The Seven Wonders Of The World

Thanks Mom for passing this on to me. :-)

Recognizing God's wake-up calls

I have so many posts I'd like to do floating around in my head...but currently I don't have time to sit down and write. Therefore, I'm sharing with you this great article I recently read on Ann Graham Lotz. (Ann is Billy & Ruth Graham's daughter) I hope it blesses you as it did me!!

Sept. 7, 2007

Anne Graham Lotz on recognizing God's wake-up calls

Don't miss blessings that come in plain packaging, says daughter of Billy Graham

By BARBARA KARKABI
Copyright 2007 (I think I'm ok in sharing this since I gave credit and linked back to the source-someone let me know if I'm wrong-thanks!)
Houston Chronicle

"The package arrived wrapped in plain brown paper. Inside was a small multicolored basket stuffed with tissue. But nothing else.

Anne Graham Lotz, the well-brought-up daughter of Billy and Ruth Graham, was confused about the straw basket but nevertheless called to thank her mother for the gift.

That's when Ruth Graham laughed and asked what she thought of the "real present" wrapped in the tissue paper Lotz had just thrown away.

"Luckily, I found the tissue paper and inside was a little gold ring, with a piece of lapis lazuli," Lotz recalled. "It had been given to my mother by an old friend from the British Museum."

As the story goes, the stone was from the Susa palace where the biblical Queen Esther was said to have lived with the Persian King Ahasuerus.

"I had thrown away a priceless treasure because I didn't like the way it was wrapped," said Lotz, who uses the story as a metaphor in her talks.

"Sometimes I think God sends us priceless treasures but they come in ugly brown packages. It could be the death of a loved one or an illness, or several things at the same time. We get caught up in the wrapping and ask: 'God, why are you doing this to me?' "

Lotz, founder of AnGeL Ministries, suggests looking at difficult experiences as a kind of personal wake-up call from God.

"It may be that God is trying to give you a fresh experience of grace and his power and love," Lotz said. "He has a blessing for you in it, but we throw it away because we don't like the way it's wrapped."

Wake-up calls can happen on a national level, too. She pointed to Hurricane Katrina and Sept. 11.

"God doesn't send them, but he allows them into our national life to wake us up," Lotz said in a telephone interview. "There is more to life than what we sometimes seem to be living for — our pleasure, entertainment or our bank accounts and reputations."

It's not always easy to find those blessings, and Lotz knows this from personal experience. The second of Billy and Ruth Graham's five children, she never felt any pressure to follow in the path of her famous father.

"It wasn't a natural thing for me. In fact, I would have felt the opposite pressure to stay at home," Lotz said.

The Baker Institute's William Martin,who wrote a biography of Billy Graham, described Lotz as a talented and powerful speaker.

"She delivers a strong message and doesn't tell jokes or try to jolly people into listening," Martin said. "She has many of the characteristics of her father's early preaching."
Martin said the first time he heard Lotz speak, he was stunned at how similar her gestures were to that of her famous father.

"She is a compelling figure," he added. "Her message: 'Just give me Jesus' is very biblically oriented. But she draws good crowds." ......As confident as Lotz appears, she has a secret — she gets stage fright almost every time she talks. So did her father.

"My daddy would say that every time he got up on a pulpit, his stomach turned over," she said. "It keeps you sharp and humble."

Since her mother's death in June, Lotz has tried to spend as much time as she can with her father. Recently, she gave him a puppy for what would have been her parents' 64th wedding anniversary.

"They were so in love. I never imagined a world without her, and I don't think Daddy did either, so it's not easy," Lotz said. As for her father's health, she said, "Daddy's mind is real sharp; he has some issues, but he will be 89 this year so I think he deserves to have some issues."

Lotz' personal ministry started because she was trying to be a better mother. "I wanted to be a mother like mine. She spent a lot of time with her Bible and in prayer, and I just didn't have the discipline to do that."

"I was losing my temper a lot," Lotz recalled. "I never saw my mother lose her temper, and we were a very feisty family. ... I wanted that kind of relationship with God and Jesus. It was so contagious and special."

But with three children, a husband and a busy schedule, Lotz felt that, without meaning to, she was neglecting God or drifting away from him.

To correct that, she started a local class based on Bible Study Fellowship International, just so she could take the class. She ended up being the teacher for 12 years. Hundreds of people had joined in the first few weeks.

"They had never been in Bible study before and didn't know I couldn't teach, so we just learned together," Lotz said.

Her revivals for women grew out of a series of challenging personal events.

Over 18 months in the late 1990s, her mother was hospitalized five times; her three children all decided to get married within eight months; her son was diagnosed with cancer four weeks before his wedding; and Hurricane Fran hit her home in North Carolina, destroying more than 100 trees in her yard.

"I felt that one of those things was hard enough, but all of it compressed in time just made me want to scream," Lotz recalled.

"My doctor offered medication, but I said: 'I don't want a quick fix.' I didn't even ask God for a miracle. I wanted a fresh touch from heaven because I felt that if I could get refreshed from the inside, then I could handle some of these things on the outside."

Lotz believed that others faced similar feelings, people "who desperately want a fresh encounter, not because they are bad, but life is hard, you know; it can be overwhelming."

Lotz began what she calls "Just Give me Jesus" revivals for women. Forget the idea of an old-fashioned tent revival. What Lotz offers is a reconnection with Jesus.

"God got me though those 18 months," Lotz said. "He just gave me a heart's cry for revival, and then he used that heart's cry to offer revival for other women."

Lotz also believes God has issued a wake-up call for organized churches — one she fears they are ignoring.

"I know there are many things he might want to say to the church, but for me as a messenger, there's a bottom line. I think he is calling his people to wake up about their relationship with him. I think in church we point fingers at other people and their social sins.

"Instead, God says: 'I'm not concerned with other people. I'm concerned with you.' We need to get it right."

See full article: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/life/religion/5116690.html

Did Jesus Use A Modem?

In light of my recent "techinical" issues with my blog I thought I'd post this poem I received via email. Thank you Aunt Bee, Leigh Ann, Ginger and Tracy for your assistance in getting things straightened out with my archiving issues.

DID JESUS USE A MODEM AT THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT?

Did Jesus use a modem,
At the Sermon on the Mount?
Did He ever try a broadcast fax,
To send His message out?
Did the disciples carry beepers,
As they went about their route?
Did Jesus use a modem,
At the Sermon on the Mount?

Did Paul use a Laptop,
With lots of RAM and ROM?
Were his letters posted on a BBS,
At Paul.Rome.Com?

Did the man from Macedonia,
Send an E-mail saying "Come?"
Did Paul use a Laptop,
With lots of RAM and ROM?

Did Moses use a joystick,
At the parting of the Sea?
And a Satellite Guidance Tracking System,
To show him where to be?
Did he write the law on tablets,
Or are they really on CD?
Did Moses use a joystick,
At the parting of the Sea?

Did Jesus really die for us,
One day upon a tree?
Or was it just a Hologram,
Or Technical Wizardry?
Can you download the Live Action Video Clip,
To play on your PC?
Did Jesus really die for us,
One day upon a tree?

Have the wonders of this modern age,
Made you question what is true?
How a single man, in a simple time,
Could offer life anew?
How a sinless life, a cruel death,
Then a glorious life again,
Could offer more to a desperate world,
Than all the inventions of man?

If in your life, the voice of God,
Is sometimes hard to hear.
With other voices calling,
His doesn't touch your ear.
Then set aside your laptop and modem,
And all your fancy gear.
And open your Bible, open your heart,
And let your Father draw near.

The "D" Word

Discipline... Just the word makes me a little edgy as I recount the areas of my life that I find this character trait sorely lacking. At times I feel overwhelmed with the lack of discipline I have to move forward and accomplish those things that I know I need to do. I have it all planned out in my mind and my heart seems fully "on board".... but somewhere between my good intentions and reality I choose to be sidetracked. In our society we might say "The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak." I guess I am in good company, as Paul shared his own struggles with this dilemma in Romans 7:18 & 19:

"For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the wishing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not. For the good that I wish, I do not do; but I practice the very evil that I do not wish."

Whether it be in the area of physical exercise, physical restraint (watching what I eat), completing chores, or areas of spiritual and relational growth...I can find myself out of shape and lazy.... or worse yet, just plain rebellious! Plain and simple, there is no other way to look at it.

I have met people that seem to have a greater inclination towards discipline as part of their character. Do they have to work hard at that trait in order to make it appear natural and easy? I don't know. All I do know, is that for me, it is a struggle to make a disciplined lifestyle habitual and become second nature. Paul addresses this idea of training in 1 Timothy 4:7:

"...discipline (train) yourself for the purpose of godliness..."

The idea here is the same as going to a gym to work out...training yourself for better physical health and form.

A few months back we purchased a treadmill and I have been trying to use it for 30 minutes 3-4 times a week. I finally got tired of feeling fatigued, not fitting into the clothes hanging in my closet and the general physical slump I've been in. I desire to be a good steward of the body the Lord has given me...and to age as gracefully as I can. Likewise, I want to discipline my spiritual life in the same manner by growing in grace and wisdom, honoring God in what I say and do. Truth of the matter is...I'm not always willing to do what it takes to achieve success in these areas. Whether it means enduring the pain and sweat of my treadmill workout, or clearing my mind enough to come before God for renewal on a daily basis...I often don't make the best choice. Why is it easier for me to turn on the computer and read the encouraging posts and comments of my blogville friends...than it is to steal away and read the encouraging words of my Savior? This is an area I am addressing.

Paul reminds us that our spiritual workout is much more important that our physical training:

"...for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance. For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers. Prescribe and teach these things." 1 Timothy 4:8-11

We are also encouraged to keep our focus on renewing our "inner" being:

"Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day." 2 Corinthians 4:16

It is clear from scripture that this spiritual "workout" calls for a serious commitment and approach, just like the discipline needed by an athlete in training. It is a "no-pain, no-gain" effort! So, I can't wait around for the Spirit to "move me" to approach the throne of grace...any more than an athlete in training would wait for his coach's invitation to "feel like" joining him at the gym. Improving personal character and discipline takes personal commitment, personal effort and personal desire for improvement. Spiritual discipline also takes work, training and dieing to self. I don't always have the "desire" to spend time in the Word in a spiritual "workout" or to serve someone that the Lord has put in my path. But, the rewards are worth the effort....and I am interested in growth.

"And let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we shall reap if we do not grow weary." Galatians 6:9

"...let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith..." Hebrews 12:1-2

The Smallest Island

I am always inspired when I visit Tim Challies blog. I especially appreciated his April 23rd post titled:

Even The Smallest Island.

..."It could well be that the greatest sin I face today is in allowing small sins to pass by scarcely noticed, all the while rejoicing that I do not succumb to the greater sins. Yet if I allow the small sins to pass through my heart and I allow them to take root, it is only a matter of time before small things lead to big things." Tim

Serving One Another

Serving One Another

Fellowship is an interchange of mutual care and concern through the agency of our spiritual gifts. Some of the ways that interchange manifests itself are when we:

Ø Confess our faults to one another (James 5:16)
Ø Edify one another (1 Thes. 5:11; Rom. 14:19)
Ø Bear one another’s burdens (Gal. 6:2)
Ø Pray for one another (James 5:16)
Ø Are kind to one another (Eph. 4:32)
Ø Submit to one another (Eph. 5:21)
Ø Show hospitality to one another (1 Peter 4:9)
Ø Serve one another (Gal. 5:13; 1 Peter 4:10)
Ø Comfort one another (1 Thes. 4:18; 5:11)
Ø Restore one another (Gal. 6:1)
Ø Forgive one another (2Cor. 2:7; Eph. 4:32; Col. 3:13)
Ø Admonish one another (Rom. 15:14; Col. 3:16)
Ø Teach one another (Col. 3:16)
Ø Exhort one another (Heb. 3:13; 10:25
Ø Love one another (Rom. 13:8; 1 Thes. 3:12; 4:9; 1 Peter 1:22; 1 John 3:11, 23; 4:7, 11)

Trust And Move On...

I recently received this daily devotional via email and it struck a cord with me. There are currently things in my life that I need to move forward with... and for various reasons I am choosing to remain "still". I connected with Steve's comment; "But we cannot allow our stillness to make us immobile...The conditions will never feel perfect nor will we ever feel fully prepared." Can anyone else relate to remaining dead center on certain areas of your life? Is it a trust issue... a control issue... a fear issue...?

"Lord... help us to be still in You, rely on You, gather our strength and understanding from You. However, when it's time to move forward, please help us to be bold and step out...fully trusting that You have gone ahead of us and prepared the way. Thank you for your faithfulness!! Amen"

Trust And Move On
Moses received clear instruction as God spoke to him from the burning bush;

"I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt"
(Exodus 3:10).

Moses debated with God regarding his assignment and pushed God to the limit of His patience: "The Lord's anger burned against Moses" (Exodus 4:14). But once he began to follow, Moses maintained a close relationship with God and witnessed His mighty Hand in many different ways. God worked through Moses to bring plagues against the Egyptians and to miraculously bring the Israelites out of Egypt. As Pharaoh released the Israelites and they began their journey into the desert, Moses witnessed more of God's power;

"By day the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light" (Exodus 13:21).

But as the Israelites approached the Red Sea, "Pharaoh and his officials changed their mind" (Exodus 14:5). Every chariot in Egypt was sent to bring the Israelites back. With no escape route in sight, and the Egyptian army closing in, the people cried out to God. Moses tried to calm the people, "The Lord will fight for you: you need only to be still" (Exodus 14:14), but being still was not in God's plan.

"Then the Lord said to Moses, 'Why are you crying out to Me? Tell the Israelites to move on. Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground.'" Exodus 14:15-16

God had been in close communion with Moses. He had given His direction and demonstrated His awesome power. Now at this moment of crisis, God expected Moses to know what to do:

"Why are you crying out to Me...move on!"

We must diligently seek His will in stillness and prepare our life to follow where He leads; "be still and know that He is God" (Psalm 46:10). But we cannot allow our stillness to make us immobile:

"Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap." (Ecclesiastes 11:4)

The conditions will never feel perfect nor will we ever feel fully prepared (beware of a never-ending mission analysis which paralyzes us from action). In the end we must remember:

"If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31)

There will always come a time when God expects us to demonstrate our faith in what He has provided. Let's prepare for that time by drawing near and learning to trust in HIS ability. Let's live with an active faith such that when we know His power, know His provision and know His direction, we are able to trust and move on." Devotional Source: Steve Troxel @ God's Daily Word Ministries

( http://www.gdwm.org/ )

Precious In The Sight Of The Lord...

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His godly ones." Psalm 116:15

Today Brad and I had the privilege of attending the memorial service for a very dear woman who went home to be with her Lord last week. It was wonderful for us to see this family again and share their joy in Eleanor's life, yet mourn with them in the sorrow of our collective loss.

A woman whose life was well lived, given to hospitality, a keeper at home, full of fun and quick to draw others into their family. I couldn't help but be challenged by her godly character traits as they were recounted, one-by-one. I also couldn't help but be saddened by lost opportunity during more recent years when our lives, both busy in our own circles of commitment, have become less intertwined. Their frequent travels have made it more difficult to stay in touch, but I wish I had tried harder. I have thought of them fondly over the months and years, but often failed to relay those sentiments.

Today was a blessing to reconnect with this special family. It was also a "wake-up" call to me how quickly time goes by, and how quickly we can loose touch. Opportunities lost... have encouraged me, hopefully, toward opportunities taken. Who needs to hear from me? Who has the Lord laid on my heart to contact. Will I heed His gentle nudge? Will I take those precious moments to "stay connected" before the door is closed? Will you?

Photo credits: personal files

Sing Unto The Lord...

In thinking through some things that I do to help keep my focus on Christ, I wanted to share with you one of the main resources I use throughout each day. Personalized music CDs! Last year I spent quite a bit of time loading some of my favorite songs onto our computer. The source of these songs were either from CDs we had previously purchased or music we had purchased (downloaded) online from http://www.walmart.com./ I have really enjoyed using Wal-Mart to purchase single songs as the cost is only .88 cents per song and you receive a license to burn each song 10 times to a personal CD. Plus, I use a Wal-Mart gift card to purchase the music-so I don't have to use a credit card or bank card. This way I am only paying for each song I want as opposed to purchasing an entire CD, which is often a "mixed bag" approach.

My idea was to make a collection of music that I could listen to that I LOVED each and every song on the CD. Since the CDs I burned were of music we already had purchased and were for personal use only (not reselling), I felt that we were not violating any copyright issues. (Let me know if I am mistaken on this point) Some of the music CDs we own may only have one or two songs on each CD that I REALLY like and I'd prefer not having to hunt around for the ones that speak to me. Likewise, now I don't have to sort through several CDs to find those few favorite songs. With my personal compilation, I can pop these three CDs in our CD player and have over 3 1/2 hours of Worship Music that ministers to my soul.

This has been a wonderful way for me to Worship the Lord, bring conviction when needed, do an "attitude check" or otherwise focus on spiritual things. I can't tell you how much I have enjoyed liking EVERY song that plays! I need to burn a few more CDs at some point as I think I'm beginning to wear these out!!

I have had friends ask my about my "play list" so I will share it here. Obviously these are some of my personal favorites... so your compilations would look different. I lean towards songs with a "beat" that may be too "rowdy" for some. :-) I took great care in which songs I placed on each album and even the order in which I placed the songs. Each CD has a "theme" to it if you will.

Diane's Music CD’s Play List

Worship CD #1 (Focusing on Christ, His Attributes, Who He is and what He has done for us!!)
Grace Like Rain by Todd Agnew
Majesty by Delirious
More Than a Friend by Jeremy Riddle
Blessed Be Your Name by Matt Redman
Amazing Love by Bebo Norman
King of Glory by Third Day
Your Beloved by By The Tree
You Are So Good To Me by Third Day
This Fragile Breath by Todd Agnew
Something About That Name by Sonicflood
Once Again by Matt Redman
Offering by Third Day
Nothing But The Blood by Tree 63
The Heart of Worship by Matt Redman
Warrior by Ark Angel (Kemper Crabb)
Your’re Everywhere by Third Day

Confessional CD #1 (This is a great selection of music to draw my heart towards God when I am under conviction, or needing deliverance)
Child of His Grace by Hyper Static Union
Confession by Frank Hart
Just Like You by Jadon Lavik
It’s Yours by Jadon Lavik
Wait for Your Rain by Todd Agnew
Deliver Me by David Crowder Bank
You Rescue Me by Mike Theriault
Pierced by Audio Adrenaline
Take Me Back by ?
Audience of One by Big Daddy Weave
Show Me Your Glory by Third Day
Ready For You by Kutless
Father by Jadon Lavik
Thank You for Saving Me by Delirious

Facedown (before the Lord) CD #1 (This collection of songs is my "Waiting on Him" type music, often when I am needing direction, or His leading and intervention)
Oh Lead Me by Delirious
Take Me In by Kutless
Facedown by Matt Redman
Promise of a Lifetime by Kutless
Surrender by Lincoln Brewster
Broken by Lincoln Brewster
Praise You In This Storm by Casting Crowns
The Man You Want Me to Be by Phil Joel (or in my case "the woman" :-)
Hope by Smith Band
Teach me your ways by Mike Theriault
If You Want Me To by Ginny Owens
My Hope Is You by Third Day
Only One Thing by Todd Agnew
Words Of Life by Big Daddy Weave
In You by Mercy Me

Focal Point

"The Lord will always lead you. He will meet the needs of your soul in the dry times and give strength to your body. You will be like a garden that has enough water, like a well of water that never dries up." Isaiah 58:11

Years ago when Brad and I were preparing for the birth of our first child, we attended Lamaze training classes to help educate us on this life-changing event that was about to take place. Three times the Lord blessed us with a precious daughter, each very different, and each very loved! During the challenge of delivering these new lives into the world, I was immensely thankful for those Lamaze classes! One of the most helpful things we learned is that I must have a focal point, something to keep my eye on through the painful birthing process. This focal point allowed me to shut out everything around me and keep my thoughts to the task at hand... giving birth!

This same concept has stayed with me throughout the years in various stages of life. There have been so many times I am caught up in the sometimes painful work of parenting, pruning my character or spiritual growth, and I need reminders to keep my focus on Christ. I need a focal point. At these times I must shut out all other distractions, pain and hindrances and keep focused on the outcome I am praying for. I love Isaiah 58:11.

Do you, like me, ever feel used up, dried up, or fed up? Keep your focus on God, who is eager to meet your needs, to give you strength and to make you a source of refreshment for others.

I purchased this little ceramic watering can years ago as a focal point, a reminder for me. God desires that I become like a well watered garden, an ever lasting supply of water.

Lord, thank you for your faithfulness, even when I take my eyes off of you. May we look to the source of our fruitfulness... and Praise Him!

Scripture source: Isaiah 58:11 (New Life Version)New Life Version (NLV) Copyright © 1969 by Christian Literature International
Photo source: Personal Portfolio

Seeking God...

I have had way too much of an inward focus lately... a topic of great discussion between the Lord and I. I want to focus my thoughts on Him, grow in His grace, and have a servant's heart towards others. I have to admit that these desires desperately need to become actions! Part of the "problem" is physical in nature, (severe anemia & hormonal) but I'm sure most of it is just plain sin and feeling sorry for myself. I am seeking to learn spiritual disciplines that will pull me out of this rut. So.... I don't know if any one who may drop by my blog ever struggles with these issues... but aside from scripture, here are a few resources I have appreciated this week. I am reading two books: Disciplines of a Godly Woman by Barbara Hughes and The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn. I also read two great articles: Dying To Self As A Mother and A Letter To My Sister On Becoming A Mother on a blog I recently visited: Noblewomanhood.com Thanks to another blog I enjoy visiting, Tammy's Kitchen, for the links.
I think I am still missing our little dogs. Last night I made spaghetti and realized that for the first time in 14 years that I did not have two little dogs sitting at my feet shaking with excitement to receive their allotment of cooked spaghetti noodles. However, my husband's rather comical imitation was a fairly close second! :-) Ok Diane, get a grip!!

"Motherhood is the journey out of my own self-centeredness." ~ Author Unknown

An Unexpected Blessing...

The house is quiet as everyone is resting so I have a moment to share with you. I have received an unexpected gift. Not a gift I would have chosen or maybe even welcomed, but it has been, none-the-less, a gift to me this busy Christmas season. The Lord has answered my prayers of helping me to keep my priorities straight, of keeping my focus on what is truly of importance and on what really matters. I once again have recognized the hand of a Loving God and I am praising Him for His faithfulness. Last Friday afternoon my parents called to let me know my 96 year old grandfather had been admitted to the hospital and was in serious condition. I struggled over if and when to book a flight up to Ohio to see him. Saturday morning it became apparent that Grandpa would not be rallying and was instead not expected to live much longer. With Brad's blessing, I immediately booked the first flight out (7pm) hoping to make it in time to have an opportunity to hold his hand one more time and say my good-byes. My sister called around lunch time to let me know that Grandpa had passed from life to ETERNAL LIFE. I was heart broken to have missed saying good-bye. I began to focus on being thankful for our recent visit 2 months ago when I did have a chance to sit, one last time with grandpa...talk, laugh, hold his hand and tell him I loved him. Our visit is a good memory. I had a few hours to straighten up our home, gather some photos of grandpa, pack and make it to the airport in good time, headed for Ohio. The last four days have been filled with family time that has refreshed my soul as we have talked, laughed, cried, hugged and enjoyed the preciousness of the life the Lord has given us together. For those of you that know me, you understand what a testament to God's faithfulness it is that our family enjoys such a close and loving relationship. At times it overwhelms me when we are together. Coming from a "blended family", we have had our share of challenges and growing to do in order to reach this point of bonding and connectedness. So my gift this Christmas did not include being able to cross things of my "to do" list, having every gift purchased and wrapped, Christmas baking done, or to have our house put back together and beautifully decorated. It has been the gift of being surrounded by my extended family, sharing in our love for each other as we mourn our loss and celebrate life. My brother officiated at grandpa's funeral today and his words were a blessing to all. Forty-one family members enjoyed lunch together...what a treat to re-connect with extended family, many of whom I have not seen for years. Family gathered at the cemetery this afternoon as we paid our final respects to my Father's Father. It was emotional for me at a deeper level as my memories flooded back over the years when we have stood in this same place and said our good-byes to three other family members. The most difficult for me, of course, was the memory of being a 14 year old girl and laying to rest the body of my mother. I began to learn then that some things in life just have to be accepted by faith. Today I was looking at the grave sites of three generations, four special people...and each loved in a special way. Tomorrow I return home to Texas, again surrounded by family who love each other. Ashley and Casey will arrive into town two hours after I do, so I am thankful all seven of us will be together this Christmas to celebrate Christ's birth and our love for each other. I pray that you will have a Blessed Christmas this year as you celebrate "God With Us". In Loving Memory of my Grandfather.

The Rest Of The Story...

And now….THE REST OF THE STORY…
(continued from yesterday's post...read that one first :-) Although each and every aspect of my last post is quite factual…it was actually a little more “complex” than the picture I have painted you. Here is the rest of the story…

The morning of our departure had arrived…too early I might add, after getting only about 90 minutes of sleep before the alarm awoke me to reality. Please don’t write me about what a dumb idea it was to stay up until 3:00 a.m. the night before a getaway with my DH. I won’t bore you with all the details of why I only got 1 ½ hours of sleep the night before our trip, but let’s just say preparations for this trip and the following trip to Ohio took much longer than anticipated. I was mad at myself for not having my act together (www.flylady.com style), and not accomplishing all the things I wanted before leaving on our 3 weeks of upcoming travels. At least I was proud of myself for pulling life together enough to be packed and ready to leave at 5:30 a.m. to accompany DH on the drive to Galveston. I came SO close to staying behind to complete my pre-travel “TO DO LIST”. I also felt badly that we had to wake up Erin & Micah at 6:00 a.m. so we could drop off our two geriatric dogs for them to watch while we were traveling. You can’t leave a 15 year old, three-legged, diaper wearing dog with just anyone you know. Anyways, that task should have been taken care of the night before. We made the trip to Galveston without event and got checked in to our room in a timely manner. Brad was required to go directly to his first meeting of the day, so I settled in for my first day alone in our hotel room. I noticed our “own private balcony, offering a magnificent, unobscured view of the Gulf of Mexico” was not exactly a correct evaluation of our particular room. Had we been located a few floors higher, I’m sure the description would have been accurate. Our balcony, on the other hand, actually overlooked the roof of the hotel entryway. If you looked off to the right, the only thing you could see was the roof and the larger-than-life air conditioning system for the hotel. Off to the left, beyond the roofline and a row of palm trees, we could indeed catch a glimpse of the Gulf of Mexico and the sky line. As for the “private balcony” part…I decided I didn’t particularly enjoy having a rather steady stream of male workers walking around on the roof directly outside our balcony doors most of the morning, so I closed the curtains. So much for our “magnificent view”. Now remember, we were preparing to be out of town for three weeks, so one of the things I needed to make sure that I had completed was to pay every bill that was due or would be due while we were gone. In order to accomplish this noble task, I had brought a pile of bills, bank statements, insurance stuff, lap-top computer, calculator and whatever else I could catch up on from this remote location. I spent the morning sitting on the bed surrounded by paperwork. I would, from time to time, flip on the TV to see what diversions it had to offer. If I wasn’t depressed before, I certainly had reason to become so after watching report after report on a senseless mass murder at an Amish school house in PA. My heart ached for those families faced with such tragedy. A bright spot in my day was when Brad popped in for a few minutes after lunch to say “hi”. I made the mistake of asking if he had eaten lunch yet, after which I received a tantalizing description of the oriental cuisine he had previously enjoyed. Since all I had eaten that morning was a rice cake spread with peanut butter, (a cost cutting effort on my part) I decided it was time for a break and a trip out to find something decent to eat. I’ve never been one to enjoy eating alone in a restaurant (it feels so lonely), so I resigned myself to drive through a local McDonald’s to pick up something to appease my growing hunger. Big mistake. Being in Galveston, I was craving sea food…so I ordered the fish filet meal deal. To be honest, at times I have actually enjoyed a McDonald’s fish sandwich; however, this was not one of those times. The sandwich was cold and dried out and the French fries didn’t fare much better. I returned to our hotel room regretting my decision to “treat” myself to an outing. I placed myself back on the bed to faithfully continue working through my piles of paperwork, with intermittent breaks for seeing if there was anything of value to watch on TV. Since we don’t watch TV at home, I thought this might be a fun diversion to my task at hand of completing unfinished paperwork. It was not the fun diversion I was hoping for. Late afternoon Brad arrived back in our room with enough time for us to enjoy a short walk along the beach before he headed back for his next session. Although Brad had told me the first night he would be tied up with work, I kept thinking we would be able to catch dinner together and take a late night stroll along the sea wall upon his return. In reality, he didn’t get back to our room until around 8pm, at which time he informed me they had provided a nice steak dinner for them during the evening session. Furthermore, to add insult to injury, he said they had scheduled a dinner outing for everyone the following night and he thought I might be able to attend. Never mind that I was holding out that evening as our one night in Galveston where we could enjoy a romantic date alone. Then he made the mistake of asking me if I had had fun that day. I’m afraid “fun” wasn’t in my vocabulary to describe my experiences of the day. I was operating on very little sleep, I had eaten only a peanut butter rice cake and dried up fish sandwich all day so I was hungry. I was also feeling rather cooped up in our hotel room and frustrated that it had taken so much time that day to work through my large pile of backlogged paperwork......and basically having a pitty party. No, “fun” was not how I would describe the events of my day. It was at that time that I decided maybe I needed an attitude check and a good night’s sleep. The day ended with prayers for a better day tomorrow.
We got out of bed around 6:30 a.m. and headed for the beach with camera equipment in tow. Since Brad had to be at his first session at 7:30, I ended up dropping him back by the conference center/resort and returning to the beach by myself. Although I had missed the sun rise by about ten minutes, I was still able to catch some great shots and spend about an hour capturing different highlights of God’s creation.

It was on the beach that I made a conscious decision to change my negative attitude and decided to work towards feeling productive and enjoying my beautiful surroundings. I loaded up my camera equipment in our van and headed back to the hotel. From there I grabbed a book and walked next door to the IHOP restaurant where I ordered a wonderful breakfast. I was still outside of my comfort zone to sit at a table by myself at a restaurant, but I had a nice view out the window and was able to read a few chapters in the book I had brought with me. After lingering over my food and book, I returned to our hotel room and settled in for the day. I finished up my paperwork and did some research on the computer that I had been delaying. I had intended to complete the job of editing wedding pictures I had recently taken at a dear friend’s wedding. It became apparent that I would be unable to tackle that task due to the limitations of the laptop computer I was using. That was very disappointing, but I continued to keep my attitude in check so I wouldn’t become frustrated. Brad arrived to pick me up at 5:30 so we could head on over to the chartered bus that was taking the group to dinner that evening. Although sitting at a table full of men who were discussing oil related business talk wasn’t my idea of a romantic date out, I focused on being thankful that we were provided with such a nice dinner at no cost to us, and that we were together. The remainder of our time in Galveston was uneventful and I was could once again appreciate the ministry of the Holy Spirit in my life and the privilege to call upon Him when I need a fresh approach to my expectations

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Views along Galveston beach...Gulf Of Mexico, October 2006

Forgiveness is hard work

World magazine had a great read on forgiveness by Andree Seu: http://www.worldmag.com/articles/12263

I'm On A Quest...Please Help!!

A dear neighbor and I were talking yesterday about the privilege of being homemakers and the blessing of having husbands that enthusiastically support our efforts at home. Also, how society in general does little to encourage women who have chosen mothering and homemaking as their full-time career. My friend expressed an interest in pursuing further study on the spiritual / Biblical growth of women in such a position. Although I've read some great books on the topic in the past, I haven't perused the bookshelves recently to see what is available. I know one book that seems to be popular in the bookstores right now is; Captivating, by John & Stasi Eldredge. Although I have not personally read their books (also Wild At Heart), I know several people who have enjoyed the Eldredge's writings. I actually ordered Captivating to explore whether this book would work for our study, but now have concerns after doing a little research and reading the following reviews: Read here and here. So, although I have my own "favorites" list, I would love to hear from you any input on what you consider the very best book for encouraging women in their role as: believer, wife, mother, friend...all from a strong / solid Biblical world view. (Preferably using alot of scripture throughout the book-or a Bible study that focuses on women) Thanks so much!! Blessings, Diane

It's all about me...or is it...

Have you ever been sitting in church when you quickly realize the Pastor probably got his inspiration for this week's sermon while sitting in your back yard? You know, just like in the movies where the stalker hides behind a tree and points one of those "guns" at your house that allows him to listen to every word, thought and deed of the inhabitants? Scary thought. That happened to me a few weeks ago while attending church with our daughter and son-in-love. Actually, as the Pastor talked; I waited for his first illustration to flash up on the overhead screen with a full blown picture of me...complete with name and address. Let's be fair...I had endured, what I consider, an unusually bad hormonal week (you women in "mid-life" know what I mean). I was convinced that anything that had breath was specifically put on this earth just to irritate me. Actually, the irritation didn't even have to be breathing; the unfinished remodeling of our home, un-ironed clothes, dirt on the floor, piles of items stacked around a room where I am in the midst of decluttering and organizing the closets... you name it and it qualified as an irritant. Anyways, you get the picture. So, the title of his sermon was “It’s NOT about me”. Ouch! I’m afraid I’d been having a major “It’s all about me” week; complete with justification for each frustration I had recently voiced to anyone who would listen. (and some who wouldn’t) The Pastor’s words gently turned our thoughts to John 13 where Jesus’ example of servant hood is aptly taught. We were reminded of how Jesus set aside his position and knelt before Peter to serve him by washing his feet, thus fulfilling the job of the lowliest servant. Lesson: Our SERVICE is superior to our status. We were also challenged to consider if our "busyness" robs us of our blessings. In other words, does my agenda keep me from serving and get in God’s way? Sometimes we just need to do what needs to be done and not just what brings me comfort. Double Ouch! I had spent the week feeling burned out, put upon and unwilling to serve my family. In fact, more than once that week I had been complaining about ways that they should be serving me! I could quickly see it was one of those weeks that the Lord was speaking directly to me; it was providential that I was there and I was thankful the words were falling on an open heart. Thank you Lord for speaking to my frustrated heart. Thank you for caring enough to “grow me up” in You. Thank you for your example of humbling yourself before others and teaching me to do the same. What a small world it would be, if it were all about me!

“And so when He had washed their feet, and taken His garments, and reclined at table again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call Me Teacher and Lord; and you are right; for so I am. If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master; neither one who is sent greater than the one who sent them. If you know these things you are blessed if you do them.” John 13:12-17

A Mother Who Prays...

I recently ran across this poem I had slipped into the pages of my Bible some time ago. It is a wonderful reminder for me to be committed to praying for our children. Also, to be thankful that Brad and I have parents who pray for us! Lord, thank you for this gentle reminder to lift up those I love!

A Mother Who Prays
Some have had kings in their lineage,
Some to who honor was paid.
Not blest of my ancestors-but,
I have a mother who prays!

I have a mother who prays for me
And pleads with the Lord every day for me.
Oh what a difference it makes for me,
I have a mother who prays!

Some have worldly success,
and trust in riches they've made.
This is my surest asset,
I have a mother who prays.

My mother's prayers cannot save me,
Only mine can avail;
But mother introduced me to Someone-
Someone who never could fail.

Oh Yes...I have a mother who prays for me,
And pleads with the Lord every day for me.
Oh what a difference it makes for me-
I have a mother who prays!

I'm sorry I don't have the authors name to give credit to... but none-the-less... what a great reminder for us to take our own children before the throne! Even if you don't have believing parents to cover you in prayer...you can become that prayer warrior for someone else!

God's Daily Word

I just discovered this site and it looks like it will be such an encouragement to focus daily on scripture. Check it out here. I especially appreciated the post titled: The Cry of Our Heart. I couldn't get the link to work...so just do a "search" for it within the site. :-) Blessings, Diane