I am so honored to be a Voice of Hope for The American Cancer Society. I have had the privilege to meet some of the most wonderful people, and to share laughter and tears, and give lots of hugs. It is so much fun to travel around and talk to other cancer survivors and to share my story with them. If I can walk away knowing I have inspired even one person, then, my cancer journey has been worth it all. I love to encourage and inspire others, but most of the time, it is turned around, and they are the ones who inspire me. I have met so many people from all walks of life, young and old, rich and poor. We all know that cancer is no respecter of persons. Last summer, I spoke at many Relay for Life events, and recently, I was honored to speak at the Making Strides For Breast Cancer walk in down-town Columbus, Ohio in October. My daughter, Bethany, and granddaughter, Savannah, walked the 5K walk with me. I am also a member of The American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network. We get to talk to lawmakers about many different cancer related issues. It is so important to speak up for all of those who have no voice.

Last summer was such a busy summer. I spoke at many Relay for Life ceremonies, Opening ceremonies, Survivor dinners, and Luminary ceremonies. What an honor to share my story with so many others. Some of them were just starting their journey, and many others have been survivors for many years, while many others have lost loved ones, due to this devastating disease. Each year commemorates one more year of surviving cancer. Each survivor lap I am moved to tears, not only for myself, but for all of the other people who have fought so hard. Each one of them has their own unique story to tell, of a time when cancer rudely invaded their life, or that of a loved one.

At the Hilliard, Ohio Relay for Life, one of the most touching memories that I will always treasure was that of a woman in her late nineties walking the survivor lap with her walker. It was a very hot day. She got half way around the track, and it was then, she lost her strength. The other survivors pushed her on around on her walker. As they all finished that lap, there wasn’t a dry eye in the place. What a shout of victory it was! That picture will be forever etched in my mind. Later, when I thought about that day, I thought to myself, “Isn’t that what we all do for one another?” When one of us loses our strength, someone else comes along at just the right time to help us regain our strength so that we can get back in the game again? We pass the baton to someone else. With all of our combined efforts, we will stay strong as individuals, and communities as well. By helping others along the way, our own light will not go out, but will be burning brightly for all of the other people just beginning a cancer journey of their own.

I spoke at the Knox County luminary ceremony where we honored countless lives lost to cancer. It was a beautiful heart wrenching ceremony. A peaceful hush fell over the crowd as there were no adequate words to describe the great losses each family felt as they remembered that special loved one. It was a very powerful ceremony. That particular relay raised about $260,000.00. They really know how to relay! It took a huge group effort to rally around and pull together. They brought some amazing results when their teams united, and as a whole, combined their efforts in their fight.

I spoke at the Westerville, Ohio relay for life. Another survivor also spoke that day. She spoke how her local Kroger store where she was employed, raised a lot of money, and how her community stood with her in her fight with breast cancer, alongside her husband and sons. We were both asked to carry the banner for the survivor lap that day. What an honor to lead the way for so many other survivors following behind us.

In my own home town of Marysville, Ohio, I spoke at the survivor dinner. It held a special place in my heart, as I remember facing my own diagnosis. I spent many Friday nights at local football games watching my son on the football field as he was in the high school marching band. I remember many fearful thoughts regarding my own future, and that of my family. As the years have passed, I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to come back on a more joyous occasion, and to bring hope and encouragement to so many others in my own home town.

I also spoke at the Upper Arlington Relay. Although, it was a bit small, the people attending were big on enthusiasm. They were every bit as passionate as all of the other relays that I have attended.

These were just a few memories that I am sharing with you, among so many others, too numerous to recount, but the main focal point is that it really does take a village, and we are all that village. It’s people like so many of you and thousands of countless others who are not afraid to be that village. The word, hope, rings true in all of our lives. Whether I am speaking to one person, or one million, hope is a spark to all of us to light the flame that will ignite and affect everyone we come into contact with. It does take a village and many villages all over this great land of ours. With everyone’s help, we will win the war on cancer once and for all!

Our 2015 season is nearing an end and it won’t be long until we will be ready to kick off our 2016 season.  Get your families involved. Get the school aged students and college students involved. My little twelve year old, granddaughter, Savannah even got in the act. She goes with me everywhere I go to all of my speaking events. I am so proud of her. It’s so good to teach the younger generations to help others, because as we all know, cancer is a family affair. With this kind of support how could we not find a cure?!!

She sat alone in her chair. Her white hair encircled her frail bony face. She didn’t hear the knock on her door, so I walked over to her and gently touched her shoulder. Ellie looked up and smiled sweetly. Although, her body showed signs of aging since her stroke, her eyes still radiated that same warmth from a heart full of love that she once knew.
There was a time, many years ago, that in her day, she was quite a business woman. She would rise early, briefcase in hand, and golf clubs in the other, to play her early morning golf game on the way to the office. Once home, she worked on the book she was in the process of writing. With papers strewn in a disorderly fashion, she would get right to work, typing her manuscript for the editor’s deadline. She was quite the professional.
Several years after her husband died, she suffered a minor stroke, which seemed to slow her down a bit. Not long after that, she started showing signs of early Dementia. Because she realized she needed some additional help, she moved to an assisted living facility.
From the moment I met her, we had a kindred spirit. We struck up a bond right off. She was the Life of the Party; Always laughing, smiling, praying and loving everyone who stepped a foot in her room. She had a large family. Someone was always there to see her, and Oh, how she loved those grand-babies. Her room was always so cheerful, so light and open. She loved good music. Her furniture was adorned with the many pictures of her wedding, her 50th anniversary, family albums of her kids in their childhood days, and their weddings, and now, her many grandchildren. What a heritage. If only she could remember. Somehow, she had lost her identity. There were so many missing pieces.
Isn’t it funny how for a brief moment, all time seems to stand still? And when you least expect it, the winds of change begin to blow in. The days turned into months and the months turned into years.
I’ll never forget the day I noticed the change in her. It was as if something shifted and the same old Ellie that I had grown to know and love wasn’t the same person any longer. She was walking down the hall with her walker, shoes on the wrong feet, and her blouse on backwards. Her appearance changed from that pristine look to a, somewhat, unkempt appearance. The independence that had always been a special charm to Ellie had been replaced by confusion and fatigue. It was difficult for her to realize what was taking place and how Dementia had impacted her life. For her, the smallest task would become complicated. Just a few days before, she loved to roam the halls and visit with all of her friends, but this particular day, Ellie seemed lost. For the first time, she had forgotten how to get back to her room. After that day, she would sit in the lobby, just waiting; Waiting for me to walk through that door and tell her what day it was, and what time it was. Was it time to get up? Or time to go to bed? Her family didn’t seem to visit anymore. Or did they? Maybe she just couldn’t remember. The highlight of her day had become snack time when they brought her some warm chocolate chip cookies. Because her eyesight and hearing were getting worse, they tried to make her room easier for her to get around in and to find her belongings. Her furniture was reduced to a small chest with five drawers, where her entire life’s belongings were kept. As time went on, Ellie became weaker. The slightest bit of exertion had become a huge effort on her part. She had become so weak that she had to be fed, and carried to the bathroom, and from the chair to her bed. Everyone knew that the end of her life was fast approaching and her days were numbered. I’ll never forget the last time I saw Ellie, she had a special glow on her face. It was as if she could see something that I couldn’t. I gently touched her hand and I whispered a prayer. When praying, I was reminded of a special passage I remembered reading in my bible. It is Isaiah, 46: 4. “ Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he. I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” It was as if she was being carried into the presence of God and there was a peace that filled the room. No matter how badly she felt, her gentle, but strong spirit exuded a magnetic sense of warmth and kindness. For so many, including her family and friends, she was their strength, heart and soul.
I wasn’t there the night Ellie was called home to heaven. A few days later, I returned to work. I was saddened at her death and I was feeling a great loss. That old wheelchair and walker had been flung aside, because she didn’t need them anymore. Heavens gates swung open wide as Heaven’s welcoming committee embraced her. As I reflected on this, I couldn’t help but be happy for her, and almost feel a bit jealous, knowing that she was happier than she had ever been in her life. I couldn’t help but smile, amidst the tear that ran down my cheek. I would see Ellie again one day.
I always thought that I was helping her, but I realized that she had inspired me far more than mere words could ever tell. She touched everyone she met with her love.
A few days later, I opened the door to her room. Everything had already been moved out. The room was completely empty. All that was left were some pieces of broken paint chips on the floor. It seemed so strange. How could this room be so empty and bare? What was once a room full of love, laughter, and memories became a dark empty place that only held meaning to those who could still remember the wonderful exchanges of family, friends, love and laughter that were so much a part of that room. It was all so real and not so long ago. Now all it was to everyone who entered was an empty room.
But to others, especially me, it was so much more. Each one of my residents has a story to tell, of a full life, a loving family and so many wonderful days. If only they could just remember. What was once a full life and a heart full of love and laughter, has been replaced by an emptiness from the fragments of brief memories that seem to fit together like the missing pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. It has taught me to never take a single day for granted, but to live each day to the fullest and love all that I can, FOR ONE DAY THIS COULD BE ME.
I have learned so much from these residents and I love them all so much! Their families have entrusted them into my care. These are their last days of their lives. What an honor and a privilege to have been given this awesome opportunity to be a part of it. I want to make it as good as I possibly can. Even though, they can’t remember, I know one of these days in heaven, when I see them again, they will look me in the eye and thank me.
I have gained a vast measure of wealth from them. The pay is measured by smiles and hugs and the warm satisfaction I get when I walk out of those doors when my shift has ended. They have taught me so much about life and love. I have gained a lifetime of wisdom from them. I have touched so many lives, but, most of all, they have touched mine for all of eternity and inspired me to be a better person!
As we all know, Mother’s Day was a few days ago. I was in the grocery store and I saw Ellie’s son. His face mirrored the sadness he was feeling at the loss of his beautiful mother on this first Mother’s Day without her. I told him I had been thinking of his family and we exchanged kind gestures. Before I left the store, I picked up the biggest bouquet of colorful flowers I could find and I took them to my Mom’s house. I told her how thankful and blessed I am because of her and how her deep faith in a God she has always known and loved has touched my life and so many others. I don’t know what tomorrow will hold, so I will enjoy this day and be thankful; so thinking of Ellie, I grabbed my Mom and we danced around her kitchen and I gave her the biggest hug ever!

There were just a few quick, angry words spoken before the door was slammed shut. All that remained after the heated argument was shattered glass. The angry teen was on the run again. Being kicked off of the school’s football team was the last straw. His prideful and strong image had been diminished by the school’s principal. He had been caught with drugs in his locker. Between bouts of uncontrolled anger and the deep depression that had set in, he just couldn’t take it anymore. With overwhelming hoplessness and despair, he stopped by his house to grab a few personal items. He quickly stuffed everything he could into the large tote that he flung over his shoulder. He told his dad he wanted to be treated like an adult and he didn’t want his parents in his business.

As his father knelt down to pick up the broken glass, his lips quivering, and fists clenched, he prayed half in anger and half in desperation, “Lord, help that boy!”

Jason, the tall thin lad was only seventeen years old. He had always been headstrong since he had been a young child. He wanted to see the world and to come and go as he pleased. He hitchhiked across the country. When he couldn’t find a ride, he walked from one town to the next. He landed jobs in different night clubs to earn a few bucks. Once he made enough money, he went on to another town. He picked up girls in every town. After awhile, he quit working altogether. He lived for the next party, night after night.

Meanwhile, before going to bed each night, his mom and dad touched the floor with their knees, and amidst salty tears, cried out to God, “Please keep Jason safe and bring him home!”

One morning Jason woke up, his clothes covered with the stench of stale cigarette smoke, and his gut empty. It had been almost a week without food. He had run out of money. He was too weak to hold down a job. He could almost smell his mom’s eggs frying and the trail of the bacon that used to wake him up most mornings. For the first time, he was sober enough to experience a homesickness that cut to the very depths of his soul. He began to experience the nagging thought that maybe he had made a terrible mistake. He began to yearn for the familiarities of home and family. He also missed his friends and his dog. Come to think of it, next week would be his eighteenth birthday. “Maybe, ” he thought to himself, and quickly dismissed the thought with “Yeah right, my parents would never even let me come back home, let alone throw me an Eighteen year birthday party!”

It was a quiet fall morning. The air had that certain chill in it when Jason’s dad stepped outside to get the morning paper. Maggie, the family dog, started to bark as Jason’s dad heard a strange but familiar sound of leaves rustling, and then he heard footsteps coming down the narrow lane. “Could it be? Could it really be Jason coming home at last? Had his patience and perseverance paid off and had God heard his desperate plea to bring his son home again?”

With a feeling of excitement that no mortal words could fathom, but that cut into the very core of his soul, he didn’t have to think twice. He ran as fast as his legs could take him, and with heart abandoned, he grabbed the boy, embraced him tightly and kissed both sides of his face with the love that only a father could comprehend! As he spun him around, with tears, mingled with shouts of joy, he shouted in his loudest voice for all the neighbors to hear, “We are throwing the biggest party this neighborhood has ever known! For my son was lost, but now he has come home!”

Jason looked at his dad, sheepishly, ashamed to admit the guilt that he was carrying and the shame he had brought home to his parents. “Dad, there’s something I have to tell you. I spent all of my money and I have done some horrible things that I’m not proud of.” Before Jason could even get the first word out, his dad said, “None of that matters anymore, my son, for once you were dead, but now you are alive!”

This is a modern day version of the Prodigal Son. Jason could be your child or the neighbor down the street, or perhaps, Jason is you. This is for all the Jasons out there. Jason’s dad depicts the love of our heavenly Father. There is nothing you could ever do to keep God from loving you. He is waiting for you with arms open wide to embrace you and accept you back into his loving graces where there is an abundance of hope, love, forgiveness, joy, peace, provision and protection.
Nothing could ever get in the way of God’s love for you. Not even your own stubborn willfullness and pride.

Are you homesick today? Home is a sense of belonging. It is family, where life begins and love never ends. Home is among the holiest of words. It is our own private sanctuary; a resting place from the cares of the world. It is a place to gather new strength and characters are molded. Home is peace. It Is where love wins out. There’s no place anywhere like home, where you can see the people you love that love you back. They are waiting for you.

TURN YOUR HEART TOWARDS HOME!

I can still remember it like yesterday, that hot day last summer. I was speaking at the closing ceremony at the Washington Courthouse Relay For Life. My daughter, Bethany, went with me. As we walked around the final lap on the track, I looked down at the hundreds of names that were lining the track from the luminaries the previous night, honoring so many lives lost from that unrelenting disease, cancer. What losses. Precious beautiful lives swallowed up in death, long before their time. As we neared the halfway mark around the track, Bethany broke the news to me that she was expecting a new baby. Amidst the shock and the excitement of such good news, and after our tears and hugs were exchanged, I couldn’t help but ponder at the significance of the atmosphere of hearing such news of new life. With mixed emotions, first, the mood was somber. There were so many lives lost. Those people whose names lined the track were other people’s loved ones that they loved dearly and missed with each passing day. Their lives shouted to the world that they had touched countless lives and would be remembered forever for who they were and that they didn’t die in vain. Their lives testified to all that “life goes on.” I’m sure that all of those precious lives that were honored around the track that day would have cheered for me at the news of new life at what was, otherwise, such a dark moment.

Well… the days turned into weeks, and, eventually nine months had passed. Bethany and I spent quite a bit of time together during her pregnancy. We laughed, cried, and, yes, we ate together quite a bit. In fact, I still have some weight to work off. I looked forward with anticipation to the birth of the precious baby that would soon be a very real part of all of our lives. I don’t care how much you try to prepare for a new baby, with boat loads full of diapers, bottles, bibs, etc. etc…..or how many kids and grandkids you have, each new birth is a testimony of the love of an awesome God who is the creator of life.

The birthing process isn’t always easy. In fact, it can be downright hard at times. I’ve been involved in the births of all of my grandchildren, and that first cry gets me every time! What a miracle! I always cry before I hear it as their approaching birth becomes more evident with the passage of time. It is an announcement to all within hearing distance, “I am here. I am ready for all that each day can enfold. I look to you, Mommy, Daddy, Grandpa, Grandma, Aunts, Uncles, Brothers, Sisters, and Friends. I am here! Let’s celebrate!! After she was born, and her mommy and daddy held her and loved her, it was my turn. Sweet little Jossalyn! Tiny ears, tiny toes, fingers, and nose. Beautiful hair in a perfect hairline, rosy cheeks, soft skin of velvet, baby powder, ribbons and bows; Perfect in every way, yet, completely dependent for food, warmth, nurturing and love. What a miracle!

Since her birth, I was looking back at some old baby pictures and ran across a movie of Mark pushing Bethany on the swing. She was only five years old. She had a tight grip on the swing, and all you could see was those little wobbly knees soaring into the sky. All you could hear was her sweet little voice, “Push me higher Daddy. Higher Daddy!” With shrieks of excitement and giggles, she soared higher into the wind. She was enjoying that time with just her and her daddy so much.

Reflecting on all of this, it reminds me of our grown up heart cry to our heavenly Father. “Push me higher Daddy. Higher Daddy!” We don’t have to cry very loud, because before we get the first word out, He is right there. From our lowest of lows to our highest of highs, in His most reassuring voice, He answers us, “I am here for you My Child. I was just waiting for you to to call. I long to take you higher than you ever believed possible!”

What good father wouldn’t give his child anything he asked for? That’s how God loves you and I. There is nothing good He would withhold from you. With outstretched arm, He is waiting to draw you in. “What do you need?” He asks. “Do you need love, forgiveness, healing, provision? Are you lonely, sick, or afraid?” Tell Him your needs today. No pit is too deep, nor, no sin too great. No sickness or relationship too far gone, for the God Who flung the stars into space to bend down and lift you up! He wants to push you higher in every way, every day!

Life is such a miracle. Every day is a cause for a celebration. No matter how long you live, from your first breath, to your last, life is precious! Enjoy every moment to the fullest. Reach out and touch everyone you can with your smile and never forget that God will push you higher. He is the glory and lifter of your head!!!

Today I would like to wish you a Happy Easter! What a beautiful sunny day it is here today! I hope you are having a wonderful day!

Easter has always been my favorite holiday, even when I was a little girl. My heart still sings as I recall those memories of my early days in Sunday school with that sweet little lady, Mrs. McPherson, my Sunday school teacher. She taught me so much about the bible and the God she knew and loved. She made a lasting impression on my life even to this day. She was a true servant of God. She not only made an impression on my life, but on all of the children who knew her. I remember singing all of the old hymns every Sunday morning and during vacation bible school. Among them were, Jesus Loves Me, What a Friend We Have in Jesus, Trust and Obey, He Lives, The Old Rugged Cross and my all time favorite, In the Garden. This song really spoke to my heart. It speaks volumes. Even when times are hectic and chaos is all around me, I can enter in to that quiet place, whether it be a garden or some other place where I can get alone with him, just him and me, and enter into his presence. That’s when you will hear that still small voice. He will walk with me, and talk with me and tell me that I am his own. And the joy we share as we tarry there, none other has ever known!

Who is this Jesus? Many people depict him as weak, puny, helpless and unable to defend himself, or the figment of one’s imagination.
I see him as gentle, but exhibiting so much love in his eyes that can see into the very depth of your soul. He overlooks and forgives past sins and faults. He can speak to your spirit without saying a word. At one glance, you are made whole. I also see him as humble, and a servant. He laid his life down for you. No one can come close to realizing his power. He has all authority to walk into your storm and change everything within a moment. He is the God of all peace. He mends broken hearts, broken dreams, sickness, poverty and loneliness. He is restorer, healer, provider, abounding in mercy favor and grace and full of joy.

He went through suffering no man could endure. It was all undeserved. He was beaten, bruised, spit on, and his flesh was laid open. They placed a crown of thorns on his head that ripped the flesh out of his scalp. He was mocked and made fun of. He was left to die on a cross before God and men in his Midnight Hour. He shed his blood, was crucified, buried and rose again. He conquered death and hell!
It took him three days to rise again. Can you imagine the thoughts and reactions of his family and friends when they realized the tomb was empty early on that first Easter morning? It was just as he said.

When God seems invisible in your life, whether it is three days, or many more, just wait. Hang on a little while longer. He is still working behind the scenes. He has his own timing. His ways are higher than our ways. He is still in control!

I know many people don’t want to hear about the Easter Bunny, coloring eggs and all of the things most of us associate with Easter. I have a little different viewpoint. I truly believe that God knows our hearts and where our affections lie. He knows how much we love him; and I don’t think he cares one bit if we enjoy all of the other things along life’s journey as long as we keep him first in everything we do.

I also see Jesus as my best friend. He knows me and loves me like no one ever has or ever will. I cannot get away from his love. It’s too furious! I cannot exhaust his supply. The more I give others, the more he gives me!

Let tears fill your eyes at this great thing he has done! Because of him, you have the victory! You have this same Resurrection power! Clap your hands and shout in triumph! Let hope rise in your heart as you celebrate this Easter and all of the days to come!

Giver of every breath I breathe, Maker of heaven and earth, all of nature will join with me in rejoicing,
HE IS ALIVE!

John 3:16 amplified version
For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He gave up His only begotten Son, so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.

When most of us think of love, we think of that dreamy feeling we get when we fall in love. We think of romance and all that it entails. Long walks under the stars hand in hand. We also think of Valentines Day…flowers, boxes of chocolates with maybe a diamond ring tucked inside with the words, I LOVE YOU! engraved on it; Or maybe that heart shaped Valentine card with just the right words you thought you’d never hear. It’s all so wonderful. I really believe God gave us all of those healthy emotions on purpose. There’s nothing like loving someone and being loved in return; But, there’s so much more than just a feeling. Sometimes, in order to be loved, we have to show love first.

God’s very nature is love. We love him because he first loved us even when we didn’t deserve it. Sometimes, we have to be the first one to smile at that grouchy person we see in the checkout line. Love is not always about what you can receive, but, more often, it’s more about what you can give.

Try this little experiment this next week. Be the first one to say Hello and smile. Offer a kind word or a hug. See how it brightens up those around you. Remember the awesome love that God has spilled over into your own life, while sharing with others that same love that you have received. Always believe the best in others and let them know it. It may just be your last chance to tell them. Even if there’s only one good thing to say, look for that one strength they possess and magnify it. Sometimes, the only bright ray of sunshine they might receive is that which you can give them.

God is love. He is kind, slow to anger, full of grace and mercy. He abounds in love. His love is perfect, unlike our shallow humanly love, which depends so much on our circumstances. He loves us unconditionally. His love is so powerful that just one word spoke the entire world into existence.

Do you know your incredible worth? You are precious in his sight. Have you ever really looked at the uniqueness in each snowflake? There are no words to express such a magnificent creation. They are so radiant as they shimmer like diamonds, and yet no two snowflakes are just alike. That’s how special you are to God, only a million times more. There is no one else exactly like you. God is so close. In fact, he is rejoicing over you with singing. He is rejoicing in his creation, You!

Enjoy this Valentines day to the very fullest. God Bless You.

Scripture:
1 Corinthians, 13:4-7 NIV
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

I haven’t written for a couple of weeks because I have been extra busy. I have missed our special chats. I do ask for your prayers, as I went to my doctor for a checkup this past week. I had some blood work done to make sure there are no signs of a cancer recurrence. I haven’t received the test results back yet, so, if you think of me in your spare time, maybe you could whisper a prayer on my behalf. Although, it’s a bit scary, I know who holds my future and I rest entirely in him.

Well…Here it is another year. Where does the time go? I am thankful for God’s provisions this past year and I am looking forward to a happy healthy new year, and I am anxious for all that God wants to do in my life this year. How is this new year going for you so far? Are you ready to start with a fresh clean slate? Are you anticipating all that God has for you? Or, are you holding onto old baggage and bad memories of this past year? Do you, somehow, feel as if you are trapped in a time machine of all your past mistakes and trials that you just can’t seem to shake? Now is the time to let them all go. Remember, a new year is dawning. It’s a fresh horizon! You can start by forgetting those things which are behind you and press on towards a new future.

What trials did you have to endure this past year? The weapon you use as you walk through these fiery trials is to keep a good attitude and learn to worship and praise God as you are going into the battle. When you keep your attitude right, you will be amazed at the strength you will have as you pass on through it. These winter months can be long and drawn out. They can be long, cold and extremely dark; But, don’t lose hope. You can be that light to others shining out into the darkness. Put on that smile. Someone else needs it.

In God’s word, he promises extravagent blessings to chase us down and overtake us if we give him first place in our lives. He promises us professional blessings, household blessings, supernatual provision, favor in our everyday life, divine health and vigor, and unmerited financial favor along with supernatural advancement.

Learn to take one day at a time and know that God is on your side. If he can be for us, then who dare be against us? We have a good good God! At his right hand, there are pleasures forevermore!

This is a brand new day and a brand new year! He has great things in store for us. Let your heart be encouraged. Keep your joy. Worship and praise in the midst of your trial. Sing your way through and, always remmber, Rejoice and again I say, REJOICE!

Deuteronomy 28:1-2
If you will listen diligently to the voice of the Lord your God, being watchful to do all His commandments which I command you this day, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you if you heed the voice of the Lord your God.

Hello, I want to take the time to thank all of you for your great comments and to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas! I haven’t written for a few days because, like many of you, I was extremely busy. How was your Christmas? I hope it was truly blessed. I had to work on Christmas and was a bit sad, but being in the healthcare industry, I had no choice. There is no place like home, especially for the holidays! I soon got over feeling sorry for myself when I realized that those people didn’t want to be there either. They wanted to be home with their families also. I would eventually go home when my shift ended but they couldn’t. I was moved to tears when I noticed how excited they were to see their family members coming in to visit them on Christmas Eve and bring a Poinsettia or a piece of their favorite cherry pie. Their faces just lit up. I decided then and there that if I could bring a smile to their face or say that special word of hope and encouragement, I would benefit from it as much as they would.

There are so many blessings that we can find about Christmas. We can be a blessing to others if we let God show us where we are needed. I was listening to the news a few days ago. They were telling about how many people were waiting in line to see the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. They said that everyone that came out after seeing it said they would never be the same again. Their life was changed after witnessing firsthand the place where Jesus was born.

I was reading the Christmas story in my bible in Luke. I was amazed by the awesome love of God. He came to earth in the form of a tiny baby. He was the king of Glory, but sent to earth as a humble child. Being the Son of God, he could have come as a Royal King with a majestic throne, but instead, he chose to come as a tiny baby to be born in a stable surrounded by animals, because there was no room for him in the inn. God could have arranged it all differently if he so desired, but I really believe God planned it this way to show us that he lowered himself down to our earthly level. He didn’t have to do it but he wanted lay down his life for you and I. That was God’s way of reaching the human race by becoming like one of us to show us his great love. His love can reach down from heaven to our human frailties across any barriers. There is no division between God and man because of his beloved Son, Jesus.

Sometimes, it’s hard to fathom and really grasp that someone could love you that much. If more people could really get that deep in their hearts, they would be so much better off. They are never alone even if it feels like it sometimes. To think that the Son of God was born in a manger surrounded by barn yard animals, just blows me away! They had no room for him in the very beginning. Wow! What a message! How humble could he be? I believe that God wanted us to know that the life he was called to live for you and I was never easy from the very start. He suffered the same day to day struggles much like you and I, with one of the biggest ones being rejection.

This was no ordinary baby, but everything about his birth was ordinary. His mother was just a young girl from an ordinary family, but she was handpicked by God as a virgin to give birth to a long awaited Messiah. Can’t you just picture it? On the night of Jesus’ birth, there were shepherds in the fields keeping watch over their flocks by night when an Angel of the Lord appeared before them and the Glory of the Lord surrounded them. They had the same reaction that most of us would have. They were terrified! But, the Angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. Can you see the Wise Men following that star to where the baby could be found? They were looking for a great King. That star led them on and on to the quiet peaceful place where Jesus lay on a bed of hay.

So today, as I reflect over the Christmas story, I must ask you a question. Do you have room for him in your life today? Will you let him in? He doesn’t ask for much. Will you let him pick up all the broken pieces and fit them back together again? He won’t judge you. He doesn’t care where you’ve been. All he asks is that you start afresh and give him a chance. Will you make room for Him today? Just like those shepherds, maybe you are afraid also. He would say to you in his gentlest voice, “Do Not Be Afraid. There Is News Of Great Joy Just For YOU!

No matter how chaotic my life gets, I can feel him ever so close. Like the Wise Men, I will follow that Star. I will follow the light of his life. I will let him lead me to that place he wants me to be in. As I commit my days to him, there is a heavenly peace that transcends over me. It is that same peace that came to earth on that holy night when God reached down and became man, and that tiny infant was every bit God!

Can you not fathom the depth of His love for you? He loves the ordinary, the unlikely person who thinks their life is all washed up. It’s never too late with him! Love came down that first Christmas and he will always be with you. God is all love. He is everything good! He gives us so many gifts and they are all free. He gives joy, hope, peace, strength and the greatest gift, LOVE!
O TASTE AND SEE THAT THE LORD IS GOOD!

Luke 4:18-19
Jesus said, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”

Most of us are familiar with the long time Christmas classic, How the Grinch Stole Christmas. I have watched it every year since being a child. It just wouldn’t be Christmas without watching it at least once. That mean old Grinch, (or should I say Grouch), didn’t like how happy the Whos in Whoville were. They were so busy getting ready for Christmas; They were decorating their houses and Christmas trees, wrapping presents and planning their Christmas feast; And the neat thing about it was, they weren’t grumbling and complaining like most of us do when we are all busy trying to get things done. They were all singing and happy and enjoying every minute of it. Who wouldn’t? They were having fun and anticipating opening all of those sparkly presents!

The Grinch was watching them and plotting how he could take away anything and everything from them. He didn’t like it that they were so happy. I think he might have felt left out, or maybe he was a little jealous! What do you think? So, you know that old saying, Misery Loves Company. He decided to wait until they were all fast asleep and sneak in and take all their loot. He didn’t leave even one shiny trinket or one gold whistle. He even had the audacity to take their Christmas trees. He couldn’t wait for them to all wake up and cry all day instead of sing. “That will teach them to put their trust in things. They won’t have anything left to be so happy about”, he thought to himself. He couldn’t wait to see their sad faces!

Christmas morning finally arrived. He was awakened by an unusual sound. It almost seemed happy and joyful. He woke up and looked down in Whoville and all the Whos were singing and holding hands and hugging and loving one another. “How could this be?” he thought. It was as if everything was still the same. They didn’t seem to notice there was nothing left to sing or be happy about. They were still happy EVEN WITHOUT PRESENTS! Their love and joy taught that old Grinch (Grouch) volumes that day. He soon realized that what they had no one could take away. It was in their hearts. Things couldn’t buy their happiness. He realized material possessions weren’t that important after all! It even caused him to join in with them. He wanted to have that happiness that no amount of money could buy. What’s even more amazing to me about this story is how the Whos welcomed the Grinch into their lives with open arms. They didn’t even notice the harm he had intended to bring to them. You see; The happiness they felt, could not be taken away!

How are your Christmas plans coming along? Have you been baking, decorating, shopping, and addressing your Christmas cards? Have you trimmed your tree? Did you put that star on the top?  In the midst of all that glitter and glamor how are you really holding up? Come on now. If you  won’t tell me, at least be honest with yourself. Are you really as happy as you appear to be? If you were to lose it all today, how would you feel? Is it only on the surface, or is it deep down inside where no one can steal it? In the midst of all the festivities, don’t lose sight of what’s truly important. You can’t put a price tag on peace, joy, love and faith. No one can take them away from you unless you let them!

Have you reason to feel lonely and depressed this Christmas season? Are you sick in your body? Are you lonely? Do you have to sit home alone night after night, wondering if anyone cares? Have you lost a loved one?; Maybe a parent, a spouse, or a child? Did your spouse walk out on you leaving you with the kids, the bills and a broken heart with shattered dreams? Have you been abused or neglected? Are you struggling to make ends meet in this bad economy? Are you working so hard there aren’t enough hours in a day?Have you lost your car or even your home?

There is someone who knows your deepest longings and your heart cry. His name is Jesus. He will abide with you until it doesn’t hurt anymore. He will never leave your side. In fact, he will still be there when it’s all over. He will rejoice with you. You will see just like the Whos in Whoville, even when it seems like all is lost, you can still lift your voice and sing with joy once again, knowing that better days are ahead for you. You can keep the peace and joy of this blessed holy season in your heart all year long!

2 Samuel 22:29

For You, O Lord, are my Lamp; the Lord lightens my darkness.

I have a request this year. Leave your comments on any prayer requests you might have. I will pray for you.

We all have those magical moments in our lives, from time to time, that we want to treasure forever. One of those special times in my life was my oldest daughter, Sarah’s wedding. She was married in April of 2007. She was our first child to leave home, so it was quite an emotional experience. Anyone who has ever planned a wedding before knows exactly what I am talking about. It was a lot of hard work but well worth it because I was Mother of the Bride and I was enjoying every minute of it! Before I knew it the big day was upon us. The weather couldn’t have been more beautiful. All of the hard work and expense was worth it. All that mattered was that this was the most important day of my daughter’s life and I was so happy to be a part of it. As I entered the church, it was like a glimpse of heaven. The scent of spring flowers lingered everywhere. Tall candelabras with softly glowing candles graced the alter. The aisles were adorned with topiaries, and elegant bows draped the church pews as they gracefully flowed to the floor. There was a hush as the organ music started playing in the background. I took a deep breath, a final sigh of relief, and tears started streaming down my face. It seemed like only yesterday that I was the one walking down the aisle. Even though I was with her at her final gown fitting, there was something different about her today. She was glowing. As our eyes met, my heart met hers, and my tears of sadness turned to tears of joy. She was so happy and I was rejoicing with her. I started thinking about how my other children were growing up, as well. It wouldn’t be long before I would be attending their weddings. Just a short time ago I was rocking them all on my knee. Where had all the time gone? Life goes so fast!

In the midst of all that was going on with the wedding plans, I had a routine doctor checkup. He noticed a lump in my neck that he wanted me to have checked by a specialist. I thought it was silly. Not me! I’m too healthy and I feel too good”, I argued. I didn’t realize it then, but that was only the beginning of the long trial that I was about to face with a cancer diagnosis.

So today, I want to encourage you to enjoy each day. Treasure the celebrated times along with the daily routines of everyday life. Love and enjoy your family and friends and tell them all how much you love and appreciate them every day! Don’t take them for granted because they may not always be there! Most of all, tell God every day, how much you love and appreciate him for all of the blessings he showers you with every day!

Teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.
Psalm 90:12