Dotsy Details

SATURDAY SURPRISE

2012-01-28T21:00:00.001-06:00

1/28/12 Sitting in my usual Saturday morning spot with a cuppa and my Bible open to Psalm 1, I heard a loud clanking sound. It was the men from Macon Road Landscape delivering our memory tree. A Cherokee Princess white dogwood from 21 dear, dear friends. A gift in memory of both of our parents.

What a glorious surprise!

How appropriate that I was meditating on Psalm 1, especially those first 3 verses.

¹Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

²But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

³And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

As they were leaving the driver said, "Have a blessed day." I feel blessed indeed. I hope the leaves on this special tree will flourish and not wither. Can't wait to view my "Saturday Surprise" this spring when it's in bloom!

Hardhead, Bonehead, Numskull.....

2012-01-27T20:34:00.002-06:00

1/27/12 ....any of those terms indicating an osteo diagnosis would be okay by me. The result desired, from my recent test, was bone in the forehead area---not anything tumorous. After a week of waiting, I just wanted to know the diagnosis.
Though I had prayed for, and requested prayer for, patience and calm as I awaited results, the silent phone was getting to me. So, after much prodding by Claudia and other friends, I called the doc just as his office was opening at 9am. I was instructed to leave a message. More waiting ensued.
At 4:15 the phone rang. It was Dr. S's nurse. That voice was a good sign. Previous experience has taught me that when it's the doc who calls, the diagnosis can be pretty grim or at least unsettling. "Mrs. Liles, your skull scan showed ______ (fill in the blank with any of those "osteo" words) with an extra little boney knot on your forehead. Dr. S just wants to watch it---so he'll see you in 6 months." End of conversation.
Relief is such a great emotion.
Gratitude ensued---that's an even greater emotion for this numskull.

KNITTING IT FORWARD...a strand of service

2012-01-25T15:46:00.001-06:00

1/25/12 Service has been popping up everywhere on my spiritual radar. The student ministry strategy at church this year is Seek God---Share Life---Serve Others. Hubby read last night's Allen Bible Church's NT2012 reading from John 13 and the example of Jesus "washing his disciples feet"

was such an example of service over self.

Last week I saw it up close and personal as a group gathered at Drenda's to knit dolls for the children who come to the Church Health Center. Spurred on by an article in the Commercial Appeal, they decided to use their talents to meet that need. Knitting for others is not foreign to this compassionate bunch. From preemie hats for a hospital and knit hats for needy school children along, with prayer shawls for folks like me, they just keep knitting it forward---in service to others.

It's had me asking myself, "What am I doing to serve others?" Can I do more? I want to serve the Lord with gladness. (Psalm 100:2) He's given the answer. I just need to pay it forward, even if my serving (knitting) is still in the "remedial" category.

humiliTEA

2012-01-24T10:13:00.000-06:00

1/24/12 It's official---Micah 6:8 is going to be my focused verse for 2012.
He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
When it became part of Pastor Cole's message on January 15, I felt that strong NUDGE to take this verse to heart.I also was convicted of not only a lack of kindness in my heart but also a need to get a better grasp on humility.

So....this week I'll be serving up a cup of humiliTEA for self and any readers needing to imbibe. Hopefully even our individual hearts will begin to absorb it.

For too long my life progressed in a carefully planned (by me) venture. Concentration was on accomplishment of goals, all usually written down, for self and children. Right times, right ways, always safe, always under control. (my control, so I thought) Lists were made, checked off (even prayer ones) and I moved on.Then came a period of the realization of how off-course I was. What was I thinking?

God was in control----had always been and would always be. His will was being done. I needed to align my will with His. I needed to "walk humbly" with my God. Bendable and flexible for God's purposes. (Huffman, 1/15/12)

A cuppa of humiliTEA with a bit of humble pie sounds like a good start.

Connectors: Conduits of God's Power

2012-01-23T17:22:00.000-06:00

Sunrise on Longreen as I read Genesis 1:14-16

1/23/12 But you are a CHOSEN PEOPLE, A ROYAL PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, GOD'S SPECIAL POSSESSION, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. ..... now you are the PEOPLE OF GOD;.... now you have RECEIVED MERCY. (1 Peter 2:9-10)
Much more to say about God's power---but "taking a beating" with blog problems, so adding text is very difficult.
But God....
He is our source. We are just conduits. (Huffman, 1/22/12)

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing greatness of the power may be of God and not from ourselves. (2 Corinthians 4:7)

SABBATH SNAPSHOTS: AROUND THE BLOCK

2012-01-22T18:49:00.001-06:00

Marion, a young NE Patriot's fan----maybe her enthusiasm spurred them on to victory against the Ravens today..

A "Special Delivery." Newborn picture of our Marion delivered to the door by John, our neighborhood's USPS postman.

Removing the old----making way for the new

Rebirth

New Birth

Having great difficulty getting any text on blog----had to add pics just to get a text box. Hope to figure it all out soon so that both Seeing God's Hand and regular blog posts can continue.

ENCOURAGEMENT

2012-01-20T09:34:00.006-06:00

1/20/12 I love Really Woolly® . I like the Really Woolly® plush sheep for my Christmas mantle. The ones I have, adorn the place above my "grands'" stockings. Since, I don't have all of them, I keep my eyes open so that I can make sure I have all I need just in case there are future grands. Friend, Melody and sister-in-law, Carolyn, who have my "missing" ones---you'd better watch out!

I really love the " Really Woolly® " cards---that seem to lift encouragement to a new level for me.

Today, I needed just such a card. Especially when the sentiment indicates, "today I prayed for you." (Galatians 6:2) Carrying that encouragement with me as I head out the door to have my skull checked----or as daughter said, "Go and see about your brain!" Now there's some encouragement----how I love her dry wit. She has always had a way of encouraging me and "keeping me in my place" at the same time.

2012-01-19T15:38:00.001-06:00

Technical difficulties in Seeing God's Hand preventing posting. Sorry.

Dancer's Delight

2012-01-19T15:11:00.005-06:00

1/19/12 Psalm 87:7 says, "They that sing as well as they that dance shall say , All my fountains are in thee." (ASV)

---Singers and dancers alike say, “All my springs are in you.” Psa. 87:7 (ESV)

May I be one who, though she can't sing a lick but loves to dance, recognizes the LORD as the source of living water. May I be one who declares, "springs of spiritual peace and refreshment are available to all who believe." May my delight in my "Lord of the Dance" overflow to others.

CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW!

2012-01-18T08:59:00.005-06:00

1/17/12 That's it----that's just what I want. His voice of direction. If I can't hear it, then I'd like to see it---something I can't miss! (My quote from yesterday's blog.)

Mail left on my kitchen table yesterday afternoon. A 2012 program booklet from the Billy Graham Training Center. (The Cove)
Can you hear me now, Dotsy?

My answer---As if on auto-pilot, I turned to Anne Graham Lotz seminar for next November.
I registered. Wouldn't you?

When reading the description, I stood amazed----actually, I had to sit down. "If we want to hear more of His voice....."

Could it be any clearer? Could it be any louder?

I think I can hear Him now.

CLEAR DIRECTIONS

2012-01-17T13:48:00.006-06:00

1/17/12 I long to clearly understand God's plan for me, especially now that I am retired. Generally I know the Lord's requirements from Micah 6:8. But.....I want specifics for ministry. Service to others. I want to hear it loud and clear. So far, I've realized His plans for me, after the fact.
Last week's BSF lesson #14 gave a verse for understanding God's guidance.

Your ears will hear a word behind you, “This is the way, walk in it,” whenever you turn to the right or to the left. (Isaiah 30:21)

That's it----that's just what I want. His voice of direction. If I can't hear it, then I'd like to see it---something I can't miss! Like the signs at St. Jude that recently led me to the Grizzlies' House from the hospital.

You're headed in the right direction.

Keep going. Almost there.

None of the aforementioned options, verbal or visible, are occurring. So....what's a gal to do?

I will keep putting one foot in front of the other---after I've spent time with Him. Clearly directing me might not be a piece of cake for Him....but God....can use His principle of inertia on me. I am definitely one of those folks resistant to change. As long as I'm moving, maybe He can just continue to twist and turn and nudge me until I have ears to hear or eyes to see.

Maybe His "mapped out" plan for me isn't one of clear direction but one of plain ole trust.

SCRIPTURAL BIRD WATCHING

2012-01-16T14:46:00.009-06:00

1/16/12 Can there be such a thing as scriptural bird-watching?

Not being the resident birder here, I missed National Bird Day this year---actually I’ve missed it every year. It always falls on January 5^th. I wonder, if on that day, anyone correlates Bible verses with bird habits. Probably not.

Married to a semi-birder (he’s never “done” a ”big year” like the one in the recent movie by that name) I’ve learned to make a budget line item for bird food and to house our bird books with the binoculars---both within easy reach of the kitchen table.

I have even come to enjoy the pleasures of bird watching.

Bird watching is calming----though I still find hubby’s bird clock a little grating.

Bird-watching is intriguing. I now see the beauty of the female cardinal as surpassing that of the showier male.

Bird-watching is insightful. One can learn a lot from the nesting, feeding and territorial habits of birds.

Most of my viewing takes place at my big kitchen window---as do some life lessons. When I combine what I am experiencing in life with bird watching and a correlating scripture--- "Voila!"

Today’s verses for meditation come from a combination of

one of my character flaws with the beauty I see in God’s creation of these feathered friends.

25 "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink, nor about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 And which of you by being anxious can add one cubit to his span of life? (Matthew 6:25-27)

SABBATH SNAPSHOTS: GIFTS:... ---ADDENDUM

2012-01-16T13:50:00.003-06:00

A gift that can keep on giving warmth----but first it has to be given. Daughter Molly assumes she should receive her cowl by Christmas 2014.

SABBATH SNAPSHOTS: GIFTS.......

2012-01-15T19:52:00.004-06:00

1/16/12 .....that keep on giving
Monthly floral gift received in May that is NEW every month---a little bit of sunshine for dreary days.Marion in her "Dotsy" togs---an e-mail attachment that makes her Shug keep on smiling!
Kisses from Katie----a good read of passion for the Lord and and ALL his children which warms the heart on a cold day and is continuing to challenge my thinking.
Morning entertainment--
Red Bellied Woodpecker returns for new food....
....along with an immature Hairy Woodpecker friend, I think

Bible (ESV), Journal, Devotional books

INK JOY

2012-01-13T21:21:00.003-06:00

1/13/12 Writing brings me joy as do great writing implements. Finely sharpened pencils. Ink pens with flowing ink. I no longer have my cartridge filled pens but I still have my flat top Sheaffer pen and ink from the 50s with the snorkel filling system----just put the tip in the bottle and pull the lever for it to slurp the ink up and in.

What brings joy to God? Prayers of His children? My prayers?

Prayers are important to God. His word tells us to pray without ceasing (1Thess. 5:17) Obviously God desires our prayers----continual communion with Him---even though they don’t add anything to who God is. He doesn’t need our prayers to complete His work, but He desires them. Revelation 5 passage, particularly verse 8, convinced me that our prayers are important to God. If they are kept in a golden bowl, I can only assume that they bring him delight and Joy.

When He had taken the book, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. (the prayers of God's people, true believers) (Revelation 5:8)

I desire to bring more joy to the Father this year. In my somewhat OC (obsessive compulsive manner), I have all the color-coded journals and albums that hopefully will keep me focused on Him and improve my "too easily distracted" prayer life. My purple Ink Joy pen for “inkings” (jottings) in my purple “Praises, Prayers and Petitions” journal plus a small one for my purse. Even my light purple (lavender doesn’t start with a p) motif photo album filled with pix of those Saturday kids (big & little) for whom I pray. Faces to focus on. Prayers for salvation, growth in grace and knowledge, godly spouses and anything else the Lord lays on my heart. Faces to bring me joy as I pray.

May my praises and prayers in purple “ink” bring Him joy as well in 2012!

STATUS WOE

2012-01-12T10:42:00.005-06:00

1/12/12 Monday’s First Evan prayer time verse from Micah 7 reflected my musings. It took me awhile just to get beyond verse 1, “Woe is me!”

But God…..

⁷ But as for me, I will watch expectantly for the LORD; (more time in His Presence with Word open)
I will wait for the God of my salvation. (waiting for status woe “funk” to pass)
My God will hear me. (Keep crying out & allow others to cry out on your/my behalf)
⁸ Do not rejoice over me, O my enemy. (despair, irritability, sadness)
Though I fall I will rise; (every year around this time seems to be the pattern)
Though I dwell in darkness, the LORD is a light for me. (It’s there I see it!! Light for me from the One who created light and gives light to His children.)

Teetering emotions are on the upswing.

Status woe is NOT my status quo today!

"negativi-TEA"

2012-01-10T14:46:00.006-06:00

1/10/12 negativiTEA is a cuppa that I serve others way too often as each new year begins. I know that because I have a post-it® note in my journal that warns me----a funk is coming. An irritability coupled with a darkness that is overwhelming. The scribble really serves as a reminder to accept it and not be blind-sided. Acceptance with preparation----know that there is a brighter day coming. (Usually within the 2nd week of the month.) Only a few more days, maybe.

I've been asking self, “Is it hormonal?” Is it because of the 1/9/09 cancer diagnosis? Emotional let down from holidays?

What ever the cause, the effect is one of pessimism. I become Negative Nelly or Dotsy Downer, as daughter dubs me. Life’s focus is one of disapproval---the flaws of others, the faults and foibles of self.

NegativiTEA is a hard cuppa to swallow. I choke on it myself. Why do I serve it to others, especially loved ones! I don't intentionally serve it but my cuppa seems to slosh over and "dampen" their lives, as well. I think negativiTEA must be the beverage of choice for those in the pit. So....I just need to get out of the pit.

My post-it® note had a suggestion---a spiritual RX of sorts. Time in word during holidays might help. (I wish I had dated that note to track the timetable of this annual malady.)

I need to remember the One "who redeems your (my) life from the pit, who crowns you (me) with steadfast love and mercy, (Psalm 103:4)

Praises for the One who can hear my cry, bring me up of the of the pit, and redirect my footsteps----even putting a new song in my mouth----a song of praise. (Psalm 40:1-3) If others see that in my life during this time may they know it flows from His cuppa, not mine. Grace: His antidote for my negitiviTEA.

Morning Visitor inspires Meditation

2012-01-09T14:51:00.006-06:00

1/9/12 Morning visitor was an eye opener in several ways. A reminder to fear not. A sign that God is in control. A grateful heart hint. A fret not, Dots memo!
Morning visitor was a red bellied woodpecker---not a red headed. God knows the difference so I figured I should too!
25Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? (Matthew 6:25-27)

SABBATH SNAPSHOTS/Wise Men Worship

2012-01-08T18:41:00.005-06:00

1/8/12

Twelfth Night (1/6/12) ended the season but not the
"reason for the season."

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” (Matthew 2:1-2)

Wise men still do worship the King!

THREE KINGS DAY

2012-01-06T13:11:00.004-06:00

1-6-12 "Three Kings Day" is celebrated on January 6th, twelve days after Christmas. Also called Epiphany, it's a Christian feast day, that celebrates the revelation of the Son of God as a human being in His son, Jesus Christ. It is often viewed as the last day of the Christmas season.
For centuries, churches have celebrated the twelve days of Christmas, beginning on Christmas Day and ending on January 6.

9After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh. 12And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod (the King), they returned to their country by another route. (Matthew 2:9-12)

Hooray for the three kings who bowed down and worshiped and who did not heed Herod's instructions.

"O" No!----"O" has caught up with me.......

2012-01-05T17:16:00.016-06:00

1/5/12 More bookstore browsing. New intriguing titles (I Remember Nothing)....because they reflect the state of my mind! (or lack there of)

Table of contents lure. The "O" Word. Before reading further, my mind was flooded with "O" words. Partly because....... I live with a man who communicates in "initialspeake"---HH for hard head, OP for old_ _ _ _, POW for piece of work, etc. He's been speaking text-talk since before there was such a thing.

And partly because........I used to "read" dictionaries when I was in elementary school. Some words came right to mind. Overkill, oxymoron, oreos----which lead me to obesity---which lead me to oatmeal, which lead me to oatmeal cookies---which lead me back to obesity.

Knowing Ephron, an "O" word could be anything from obscure to obscene---but knowing her age, 70 last year, I assumed the "O" word was OLD. Indeed it was. (Ephron, p. 127)

So much can be said about that "O" word---a lot of which is not pretty. Aging is good for wine and antiques. For the rest of us, it can be a pretty frightening prospect. Memory loss being tops in my book. As Mother used to say about aging, if you're not ailing now, it's just a matter of time. Life does have an expiration date."

As we age the awareness of our own "someday" or "expiration date" increases---which has both good and bad aspects. Someday keeps getting sooner and sooner so one doesn't need to put off that which is important----the Lord, family and friends.

Old, yes. Obsolete, not totally.

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by. (2 Corinthians 4:16)

HAPPY BIRTHDAYS*---a thing of the past

2012-01-04T14:53:00.006-06:00

1/4/12 Daddy would have been 90 today. This time last year I would never have assumed that his 2011 birthday celebration would have been his last. But then, none of us really ever know, do we?
Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. (Psalm 90:12)
Eternal purpose---sharing with those we know and love. (*Birthday pic from 2006)

That's why we need to "eat sandwiches" with zesto. What ever moments are given, even the ordinary ones, need to be savored. This becomes all the more urgent as one becomes conscious of the brevity of life.

The last sandwich I had with Daddy was a pimiento cheese on rye. I furnished the pimiento cheese and he furnished 1/2 a loaf of rye from the Canton Pike IGA. Being at Mother and Daddy's growing up, one could always count on the availability of pimiento cheese and rye bread. In fact, if any of us dated someone who didn't like Mother's pimiento cheese, they were pretty much off the "list." Funny memories conjured up by a sandwich preference.

How grateful I am that I could not only share a sandwich but that I could share the Lord with Daddy, as well!

For who can eat and who can have enjoyment without Him? (Ecclesiastes 2:25)

No reruns in life. Opportunities wasted can never be recaptured. Possibly the real reason for the description of aging and death at the end of the book of Ecclesiastes is to encourage us to make the most of our lives now. To fix a sandwich to share with someone.

How will you, reader, make use of today?

I'm going to Holiday Ham for some pimiento cheese to share with both hubby and friend, Ann. That, with a small can of tomato juice (as my brothers know) is a great way to remember Daddy.

Dance First? Think First?

2012-01-03T16:26:00.006-06:00

1/3/11 Titles have a way of grabbing me when I'm browsing bookstore shelves, especially if "dance" is mentioned. The result is usually perusal of the table of contents.
I choose not to read summaries because too often they can spoil a good read. Fiction books are often too short a read for a purchase but I jot down those titles to check my "local" library's stock. Being a faithful library patron, as well as a frugal shopper, I'm probably not a bookstore's favorite customer.
I also don't buy quote books since quotes are readily available on line. But.....I will thumb through them to grasp words to "google" if one jumps out at me. I did just that on a recent book store browse.
In Dance First, Think Later, (which I think is a Beckett quote) there was a phrase in the forward that had me thinking....."eat your sandwich." It was a metaphor for enjoying the ordinary---a making the "most of life's little moments-type" analogy.

It's what I've been thinking about lately as I'm trying to regain my enthusiasm for "dancing" through all the regular, sometimes mundane, routines of life. It's more than just wanting to see God's Hand in my life. It's wanting to grab hold of that hand and allow Him to keep me dancing to His music----the songs/melodies He's picked because they suit my rhythm best. The rhythm He gave me!

As God would have it, Katherine's recent devotional gift speaks directly to that desire. Practically Holy is a daily guide to "Finding God in the Everyday." The everyday of "sandwich eating."

That's what I've been thinking about. Hopefully, now I will be able to "dance" as I eat and am nourished by all those sandwiches God brings into my life everyday.

Dotsy's "Verse" Quandry

2012-01-02T19:46:00.009-06:00

1/2/12 Yesterday's calendar box read, January 1. I know that's New Year's Day---but it certainly didn't feel like New Year's Day. There was no "Rose Parade"---a MUST for me. No big bowl games. I observed it with church attendance, a long afternoon nap and the requisite black-eyed peas. Yet, somehow the day was off-kilter for me.
New Year's Day is a time for selecting my year's verse, for selecting passages for Allen Bible Church and for organizing my prayer plan and starting a new journal. None of that got done.

Why not? I honestly don't know. Maybe my structure doesn't fit His plan for my new year. Maybe it's to be more about His ways than mine. More of Thee and less of me comes to mind.
With what shall I come to the Lord? (Micah 6:6a)

For today, I'm "trying on" Micah 6:8. If it fits, maybe it will become my year's verse.

He has told you, O man, what is good;
and for what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God? (ESV)

Just 3 aspects of life that are biggies in one's walk with God---justice, kindness, humility. Three infinitives, to do, to love and to walk---all requiring humility of spirit.

C. H. Spurgeon states, .....humility here prescribed involves constant communion with God (the preposition "with", speaks volumes to me)..... this humility implies constant activity (walking in humility is good spiritual exercise).....humility here prescribed implies constancy (it's continual, not just sometimes) and delightful confidence. (because "your" is the pronoun for "my" God) (Sermon #2328, 8/22/1889) Parenthetical additions are my THOTS. What are yours?

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012

2012-01-01T19:22:00.005-06:00

1/1/12 The New Year's card that I received from my local Hallmark store was a painful reminder that I hadn't gotten my act together enough to create my New Year's cards, much less address them and mail them. It was another one of my good intentions gone awry.

Knowing our Colorado trip would be the pictorial focus of a "greeting" card, I knew Christmas was not an option. New Year's salutations it would be----or so I intended!

I have too often been a gal of good intentions only. Where is the resolve for action?? Preacher son, Buddy, often encourages his congregation to be intentional about ________and the blank is filled in by chosen, worthwhile pursuits. It seems as if their intentionality possibly has more of a sense of "completeness" about it. To hear him explain it, the chosen activity includes an understanding of why said activity is of value. (Implication--completion is important because of the value of the choice.)

Maybe my cards had a misplaced value. Maybe my resolve for accomplishing the creating and mailing of them was not as strong as my desire for rest and relaxation. Hm-m-m! Food for thought along with my black-eyed peas, which has me wondering how any child of mine doesn't continue the practice of eating them on New Year's Day.

Regardless, I extend greetings for a Happy New Year 2012 to all friends and family----with or without the card or the black-eyed peas!

TAKING STOCK....

2011-12-31T16:34:00.006-06:00

12/31/11 Taking stock. Isn't that what we do as a year draws to a close? The financial, political and entertainment industries certainly do. Experts in those fields want to know what worked and what didn't, as they plot the ups and downs of our economy, our votes and our selections. Data helps them to plot new courses and declare new resolves for the coming year.

Previous journal entries reminded me that I, too, need to take "spiritual stock." What good does it do to claim a verse for my year without being intentional about making it a reality in my everyday walk. January journal entry for 1/10/11 included my spiritual passage for the year's focus.

14...encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 15...always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. 16 Rejoice always; 17 pray without ceasing; 18 in everything give thanks;.......(I Thessalonians 5:14-18)

Always (adverb) "got me" as did the everything (noun) and everyone (pronoun). You see, I have a tendency to want to "pick and choose" things for which I am thankful (though some progress noted), & those with whom I am patient----just ask my family.
And then there's that adverb. Always. Always certainly indicates real consistency. Am I always seeking good for all (not just some)? Am I always rejoicing? (regardless of circumstances or blizzard road conditions) Am I always praying? (am I inhaling and exhaling praise) Now that I've taken stock, I resolve to do better because.....

......the last part of the verse reminds me that these mandates for living are God's will.

Bounty of Bonhoeffer

2011-12-27T09:00:00.005-06:00

12/27/11 Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Ronnie Stevens quoted him often so I have DB quotes marginalia throughout my old NAS Bible.
Lo and behold there on the tall bookcase by the fireplace in the Carney's Colorado house was Bonhoeffer---a collection of his writings. Just a little "light" reading while I held a sleeping baby---knowing movement needed to be kept to a minimum, it was the perfect choice.
A choice morsel from Bonhoeffer that seemed to speak to my heart this first holiday season without a parent or a parent-in-law:

“There is nothing that can replace the absence of someone dear to us, and one should not even attempt to do so. One must simply hold out and endure it. At first that sounds very hard, but at the same time it is also a great comfort. For to the extent the emptiness truly remains unfilled one remains connected to the other person through it. It is wrong to say that God fills the emptiness. God in no way fills it but much more leaves it precisely unfilled and thus helps us preserve -- even in pain -- the authentic relationship. Further more, the more beautiful and full the remembrances, the more difficult the separation. But gratitude transforms the torment of memory into silent joy. One bears what was lovely in the past not as a thorn but as a precious gift deep within, a hidden treasure of which one can always be certain.”

Thanks Bonhoeffer. I needed that.

Jesus the Just

2011-12-26T10:34:00.006-06:00

12/26/11 Sabbath Snapshots from Colorado finally posted.
http://dotsydetails.blogspot.com/2011/12/sabbath-snapshots-colorado.html

Meditation on "Jesus the Just" and "Jesus our Justifier" to follow.
The scripture will be 2 Samuel 23:1-7 if you want to begin on your own---which is a great idea!

1 These are the last words of David:
“The inspired utterance of David son of Jesse,
the utterance of the man exalted by the Most High,
the man anointed by the God of Jacob,
the hero of Israel’s songs:

2 “The Spirit of the LORD spoke through me;
his word was on my tongue.
3 The God of Israel spoke,
the Rock of Israel said to me:
‘When one rules over people in righteousness,
when he rules in the fear of God,
4 he is like the light of morning at sunrise
on a cloudless morning,
like the brightness after rain
that brings grass from the earth.’

5 “If my house were not right with God,
surely he would not have made with me an everlasting covenant,
arranged and secured in every part;
surely he would not bring to fruition my salvation
and grant me my every desire.
6 But evil men are all to be cast aside like thorns,
which are not gathered with the hand.
7 Whoever touches thorns
uses a tool of iron or the shaft of a spear;
they are burned up where they lie.”

Insights from Pastor Cole's Christmas Eve Meditation, "Of the House and Lineage of David: in 2 Samuel 22-23
v.3 Men who fear God rule justly.
There is much blessing when a ruler takes God seriously and doesn't place himself in a god-like position
v. 4 Reign of the "Just" ones= harvest of sweet, tender grass, nourished by sunshine and rain
v. 6 Worthless men don't like justice.
Reign of "unjust" ones = a goodness drought, like a perpetual cloudy morn---as CS Lewis says, "always winter, never Christmas." (PTL, God's benefit (Jesus) lightens our darkness!)
But God.....in a world of injustice ruled by worthless men, there is still a "just" ruler who is unbounded by time and death. Jesus. The One who came in the fear of God as God Himself. One who knows our name and calls us friend. The Just One. Not only the Just One, but our Justifier.
v.5 ....our blessing and "everlasting covenant."
Our well being is found in the "just" reign of Jesus!

MERRY CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-25T07:16:00.003-06:00

12/25/11 A Hallmark card that says "You care enough to send".....my favorite Christmas carol!

"GLORY TO THE NEW BORN KING"

Saturday Summary of Colorado Week

2011-12-24T20:45:00.024-06:00

12/24/11 Glad to be home. It's been a long ride....but oh those GOOD memories!!!

12/23/11 Grateful for a good night's rest. Grateful for a waffle machine that makes Texas-shaped waffles!
10º in Amarillo but predicted snowshowers, missed us and part of I-40 that was closed was not our part. Josh & Megan are safe in NY. Texans are at YaYa & Poppy's and I am relieved and emotional beyond measure. Even hearing Frank Sinatra singing a Christmas carol made me cry b/c Mother loved "ole blue eyes." Elvis sang Blue Christmas and I cried b/c he's dead. Not that I'm a big Elvis fan but b/c that thought reminded me that both Mommar (Larry's mom) and Daddy (Grandaddy Brud to my kids) died this year and it will certainly be a "blue" Christmas without them.

12/22/11 Blizzard #2 turned south and had us scrambling to leave a day early to follow Texans out. Didn't want those babies on the road without us as their rear guard. Not many pix---too nervous during white out parts. Treacherous conditions. Snow blowing. Couldn't see exits. Trucks required chains but a Target truck was overturned. Owen was upset b/c that's his favorite store! Not many cars on I-25, but some of those were over-turned or in ditches with flashers still on. (Terrified....can't explain all the visions that I wrestled with. I think this day requires a blog in and of itself about my "faith falters.") Grateful for prayers and road condition updates from BB and Poppy. (& of course, JoLynn who realized how scared I was.)
12/21/11 New Blizzard Warning sent Josh, Megan and baby Marion scrambling to leave a day early to get to Denver prior to BIG snow. Josh said he left his fingernail impressions in the steering wheel. Though their next day's flt was delayed they did get to fly.
12/20/11 Monarch Mountain Morning to photo "boys" new skiing abilities

Super sledding on a STEEP hill in Blue Elk Park by the house. First Blizzard left it's mark so Corey had a l-o-n-g but beautiful drive to CO SPRGS airport.

12/19/11 Shug and Pop-Pop given "morning off." Toured quaint Salida and had WONDERFUL lunch at the Laughing Ladies.

Afternoon sledding. Big Discovery---a small frozen snake. John Parker wants to take him home.

12/18/11 Broncos/Patriots Game w/ everything from dips and spreads to cheeseburgers and Corky's Ribs and Megan' pre-birthday cake. 4th Sunday Advent celebration with makeshift "circle" and Pop-Pop leading "We Three Kings."

12/17/11 First day on the slopes---lessons for 4 younger ones.

Josh's text message. Headin' in, turn on the hot tub and the sauna.

12/16/11 Angels in the snow (in bathing suits, no less) followed by a soak in the spa room hot tub.

December 19 BLIZZARD WATCH 2011

2011-12-24T20:08:00.003-06:00

How do you prepare for a blizzard? What does hunkering down in a snowy mountain valley look like? Will explain tomorrow.

Sabbath Snapshots: Colorado (w/ 2 OK)

2011-12-18T14:56:00.004-06:00

12/18/11 A week of worship and joy with family---What a blessing to have all 15 together for the first time in over 2 years!

A somber reminder of April 1995 and the Oklahoma Federal Building bombing Church spire in background appears to be keeping watch---Reflections of the survivor tree at the OK City National Memorial---"Saturday" bath, so dubbed by Grandaddy Brud years ago---Bows on our toes keep out the CO cold---I prefer the spa room---Ready for an afternoon snow "drive"---Superb sledding for a 9, almost 10, yr. oldSuperb sledding for a 7, almost 8, yr. old---Superb sledding for a "barely" 6 yr. old---Superb sledding for a 4 yr. old in midst of snow shower---Superb sledding for little guys---Superb sledding for an old lady---Icicle taller than a 4 yr. old---Fireplace dryer---Blue skies and quaking aspens---Quaint Salida house, one of many---Holiday Park tree for my knitting buddies---Salida Nativity---Bird's church house---4th Sunday Advent service: Liles style"Grands" opening Advent gifts, books of course---
Quiet end to a Sabbath week---

FRIDAY FRANTIC FUN!

2011-12-16T09:00:00.005-06:00

12/16/11 If one 4 yr. old brings excitement to travel, stir in a 9 year old, 7 yr. old, 6 yr. old, 3 year old and a 1 yr. old and make them all male.

"Bright eyes gladden the heart..." (Proverbs 15:30) That's what Owen looked like when he saw his cousins at breakfast the next day. (Since this was also a HI Xpress, he quickly introduced them to the fine art of pan-a-cake" making! Once again, we ALL ate pan-a-cakes.)

Leaving the Hereford (think, chicken coop) smell of Amarillo behind us,

we caravaned through wide open Texas landscapes and volcanoes in New Mexico

to the windy mountain passes of Colorado.

.....

At the Carney's
"unbelievable" mountain home

we met up with the Brooklyn Liles---adding a sweet baby girl to the mix. (Molly's Corey flew in later)

....The unloading began. What a flurry of "stuff." Sleds, gloves, boots, heavy coats, ski equipment---enough food and games for weeks, if needed.

And so the fun began---sometimes messy, loud, and frustrating, unnerving, unpredictable, … did I say frustrating?
I felt responsible for making sure everyone was fed and cared for. Patience was needed. Cooking became hot messy work. Just clearing the table after the feeding of the 15-17 took time. The counter was filled with chips, cracker, marshmallows, hot choc pack, etc. and was always a mess.

Overseeing people always gets messy. It would be easier to leave the kitchen spotless, take off, and order in but NOT if I can help it.

A good sense of humor helps tons as does tons of grace. My patience wasn't always evident. Thank goodness I had help from a daughter & 2 daughter-in-laws and sons who tolerate me when I get overbearing!

Then an obscure verse that Sarah Butler showed me years ago came to mind.
Where no oxen are, the manger is clean,
But much increase comes by the strength of the ox. (Proverbs 14:4)

Serving is not always easy, neat, and tidy but....the rewards are there in the making---my grands (my oxen) can go on to serving others and a strong harvest!

I much prefered a messy “filled” barn than the need for a clean barn. So, I went up to the loft and read a Christmas story to John Parker before his nap.

Reflections & Robots

2011-12-15T09:19:00.001-06:00

12/15/11 Praising the Lord for seeing the world through the eyes of a 4 yr. old as Owen travels with us to the slopes. Long hours in a car totally "plugged in" make even a simple HI Xpress room look inviting---so no jumping on bed reminders were given before bedtime. This morning the first words out of his mouth when he pulled the "back-out' drapes to look out the window, "WHOA! It's a beautiful day out there." "...a cheerful heart has a continual feast." (Proverbs 15:15)
4 yr olds are just so excited about everything---especially a machine that's like a "pan-a-cake" robot. We probably made enough pan-a-cakes for all in the room---glad that they were tasty!

COLORADO CHRISTMAS

2011-12-14T14:49:00.001-06:00

12/14/11 Leaving as soon as I shut down this computer! Will post when I can............
Christmas Blessings to all!

Prayer: from meditation to dialogue

2011-12-12T22:03:00.005-06:00

12/12/11 Morning prayer time had me petitioning the Lord to "give ear" to my prayers. David prayed similarly in Psalm 17: 6. "I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God; incline your ear to me; hear my words." (ESV) Yet my heart was reminded that I needed to afford the Lord the same opportunity. I needed to offer my ear to hear from Him. Prayer is a two-way communication.
In Habakkuk, the prophet dialogued with God. He waited to hear from God and even considered His reply. I need to consider his model.
Like a sentinel keeping watch on the wall of his city, he waited expectantly for God's reply. Waiting is often part of the listening.

I will stand on my guard post And station myself on the rampart; And I will keep watch to see what He will speak to me,....(Habakkuk 2:1, RSV)

When the Lord does reply, He instructs Habakkuk to record it and share it as a herald, of sorts----that I can understand. (Sounds a little like journaling and blogging.)

Today my ear was open to hear. Was yours?

Often we just have to be willing---even willing to wait.

Let me hear what God the LORD will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints, to those who turn to him in their hearts. (Psalm 85:8)

SABBATH SNAPSHOTS: MEMPHIS TO PICKWICK & BACK

2011-12-11T19:38:00.024-06:00

12/11/11
WOMEN'S MINISTRY DINNER----
A LIVE PAINTING UNFOLDS "Divine Imagery:
Finding Christ....

in the Canvas of our Lives."
I LOVE NANDINA BERRIES EVEN WHEN ICE COVERED
PICKWICK LODGE HOLIDAY LIGHTS TRAIL---
FROM FISHING & DANCING SANTAS...

TO BOATS & TRAINS ---

AND "THE REASON FOR THE SEASON"

LESSONS AND CAROLS---
CHOIR & ORCHESTRA IN ONE ACCORD---

A GREAT - ENDING---"HARK THE HERALD ANGELS SING"
1152---FROM THE MANGER TO THE CROSS

Where's Waldo??????????

2011-12-10T20:44:00.006-06:00

12/10/11 Lately daughter, Molly has felt like she has been playing "Where's Waldo?" but with the book Jesus Calling. The security guard had it open at the apartment of her grapic designer. One of her "Brooks Art Gallery's" teachers at a parochial school in an impoverished neighborhood had one on her desk. It had been given to her by a fellow teacher who knew she was going through a hard time. She, like the other recipients, kept the "little book with the big blessing" chain going as they too passed it on to loved ones and other teachers.
Both the security guard and the teacher shared the same comment. "This little book meets me right where I am every day. It's like it is written just for me."
I too have "found" Jesus Calling everywhere from an equestrian camp barn in middle Tennessee to nurses stations in Dallas hospitals and the receptionist desk at a Memphis heart clinic. Just this week I found one at the St. Jude gift shop and tonight at a Christmas dinner, I found one on a table in a sunroom at a home in Pickwick.
Responses have been the same as the ones my Molly related to me. I remember an e-mail from Sarah Young where she told me that she prays daily for those people who are reading Jesus Calling. I wonder if she prays that the Lord will use the words of each entry to meet her readers at the point of their need for that day. If so, that prayer is being answered in a BIG way.
Thanks Sarah for your words and the chosen scriptures that help so many of us enjoy peace in His Presence from your book. It's been an exciting hunt these last few years to see all the places Jesus Calling shows up.
It's a lot more fun than Finding Waldo---just ask my daughter!

Friday Findings

2011-12-09T19:55:00.002-06:00

12/9/11 Noticing notes jotted all over my fading yellow legal pad, I decided to share some of my most recent "finds."

"written under the influence of grace"---that's my desire to write under His influence.

Nourish your soul with Bible reading. It will prepare a spiritual feast for you. (Augustine)

Prayer is union with God.....reconciles people to God, produces holy tears, forms a bridge over temptations, and acts as a buttress between us and afflictions. (Spidlik, Thomas, Drinking From the Hidden Fountain p. 355)

Prayer is born of joy and gratitude. Prayer makes gentleness blossom in the heart. (?)

It is better to pray in the silence of the heart than to pray only with words, without the mind paying attention. (Spidlik, Thomas, Drinking From the Hidden Fountain p. 367)

Many people want to direct God instead of surrendering themselves to be directed by Him. (Madame Guyon)

Order my steps in thy word: ... Direct my steps according to thy word: (Psalm 119:193)

The mind of man plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps. (Proverbs 16:9)

I know, O LORD, that a man's life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps. (Jeremiah 10:23)

...repentance is the gift of God. If you ever cease to know the virtue of repentance, you are in darkness. Examine yourself. (My Utmost for His Highest, 12/7)

I never meant for you to be self sufficient. I crafted your longings and feelings of incompleteness to point you to me. (Jesus Calling, 12/8)

“God appoints people who do disappoint – to point to a God who never disappoints.” (Ann Voskamp 12/8)

Joy sometimes needs pain to give it birth. (Streams in the Desert, p. 457)

ANSWERED PRAYER

2011-12-08T10:44:00.003-06:00

Answered prayer----Here's what it looks like---a car for Ruben in Mexico City to use for frequent travel to the Tlapaneco Indian mission in the mountains and incredibly great news from Michael's St. Jude report. So grateful.
Ruben and team still need prayer for safe travel and Michael still has bone marrow aspirate report due as well as one questionable spot---So.....keep on praying!

An update from Michael's mom----

Hello Team Michael!!!

Great news!!! We received the results of Michael's Cat Scan and MIBG scan. The Cat scan=clear. On the MIBG, the three spots on Michael's skull, tibia and femur were gone! There is one tiny light mark on the femur that they are calling "equivocal" which means that they cannot say for sure if it is neuroblastoma or not neuroblastona, so there is a question mark, but that aside, there was no other evidence of disease!!!!!!! I wish we could say "all clear" because technically there is NO disease showing up but since we have that TINY questionable spot we will go with INCREDIBLY GREAT NEWS!!!!
We will not have his bone marrow aspirate results until Tuesday and we ask you to continue praying that he will be all clear. After we receive those results we will speak with Dr Furman and decide our plan of action from there!!
We feel so BLESSED!!!!! Please give all praise to God as I BELIEVE that He has healed Michael! Please give prayers of Thanks to Him and ST Jude Hospital and continue to BELIEVE in the amazing power of prayer!!!!! Thank you all so much. We love you dearly and are forever grateful! PLEASE KEEP PRAYING for continued great news next week!!!!!

Thank you God!!!!!!

KEY TO PRAYER

2011-12-07T09:31:00.008-06:00

12/7/11 Prayer is key in every aspect of life. What key do you (I) need to unlock your (my) heart for prayer and worship?
"Chapel closed." That was the info I received yesterday in the clinic waiting room at St. Jude after Michael, with his dad, had gone back for testing. Sitting in the rocker, I sensed a need to "Be still and know that I am God." Did that mean I didn't need to kneel at an altar to fully concentrate on God?
Remembering that "Prayer is the slender thread that moves the hand of God,"(Corrie Ten Boom) I just rocked and prayed for a little boy I barely knew. Praising the Lord for the timely way I had even found Michael in the labyrinth of hallways and walkways of the hospital, I began to seek the Lord on his behalf---not using Michael as a bargaining tool, but expressing gratitude for the mercy and grace shown him and his family this past year. I saw them once more between tests and saw his cheery little face---
an innocent face filled with grace and an extra measure of mercy.

Leaving the clinic area, I found a gift shop. Jesus Calling was available. What an answer to prayer.

With it, I found a card of "hope" that included the verse that I had used for meditation the day before---
what an affirmation that I was right where God wanted me to be on a rainy, dreary Tuesday. How blessed I was!

Prayer is the key. The key is prayer. Interchangeable keys that move the hand of God!

MEET MICHAEL

2011-12-06T07:22:00.002-06:00

12/6/11
TODAY IS "PRAY DAY" FOR MICHAEL!
Will post more info later. Michael's tests at St. Jude will start at 10 am today and continue until 2:30.
As the Lord brings him to your mind, please pray God's best for this precious little curly-haired blonde from Chicago!

Let us.....

2011-12-05T21:49:00.003-06:00

12/5/11 Let us draw near to God..... Let us hold fast to our hope that is in Him..... Let us consider one another..... (Hebrews 10:22-24) Part of my BSF lesson tonight dealt with these actions. Yet, it was verse 25 that has been speaking to my heart today. It comes right after stimulating one another to love and good deeds. "Encouraging one another."

It brought me to my knees. Then it brought me to my computer to solicit more prayers for Michael at St. Jude. The response has been so encouraging to me---others willing to approach the throne of grace on his behalf. Now Larry & I are asking the Lord to "let us" encourage this family in some way while they are in Memphis.

Let us all meditate on the "let us" verses and then let us rise and take action as we encourage the one whom God brings across our path.

Sabbath Snapshots: Chicago & beyond

2011-12-04T21:14:00.012-06:00

12/4/11 First Week of Advent begins---
Toy Truck give-a-way
Owen "shot" truck pic
Palmer House Tea---glorious MAC, scar to scar, meeting once again.
Christmas Tree Marshall Fields Walnut room---
though technically MF owned by Macy's since 2005---
Christmas Market Connection/ Gigi & Bonnie---regardless of the spelling
Christkindl Market (German Christmas Mkt.)
Fourth Presbyterian--Chicago
2nd Pres--Memphis
An English Christmas

Chicago Bound

2011-12-01T06:49:00.001-06:00

12/1/11 Ascending with psalms of ascent---More when I return.

Outgoing

2011-11-30T20:01:00.006-06:00

11/20/11 A stack of letters caught my attention. Outgoing mail. Many filled with stamps across the envelopes. A philatelist I'm not, though I was a member of the 5th grade "stamp collectors club." But I've always loved stamp art and often choose to buy ones that depict areas of life which I appreciate. Even today I love to personalize letters with appropriate, interesting, and to me, pretty stamps.
Yet, it wasn't the letters so much as the term outgoing that kept coming to mind. Not as fast as e-mail but a way of my love and concern going out to others. The outgoing was just a visible overflow of my inward thoughts and feelings. Hopefully these small gestures "shout" outwardly my inward affection and concern for them. "Shout" was a typo for show, (but I like the idea that my actions shout my love)

What is outgoing from your life? That question is one I've been musing all day. What about other outgoing aspects of my personality. Is the meditation of my heart worthy of visibility? What visible outpouring of care are my hands "about." What about my words? How encouraging our my "outgoing" remarks? "So encourage each other and build each other up...."

If I'm feeling godly emotions why am I not being His hands and feet---and even mouth. Once I get the "outgoing" going out, how do I maintain this?

How do I keep "outgoing" ongoing?

Going a step further this afternoon, I took grandson Owen shopping with me to give to the WRVR toy truck for Porter Leath Children's Home. One little melt down occurred when he realized he wasn't getting the toy himself but only choosing it for another little boy or girl. Sharing is outgoing but for a preschooler it can be a hard, but necessary, lesson to learn.

Today was a beginning as I want my 4 yr. old grandson to experience "outgoing" with me so that it will be ongoing in his life.

Priestly Encouragement

2011-11-29T20:25:00.003-06:00

11/29/11 Last night's BSF lesson gave me lots of "meat" for thought. I have to say "meat" because at this point, I need to be on solid food and not milk. Cathy's lecture on our High Priest was so thorough and kept emphasizing the "big idea" of a priest who understands our weaknesses.

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. (Hebrews 14:15)

Yet, it's two verses before that which, when paired with verse 15, really spoke to me today.

Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. (Hebrews 14:13)

Knowing all there is to know about me (and you) inside and out. From my bad habits and waylaid good intentions to my fears and deep seated hurts, He sees it all. (v. 13) Not only does He understand, but He sympathizes with what He sees and knows. (v. 15)

That's real comfort. He knows me completely---all is laid bare---and yet he empathizes rather than rejecting. That's encouragement of the highest order from my High Priest.

Crying Out to God

2011-11-28T21:04:00.002-06:00

11/28/11 At the beginning of his reign, King Asa of Judah did what was good and right in the eyes of the Lord. When he needed help, he cried out to God. When he faced the multitude he cried out to God. Between now and January 1, I, as many of you, am facing a variety of multitudes. Multitudes that can conquer me if I battle them in my own strength. A multitude of decisions. A multitude of car miles. A multitude of logistical maneuvers. A multitude of packing. How about you? What multitudes are you facing.
Like Asa, believers should cry out to Elhoim. “The Almighty” in the sense of “God” (The New Strong’s Complete Dictionary of Bible Words #410) The Name of strength. Our Lord is a strong tower. (Proverbs 18:10)

And Asa cried out to the LORD his God, and said, “LORD, it is nothing for You to help, whether with many or with those who have no power; help us, O LORD our God, for we rest on You, and in Your name we go against this multitude. (2 Chronicles 14:11)

This week identify the "multitude" you are facing in your life. Cry out to God for help.

Sabbath Snapshots: First Advent '11

2011-11-27T16:31:00.039-06:00

11/27/11 ”A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)
Monday---Plan R for rainy day---Bass Pro & my "grands" were only kids there---

Important Christmas letters---

Trains & Remote cars

Crossbow
Shooting Gallery
Racing Cars
Tuesday chili supper for most of Liles crewWednesday Indoor Swim

Finch Center Tour
Finding UM Tiger # 53---(54 out of 100 was our total)"Prep" Day &
Caleb's Rice Krispie Treats in a "6"

Noah stirs up a pumpkin pie for Daddy
ThursdayParade and Wii to begin "Turkey Day"
(Nathan had my camera--have lots of Wii football pix too)
Thanksgiving Dessert---Side Street Steppers "sang" for their supper---
PTL outside play weather on Friday AM
Friday PM--inside and out--Fort Brotherhood, a great tent, compliments of Molly---
S'MORES---

Saturday: AM Sadness---saying good by to the Texans and watching them drive away.
PM CELEBRATION: Perrin & Jim (son of Molly & Nick) a young man for whom I have prayed, on Saturdays, for many a year---
SUNDAY---Advent Gift for the young ones........As a child, I remember playing with our baby Jesus in the makeshift stable that decorated the top of our console TV.

First Advent Sunday

Saturday Sadness comes ......

2011-11-26T20:55:00.005-06:00

11/26/11...like a deep, dense morning fog over our Pickwick dock. It settles. It envelopes. it smothers the good times. Recollection of those intensifies the "hurt." Even the weather reflects my gloom. Dark. Dreary. Rainy.

Things are the same underneath but shrouded and buried deep under that proverbial "heavy blanket." It usually takes a few days for these emotions of melancholy to ease up.

It happens every time family leaves. The grands ask, "Shug, why do you always cry when we leave?" I don't know the exact answer. Love is most of it.

I do know that light dispels darkness. I open all the shutters. Pull up all the blinds. The dreariness of the day doesn't help but I need to do something to dispel my lingering sadness.

I try to remind myself that tomorrow will be better. Acute, raw sadness of separation from family is hardest the first day. As I age it seems to be taking longer to still this emotion. But.....like Frost's poem, "It sits....on silent haunches and then moves on."

Move on, Saturday sadness.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING 2011!!

2011-11-24T12:18:00.004-06:00

11/24/11
Plan R in action---redo all mistakes from time-saving ideas and relishing having a daughter-in-law alongside doing my "dirty" work, a daughter reconstituting gravy from about 3 different parts and a hubby recreating slicing the turkey bird b/c haven't a clue where the rest of the electric knife is. Really grateful because "invited" folks arriving in 45 min. Welcome to our world!Reciting Psalm 100---KJV, of course (assigned by my favorite teacher, Mrs. Alice Munday, in 4th grade at Morningside Elementary, a public school in Hopkinsville, Ky)

1Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
2Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
3Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

Thanks be to God

2011-11-21T20:57:00.002-06:00

11/21/11 "Thanks be to God" is a response to God's goodness that I have heard from denominational congregations throughout the years. Though it can be just a rote incantation of sorts, those meaningful words should prompt meditation. As an expression from the heart, it represents an overflow of the gratitude that comes from the realization that all that we have is from Him.

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! (II Corinthians 9:15)

SABBATH SNAPSHOTS: ENJOYING THE DAY!

2011-11-20T17:27:00.012-06:00

11/20/11

GRANOLA....left at my backdoor......now, I can share with family without making it....I love Aunt Marge's recipe.....what a gift......from JoLynn, who would never "overtoasts" anything she cooks!
WHAT A GREAT WAY TO START MY DAY!

SUNDAY TREAT---eating out at Formosa.....Fun & somewhat ironic fortune cookie comment for one who lives in a modify mode---Today alone I'm already to Plan Q----meaning I've quit even trying to plan---just trusting Him to cover all my preparation bases.

PTL for an audio cord----now all 13 versions of "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" can ring out from my iPod through my car radio, much to my delight.

GUESS WHO'S COMING TO DINNER FOR THE NEXT 6 NIGHTS????

Pillow prizes (animal flashlights) for all who will "dwell" here this week.

"Fix-it" MentaliTEA

2011-11-19T15:22:00.011-06:00

11/19/11 "Fix-it" mentaliTEA is a cuppa that I consume far too frequently. Frankly, it wears me out. Basically others, more often than not, don't seem to fully appreciate this "helping" aspect of my personality. Lately my cuppa has been filled to capacity with my "make it all better" philosophy... spilling over and making a mess. Is this really just an ailment, a disease to please and take away pain of others?
I grieve over things I can not fix, especially for loved ones....feeling like I should be able to at least help in some way, more prayer, more $, more time.
This morning as I sipped my cuppa,* I read, "I call on You, O God for You will answer me and hear my prayer." PTL (Praise the Lord) who can take care of everyone and all situations w/o my help/interference. I just need to pray. (my marginalia) A reminder to stop "overhelping" and begin accepting and enjoying.
I need to acknowledge each situation or need without immediately jumping in to "fix-it."

(Conversation with self) Pour out that cuppa of "fix-it" tea. Brew a fresh cup of a milder, decaffienated sensitiviTEA. Stir in a little godly discernment. Step back and allow God to work.
Leave the results to God, Dotsy!

*BTW my morning cuppa (pictured) was pretty good---a St. Dalfour (France) organic darjeeling.

PRAISE PRECEDES........

2011-11-18T18:46:00.013-06:00

11/18/11 God desires praise not perfection. Written in the frontispiece of my old NAS Bible---long forgotten by me, until the reminder this morning from Ann V.'s blog. "Praise, not Perfection . He wants my praise not my perfection..." is how she puts it.
This week has been one of falling back into old habits---the "perfection pursuit" mode. This malady usually occurs when company is coming or an event is planned at 1152. I know things won't be perfect but it seems like I want to make it just right---as right as I can make it---so all my bases are covered. My goal is "a good time had by all." Hm-m-m. If I'm in a dither, I know of one person who won't be having a good time.
Nancy Leigh DeMoss's "Power and Practice of Praise" teaches about the process of praise and the preparation of our hearts as we praise. He inhabits the praises of His people. (Israel) Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise. "Praise is God's address."

Praise the LORD.
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heavens.
2 Praise him for his acts of power;
praise him for his surpassing greatness....
6Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD. (Psalm 150:1, 2 & 6)

PREPARATION (for any event in my life) SHOULD FOLLOW PRAISE--NOT PRECEDE IT!

"Don’tcha" just love ___________?

2011-11-16T15:33:00.008-06:00

11/16/11 ___________? A rainy day. If you thought I had a spiritual answer for the "fill in the blank" you would be somewhat correct---though at first thought, my answer didn't seem very spiritual. You see, I do love a rainy day. I love to hear the rain---especially on a tin roof---like at 2211, my childhood home. I even like to hear it whooshing out the downspout of our gutters. I love to feel the rain. As a child I would lean my head back with mouth wide open to catch the drops as I played in the rain. To this day I love to walk in the rain and more often than not, I don't "fiddle" with an umbrella---which I'd probably lose anyway. I love the smell of rain soaked leaves and sometimes I feel like I can even smell rain coming.

Rain doesn't sound spiritual and many folks would see it as one of life's interruptions as it hampers their errands or other endeavors on their "list." The reason I love a rainy day isn't spiritual in and of itself---it's mostly self serving---a good excuse to take a break with a "cuppa" a daily crossword and to hunker down. But even that enjoyment can be spiritual---another manifestation of the truth that "God has given us all things to richly enjoy."

Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. (I Timothy 6:17)

Our Prayer for Revival group meditated on Psalm 147 yesterday, reminding us to praise and then providing the reasons for that praise---

Sing to the LORD with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp. He covers the sky with clouds; he supplies the earth with rain.....(Psalm 147:7-8a)

Today I'm praising Him for that rain just because I like it. Thankful, too, that my recently transplanted snowball bushes are drinking it in.

As the "Preacher" in Ecclesiastes, I see more and more aspects of life as gifts from Him---even a chilly, rainy day. "This too, I see, is from the hand of God."

The rain has somewhat diminished and the wind has blown wet leaves all over the patio. This could be a signal that I need to rake up the wet mess---but, I don't "do" leaves, especially wet ones. I just like to smell them, not clean them up. Don'tcha just love the way I pick and choose the elements of rain that are "useful" to me?
Don'tcha just love the way God loves us (me) regardless of our (my) propensity toward spiritual rationalization?

Meditative Moments

2011-11-14T21:31:00.003-06:00

11/14/11 Our Lord had times of meditation alone and times of quiet conversations with His disciples. He knew the importance of pulling apart from the whirlwind of life for them and for Himself as well. It would behoove us to follow that example.
In our busyness there is often little time amid all the turmoil of daily responsibilities to pull apart for reading and reflection. How does one "work in" a quiet thought or the opening of God's word's for prayer and meditation? That's what Monday's are all about. That's why I always blog on Monday. Even if it's just a taste of scripture for us to chew on all week, it's essential to our spiritual well-being. In your secret/quiet place for communing with the Lord, look to Him for refuge and strength. Trust Him. Remember His love.

We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield.
In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.
May your unfailing love be with us, LORD, even as we put our hope in you. (Psalm 33:20-22)

SABBATH SNAPSHOTS: Around UM & the East End of Town

2011-11-13T16:47:00.017-06:00

11/13/11 Sing to him; sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works! (I Chronicles 16:9)

"To Him all majesty ascribe and crown Him Lord of all!"

INTERNATIONAL MARKET ---Providing a way for women and children to sustain their freedom through learning a skill and supporting themselves financially.
Products hand-crafted by the poor...
the vulnerable....
&......survivors of human trafficking
Micro-loans for India---rumor has it that one of last year's donors to India named his water buffalo "WAR EAGLE"!!

Buying clean water.

A little help goes a long way.
Remembering sacrifice is honorable.
Greentrees Assoc. flags line Kirby parkway.

Ginkgos on Goodlett---
Ginkgos on Grandview---

Grateful Heart

2011-11-12T20:51:00.005-06:00

11/12/11 Grateful heart. My daddy had one. For as long as Daddy could make coherent speech, he would say, "I'm thank the good Lord for each day He gives me." He saw His days as a gift-- proof of all that the Lord had done for him, just by giving him breath for one more day. What a model for me!

"Gratitude. . .that heart-attitude that turned my "mourning into dancing" when I received the "C" diagnosis. The attitude of gratitude that I need more of in my life, now that I'm on the other side of that suffering. "A grateful person is God-centered and others-conscious." (Nancy Leigh DeMoss, Revive your Heart conference notes) A realization that God is at the heart of every aspect of my life will realign me with Him. God-centered = more gratitude. More gratitude = God-centered.

It's seeing more of God's hand of goodness in my life----eyes to see last night's full and glorious moon, the brisk temps that allowed me to wear my old comfy warm-up and the sound of Daddy's voice on a CD.

It's that praise tune that is whirring in my head. "Give thanks with a grateful heart. Give thanks to the Holy One. Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son."

If that were all He had done, that would be enough!

11-11-11

2011-11-11T08:11:00.005-06:00

11-11-11 Not sure what all the hoopla is about this date. Of course, if you marry today, it's a pretty surefire way to have your spouse remember your wedding date.
For me it's only about Veteran's Day. This is the first year I have not been able to pick up the phone and call my favorite veteran. That saddens me in a way that surprises me. Daddy died 5 months ago. But....this past week has had all kind of memories catching me off guard.
This morning I used my purple pen in my journal---for my "purple heart" recipient, Daddy. I thanked the Lord for that purple heart because that wounding saved his life. The very next day as he recovered in the Philippines at the army hospital, the platoon sargeant who took his place and several members of his platoon, if not all, were killed by a Japanese ambush. Daddy rarely spoke of it. Maybe it was just too painful. Sometime those of us stateside forget what are troops are doing for us. Freedom is so costly. Daddy, like many vets today, never saw the birth of his first born. Until his death, he bore the deep leg scars of a sniper's bullet and the deep emotional pain of losing his army buddies while he was allowed to live.
Today, I'm celebrating his memory by listening to the CD I recorded in 2002 of him reading aloud Brown Bear, Brown Bear along with Chicka Chicka Boom Boom and What a Wonderful World as a keepsake for his great "grands." Thanks to him and all our vets who have contributed to making the USA a "wonderful world" for our families!!

ABCs addendum

2011-11-09T20:50:00.003-06:00

11/9/11 Late posting---still mulling over some comments/responses from Wednesday's blog.
Said mulling took awhile and the original words I wrote listing more ABCs have now been set aside. Certain implications began to become clear through e-mail comments and discussions with others as we began to see the "self" agenda/focus (or ABCs) of our own lives. Interestingly enough, ideas that were first tossed around---All 'Bout C limbing, All 'Bout C arping, All 'Bout C hallenging, were about "others." More often than not, a relative. Hm-m-m why is a negative ABC so much easier to see in lives of other people???

All 'Bout C heap---my daughter labeled me with that one. I negated it by saying I was just frugal and that didn't start w/ "c" so that didn't count. Yet, with Molly's label, I realized that for those who know us best, their perceptions of irregularities of our own lives and our penchants for "self-serving" or rationalization can offer opportunity for spiritual growth---finding balance. I realized that whether I'm frugal or cheap, the nomenclature doesn't matter---it's the intent of my heart. Am I watching my $$ as a good steward of God-given resources? Or....am I showing a lack of trust in His on-going provision by padding my accounts, just in case? Is that an obstacle for the spiritual growth of my own children? More mulling began.

Then the biggie came to the surface. Too many of us were focusing on others. Negatively focusing. That was not the intent of the ABCs blog. The intent was for a little soul-searching for ourselves, not bashing others--- a reminder that the tenets our lives need to be All 'Bout C hrist. An e-mail from Margie Honor had me immediately seeing her as All 'Bout C ompassion! Christ was all about compassion, so her life would be one for me to emulate in that area. Mercy might not be my spiritual gift but it doesn't mean that I can't grow in that area. Look around for positve ABCs in others & commend them. Use their "glowing" ABCs to spur positive "growing" ABCs for yourself!

Are you seeing faults in others easier than taking inventory of your own ABCs? If so, take heed, lest you too shall fall.

So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! (I Corinthians 10:12)

Those are my additional thoughts, what are yours?

ABCs---of one's life

2011-11-08T16:19:00.006-06:00

11/8/11 ABC. Those three letters are often used to indicate the basics. The foundation. What are the ABCs of your life? All 'Bout C____? What's life mostly 'bout for you?
Asking myself this question, I realized that too often my ABCs for living are All 'Bout Convenience. I like ease and expediency. It influences many of my decisions. My errand list reflects this as I try to accomplish the most in the least amount of time while saving on gasoline. Even my grocery list reflects the ease I appreciate when systematically navigating the aisles from my "list." Lack of ease in said task results in extreme frustration when Kroger changes the aisles. How dare them cause me to have to backtrack. I can get testy! I can also be All 'Bout C ash! I like the sense of security knowing that there's $$ in the account to cover the expense.
Those are my basic failings. How 'bout you? What are your ABCs?

Are you All 'Bout C uteness ? Are you in a panic to keep your wardrobe current, your weight lower, your teeth whiter and your wrinkles covered?
Are you All 'Bout C liques ? Do you think your "social status" is improved if you are seen with the "right" people?
Are you All 'Bout Coverups ? Do you worry if people knew the real you, that you wouldn't measure up---so you keep your distance.
Are you All 'Bout C onsumerism ? Do you try to feed your deep felt needs with the latest and greatest gadget, home decor update or automobile?
Are you All 'Bout C harts, calendars or computers ? Is "your" agenda on your Daytimer or in your Backberry or on your iCalendar with instant updates? Does achieving "YOUR" agenda rule your life?
Are you All 'Bout C ontrol ? 'nuff said b/c others probably see it more readily than you do.

I could go on but now it's your turn. With some God-led soul searching, discover the basics of your own life rules. Fill in your own blanks. Ask yourself what others see as your basic tenets for living?
Maybe you'll discover truth from underneath the mire of self (your own ABCs)---that for Christians our ABCs should be All 'Bout C hrist ? He is foundational. By His grace all the other aspects of life for us will follow the basics of kindness, mercy, peace and love.

In Him we can live and move and have our being. (Acts 17:28)

That's basic.

Kindness Kindled

2011-11-07T21:20:00.004-06:00

11/7/11 Some things just lift me up---kindness of others, prayers of the saints, even fresh flowers. Yesterday's latest window ledge gift encompassed all three. The donor was a neighbor and wife of a retired pastor. She has a very full plate and yet she reached out to us. The cheery arrangement was in the small vase that I had once given to this "kind" one. That brought back memories of Mother. Mother never let a kindness go unreciprocated. She believed in giving back---returning in kind. Unrequited was not an adjective in her kindness vocabulary. More often than not, if an object was involved, her kind action had a way of including the same pan or vase or bowl in which original kindness had first been delivered. Kindness. It's certainly a godly attribute worthy of our thoughts today.

Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith. (Galatians 6:9-10)

SABBATH SNAPSHOTS: BROOKLYN, NY

2011-11-06T19:44:00.015-06:00

11/6/11 Sabbath snapshots are just my way of visually remembering times, usually from the previous week, that reflect the glory of God. Places of worship. Events and people who draw me to worship more fully. Snaps of God's creative wonder. How can one not see God every time they hold a newborn baby or step outside and open their eyes to all that He has created! My hope is that you will see God as I have seen Him this week.

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. (Romans 1: 20)

Psalm 8:2 Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength...
Marion age 1 week New York Marathon Reminder to Pray for John Payne in Wheelchair division

Memorial PresbyterianFruit Galore: Inside and Out
7th ave. Flower market

5th Ave. Brooklyn
Walls of color
Farmer's Market/Prospect Park

"Unleashed" doggie time 8-9 am

NEW YORK! NEW YORK!

2011-11-02T05:27:00.001-05:00

11/2/11 "Hooray! Hooray!! We're on our way.Our trip to"…. see our new grandbaby…. "starts today!" (That saying is a Liles family tradition.) Will post if and when I can but that’s not exactly top on my list. Can’t wait. So excited!

Meditation from the Heart of a "wannabe" Shepherd

2011-10-31T21:20:00.005-05:00

I am grateful for the feeding, love and care which I receive from the one who is the Good Shepherd and who call His own sheep by name. (John 10:3)
May I in some small way begin to unfold the reality of a shepherd's life so that I might model it and touch others with the caring service that this truth teaches.

Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly--not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. (I Peter 5:2, NLV)

Sabbath Snapshots: Way Up North

2011-10-30T20:58:00.006-05:00

10/30/11 Baby Marion's grandparents from Massachusetts have had snow since Thursday which has impeded their trek to see their "brand new " grandaughter in Brooklyn. This morning they awakened to 27" more inches. Just had to show how different their Sunday was from those of us who live below the snow belt. And we thought our sunny 52° was cold this morning .

Grandma MJ shows her TRUE feelings!

Grandpa Doug actually broke the snow blower. Note fall foliage on trees in background. If there's this much snow in October, I can't even fathom a real winter storm!!!

Sabbath Snapshot: Memphis & Beyond

2011-10-30T16:20:00.014-05:00

10/30/11 Bethesda Word of Life Christian Center---April 28, 2011 was flooded and under 4-5 feet of water for 25 days. Today's service was a coming together, a celebration of rejoicing in a new building.

Friends of the faith joined with old and new members who helped pull it up out of the muddy clay.

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! (Psalm 133:1)

PARKWAY PICTURES IN MEMPHIS: A CANOPY OF COLOR

PUMPKIN "PUNKIN" IN NEW YORK

OCTOBER SKY IN TEXAS

OCTOBER 27, 2011

2011-10-29T12:36:00.010-05:00

10/29/11 OCTOBER 27, 2011.....oh what a day! Little

"Lady" Liles entered the world at St. Luke's Roosevelt in Manhattan, (NYC) on her own time 6:25 pm EST (& of course, God's time) so doc did not have to induce!

Marion Lucille Liles
Weight: 6 lbs. 15 oz,
Height: 19 1/4 "
Parents: Megan and Josh Liles (May God grant wisdom and counsel in bringing up this special one. (Proverbs 2:6)
Proud first time "young" grandparents M.J. & Doug Bradley of MA Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, (Proverbs 17:6)
& Dotsy & Larry Liles, not first time, but first grandaughter

"For this child I (& lots of others) prayed"
(as Hannah spoke in I Samuel 1:27)
As a child may she not forget to do what is right and to share. (Hebrews 13:6) As a young lady may she be clothed in humility. (I Peter 5:5) May she follow after righteousness, faith, love and peace all of her days. (2 Timothy 2:22)

Daddy's pic of "Lady Liles" after her 1st bath.

Aunt Soozee's pic of "Sleeping Beauty."

GUEST READER/REPORTER, CAROL N.

2011-10-26T09:31:00.006-05:00

10/26/11 Sweet friend, Carol Newman, has been a great one to bounce off of for reading ideas and interpretations as well as leading me to new "worthy" books. I trust her not to lead me astray so I am now in pursuit of The Rest of God, Restoring Your Soul by Restoring Sabbath for my "must read pile." She began with a quote from A. Voskamp, author of One Thousand Gifts, who was quoting the author, Mark Buchanan.

"Being in a hurry. Getting to the next thing without fully entering the thing in front of me. I cannot think of a single advantage I've ever gained from being in a hurry. But a thousand broken and missed things, tens of thousands, lie in the wake of all the rushing...Through all that haste I thought I was making up time. It turns out I was throwing it away."

Carol goes on to say................

This particular book of his, The Rest of God, Restoring Your Soul by Restoring Sabbath, is also a very special reading experience. When I first read it, I thought of you. He concludes each chapter with a liturgy section. He describes liturgy as "a kind of choreography, a choreography for our dance with things unseen, things ancient and things anticipated, things above and things below." He goes on to say that the liturgy sections are meant to 'try to coax you onto the dance floor...even finding yourself, like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, floating above the hard, cold floor of your workaday life, your feet barely touching." So, you see why it made me think of you. And his liturgy sections are not exactly what I would call liturgy, but application- questions- challenges to approach the next bit of time differently, getting onto the dance floor!

Now, with your retirement, hopefully you can put this on your reading list. It's about true rest of the soul, not just retirement from a job. It draws the dancing parallel that flows through your own writing. And he includes playing with our children (and grands) in the wonderful plan of restoring/refreshing our souls. Of course!!!!

Don't you love it!! I did. Carol should be blogging personal book reviews! I just had to share it with my readers, most of whom are just that---READERS!

DANCING WITH DADDY

2011-10-24T13:35:00.006-05:00

10/23/11 Driving home late (for me 9 pm is late) and tired last night, I turned on K-Love and Steven Curtis Chapman was singing these words. I puddled.

But I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"

So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Ooh-oh ooh-oh I will dance with Cinderella
I don't want to miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone

A few little tears turned to more and bigger tears and soon I could barely see to drive the familiar road. I miss my first dancing partner, especially on the day when my brothers accepted the white roses in his memory. From the waltz to jitterbug, I miss dancing with Daddy.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
II Corinthians 1:3-4 is my comfort verse for meditation today.

How grateful I am to have danced with Daddy at my 45th class reunion. This picture and God's word has already begun to comfort me

Sabbath Snapshot-- a favorite hymn

2011-10-23T09:25:00.008-05:00

10/23/11 Sabbath Snapshot-- a favorite hymn Click to hear the melody and sing along in your heart. I chose a bell version for for my friend Carolyn.

For continuous melody along with the words, click on the song title below.

Come, Thou Fount of every blessing,
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace;
Streams of mercy, never ceasing,
Call for songs of loudest praise.
Teach me some melodious sonnet,
Sung by flaming tongues above.
Praise the mount! I’m fixed upon it,
Mount of Thy redeeming love.

Jesus sought me when a stranger,
Wandering from the fold of God;
He, to rescue me from danger,
Interposed His precious blood;
How His kindness yet pursues me
Mortal tongue can never tell,
Clothed in flesh, till death shall loose me
I cannot proclaim it well.

O to grace how great a debtor
Daily I’m constrained to be!
Let Thy goodness, like a fetter,
Bind my wandering heart to Thee.
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,
Prone to leave the God I love;
Here’s my heart, O take and seal it,
Seal it for Thy courts above.

You can probably hear me belting out on the last verse because it is the one that sadly reflects my fickle heart. But God…….O His grace. How grateful I am.

Praying, briefly

2011-10-21T21:20:00.007-05:00

10/21/11 No words were listed. “So I prayed to the God of heaven.” (Nehemiah 2:4) It’s been noted by scholars as the shortest prayer ever sent to heaven.

We all know such short spontaneous prayers.

Peter prayed, “Lord save me,” when he began sinking as he was walking on the water toward Jesus. Interestingly enough, Peter only began sinking when he took his eyes off of the Lord and looked at his windy circumstances. (Matthew 14:30-32)

“Help me, Lord.”

Praying it scripturally only adds a few words. “Let Thy hand be ready to help me.” (Psalm 119:173) In the psalms we read of many brief accounts of cries unto the Lord. Cried---just another verb for prayed. Poor (afflicted) man cried and the Lord heard him and saved him from all his troubles. (Psalm 34:6)

Edges of His Ways, 10/17 entry summed up such short Bible verses. Those “short” Bible verse prayers are what we want on those days when we are tired or hard-pressed…….. Like the touch of the electric light switch---just a touch and the power comes flowing from the powerhouse---the power that turns to light. (Carmichael, p. 192-193)

Praying tonight, though not briefly, for "Bubba's" family and praising the Lord that all four of her girls were with her when she eased into eternity.

PRAYER BRIEF

2011-10-20T21:00:00.004-05:00

10/20/11 Brief 2. using few words; concise; succinct: (Dictionary.com) Edges of His Ways, uses the phrase “little prayers.” (Carmichael, p.192) Friend Margie H. calls them breath prayers. Spontaneous prayers. Hardly prayers at all in the “formal” sense.

Prayers evoked by a mere thought and a touch as the woman in Matthew 9:21 who reached to touch the fringe of Jesus’ cloak. “for she was saying to her self, If I only touch His garment, I shall get well.”

Wordless prayers. “Breathe's,” metaphorical lyrics for that close communication with the Lord ….”This is the air I breathe, This is the air I breathe, Your holy presence living in me….” (Michael W. Smith) In such close communion that the Lord knows your prayerful thoughts.

I call them necessary. Lately mine have been, “Lord, forgive me.”

SHORT AND SALTY

2011-10-19T16:29:00.006-05:00

10/19/11 Passing this sign caught my attention and had my thoughts turn to a Mary Ann Frazier story. Mary Ann, the first and a long time BSF teaching leader in Memphis, names "Miss Fanny" (Mrs. Tom King), her 3rd grade Sunday school teacher, as the saltiest person she ever knew. "She was so salty, she kept us all thirsty."

Saltiness is somewhat akin to Jesus sticking out all over. Some are drawn to the savoriness of our lives as we live out our God-given purpose. Others see and are thirsty. They thirst after what they see in our lives. Using speech full of grace, as seasoned with salt, one can lead them to the One who is the Living Water---water that brings life to the soul. Drink and never thirst again.

I had to ask myself, "How salty am I?" Do others thirst for the Living Water because of my life?

Trying to be short in my entries---but an uncanny similarity of blog entry scripture was posted on this date in '09 as I was awaiting another surgery.

PERSPECTIVES

2011-10-17T22:06:00.009-05:00

10/17/11

There’s nothing quite like seeing the world through the eyes of a child. Lately my grandsons have offered me opportunities to see God’s creation in a whole new light---from their perspective. Even allowing one of my grandboys to take pictures with my camera today offered great insight into what they see. Sometimes we could all use a new way of seeing things. If you don’t have young children of your own, join a friend or a relative on an outing with theirs. Or, volunteer in your church nursery. It will refresh your heart---even if you’re as old and as easily fatigued as I am.

Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see— how good God is. Blessed are you who run to him. (The Message, Psalm 34:8)

Meditate on this verse and then allow a child in your life to show you God’s wonderful world from his/her perspective. Allow this viewpoint to bless your heart anew.

My eyes are ever on the LORD, for only he will release my feet from the snare. (Psalm 25:15) David’s snare In this psalm is probably different from yours. Is your snare boredom in God’s blessings of creation? Do you need to see life afresh and be thankful?

Guess which pumpkin, photographer, Owen chose?

Sabbath Snapshots in the Delta

2011-10-16T19:37:00.020-05:00

10/16/11

Starting the day the Gideon way!

Fields white unto harvest----a great analogy with John 4:35 "Behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest."

Town churches in Greenwood, MS

413 Grand Ave. --Hilly's house in movie "The Help"

Actual country church---also used in "The Help" as Aibileen & Minny's
By 11:30 the ground was filled with cars.

A bright spot of yellow that grows along the I Canadian RR tracks
just north of town on Money Road

Porch sittin' sparse

Porch sittin' ---crowded

Tallahachie River Bottoms

Praises for a bright sunny weekend in the Delta!

Let's Dance!

2011-10-14T10:57:00.011-05:00

10/14/11 This entry is about dancers in my life---two who have helped me to dance. Dancing for me is a life fully lived. A life I live with the Lord. It's an abunDANCE, as it's full of God's purpose for me while on this earth. It gives me eyes to see His hand in my life through good and bad times. Dancing is passionate. It's embracing those whom God sends across my path---every single one, even the irregular ones who annoy, hurt, and try to rob me of my joy. Learning to live the life God has planned for me and living without fear requires dancing in His arms. Surrendering to Him. Following His lead. It requires spiritual maturity and in my case encouragement from others. Especially those who already know the steps.

Meet Doris and Marge. Two such dancers. They have chosen to live the "dance" God has chosen for them. I have learned much by watching. Though their lives are intentional in choice they make it look easy---like an overflow of love from above. They laugh. They garden. They cook. They read. They selflessly see to the needs of others. They seem tireless. In Him, they live and move and have their being. (Acts 17:28) There's a deep assurance of God's presence in their lives that touches all who cross their paths.

What connects me to them? Certainly we are connected spiritually. Our paths crossed through introductions years ago from other dear friends. A friendship that has grown through the years. We are all family oriented, wives of the husbands of our "youth." (Proverbs 5:18) We share interests: travel, good food, and good literature. Strangely, we all love "Keeper of the Bees" a somewhat obscure classic from the 20s. I know both and yet they still have never met. Maybe I need to make introductions.

What connects them to others? Their lives----every facet of it. They seem to feel and trust the rhythm of God's music for their own lives. They have His ear. They hear His love song.
During their own fearful times, their courage is infectious. Cheer, strength, and peace seem to flow, as one "whose mind is stayed on Thee." (Isaiah 26:3) They know from whom their hope and trust rests and their thoughts are fixed on Him.

"Given to hospitality," has these two dancers opening their homes and hearts to others. "Hospitable to all strangers, but especially to those who were of the household of faith," is the way Romans 12:13 states it. Financially, they have given and given and given, even during times when there might have been little for family, much less others----they gave anyway. Nowadays they both have acquired homes just to share with others. As God blessess, they bless whether out of their lack, or out of their abundance.

The countenance of Doris and Marge is glowing. Smiling. Always smiling. Roman 12:12 describes these dancers as "never flagging in zeal, aglow with the Spirit, serving the Lord." They live above their circumstances because they are always looking up! Pretty much each and every Sunday you will find them pew side at a local UMC, where "Lord of the Dance" is on page 261 of the Methodist hymnal.

How blessed I am to know them. May you, reader, be blessed as well by using their lives as a model. A model to follow as you become a "dancer," not a critic, for those in your life.

Consistently Doris and Marge respond to His grace. They dance. Their lives say to others, "Join us. Let's dance!" Won't you dance too?

THANKFUL THURSDAY

2011-10-13T11:26:00.003-05:00

10/13/11 SO-O-O thankful for uninterrupted quiet times. Add to that a cuppa, some digestives from England and a smooth jazz worship CD and I'm in heaven. In a way, I really am, as I sit in the Presence of the One who sits at the right hand of the Father. A "tea with Thee" experience. PRAISES!