Dancing on their Face

 

 Alyssa, Kyle and Mom --1999

Today's verse: "The life of the godly is full of light and joy, but the light of the wicked will be snuffed out."  Proverbs 13:9

You know, when you can't find a good campfire, a candle is a pretty good substitute to roast marshmallows.  Just ask my kids.  We've roasted many a marshmallow by candlelight.  Of course, you miss the smell of the campfire, and the charcoal flavor that mingles with the sugary mess. 

I love to watch my children as they sit around the campfire.  I become mesmerized by the reflection of light dancing on their faces.  It just makes them glow.  At the same time, there's something about a campfire that brings great delight and joy to those sitting around it's edges.  Somehow, its infectious.

I think God's children reflect the beauty of His light in their lives, especially when they spend precious time in His presence.  His light shines in their compassion towards others, or in their acts of service or random acts of kindness.  His light shines through their words of encouragement, and in their attitudes about life.  He can be seen in beautiful ways.  God is infectious.

I love seeing God shine brightly in others.  I'm guessing that those who don't know Him in a personal way, are also attracted to the light and joy on the faces of God's children. They can't help but wonder about the peace that exudes from our lives, and want to know how they can have it too.  We can shine Jesus to the world around us.

I pray that the reflection of Christ's light lives in my children's lives, and that it dances on their faces in beautiful ways.

Lord, you are the light of the world, and you will not be hidden.  Whoever follows you will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.  Oh, Lord, dispel the darkness of this world.  Fill every corner of my children's hearts and minds with your light.  Shine in their faces, and help them reflect you to the world around them that is living in darkness.  May the joy they have because of your presence in their lives, overflow in their relationships, in their ministries, and in every aspect of their lives.  Lord, I pray that I will always see you dancing in their faces.

At Home in His Arms

 

Papa and Alyssa 1999

Landmark, Idaho

Psalm 91
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High

       will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress,
       my God, in whom I trust."

Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare
       and from the deadly pestilence.

He will cover you with his feathers,
       and under his wings you will find refuge;
       his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

You will not fear the terror of night,
       nor the arrow that flies by day,

 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,
       nor the plague that destroys at midday.

A thousand may fall at your side,
       ten thousand at your right hand,
       but it will not come near you.

You will only observe with your eyes
       and see the punishment of the wicked.

If you make the Most High your dwelling—
       even the LORD, who is my refuge-

 then no harm will befall you,
       no disaster will come near your tent.

For he will command his angels concerning you
       to guard you in all your ways;

they will lift you up in their hands,
       so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.

You will tread upon the lion and the cobra;
       you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

 "Because he loves me," says the Lord, "I will rescue him;
       I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.

 He will call upon me, and I will answer him;
       I will be with him in trouble,
       I will deliver him and honor him.

With long life will I satisfy him
       and show him my salvation."

Lord, there is such rest in the shelter of your arms.  Like a father, you are our refuge and fortress.  I pray that my children fall in love with you, and you will be their mighty rescuer.  Thank you for protecting them when they acknowledge your name.  When they call on you, you Lord, will answer them.  You will be with them in trouble, and you will deliver them and honor them.  Lord, satisfy my children with long life, and show them your salvation.  From today forward, may you be their God, and my they be your children.  Wrap your arms around them and always be their shield, their shelter, and their refuge.  Oh, what a sweet place to be at home.

Cry Out to Jesus

 

Kyle--2 Years Old

Today's verse:  "He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them."  Psalm 145:19

Oh, how I hated those times I would take my little ones to the grocery store and they would find something that they just HAD to have, and because I would say "no" a temper tantrum would ensue.  It still happens once in a while, but the temper tantrums just look a little different. 

Don't we all throw temper tantrums once in a while when things don't go the way we want?  I know that I do.  Part of growing up is learning to be content, no matter our circumstances, with whatever we receive in life.  Growing up sometimes means practicing patience and learning how to wait. 

I know there are days when I want to throw myself on the floor and have a good tantrum.  Who doesn't?  I find it harder, but much more rewarding, to go to God with my complaints and tears. Prayer brings the peace my heart needs. 

Just cry out to Jesus!

Lord, you know the deep desires of our hearts.  You know the big and little things that we long and hope for.  I believe that you're a God who wants to bless my children, and give them the desires of their hearts, when they choose to seek you.  Lord, when there are disappointments in their life, I pray that they cry out to you, and when there are hopes and dreams they long to be fulfilled, I pray that they seek you with all their hearts.  Lord, you love your children with an unfailing, unending love, and just like a parent, you want to shower them with blessing.  Show them the wide open door, where they can enter into your presence, seek your face, and cry out their hearts to you.  You are a precious, loving God, and I stand in awe of you today. 

Thankful Thursday: Talents and GIfts

Today's verse:  "The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O Lord, endures forever—do not abandon the works of your hands."  Psalm 138:8

I love watching my kids show signs of their passions and talents.  I don't know where God will lead them, and how He will use their gifts and talents, but I'm proud of who they are becoming.  God's got something big planned for them!

I'm thankful for my daughter's gift of photography.  I love seeing the world through her eyes, and I stand in awe of what comes out of camera!

And I love my son's ability to handle any kind of sport, with grace and agility!  I always say he takes after me...not!

I'm thankful for my children, and the beautiful ways God has created them.  Each different in their own way.  Each reflecting God's hand in their life.

Who knows what the future holds for their lives, but I do know that God will not abandon the work of His hands!


Lord, you have gifted my children in beautiful ways, and I love watching their talents and abilities unfold as they grow.  Thank you for making each one of them in beautiful ways, each reflecting your wonderful, creative hand.  Continue, Lord, to be on the move in their lives, molding and making them into who you want them to be.  Help them to recognize how they can use the gifts and talents you've given them to bless others, and glorify you.  I pray that they magnify you in all that they do!  Lord, fulfill your purpose in my children's lives.  Oh, how I can't wait to see your plan for them unfold!

Seeing Jesus Clearly

Oregon Coast 1998

Today's verse:  "I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me."  Proverbs 8:17

I love this picture of Kyle and Grammy. I love Kyle's blonde, blonde hair, his little legs, that curled up hand and puckered lip, and his little man outfit.  So cute he was!  I also love the intense look on his face as he tries to peer out the binoculars to the beautiful ocean.

I think this happened to be the same day that Ken was intently looking out his own binoculars, and didn't realize that there were seagulls flying overhead, until...

You guessed it!  He was marked by a wonderful shower of seagull poop.  Oh the smell!  It's a day we'll never let him live down, that's for sure!

We all took turns looking through the binoculars that day, hoping to focus on something awesome out in the great mass of water (and none of the rest of us experienced the seagull shower!).  It's amazing how those things work, allowing us to see things that we wouldn't normally be able to see with our naked eye.  They magnify in such a way that you can see such intricate details, and the beautiful design of God's creation.

God's Word is like that!  It shows us clearly, when we choose to take a look, the God who loves His children.  It helps us to see an accurate and beautiful picture of God's plan for this world.  How can we help but not fall deeper in love with Him, when we get to know Him more? 

Seek Him through His Word, my precious children, and you WILL find Him!

Lord, what a promise that your children can hold onto!  When we seek you, you will not remain hidden from us, but we are guaranteed that we will find you!  What a gift that is to hold onto.  Your Word is like a telescope, and when we look into it, you become magnified and we can see you more clearly.  Every intimate detail of your plan from the beginning of time, and how you love your children, and provide a way for us to draw near to you, can be found within the pages of Scripture.  We just need to be willing to take a look, and fix our eyes on you.  Lord, I pray that my children fall in love with You and Your Word, and choose daily to dig deep and seek you with all their hearts.  Within those moments I pray that they find the great treasures you have just for them, and they find you. 

The Best Policy

Today's verse:  "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much."  Luke 16:10-11

Every day my children have the opportunity to choose truth or lies.  In their schoolwork, in conversation with others, when they are left home alone, or as they are out and about with friends, I pray that honesty is always their first response. One moment of dishonesty can deteriorate trust in any relationship.  Telling a little white lie here or there, may be the easiest way to go to stay out of hot water, but in the end it really could cause great damage. 

"Those who think it is permissible to tell white lies 

soon grow color-blind."  ~Austin O'Malley

Honesty is vital for healthy relationships, successful careers, and a peace within themselves.  Some days, it will take much effort to choose being honest and truthful, but I don't believe my children will ever regret doing the better and right thing.

I pray that trust and honesty mark my children's lives...with every decision and in every day.

Lord, I pray that truth and honesty is always a part of the fabric of my children’s lives. Holy Spirit, guide and lead them into living lives that please you. May honesty be forever on their lips. May they choose honesty in the decisions they make, with the conversations they have, and in every action they take.  Give them the strength when it seems to be the hard thing to do, and peace when fear tempts them to walk the other way. Lord, I pray that they will find your strength and help, when they choose honesty, integrity, and truthfulness. May they always put their hope in you. Honesty is a trademark that I pray they wear with pride.

Spirit of Truth

Today's verse:  "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth."  John 16:13

And they're off! Another week begins; classes, lectures, assignments, projects, tests and quizzes.   I'm praying that my kids find great joy in learning.  There's so much to intake and soak up. 

One night last week as we were watching the Olympics, Alyssa happened to notice a progression of apes on one of the athlete's helmet, and wondered why someone would have a symbol of evolution on his head.  Though I didn't know the answer to that question, it began a conversation with my kids about what they've been taught in school in regards to creation and evolution.  I was reminded that my kids are being passed information and opinions all the the time...as they sit in a classroom, watch television, chat with their friends, and go to church.  Opinions that sometimes scare me.

Not everything that my children will be taught in school will be truth, and unfortunately not everything they will even be taught at church will be truth.  I worry often, as I teach Women's Bible Study, if I give an accurate picture of God and speak truth about who He is.  Fortunately, we have a God who wants to guide His children towards His Truth.  He bestows upon us His Spirit to help us sift through everything being thrown in our direction, helping us to pick-up and hold onto what's truth. 

I'm so thankful that includes my children.  Seek the truth always, dear ones.  Be aware of God's Spirit guiding you day by day!

Lord, you are the Spirit of truth, and I know that you will guide my children into all truth.  Even today, dear Jesus, help them decipher between what's right or wrong, truth or false, of You or from the enemy.  As they are out in the world, help them to be shrewd as snakes and innocent as doves.  Help make their eyes able to see what's your truth in everything they are taught.  Help make their ears recognize your Spirit guiding and leading them every day.  You are truth, precious Lord, and I give you thanks.

Holy Mouths

My Dear Precious Babies,

Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift.Don't grieve God. Don't break his heart. His Holy Spirit, moving and breathing in you, is the most intimate part of your life, making you fit for himself. Don't take such a gift for granted.  Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, profane talk. Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you. 

Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn't love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that.

I love you!
Mom

(Ephesians 4:29-5:2 The Message)

God's Gold Medal

Today's verse:  "Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession—to the praise of his glory."  Ephesians 1:13-14

I have committed my Saturdays to praying for my children's sweet salvation.  Of all the things that I am praying for, in regards to my chidren's lives, this is the greatest.

We've spent many hours over the last week watching the Winter Olympics.  My favorite moments are the ones where an Olympian has discovered they have won the gold medal.  What a feeling of exhilaration that must be.  My next favorite moment is when the winners are on the podium and are given their precious prize. 

It kind of reminds me of the verse in Ephesians 1 (listed above), where Paul writes about the moment where one believes in God, and they are marked with a seal, which is the Holy Spirit.  Can you just picture it being like that of us bending over and God placing over our head the gift of the Spirit?  It marking us as winners, forever and ever, and as believers in Him.  The Holy Spirit is a deposit guaranteeing our relationship with Him.  Our life is so much richer with the presence of the Holy Spirit, which guides us, teaches us, provides power, and enlightens God's Word for us.

Kyle has won many trophies as he has played baseball, and they each remind him of a winning moment in his life.  The only thing is, they sit around and collect dust.  Oh joy!  Sure, they remind him a moment of pride and joy, but they will never change his life in the way that the Holy Spirit can.  So, I'll keep praying that he runs his race well, by accepting Christ as his Savior, and win the greatest prize of all!

Lord, having believed, we are marked in you with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are your possession—to the praise of his glory.  I pray, dear Jesus, that my children will believe in you with all their heart, mind and soul, living in the fullness of your presence in their lives.  I pray that they will be the winners of your precious Holy Spirit, which is one of the greatest gifts of all.  May my children call on your name, and take great delight in you, Lord!  Robe them with your salvation, righteousness, grace and love.  Oh what a day of rejoicing that will be!

God is Bigger

 

Today's verse:  "When I am afraid, I will trust in you."  Psalm 56:3

Bedtime has always been a challenge in our house.  Since the day Alyssa was born, it has been the hardest part of this mother's day.  Now that my kids are 15 and 13, it's much easier, just much later.  I think I'll be tired until they leave home.

One of our bedtime challenges had to do with the light...a nightlight would not do the trick.  I'm not sure I ever came to realize what fear was driving Alyssa's need to always have a light on when she slept...the BIG light.  Our neighbors were always concerned that she just stayed up all hours of the night.  We would try to turn off her light as we headed to bed ourselves, but sometimes we would get "caught" and reprimanded, or Alyssa would wake up later and turn it on again.  I'm assuming that light dispelled some fears.

Oddly enough, today she wants to sleep in complete darkness.  I'm so glad she grew out of whatever fear was plaguing her back then.

Our lives are full of different fears.  Some rational, and some not.  My fear of mice is probably a bit irrational, but it's still a fear.  I pray, that whatever the fear, my children will put their trust in God, and look to Him for peace and strength.  He is bigger than any of their fears. He will be their light, in the darkness.   

Veggietales says it best with this song...

God is bigger than the boogie man
He's bigger than Godzilla, or the monsters on TV
Oh, God is bigger than the boogie man
And He's watching out for you and me.

  
Lord, you are a big God.  You are always present, You are faithful, and You love your children.  Who better can we trust?  Lord, help us to put our trust in you, and not be afraid.  Help us to keep our eyes fixed on you, when other things cloud our vision.  Lord, when my children find themselves fearful, help them to look to you for peace and strength.  Help keep them from letting fears dictate their decisions, relationships with others, or their ability to do whatever you call them to do.  I know you take some of our fears away, and others you help us face.  Lord, I know that my children can do anything with you by their side.  Be their strength, their hope, and their peace.  Trust is built through relationship and time, so I pray that they press on to know you better and believe in you as God of their lives.  Thank you, Lord, for being bigger than any boogie man! 

Thankful Thursday: Words of Healing

 

Today's verse:  "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?  I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland."  Isaiah 43:18-19

Yesterday a friend said "I'm sorry".  I didn't really know how much I needed to hear those words, or how healing they would be to my heart.  The hurt was from long ago, yet I realized that it can never be too late to hear (or say) the words.

I'm thankful today that God made a way for such healing.  It could be the beginning of a "new thing".

Lord, the words "I'm sorry" are so powerful, yet so often I find myself struggling to say those words.  Help those words to flow easily from my mouth...to you, to my family, and to anyone I may have hurt.  Thank you, Lord, that you help me "forget the former things" and not dwell on the past.  I am excited to see You doing a "new thing" in my life.  Continue to impress on me the need for forgiveness and humility in my relationships.  What rich lessons that my children will need to learn as well.  Help them, Lord, be  free with their apologies and forgiveness.  Though the lessons are not always fun, they always have the opportunity to make us stronger, more beautiful sons and daughters of You.  Thank you, Lord, for the gift of healing and making new.

God in 3-D

Today's verse:  "The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes."  Psalm 19:8

I remember the awe that came across my kid's faces the first time I took them to a 3-D movie.  If I remember right, it was "Spy Kids 3-D".  Oh the awe when they put those funky glasses on, and all of a sudden objects began to appear in front of their faces.  Those glasses brought the movie to life in a way that they'd never experienced before. 

I want God's Word to bring awe just like that, and change the way they look at the Lord.  I think that when they spend time reading, studying, and pondering His Word, God will come to life in a tremendously beautiful way, and He will suddenly "pop" in front of their faces...so close that they can just reach out and touch Him.

Don't let your Bible be dust collectors, dear children, because it holds a gift that will bring joy to your hearts!

Lord, your Word is so precious to me, and I want my children to experience such joy when they open it's pages as well.  Your Word is living and active and can change their lives in amazing ways.  Help the words become alive to them each time they read your Word, bringing understanding, hope, and a deep abiding love for You.  Help them to hear you speak personally every time they come to your Word.  Lord, your Word will bring joy to their heart, and light to their eyes.  May my children fall in love with your Word, and have a lifelong relationship of studying it, pondering the pages, and living in the hope that they find there.  You speak in beautiful ways to your children, Lord, and the Bible is just one of those ways.  May it become my children's greatest treasure!

No Words Needed

Today's verse:   "Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do."  Philippians 4:4-5

Be the Best Friend

 

Alyssa & Dani--Midwinter 2009

Today's verse:  "If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!"  Ecclesiastes 4:10

Friends can bring great joy,
and deep heartache.
Sometimes even in the same day.

Just yesterday, I watched that story unfold in my daughter's life.
Deep and life giving laughter one moment.
Uncontrollable tears the next.

Hurt came easily.
Words even sharp and too honest at times.
But a willingness to work through the pain.
Talking and listening.
Both important to the mending.

Friends give life and meaning to who we are.
Friends give encouragement to strive beyond our doubts and fears.
Friends give light to our dark days.

To have a friend like that is priceless.
To be a friend like that takes sacrifice and effort,
but blesses two.
You and
Your friend.

So love deeply, dear children.
Give abundantly.
Forgive always.
Laugh hard.
Comfort the tears.
Accept the differences.
Enjoy the similarities.Be the best.

And rejoice in such a beautiful gift!

Lord, thank you for the friends you have enriched my life with.  Friends can bring such joy and pleasure in our lives.  I pray that my children find friends in their lives that spur them on in their lives.  Friends that encourage them when they are down, forgive them when they are wrong, and love them even when they are unlovely.  Above all, however, I pray that my kids learn to be that kind of friend.  I pray that they love deeply, forgive easily, and give abundantly to the friends in their lives.  Friendship takes work, and I pray that they are willing to do the hard work of being a good friend.  May they shine you, dear Jesus, in their friendships, and lead others towards you.  When their friends need guidance, may my kids lead them to your Word.  When they need hope, may my kids lead them to prayer.  And when there is hurt, and forgiveness comes hard, may they look to you for strength.  Friendships enrich our lives, but to have a good friend, they need to be a good friend.  Help them, Lord, to be a good friend.

Happy Valentines Day!

Today's verse:  "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh."  Genesis 2:24

"Marriage is not a noun, it's a verb.  

It isn't something you get.  It's something you do.  

It's the way you love your partner every day." 

-- Barbara De Angelis

Valentine's Day is the perfect day to celebrate the love of my life!  God has truly blessed me.  We met 22 years ago, and have been dancing together through life ever since.  Of course, in the 20 years since we've been married there have been ups and downs, but with God by our side, our love has always remained.  Here's to another 20 years.  I love you, Ken!

In reality my kids aren't too far from the days when they will be thinking about marriage, and finding their life mates.  Soon Valentine's Day will be a day worth celebrating, because they will have someone to celebrate with.  I'm praying for them to find the mate God has planned just for them, and that they choose to work hard throughout their lifetime to love their spouse deeply.  I long for them to live in deep happiness, and in marriages that are strong, healthy, and committed for the long haul.  One day, I hope they will be celebrating a marriage that has lasted 20 years or more!

Valentines Day is a good day to reflect on past memories, celebrate present love, and hope for a strong futures...ours and our kids!

Lord, you have blessed my life richly with a wonderful husband and a marriage that brings me much happiness.  You knew the man who would be perfect for me, and you brought us together in beautiful fashion.  Sure, we have struggles and ups and downs, but you are always there pushing us to be better, to look to you for guidance, and lean on you for understanding.  Lord, I pray that my children find the mates that you have designed perfectly for them.  Mates that will love them deeply, be willing to work through the hard things, always be faithful, and live their lives devoted to you.  I pray that my kids have marriages that are full of love, happiness, peace, contentment, and respect.  Begin preparing them, and their future spouses, for a beautiful adventure, with you by their side. 

Looking Like Your Father

 

My babies...1997

Today's verse:  "But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God."  John 1:12

I love my babies...and though they are now almost 16 and 13, they will forever be my pride and joy.  I'm not sure how much they appreciate it, but they each resemble their parents in little ways. 

When talking about his athletic ability, I always tell Kyle that he takes after me (not true, but it always gets a laugh!).
Others often say Alyssa and I have look a lot alike...in the eyes, and maybe the smile.
Kyle has his dad's sense of humor...of course, now that I think about it, so does Alyssa.
Alyssa has her dad's brains and a memory that I cannot compete with.
And of course, I think both kids have Ken's toes.  Poor things.
The each have inherited their parent's poor eye-sight.
And took after their parents childhood shyness.

They are their parent's children.  Sorry kids, you will always have your parent's genes.

However, more importantly my children are truly God's children.  As they choose to accept and believe in Him, they will inherit all that comes with being a child of their Heavenly Father. They will begin to take on His character and beauty, and enjoy the rich reward of His salvation.  Oh, what a rich heritage!

I'm so glad that they have a chance to look more like their Father, than me!

Lord, you are my Father and I am your daughter.  The most indescribable gift, for sure.  I thank you for the beautiful children you have blessed me with.  Every day I am amazed at how you've wonderfully created them, each with a uniqueness all their own.  Thank you for their gifts and talents, and for the ways I see them reflecting you, as their Father.  Lord, to all who believe in you, and accept you, you have given the right to become your child.  You offer an inheritance that can't be beat!  I pray that my children accept your presence in their lives, and live every day reflecting their true parentage.  You are our wonderful Father.  May we each look more like you!

Believing God

 

Today's verse:  "For nothing is impossible with God."  Luke 1:37

Last night Kyle was at the end of his rope and feeling a little stressed about things.  Basketball, baseball, school, heading out of town this weekend, and a pulled muscle on top of everything else.  Even after a few hugs, and an encouraging pep talk, he still felt unsettled.  Moments later I notice he had written on his Facebook status "Luke 1:37"..."For nothing is impossible with God."  I think he must have had a moment where he turned to God for the strength he so needed!

Oh, what a beautiful sight for this mother to see!

Today I'm rejoicing because... 
It shows his belief in our amazing God.
It shows his trust that God will help him through hard times.
It shows he knows Scripture, and believes that it holds truth.
It shows he is not ashamed of his love for God, and is willing to tell his friends.
  
"For nothing is impossible with God."

Lord, what a beautiful reminder of your presence in my family's life, and of the things you are teaching my children.  I thank you, Lord, that you have a hold on my children's lives, and you're not going to let go.  I know that you will continue to pursue the, teach them, lead them, and love them in amazing ways.  Thank you for the promise that nothing is impossible with you, and that it is imprinted on my child's heart.  I know that each of my children will experience hard days in their lives, but I pray that they will always believe that with you by their side, they can handle everything, do anything, and live life in confidence because you are with them.  Oh to know that my children are growing in their faith, and not ashamed to tell the world that they love you!  Today, I am rejoicing in a big way! 

Thankful Thursday: Adult Advocates & Allies

Today's verse:  "One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts."  Psalm 145:4

Parenting is not a lone sport.  When it is said that it takes a village to raise a child, I think I'd have to agree in a big way.  I'm especially thankful for the other adults in my children's lives that are advocates for faith, and are helping lead them closer to Christ.  They are many...Youth workers, Sunday school teachers, friends, and even their grandparents.

I thought of honoring each of them by showing you their picture, but the list became long, and I'd hate to miss someone.  Even those who may not play big parts in their lives, can still have a tremendous impact on their spiritual walk, self-image, future career, who they date/marry, or their outlook on life. No pressure or anything! 

There are wonderful advocates and allies everywhere! 
My heart is full of thanks!

Lord, you have blessed my children's lives with so many special people, and you are using them in mighty ways.  Each moment they spend with Alyssa and Kyle, is a moment where they have the opportunity to commend Your works, and tell of your mighty acts, helping draw them in to a personal relationship with you.  Thank you for so many who radiate You living in their lives, and can't help but pass that passion onto my kids.  I'm thankful for the time these people invest in so many lives, showing friendship, giving encouragement, lending a listening ear, and sharing wisdom...all helping develop my kids into adults who live for You.  Thank you, that I don't parent alone, and thank you that my kids have theses special friendships in their lives.  You have richly blessed our lives!

Dependent Decision Makers

Today's verse:  "The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple."  Psalm 119:130

Decisions, decisions, decisions. Life is full of them.  Big ones.  Little ones.  Difficult ones.  Even some fun ones.  Choices to make everywhere.

As my kids get older they will come across the need to make more and more important decisions that impact their lives in huge ways..

Summer jobs.

     Colleges.

          Careers.

               Spouses

                     ...Just to name a few.

God and His Word will be their greatest source of guidance and leading.  It will shed light on His plan for each of their lives.  As they seek God's leading, they will find it.  His Spirit will even speak into their ear, "this is the way, walk in it."

All my children have to do is open it's pages, do a little digging, and  pray that God speaks to them.  What a wonderful gift to help lead them to make the best decisions of their lives. 

Oh Lord, I know that you have great plans for my children's lives.  All their days have been planned for them before they were even born.  I know that your designs for their lives are greater than I can ever begin to imagine.  I trust you, dear Jesus, with their lives because they are your children and you love them in amazing ways.  Be near them, Lord, as they make decisions throughout their lives...even in the small choices they have to make.  Speak your wisdom to them in clear and beautiful ways.  I pray that they learn that your Word holds the answers to all their questions, concerns, and worries.  When they come across life changing choices, and have to choose whether to go to the right or to the left, may they come to your Word and find your hand of guidance.  The unfolding of your words gives light, and gives us the understanding we need.  Oh, what a precious gift!

Rest on Me

 

Seattle 2009

Today's verse:  "The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him— the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord."  Isaiah 11:2 

Some days to pray for my children, means praying for me as their mom.  As a mother, I have many days where I feel like I have no where near the amount of wisdom I need to parent my teenagers.  Each day there are new and different things to work through, always leading me to depend on my Savior for guidance.  I long to be the best mom I can be, but I know that I can't do it without Him. 

So today, I'm praying for me!

Lord, you have blessed me with two beautiful children, and my heart thanks you in big ways.  Yet, at times I feel so inadequate as their mother.  You've said in your Word that you'd never give me more than I could handle, but at times parenting feels like a job that requires more wisdom, strength, and patience than I can muster.  Only with You by my side, can I be the mother my children need.  Lord, please fill me with everything I need to parent my children.  Fill me with your wisdom each day, refuel my energy and strength, and mark my life with your peace and patience.  Lord, may I reflect you to my children, and help lead them into a living and active relationship with you.  I pray that you fill me with the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.  Holy Spirit, please rest on me!

An "A" in Procrastination

 

Today's verse:  "The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied."  Proverbs 13:4

Never put off until tomorrow 

what you can do the day after tomorrow.  

~Mark Twainn

I'm really working hard to reform my procrastinating ways.  It just seems to be one of my "spiritual gifts."  I also think it's hereditary because I see evidence of it in my children.  Oh Lord, please give us a different gift.

We had a little fun this weekend remembering Alyssa's greatest procrastination moment.  I think she learned a great lesson that day, and it will be a memory forever ingrained in both of our minds.  Oh, it starts raising my stress levels just thinking about it.  

One day, in the 7th grade, Alyssa informed us that she was too sick to go to school that day.  I am still not quite sure if she was really sick, or if she had actually realized that she had a really BIG project due the next day that she hadn't even started.  I also don't know how it slipped by me that she should have been working on this project.  The thing I do know, is that when Ken called me after dropping Kyle off at school, and he asked me if Alyssa should be making some castle model for class, my heart sank in a huge and crazy way.  What castle?!?!? 

Alyssa didn't know what hit her when her mother came unglued with exasperation.  She began digging through her school binder claiming she had no idea that she had a project due so soon.  Finding her paper, we come to the conclusion that she has one day until this massive project is due.  Had she started it yet?  Nope.  She could build a castle in some grand creative way, do some drawings and research on the weapons used in this medieval time period, write a report with pictures on the clothes worn in the different economic classes, or write a 21-day journal from a child living a life of servitude hoping to live a better life.   Oh, where to begin...

After a few tears of apology and words of frustration and fear, Alyssa went to the task (despite being "sick") of pulling off this project of grand magnitude.  The next few hours were spent researching, writing, and putting her color pencils to work.  I had a hard time keeping my mouth shut, still beyond frustrated by her lack of responsibility, but also because she was only putting half effort into what she was doing. For instance, she chose to write the 21-day journal, but there was no way she was going to type it.  Too much work.  Ha! All day, I was reminded of my feelings, but finally I had to let it go, and let her live with the consequences of whatever grade she got.  Her grade would be her consequence of such procrastination.

Well, Alyssa got her project done and turned it in on time.  Can you just imagine this mother's wonderment when she came home a week later with her graded project, and on it was a huge "A".  Are you kidding me?!  I wanted to go and have a talk with her a teacher.  I'm sure he failed to realize that she didn't really deserve a grade of that magnitude.  

Did she learn her lesson on procrastination?  A little.  She hasn't delayed starting a big project until the day before it's due, but I often question her on the days she claims to be sick.  Just one of the consequences from her biggest moment of procrastination.

Lord, thank you for this day and all that it will hold.  Thank you for the gift of education and the wonderful teachers that work with my kids on a daily basis to impart to them the wisdom they need for life.  I pray that this day holds pleasure in what they are learning.  Putting of until tomorrow, what they can do today, is often a struggle that wages war in their minds.  Please Lord, help Alyssa and Kyle to make wise choices about what needs to be done in this day.  Help them to thrive on working through the things that seem hard, never giving up because it feels overwhelming.  Place within themselves a desire to press on, work hard, and put in their best effort on each assignment and project.  Lord, I want them to enjoy learning, but at the same time, find a sense of great accomplishment for the times where they have to work hard.  Lord, you are the one to help them through each day, each assignment, and each time they are tempted to put off what they need to do.  May your Spirit lead them in making wise choices today.  You are a great God, and I give you all the thanks and praise.

Riding on the Heights

Today's verse:  "If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on my holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and the Lord's holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words, then you will find your joy in the Lord, and I will cause you to ride on the heights of the land and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob."  Isaiah 58:13-14

 Photo taken by Lyssa 2009

"Riding on the heights of the land... "

Lord, today is your holy day, and we will rejoice and be glad in it.  The Sabbath is such a delight for your people.  It's a day to step aside from the busyness of life, and to fix our eyes on you out of honor and in worship.  We are called to take this day to find our rest in you.  It's so easy to make this day like any other day, but you ask us to keep from doing as we please and honor you with our time, our words, and our actions.  Lord, I pray that the Sabbath is always a day that my children honor, respect, but above all, love.  May they love gathering with other believers, who are seeking after you, and find great joy soaking in your Word, and in your presence.  May they find church something they look forward to, and a place to find belonging, hope, guidance, encouragement, and love.  I pray that their hearts cry out in worship, giving you honor and glory.  They can walk their faith journey without others, by not going to church, or by not keeping the Sabbath holy, but you Lord promise that they will find their joy in you, and that you will cause them to ride on the heights of the land, and to feast on your inheritance.  May they find this truth to be oh so real, even now when they are young, and as they grow older, I pray that they will hold onto this great love affair with you, the church, and your holy day.

Real Swinging

Today's verse:  Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman's testimony, "He told me everything I ever did." So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days. And because of his words many more became believers.  They said to the woman, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world." John 4:39-42

I have these verses marked in my Bible with a couple names of people in my life.  I have put their names there believing in prayer that one day these friends will say "We no longer believe just because of what you said" but they believe because they have experienced Him for themselves.  I don't want them just to take my word for it, but through their own examination and experience, they find Jesus to be a real and powerful presence in their lives.

I pray the same thing for my children.  I want them to find the truth of who God is, and His love for them, by experiencing Him in a personal way.

It's hard  describe the joy that comes from flying high through the air on a swing, in an adequate way, to someone who has never been on a swing before.  It's hard to explain why a smile comes over ones face as you reach great heights, the laughter that comes when someone gives you a push, or the peace of gliding back and forth, over and over brings.  A person can only begin to enjoy a swing, by actually experiencing the act of swinging for themselves.

I can lead my children to Jesus, and teach them all about the God I know, but until they experience Him for themselves, and see His work in their lives, will they really KNOW the joy, truth and power of His presence in their lives. If I can go this far...I'm praying they go swinging with Jesus, and feel the thrill of the ride each and every day.

Lord, you are such a precious joy in my life, and someone I want my children to fall in love with too.  I want them to know the power of your presence, the gift of your salvation, and the depths of your love for your children, which includes each of them. Lord, I pray that they see you in their daily lives; pursuing them, guiding them, loving them, and providing for them.  Open their eyes and soften their hearts, in ways that draw them closer to you and help them see their need for you in their lives.   Oh how I pray that one day I hear my kids say "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world."

Lives Marked by Success

 

Lyssa's 5th Grade Graduation--2005

Today's verse:  "O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man."  Nehemiah 1:11

I pray that my kids find great success in their lives. Not necessarily success as defined by the world, but success from living close to the Lord and His designs for their lives.

Success won't be measured by their grade point average.
     Or by the awards they earn.
     Or if they are in the top of their class.
Success won't depend on the amount of money they make.
     Or by the type of job they have.
     By how big their house is.
     Or by the number of things they own.

I will count my children successful if...

they love the Lord.
they use the talents and gifts God has given them.
they follow God's laws and commands.
they fall in love with His Word.
they love others well.
they find a spouse and together they found their marriage on God.
they grow their children up to know and love the Lord.
they share Jesus with others who don't know Him.
they work hard in all that they do.
they go wherever God calls them to go.

Success by the worlds standards are all fine and good, but may just leave my children empty and unfulfilled if they don't allow God to be a part of their lives.  I pray that they always love the Lord their God with all their heart, mind and soul, and find the contentment that comes with that kind of success.  Oh, what joy it is to watch their lives unfold!

O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today.  Please Lord, give my children success today.  Take the work of their hands, the thoughts of their minds, and the desires of their hearts and use them for your glory.  Remind them of the gifts and talents you have given them and show them how to use them to shine your light to the world around them.  I pray that you are always Lord of their lives and that they find great joy and success from living according to your plan.  May they love you with all their heart, mind and soul. I eagerly watch and wait for my children's lives to unfold, day by day, and year by year, hoping that they always live their lives for you. Thank you for the great plans you have for their lives...plans for a hope and a future.   Oh, how I love you, dear Jesus! 

Thankful Thursday: Good Things

 

Today's verse:  "Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things."  Psalm 107:8-9

God doesn't just give us what we need.  Sometimes He spoils us extravagantly with things we don't even realize we want.  He delights in giving us things that bring us great joy.  Little added blessings that are like the cherry on top of a sundae.  Today, I am thanking Him for the "good things" He has blessed my life with.

A trip this weekend to the Oregon Coast.
Time with my beautiful mom and sister.
Clam chowder and coconut shrimp.
Sunshine on the waves.
A walk on the beach.
New pajamas from my hubby.
Being in meetings and seeing God at work.
Pumpkin Spice Lattes
Lunch with my dad.
A hat made by my neice.
Playing Wii with my nephew.
Laughter.
Six new books on my Kindle...all free!
Seeing Mt. Hood in the sunshine.
Flying from Boise to Portland in an hour or less.
Clean bathrooms and vacuumed floors...without me doing them.
Dove Tiramisu chocolates from my Secret Sister.

So many cherries.  So many good things.  Today, my heart is full of thanks.
  
Oh Precious Lord, you are the giver of so many good things.  You not only provide for my needs on a daily basis, but you shower me with wonderful blessings that I don't even deserve.  You are an extravagant giver to your children.  Lord, thank you for the many ways I have felt loved by you in this week.  I am reveling in the love you have for me as your daughter.  I know that in no way is my list  exhaustive, and I want to be careful to give you all the praise and thanks for the many things you have blessed me with.  You are a living and active presence in my life!  Help me to teach my children to recognize the blessings in their lives that come from you, and have hearts that sing your praises.  May thanksgiving always be on their lips.  Thank you, Lord, for the many good things in our lives!  You are a good God...all the time!

Open their Eyes

 

Love those blue eyes...Kyle 2009

Today's verse:  "Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law."  Psalm 119:18

Lord, your Word is such a delight and holds so many rich treasures.  It teaches us about you, and helps us grasp the depths of your love for your children.  From the beginning to the end, we watch your plan unfold, and see your hand of love, power, and grace at work over and over again.  Each time I open it's pages I can sense your voice speaking personally to me.  I know, however, that it's a continual process to learn and understand the details we find within the pages of your Word.  I pray that you give my children understanding when they sit down and spend time with you and read your Word.  Open their eyes that they may see the wonderful things in your law.  Bring them hope, courage, and wisdom as they dig deep, falling in love with you deeper and deeper as they go.  Oh Lord, may they come to believe and hold onto this treasure that helps them know you more.  Speak to them, dear Jesus, calling them to yourself as your precious children each and every time they come to your living and active Word.  What a beautiful gift to your children!

Clean it Up!

Today's verse: "Who can say, 'I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin?"  Proverbs 18:20

Sunday was a beautiful day to take a walk on the beach.  The sun was shining, the temperature just right, and hardly a breeze to be found.  I loved the sound of the crashing waves, and the beauty of each grand wave.  The company of my mom and sister was an added delight as well.  A wonderful sabbath for sure!

As we were traipsing our way back from our trek down the beach, I noticed a few areas where the wind and surf had brought in a scattering of trash. I'm sure that people had a little something to do with the garbage, but it saddened me to see the little pieces of junk here and there interrupting the beauty of God's creation. 

Sin is like that.  Like the trash, even a little can mar the beauty of God's children's lives...sometimes even permanently. Piled up over time it can really stink. I pray that my kids (and myself included), are never attracted to sin, and let it take root in their lives.  I pray that they will always be sensitive to the things that may be littering their lives, and keeping them from the holy and clean life God wants them to live.  Sin mars our hearts.

Fortunately, we have a God who is in the clean-up business, and He forgives us and wipes us clean. He wants to make something beautiful out of our lives, and we need to be diligent and not letting the trash mess up His masterpiece. Let's clean it up!

Lord, you are God, and you are void of anything unclean.  You are Holy, and you are beautifully perfect.  Yet, your children are not.  We all sin and fall short of your glory.  Lord, please gently show us the ways in which we sin. and keep us from living unrighteous lives.  I ask that for my children as well, and pray that they never hold onto the sin in their lives, and be fooled by the enemy into believing that sin is a fun thing.  Prod their spirits, dear Jesus, to keep themselves clean and live their lives in holiness.  Lord, my children are your creation and you have made them beautifully.  Help them to keep their hearts pure, living always and forever for you.

Repost: Praying for a "10"!

Here's a post that I wrote back in September when I first began this blog...I think of this one often, so I thought it would be worth praying for again.  I'm at the beach with my mom and sister, and just thinking of my kids as they go off to school without a hug from their mother.  I'm praying it's a good Monday for my dear family as I am away.

Today’s Verse: “This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24

Mondays. Wasn’t it Garfield that always said, “I hate Mondays”?

Mondays are the day we say good-bye to our precious weekend, and head into the week of work and SCHOOL! I’m sure that every Sunday night, one of my kids says something to the effect of hating the idea of getting up in the morning and heading back to school. Early mornings, “boring” classes, and tons of homework each add to their dislike of Mondays.

I love that I found this picture, and it's even better that I found it after I wrote this post. It's Alyssa's first day of 7th grade. I had no recollection of her wearing this shirt, or even owning it...but how perfect is it?!

Alyssa used to tell me that every school day was a BAD day. Due to the fact that she was one who would give me little information about her day, I would ask her “How was your day on a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being a great day?” And the answer would always land somewhere between a 4 and a 7. She would always come home with awesome grades, but school held little excitement for her and was definitely never considered a “good day”.

School is huge chunk of our kids day, and week, and has a tremendous impact on their love for learning. It broke my heart that school was such a negative thing in my daughter’s life. So, I began praying.

If you were to ask Alyssa about school today, she wouldn’t have this outpouring of excitement for school and what she is learning, but she has a much more positive attitude than she used to have. God answered my prayers. I’ll keep praying that she finds joy in her learning, life-changing relationships with her teachers, friends who encourage her, and even direction as to where God wants her in the future.

I pray that both of my kids fall in love with learning, and that Mondays aren’t so bad after all.

Dear Father, I pray that my kids LOVE this day! I know, Lord, that you love your children and desire that they love the life you have given them. School is a huge part of their life right now, Lord, and I pray that they find joy in this place and time. I pray that learning comes alive to them, and they find excitement and joy in the things they are learning. I pray that they have a sense of You in their learning, and that they can see your hand in history, your part in creation, and your plan for their life as they find things that they are passionate about and will lead them to future careers. May they grow in wisdom as they study, and choose to work hard and think deep. Learning is a gift from you, Lord.