'm not sure if this is an indication of selfishness or just plain silly. I do know that as I thought about those uses of the word I did think about Jesus, about how I want it all. I want the whole package.

I sometimes feel as though I am a bunch of little pieces all spread out on the living room floor waiting to be put into some sort of sensible order. We, the Lord and I, work on one part and get it in fairly good shape only to realize there is much work to be done on that other part over there.

And so it goes - a seemingly endless job of putting this fractured daughter into a recognizable whole. While we're at it, I know that not only do I want to be put together into one whole piece, I want to have the whole of Jesus...

stop

Come visit Lisa-Jo's blog and add your ideas on "whole." I'd love to hear what you have to say.

Blessings,
Linda

Photo: photobucket

Satisfied

2011-08-03T18:53:00.002-05:00

They have come to depend on me for water, these frisky twins and their feathered friends, and so I brave the 103 degree heat to refill the birdbath. I scrub away the accumulated scum and wonder how they can stand to drink this dirty, tepid water. I do my best to keep it drinkable - but I am a poor substitute for a cool, clear stream of running water.

I make my way to the hose and drag it over to the birdbath. It is in the shade now, and I hope they will all enjoy a cool drink this evening.

The grass crunches under my feet as I walk back toward the water spigot, and I can't bear to pass it by. I stand holding the hose over the cracked earth and watch it drink. It is so dry, and I know I can never satisfy such a deep thirst. The lawn is too big, and I am mindful that we don't have a bottomless well. I must be careful not to use too much water.

It hurts the eyes to look around and see the deep need - a need I cannot satisfy.

The sky is that perfect blue with only a few little puffs of white. They hold no promise.

And the sun beats hot - unrelenting day after day.

I turn off the water and coil the hose back into a limp roll, and I pray. Pray to the only one who can satisfy the need of this thirsty land. For there are some things that only He can do.

I think of my own heart, of the times I have tried to satisfy its cravings with things that promised much and left me feeling empty and lost. It seems my heart has been fashioned in such a way that there is only One who can perfectly fill it. When I give Him entrance, He comes; He satisfies; He fills.

"O God, Thou art my God; I shall seek Thee earnestly;
My soul thirsts for Thee, my flesh yearns for Thee,
In a dry and weary land where there is no water.

So I will bless Thee as long as I live;
I will lift up my hands in Thy name.
My soul is satisfied as with marrow and fatness
And my mouth offers praises with joyful lips."
Psalm 63:1,4,5

Linking to Emily's imperfect prose.

Blessings,
Linda

Choices/ Hear It on Sunday. Use it on Monday

2011-07-31T21:45:00.001-05:00

I sit reading my little daily devotional and, as so often happens, a random thought like a tiny bolt out of the blue crosses my mind. It has nothing at all to do with the scripture in front of me, but there it is. And I know it will stay with me - for once entertained these thoughts are loathe to leave on their own.

"Why," the little voice in my head asked, "didn't the Lord just crush satan like a bug the minute he puffed out his chest and declared he wanted to be like Him?"

Hmm....why indeed? Think of all the heartache and suffering it would have saved. Imagine living in the perfect garden with no one to tempt them to evil. How would the story have unfolded then?

But the Lord didn't crush Him. He allowed satan to choose the path he would follow and his choice set the clock ticking. There is always, it seems, this matter of choice.

Last evening our Pastor spoke on heaven and hell - a sermon topic guaranteed to either draw a crowd or offer up lots of empty seats. We are, apparently, a brave lot, and the church was filled.

He spoke of heaven, with its unimagined beauty and joy. He spoke of hell and the unimagined torment and agony. He didn't pull any punches. He taught that heaven is real and apart from Christ we will spend eternity there. He used Luke 16 and the story of Lazarus and the rich man.

Then he asked the inevitable question - the one we have all heard and perhaps secretly wondered about:

"How could a loving God send people to hell?"

In answer he quoted from one of Max Lucado's books:

"He doesn't. He honors their choice."

There it is again - this matter of choice. It is of such great importance to the Father that He has wrapped it in eternity. He will not settle for coerced children. He is holding out for love.

He holds nothing back - not even His only Son. He has poured out His great heart, and now He waits. Everything of value is available to us...everything. He isn't willing that one should perish, but He waits. We have a choice. We always have choices.

I'm joining Michelle for Hear it on Sunday. Use it on Monday.

Blessings,
Linda

All Your Anxiety

2011-07-30T10:21:00.001-05:00

Lieut. Col. Edward Henry Joy, an officer in the Salvation Army, wrote a hymn called "All Your Anxiety" in 1920. This morning, in 2011, I woke up with its gently encouraging words running through my mind.

One of the reasons I've been doing this series on hymns is the timeless messages they hold. While I have grown to love our contemporary praise music, I think we will have lost something of great value if we let these hymns fade from memory. Just reading through the verses is like reading the most beautiful inspirational poetry. I would like to preserve this timeless treasure for future generations.

Is there a heart o'er-bound by sorrow?
Is there a life weighed down by care?
Come to the cross--each burden bearing,
All your anxiety--leave it there.

Refrain:
All your anxiety, all your care,
Bring to the mercy seat--leave it there;
Never a burden He cannot bear,
Never a friend like Jesus.

No other friend so keen to help you,
No other friend so quick to hear;
No other place to leave your burden,
No other one to hear your prayer.
Refrain:

Come then at once--delay no longer!
Heed His entreaty kind and sweet;
You need not fear a disappointment--
You shall find peace at the mercy seat.
Refrain

"Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which surpasses all comprehension shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:6,7

Blessings,
Linda

I'm posting this early because I'd like to stay quiet on Sunday (I'm even giving the lap top a rest.).

Five Minute Friday - Still

2011-07-29T12:34:00.001-05:00

I have come to look forward to these Friday prompts at Lisa-Jo's. I click over to her blog with anticipation, wondering which word she has chosen this week. Today the word is:

Still

Still immediately conjures up images of quieting my heart and finding a peaceful place to rest and think deep thoughts, but for some reason my mind won't go there today. Rather I am thinking about the long waiting.

We are still waiting to see our home. It has been such a long time since the contract fell through, and I looked around at all the packed boxes and all the hopes and dreams and began the wait.

Years have gone by. We pray, fervently, daily. We wonder if it is right, this continued dream. We pray with open hands and ask if we should set the dream aside. Just when we think it is surely a definite "no," the phone rings with hope, and we show this place that has been home for 28 years to potential buyers.

We still wait...knowing that all things are in His hands, that He gives us good things, that we can be content in the waiting for He has given us so much.

stop

Any thoughts on "still?" Come join us.

photo: Our land where we hope to one day build our new home.

Blessings,
Linda

Wholehearted Looking

2011-07-28T11:01:00.001-05:00

There are no two snowflakes exactly alike. I have driven through blinding snowstorms, flakes racing toward the windshield, and I can hardly believe the miracle of it. Each one unique. The thought comforts me when I wish to be more like someone else. I am uniquely designed - a pattern that will never be repeated.

One of the things that makes this "snowflake" unique also renders me the person law enforcement officials would least like to have as the only witness to a crime. I would be no help in recalling the details - none. I am one of those people who can spend hours visiting you in your home and not remember what color the carpeting was. I may not even remember what you were wearing. I often wish I could be different, more observant. I feel as though a little piece is missing from my makeup.

I will, however, remember you. I will absorb your feelings and remember your words. If there is an underlying sadness in our conversation I will sense it - even if you say that all is well. If there are others in the room I will know if there is an unspoken tension or something amiss. I am bombarded by sensations of the heart. Perhaps it is the reason I feel exhausted when I arrive home and long for a quiet space.

I love to be with others - need to be with others. It is just that I invest heavily and need that time alone to breathe deeply.

I have been "stuck" on a verse for some time now. It is found in Jeremiah. His words often linger in my heart.

"And in those days when you pray I will listen. If you look for Me wholeheartedly, you will find Me."
Jeremiah 29: 12,13

Do I look wholeheartedly? The question sits heavily. What does it really mean? Surely He isn't making it difficult for me to find Him. Perhaps... perhaps it is simply doing what He has already graciously programmed into me - to focus on Him to the exclusion of all the things that surround me. To look into His face and see, not color of eyes or shape of nose, but who He is. To listen to His words and not be distracted by a thousand other things.

I know that when I do this, this wholehearted looking, I am not exhausted or depleted or in need of alone time. I am filled and refreshed. He gives me more than I can ever give Him in return. He waits...I simply have to look.

Blessings,
Linda

Thoughts Over Breakfast

2011-07-26T13:17:00.002-05:00

Thoughts over breakfast (while gazing out the window):

What a cute little bird. I hope she can reach the water. I need to get out there and refresh the water.
Oh - it's okay. She's getting right down in there for her morning bath.
Here comes one of the big doves.
Aw - no more leisurely bath. There she goes.

It's funny. I tend to think that when the Bible says the Father cares for even the little sparrows it is implying that they never have any troubles. But that isn't so. There are all sorts of difficult circumstances they face on any given day.

I tend to smile at the way they take so long to take a drink - hopping from one side of the bird bath to the other, looking in all directions before daring to dip low and scoop up a bit of water. In truth, they are always on the lookout for danger that could come from any direction at any moment.

They don't get to spend their days just soaring above the trees taking in the beautiful view. They must work to find food. It isn't delivered to the nest that they painstakingly built one tiny bit at a time. When the storms come, they must seek shelter from the wind and rain. It is true, the Father cares for them, but that doesn't mean life isn't fraught with struggle and pain. It means He is watching over them. Knowing that, they can fill the air with sweet liquid notes and glide on the wind.

So it is for me. The Father has not promised a life of perfect happiness and comfort. He has promised to be with me in every circumstance that comes my way. Knowing that, I can choose to give Him my worries and cares and soar on wings of faith.

"Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will."
Matthew 10:29

"When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze."
Isaiah 43:2

Blessings,
Linda

Hear it on Sunday. Use it on Monday.:Rejoice!

2011-07-25T15:00:00.002-05:00

"In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God's angels when even one sinner repents."
Luke 15:7

In the fifteenth chapter of Luke, Jesus uses three different parables to give us insight into the heart of the Father concerning the lost. He tells of a sheep, a coin and a son. Each of them was lost; each of them was found, and there was great rejoicing. In the same way, Jesus tells us, there is great rejoicing in heaven when even one sinner repents.

The third parable, the one about the prodigal son, is the one that pierces my heart. We have a prodigal in our family, one who has chosen to walk away and remains silent and distant. They have left heartache and sorrow in their wake. Not a day passes that we don't miss this one and pray for a return.

However, I must make a confession here and admit that at one time I identified with that older brother. The one who resented the great celebration when his little brother finally returned home. He was angry, bitter, and jealous at all the attention given to one who had hurt their father and the rest of the family so deeply. He had been the faithful one and resented the fact that no one had ever celebrated his loyalty and love.

The father in this story gently reprimands this bitter young man:

"Look dear son, you have always stayed by me, and everything I have is yours. We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!"
Luke 15:31-32

Jesus doesn't tell us how the older son responded, but I imagine he felt much the way I did when I looked my own anger in the face. After years of praying and trying I began to feel a coldness in my heart toward this one - a resolve to never allow them to get close to me even if they should return. I pictured in my mind the scene of rejoicing and the feeling of resentment that had grown as I was left to deal with all the difficult circumstances they had walked away from. And I knew it was wrong.

This weekend our Pastor taught on this chapter. In speaking of the return of sinners to the Lord he said:

"When a sinner comes back rejoice, and you will be in the presence of angels."

There is no judgement or self-righteousness involved - simply rejoice. So simple, but it encompasses so much. I have been forgiven everything, how can I not forgive in return? I am loved when I am at my worst, how can I not love others?

I want to dance in the presence of angels - selflessly, lovingly - when the prodigal returns home.

I am joining Michelle today for Hear it on Sunday. Use it on Monday.

Blessings,
Linda

I Need Thee Every Hour

2011-07-23T21:55:00.000-05:00

Annie S. Hawks, born in Hoosick, New York on May 28, 1835, was thirty-seven years old when she penned the words to "I Need Thee Every Hour." Her poems had been published in local newspapers when she was just fourteen years old. She married in 1859 and moved to Brooklyn with her husband Charles. Together they attended the Hanson Place Baptist Church where writer and composer Robert Lowry was Pastor.

Here in Annie's words is the story of how she came to write this hymn:

"I remember well the morning many years ago, when in the midst of the daily cares of my home, I was so filled with the sense of nearness to the Master. While wondering how one could live without Him either in joy or pain for any period of time, these words, 'I need Thee every hour,' were ushered into my mind-the thought at once taking full possession of me. Seating myself by the open window in the balmy air of that bright June day, I took up my pencil and the words were soon committed to paper, almost as they are sung today."

A few months later, Robert Lowry put her words to music and added the chorus.

The hymn was to become a great comfort to Annie when her beloved husband Charles died years later. She went to live with her children in Bennington, Vermont until her death in 1918.

I need Thee every hour,
Most gracious Lord;
No tender voice like Thine
Can peace afford.

Chorus:
I need Thee, O, I need Thee;
Every hour I need Thee!
O bless me now, my Savior,
I come to Thee.

I need Thee every hour,
Stay Thou nearby;
Temptations lose their power,
When Thou art nigh.

I need Thee every hour,
In joy or pain;
Come quickly and abide,
Or life is vain.

I need Thee every hour,
Most Holy One;
O make me Thine indeed,
Thou blessed Son.

Blessings,
Linda

Five Minute Friday - Full

2011-07-22T11:28:00.001-05:00

Another week has flown by, and it is time for Five Minute Friday at Lisa-Jo's. She is home and filled with so much to share, hence this Friday's word :

Full

start:

There have been times I've pushed away from a table spread with a bounty of delicious food so full I thought I would never be able to eat another bite. However, in only a few hours time I begin to feel the rumblings of hunger and know that what was once full is now empty.

So it is with my heart. There are times when I feel so full of Him I feel I am complete - like I could run on this "dose" of Holy Spirit for the rest of my life. However, it doesn't take long - sometimes only a matter of minutes - before I realize I need a fresh filling.

I am filled so that I might be poured out; filled so that I might live in a way that brings honor and glory to Him; filled so that I can serve others and die to self - moment by moment.

I am constantly in need of filling. There are pin holes that leak. There are times I want desperately to do what is right and quickly realize that I am trying to run on empty. Without Him, my best intentions fall short.

stop

Please come join us at Lisa-Jo's. I would love to read what your heart has to say about "Full."

Blessings,
Linda

Master Tailor

2011-07-20T14:27:00.001-05:00

He does all things well-
taking needle and thread,
the perfect hue,
carefully stitching
mending hearts
torn and tattered.

He does all things well-
using thread
woven of mercy and grace
He stitches together
the gaping holes
and frayed edges
making all things new.

Joining the very last One Shot Wednesday gathering (sigh)
and Emily's imperfect prose

Blessings,
Linda

Thanks In the Time of Drought

2011-07-18T16:09:00.000-05:00

When the days drift by in a haze of unrelenting heat and sun, it is all too easy to let the heart become a bit melancholy. Even those of us who perpetually see the glass half-full tend to get weighted down with the dull sameness.

We long for change - for the refreshing rain to fall, to wash away the dust and lift the heavy blanket of scorching heat. When billowy clouds hide the sun, we look upward daring to hope, but it is only a temporary reprieve. In such seasons it is easy to lose focus - to fail to see the blessings. They are there, despite the cracked earth and dry grass. He is always there, if we have eyes to see:

- cardinals, a half dozen or more, playing in the bird bath

- a fresh breeze first thing in the morning, to make the morning walk pleasant

- little wild flowers growing on the side of the road

- a house kept cool with air conditioning

- ice cubes crackling in glasses of iced tea

- fresh fruit

- star-filled nights

- people gathering to pray for rain

- music to lift the spirit

- the promises in His Word

- time spent with friends

- telephone calls from Paris

- a letter (a real live letter in the mail box and everything!) from a friend

- the beautiful Crepe Myrtle trees so full of flowers

- the spirit and heart of ranchers and farmers facing the loss of everything dear to them

- knowing, knowing by heart, that God is good

Joining with the community at Ann's today.

May His richest blessings fill your hearts,
Linda

Jesus Paid It All

2011-07-17T11:16:00.000-05:00

Elvina Hall sat quietly in her customary pew as her Pastor prayed. It was a Sunday morning in the Spring of 1865. Thoughts of the miracle of salvation filled her mind and heart. When the prayer was over, she picked up a hymnal and on a blank page began to write. Here is the story behind the beautiful hymn "Jesus Paid It All."

Jesus Paid It All

I hear the Savior say,

“Thy strength indeed is small;

Child of weakness, watch and pray,

Find in Me thine all in all.”

Refrain

Jesus paid it all,

All to Him I owe;

Sin had left a crimson stain,

He washed it white as snow.

For nothing good have I

Whereby Thy grace to claim,

I’ll wash my garments white

In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb.

Refrain

And now complete in Him

My robe His righteousness,

Close sheltered ’neath His side,

I am divinely blest.

Refrain

Lord, now indeed I find

Thy power and Thine alone,

Can change the leper’s spots

And melt the heart of stone.

Refrain

When from my dying bed

My ransomed soul shall rise,

“Jesus died my soul to save,”

Shall rend the vaulted skies.

Refrain

And when before the throne

I stand in Him complete,

I’ll lay my trophies down

All down at Jesus’ feet.

Refrain

I pray the words of this timeless hymn draw you close to the Father who loves you deeply,

Linda

No Great Loss....

2011-07-15T17:47:00.000-05:00

I am a bit late (it's been one of those days), but here I am to take part in Lisa-Jo's Five Minute Friday.

This Friday's word is Loss.

Start:

I wonder what Caroline Ingalls would think if she knew her gentle voice echoes down through the years to encourage the heart of a woman living in the 21st century.

"There is no great loss without some small gain."

Over and over again I hear her words - in the face of circumstances that would have crippled this modern day woman. When faced with the loss of everything and the very real possibility that there would be no way to have a roof over their heads and food on the table, she was able to pull those words from the depths of her heart.

It is a measure of gratitude that puts all of life into perspective. I have found myself echoing her words when I face loss in my own life. I try to see, as she did, that there is something of eternal value even in the worst of circumstances - some glimpse of the Father's faithfulness and love even when it seems that all is lost.

stop

Come and read all the wonderful posts written on this one word - loss

Blessings,
Linda

The Symphony of My Days

2011-07-15T08:35:00.002-05:00

I am at Laced With Grace today. I have posted one from the very recent archives. I apologize to those of you who have already read it. I just felt strongly that this was what I needed to post today.

Blessings,
Linda

Feeling Sorry For Me

2011-07-13T19:51:00.001-05:00

This is about the way I feel right now - "exhaustified." No one who knows me well would describe me as a Type A personality. I am quite the opposite. Weeks like this one, days filled to the brim with things to do outside my home, leave me feeling depleted. I'm not quite sure how to describe myself - perhaps introvert is the word I'm looking for. It isn't that I don't like to be with people. I love to be with people. It's just that after I've spent measurable time with others, I need to have a little bit of time alone.

There are seasons that don't accommodate that need, and, I confess, I begin to feel sorry for myself. I find myself whining inwardly about all the "stuff" I have to do and what about the things I want to do and can't I have a little time to myself.... well you get the idea.

I received a gentle reprimand about the whining the other day. Have you noticed how the Father tends to do that? I was in the middle of a really great pity party when He said (through the writings of Elizabeth Prentiss):

"If you love Him as I want you to do, you will offer Him the whole use of your day, as you open your eyes to the light of each morning, to be spent in active service or silent suffering, according to His good pleasure. You will not select the most agreeable task, but His task, whatever it may be; you will not disdain humble service, or be ambitious for distinguished service; you will lie, like a straw, on the current of His will, to be swept away and be forgotten, if it pleases Him, or to be caught up by His mighty hand and transformed thereby into a thunderbolt."

"...like a straw, on the current of His will..." I love that. Have you noticed that on those days when you feel as though you simply don't have anything to give and even less inclination to try, He is there? And at the end of such a day, don't you know in your heart that you are the one who has been blessed? "Exhaustified" perhaps, but blessed nonetheless.

Blessings,
Linda

Thankful for Beauty and the Word

2011-07-10T20:54:00.001-05:00

I am thankful - for the Living Word and the way He writes it across my days:

"I am the rose of Sharon, the lily of the valleys."
Song of Solomon 2:1

"For you will go out with joy, and be led forth with peace; the mountains and the hills will break forth into shouts of joy before you, and the trees of the field will clap their hands."
Isaiah 55:12

"And God called the dry land earth, and the gathering of the waters He called seas; and God saw that it was good."
Genesis 1:10

"The moon and stars to rule by night, for His lovingkindness is everlasting.
Psalm 136:10

"Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father."
Matthew 10:29

"Truly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not arisen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he."
Matthew 11:11

"And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:19

"As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul pants for Thee, O God."
Psalm 42:1

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty."
Psalm 91:1

Joining the Gratitude Community at Ann's.

Blessings,
Linda

Calvary Covers It All

2011-07-10T11:06:00.000-05:00

The hymn this Sunday is one that was on my husband's heart. We have been praying for someone who is struggling mightily, and the words Mrs. Walter G. Taylor penned over one hundred years ago give perfect expression to those prayers.

Unfortunately I couldn't find any biographical information on this dear lady. We were disappointed. It seemed to us there must have been an amazing story connected to such inspired writing. On the other hand, perhaps it is a story common to all of us:

Calvary Covers It All

Far dearer than all that the world can impart
Was the message that came to my heart;
How that Jesus alone for my sin did atone,
And Calvary covers it all.

chorus:
Calvary covers it all,
My past with its sin and stain;
My guilt and despair
Jesus took on Him there,
And Calvary covers it all.

The stripes that He bore and the thorns that He wore
Told His mercy and love every-more;
And my heart bowed in shame as I called on His name,
And Calvary covers it all.

Chorus

How matchless the grace, when I looked in the face
Of this Jesus my crucified Lord;
My redemption complete I then found at His feet,
And Calvary covers it all.

Chorus

How blessed the thought, that my soul by Him bought,
Shall be His in the glory on high;
Where with gladness and song I'll be one of the throng,
And Calvary covers it all.

Chorus

Five Minute Friday - Grateful

2011-07-08T10:12:00.000-05:00

You will want to read Lisa-Jo's post today. It comes to us from her heart and from a place most of us will never get to see. She transports us there with her words and lifts our spirits with her grateful heart.

The word she has chosen for this Five Minute Friday is "Grateful."

Go:
There are times when prayer is like a gentle conversation between a child and his loving Father. Other times it is rather routine - sounding to my own ears like a laundry list of wants and wishes. There are those seasons when it seems the cry of my heart never rises beyond the ceiling of my bedroom - the heavens like brass bouncing my words right back into my heart.

We have had a season of prayer that doesn't come often into our lives - a time of desperation, when prayer was a constant conversation with the only One who could help; a time when words simply would not come and the Spirit prayed for us.

Then...the longed for answer came. It came like a miracle - longed for but somehow unexpected because it was so big. And we are more grateful than words can possibly express. It is a gratitude that fills the heart and spills over in tears that course down cheeks.

stop:

Perhaps you would like to share your thoughts on "grateful" today. Please join us here.

Blessings,
Linda

The Pride of False Humilty

2011-07-06T13:03:00.001-05:00

So much of kingdom life
is upside-down,
Seeing right in what
once passed for wrong,
Before I saw through
His eyes.

Silent conversations
demeaning self;
Focusing on faults and failures;
Denying His truth of
fearfully and wonderfully made.
Hoping, somehow, for approval
in the groveling.

I call it humility,
this putting down of self.
He calls it pride.

linking to Ann and to One Stop Poetry today.

Blessings,
Linda

A Gift for your 4th of July!

2011-07-04T15:25:00.000-05:00

I have a special gift for you to help celebrate The Fourth of July. I promise you will be blessed.

Just click here.

It is a beautiful story written by our Pastor's daughter-in-law Bre'anna.

Blessings,
Linda

Happy Fourth of July!

2011-07-02T12:31:00.001-05:00

Happy Fourth of July! As we celebrate with family and friends might we take a moment to thank Him for the priceless freedom we have in Jesus,

"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."
John 8:36

and to pray for this precious country we call home.

Blessings,
Linda