Ecclesiastes 7:1 - "Scars In Heaven"

First sunrise since Momma left this earth...first trip back to Ohio knowing Momma is no longer there...first time of walking into 'Momma's house' knowing it is not her home...oh my the 'firsts' are hard. I remember so well the 'firsts' after Daddy and Doc died. I remember how hard some of them were. I am thankful Doug and I married on Daddy's birthday so it gives me something happy to think of on that day. I am thankful God continues to give us all strength to not just get through these 'tough' days but to glorify Him through them. As I listened to the podcast I taped last month I thought about the changes since then. I'm now married and I'm now an orphan. I am thankful God made the transition to heaven for my Momma easy and I am thankful I know where she is. As I mowed the yard yesterday afternoon a song she requested for her funeral was going through my mind. It continued to be on my mind when I woke this morning. Casting Crowns is one of my favorite groups and I am excited we will see them in September with Dave and Alona. The lyrics to "Scars In Heaven" hold a close part in my heart...

The only scars in heaven, they won't belong to me and you
There'll be no such thing as broken and all the old will be made new
And the thought that makes me smile now even as the tears fall down
Is that the only scars in heaven are on the hands that hold you now

Yes! Momma is no longer suffering with arthritis or fibromyalgia pain. She is no longer confused. Instead she has received a new body in a new home. Her home for eternity...woo hoo! I must say I am jealous of her new life. This morning I have so much going through my mind that I want to write but my brain is not cooperating. I'm sad for us yet joyful for her. I'm tired yet I know she will never feel tiredness again. Praise His Holy Name. This picture was the last one I took of us before we left to go home from our wedding trip. I am so thankful for every memory, every picture, every trip made from SC to OH, and for all my Momma taught me.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for Your love, mercy, and grace! Thank You for being my strength in these 'tough' days of losing my Momma! I know she is dancing with You but goodness does it hurt to know I will never hear her voice again. Lord, help me to be strong. Empower me as I feel like I'm falling apart to remember You are here for me. I pray Your strength over my family in the days ahead. I ask for an abundance of Your grace and mercy to come down upon us. May You give Your strength to all who will walk in it. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff’s husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Rebecca as she awaits surgery; the Long family; Becky; Russ; a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for Doug being such a supportive husband! Thank You for being My Strength! Amen.

Matthew 28:18-20 - "The Commission"

Yesterday was another day in paradise. Woo hoo, God! I woke refreshed after ten hours of sleep. My morning time with God writing was such a blessing followed by Doug making a new creation for breakfast and then walking in town before the parade. Doug and I took another walk after the parade. Sitting at Pigeon Point Landing swinging was so refreshing. Later in the afternoon we had Billy, Sierra, and the kids over for a cookout and games which was so much fun. After they left the evening was spent crafting Sunday's sermon and having some deep discussion on the Sunday School lesson Doug will teach. Throughout the day I received texts and calls about my Momma and continue to pray for her transition to heaven. I am one blessed lady for all the ways God blesses me. I woke once during the night to Doug 'ordering McDonald's' and chuckled. First, we don't have anyone to order happy meals for and second it made me think about little Dominick who proclaimed me to be his favorite. I enjoy having people into our home and am so blessed with a husband who enjoys it too. I am blessed by the way we work together with meals when company comes with him grilling and me making side dishes and desserts. We are blessed with good friends such as Billy, Sierra, and the kids. I felt like my heart was ready to burst as I looked around the table yesterday. God is such a good God who blesses me well. Sometimes I feel like I have to pinch myself to make sure I am not dreaming. As we start a new day I wonder where God will take us. Who will He bring in our path? What will He put before us to do? How can we be His hands and feet to fulfill Matthew 28:18-20? How can we bless Him? Woo hoo! I was thinking this morning about a conversation Doug and I had about people who feel like they cannot do something because of where they are in life, their health, a disability, ect. This flower in the middle of a parking lot yesterday reminded me anything is possible with God. He will grow us where He plants us. He will nourish us with exactly what we need to do what He desires of us. This flower was in the middle of nowhere yet was blooming. We can bloom where He plants us when we allow Him to work in and through us. Woo hoo! I love the life I am living and once again am so blessed. A big reason for feeling this way is because I strive to live out God's will every day of my life. I strive to walk in obedience to Him and allow Him to work in and through me. This morning the song "The Commission" is on my mind as I pray for God to empower me to be the hands and feet of Jesus throughout the day ahead.

Go tell the world about me
For I was dead but now I live
Oh, I've gotta go now for a little while
Hey, but goodbye is not the end

Dear Jesus, Thank You for another day in paradise with my precious husband Doug! Thank You for our friends Billy, Sierra, and the kids who brought life into our home yesterday! Thank You for speaking Matthew 28:18-20 over us! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing so people will see/hear You through my words, actions, thoughts, and attitude. I pray Your peace over many going through difficult days. My Momma as she transitions to heaven; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; Mr John; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff’s husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; Mr Mullett; Marybeth's friend; David; and Damon. I pray for: Rebecca as she awaits surgery; the Long family; Becky; Russ; a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Commissioner! Amen.

Philippians 3:12-14; Acts 26:16-18 - "Victory In Jesus"

Yesterday as Clay led us in "Victory In Jesus" the tears fell. I thought about how my Momma is so close to realizing her mansion in heaven. These days are bittersweet. I will miss her greatly yet I am a bit jealous she is going to be with Jesus. I already miss my phone conversations with her. So many times the last couple weeks I thought, 'I need to call Momma to tell her...' only to remember that wasn't possible. I am so thankful for Pam who has called me when with her when she was able to talk to me. I am thankful for the peace I have in my spirit throughout these 'tough' days. The tears fall from time to time but God reminds me they are part of the grieving process. Doug and I talked last night of the craziness of the last three months. I am so thankful my MS has behaved for the most part. I am thankful for a church family who supports me so well. I am especially thankful God brought Doug into my life at the perfect time. God is so good to provide what is needed. This morning Paul's words to the Philippians in chapter three were brought to me. These words encourage me to keep on pressing forward with God even when times get tough. They encourage me to remember what God had me share in a recent sermon. 'The past is the past. The present is the present. The future is the future.' Our past includes 'good' things and 'bad' things. What we must remember is we do not need to live there. God has great things to do in our present but we must allow Him to do so. When we allow Him to be who He desires to be, we will live in the future He has in store for us. We need to follow Paul's words in verse fourteen. I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Paul knew what he was called to do on this earth for the Lord and strived to fulfill his call. In Acts 26:16-18 we read of the call upon his life. “Now get up and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen of me and what I will show you. I will rescue you from your own people and from the Gentiles. I am sending you to them to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.” Paul's example is one we all can learn from. His past included learning a trade as a child that supported him when needed as an adult. He lived in the present by living by faith and trusting God. He lived in the future by proclaiming the hope of living for eternity with God. As we sang "Victory In Jesus" yesterday I thought about my Momma 'seeing' and 'talking with' people that have gone on to heaven. My Daddy, Doris Sidle, etc. I would love to know what she is experiencing right now and once again can say I am a but jealous. 

I heard about a mansion
He has built for me in glory.
And I heard about the streets of gold
Beyond the crystal sea;
About the angels singing,
And the old redemption story,
And some sweet day I'll sing up there
The song of victory. 

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the reminder to ...press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Thank You for Momma being more peaceful yesterday! Thank You for all the ways You are encouraging us through these difficult days! Thank You for Doug being here with me! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. May we all remember to live in Your presence in the present so we can live in Your presence in the future. I pray Your peace over many going through difficult days. My Momma, my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Steph as she recuperates from surgery; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; Mr John; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff’s husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; Mr Mullett; David; and Damon. I pray for: Rebecca as she awaits surgery; the Long family; Becky; Russ; a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Victory! Amen.

Psalm 61 - "I'll Fly Away"

Another Sunday is here. It is amazing how fast the weeks roll by. I look forward to Sundays for so many reasons. One is because I get to be with my church family. Another is I get to preach. Woo hoo! Yesterday was a 'low key' type of day with not leaving the house. There was some computer work accomplished and some praying with people over the phone and internet. There was also a lot of resting done with watching a couple movies in the evening. God provided exactly what was needed in an emotional day with a couple conversations with Momma's Hospice nurse. Life can be hard and then some times it can be really hard. I am so thankful for God's strength throughout all days. I am thankful for His wisdom when making decisions and for the clarity He provides in making decisions. The Lord took me to Psalm 61 this morning. David wrote this Psalm in one of his many times of trouble. If you ever get to a point in life when you feel like you can't take one more thing, all you have to do is read the Psalms. David poured his heart out in his writing. There were times he was angry with his enemies yet he always prayed for them. There were times he felt overwhelmed yet he always cried out to God. There were times he rejoiced for all God was doing in his life which is exactly what we need to do on the 'good' days and the 'tough' days. Psalm 61 shows us how overwhelmed he was in the beginning and how joyous he was in the end of the writing. So many times that is what happens when we allow God to work in and through us. We cry out to Him in desperation and end up being filled with His Spirit to continue on. The last verse in The Passion Translation reads, And my praises will fill the heavens forever, fulfilling my vow to make every day a love-gift to you! This is exactly how I strive to live my life. I desire to be a love-gift to God. I desire to put a smile on His face with what I do and say. The only way this can be accomplished is to stay living in His presence. I must be in His Word, communicate with Him, fast, spend time with other believers, be a 'sponge' to others preaching and teaching, etc. Before falling asleep, during the night, and again this morning I prayed for all pastors to be in relationship with God so they not only hear Him but have the desire in their heart to walk in obedience to Him. My heart breaks to see believers who have fallen out of relationship with Him. It especially breaks to see pastors struggling. The more time a person puts into a relationship the deeper that relationship will be. I loved hearing my husband tell me this morning that I am 'a gift from God' for him. I feel the same way about him. God continues to bless us in abundance as we seek Him as individuals and as a couple. I know there are some tough days ahead for us with my Momma and other family members health but I also know there are  great days ahead for us. Woo hoo! Last night at the end of the first movie the hymn "I'll Fly Away" was played. What an encouraging song this is for all who get close to being with Jesus. We never know when our time will be so we need to be ready at all time. 

Just a few more weary days and then, 
I'll fly away; 
To a land where joy shall never end, 
I'll fly away

Dear Jesus, Thank You for a restful day yesterday filled with blessings! Thank You for the day ahead with being with my church family! I pray blessings over Doug as he teaches Sunday School for his first time. May You speak through him greatly. I pray blessings over many going through difficult days to praise You throughout the day. Cleanse me so You can fill me so I can also praise You throughout the day. I pray You will flow from my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts mightily. I pray You will continue to be with: my Momma, my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Steph as she recuperates from surgery; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Jack and Paula; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; Mr John; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff’s husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; Mr Mullett; David; and Damon. I pray for: Rebecca as she awaits surgery; the Long family; Becky; Russ; a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Praise Maker! Amen.

Genesis 6 - "Build A Boat"

It does not surprise me God woke me with the song "Build A Boat" after listening to it rain all night long. I see many boats with living on an island and having to cross many bridges every day. Sometimes when I walk at the waterfront this song comes to my mind as I see all kinds and sizes of boats. There are some boats at the marina people live on and there are others that are used just for enjoyment. There are some people more experienced than others with how to handle their boat. That's how life is. God is there for all of us to empower us to navigate through life. He is there to direct our moves and show us the best way to live life. Sometimes we do better than other times at allowing Him to be in control. As the rain continues this morning I am thinking about the aspect of cleansing rain has as it falls down. It also has the attribute of filling as the ground soaks in the water for a nutrient. It makes me ask myself, 'How well do I soak in Jesus? How well do I allow Him to fill me on a regular basis?' I think of the story of Noah where God told Noah to build a boat and even though it didn't make sense at the time Noah walked in obedience and did so. As I reflect on my life I see many times where what He asked me didn't make sense yet I walked in obedience and was blessed. In the mid-nineties when my boss at Smucker's told me I 'had' to get my college degree so he could promote me I argued I wasn't physically or mentally able to do so. I prayed and God told me He would provide what I needed to go to college. The result was a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management that helps me today as a pastor. Eight years prior to Doc's death God told me to go to Nazarene Bible College for preaching classes and I argued. It did not make sense to me since Doc was the preacher in the family. Fast forward to 2020 when Doc left this earth and I moved into the lead pastor position...wow, God! Moving seven hundred miles to South Carolina away from family and friends didn't make sense but God knew this weather would be so much better for my body. It amazes me how even little things throughout the day can seem like they don't make sense yet when we walk in obedience to Him we will realize they do. 

I will build a boat in the sand where they say it never rains
And I will stand up in faith, I'll do anything it takes
With Your wind in my sails, Your love never fails or fades
I'll build a boat in the desert place
And when the flood and the water starts to rise, yeah
I'll ride the storm 'cause I got You by my side
With Your wind in my sails, Your love never fails or fades
I'll build a boat, so let it rain
You're the map, You're my compass
You help me navigate the currents underneath
Take the lead, I surrender

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and for the ones ahead today! Thank You for Pam being such a good friend who goes over and beyond for me! Thank You for Doug being here with me to support me through 'good' days and 'tough' days! Thank You for being with Jack and Paula during the 'tough' days they are going through! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray I will remember to allow You to be My Map and Compass throughout the day ahead. I pray Your peace over many going through 'tough' days. My Momma, my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Steph as she recuperates from surgery; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; Mr John; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff’s husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; Mr Mullett; David; and Damon. I pray for: Rebecca as she awaits surgery; the Long family; Becky; Russ; a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Map and Compass! Amen.

Philippians 4:13 - "His Strength Is Perfect"

Spending hours in hospital emergency rooms is tiring yet rewarding. I am so thankful I was able to be with Paula and Jack yesterday after her fall. Watching her in horrendous pain was so hard but it gave me plenty of time to pray. When they immobilized her leg and the pain became unbearable, I sang one of her favorite hymns and it soothed her. It is times such as yesterday that cement my call to be a pastor. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt I am called by God to minister to all He puts before me. The second emergency room was absolute craziness with patients filling all the rooms and overflowing out into the hallways. Once again I was given many opportunities to pray. I prayed for all the patients but especially those in the hallways as they waited for care. I prayed for the doctor, nurses, technicians, etc. as they cared for so many. When life flight came in, I prayed for the patient and the workers. Watching loved ones in distress over patients gave me opportunity to pray for peace in their spirit. Hearing one elderly lady confused and crying over not being able to find her friend broke my heart. I sent up prayers of thanksgiving that we were there with Paula and Jack. I thanked God for Nancy who found Paula and called 911 and for those who were praying when the email was sent. I thanked God for Doug who wrote out a prayer and texted it to me while he waited outside. I thanked God for Clay who got Jack back safely from Charleston when they received word of Paula's fall. So much praying went into the day and continued throughout the night. I am so blessed to serve where God has me and thankful for each and every person in my life. As I begin the day I am exhausted from the events of yesterday and am thankful for a 'low-key' day. But no matter what lies ahead I know God is with me and is my strength. No matter what type of emergency arises God already knows of it and knows the outcome. I am blessed with that knowledge. I am reminded this morning of an older song "His Strength Is Perfect"...

His strength is perfect when our strength is gone
He'll carry us when we can't carry on
Raised in His power, the weak become strong
His strength is perfect, His strength is perfectcDear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for being with Paula and Jack through these difficult days! Thank You for Doug being with me yesterday to minister to them! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your strength over many going through difficult days. My Momma, my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Steph as she recuperates from surgery; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; Mr John; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff’s husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; Mr Mullett; David; and Damon. I pray for: Rebecca as she awaits surgery; the Long family; Becky; Russ; a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Strength Maker! Amen.

Psalm 23; Matthew 18 - "First Things First"

There is a popular song on Christian radio right now called "First Things First" that speaks volumes. It is the way I strive to live my life every day. When we strive to be Christ-like, we will achieve that goal more often. As we live to please Him we will do so in ways the world cannot understand. 

First thing's first
I seek Your will
Not my own
Surrender all my wants to you
Keep the first thing first
To live Your truth
Walk Your ways
Set my eyes
Lord, I fix my face on you
All my desires reversed
To keep the first thing first

Yes! Fixing our eyes on God instead of ourselves in key to a peaceful life. It does not mean there won't be turmoil in life because we need such times to stretch our faith. It does not mean we will always do as He desires because we are human and make decisions not based on His will from time to time. It does not mean we are going to understand everything that happens because God is the Only One to understand all things. What it does mean is we will realize a greater life with Him here on earth and for eternity. Eternity must be our goal. My heart goes out to those who do not comprehend this concept. It hurts for those who blatantly refuse God to be in their life but it really hurts for those who know Him yet have walked away. I am so thankful for His love, mercy, and grace that brought me back into relationship with Him when I walked away. I am thankful for the prayers of many who never gave up on me. When faced with situations of people turning away from God, He reminds me He did not give up on me. Therefore, I should not give up on people. Sometimes it is hard to keep trying when people are resistant. Once again I must remember God never gave up on me so I need to not give up on others. I am reminded this morning of the parable of the ninety-nine sheep in Matthew 18. The shepherd knew the ninety-nine were safe when he went to look for the one lost sheep. His love for all one hundred sheep can be seen in this parable. He left the ninety-nine knowing they would be ok until he returned. He went for the one lost knowing he needed all of his sheep before he could rest. The shepherd knew the one lost would be vulnerable and could possibly be attacked by a wild animal. Our Good Shepherd is just like this. He desires all to follow Him and will do whatever it takes to make sure it happens. He knows we are human and make mistakes but He also knows we can learn from such mistakes. I am grateful for Scripture that encourages me greatly to stay focused on God no matter what circumstances I find myself. One such Scripture is Psalm 23. It shows how He leads, guides, and protects us. Praise His Holy Name!

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for Your love, mercy, and grace that never gave up on me when I walked away! Thank You for bringing Doug into my life! Thank You for Pam giving me the opportunity to talk to my Momma for a couple minutes yesterday over the phone! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your peace over many going through difficult days. My Momma, my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Steph as she recuperates from surgery; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; Mr John; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff’s husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; Mr Mullett; David; and Damon. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Russ; a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Great Shepherd! Amen.

Psalm 139:17-18 - "Cornerstone"

Yesterday was another day in paradise. I started the day with Jesus and Psalm 37. Andy came over to look at a house project and had breakfast with us. After we ran some errands to pick up supplies for the house project I picked up Marion for lunch at our house which we thoroughly enjoyed. After we took her home we went to Hilton Head for Doug to see it for the first time. We enjoyed the afternoon/evening with a walk on the beach but it was so windy we decided to not spend much time there. We walked around the area and enjoyed dinner and some shopping. On the way home we drove through a nature reserve. What a fun day to spend our first month anniversary! Of course, throughout the day there were many opportunities for ministry with multiple phone calls, texts, etc. When I fell apart yesterday morning, thankfully my dear friend Jo Ann was there to talk over the phone. God showed up every moment of the day for the 'good' times and the 'tough' times. He was there to give me words when counseling and He gave words of comfort to Jo Ann to share that I needed to hear. He was there on the beach as He spoke to me about how how He knows every grain of sand being blown about just as He knows my hurts and pains in life. God is such a good God. There is such joy found in His presence. I was thinking as I fell asleep last night about how in the midst of so many emotions of the day God was with me. I often wonder how people get along without God in their life. I don't know how I could get through even one day without Him. He is my anchor in the midst of the storms of life. Without Him I am nothing. Our server last night was a young man who so appreciated our prayers. As a college student with bills, a car with issues, etc. he is struggling yet the smile on his face when we asked how we could pray for him was so encouraging. When he came back to thank us a second time, the smile was still there. His smile brought a smile to my face. What a blessing! I was thinking about the commission God put upon me and my church for the coming year to be the hands and feet of Jesus. That is exactly what we all do when we are out and about and do things such as pray with/for our servers. It is what we do when we share smiles with people we meet. I found myself praying while we sat on the swing and people watched yesterday. Young families, people with disabilities, those who seemed so unhappy, elderly, etc. One family who I assume was four generations put a smile on my face as the teen boy was so attentive to the oldest lady. It reminded me of my boys and Momma. I am thankful for  all the memories we have to cherish. I prayed for people yesterday to make good memories for them to cherish too. Throughout the day yesterday I had the song "Cornerstone" going through my mind. God is my Cornerstone and for that I am grateful. I am grateful for godly parents who raised me knowing a life of trusting God as I was taught to love Him in 'good' and 'tough' times. 

The sun goes up, the sun comes down
This old world keeps spinnin' 'round (Spinnin' 'round)
I'm here travelin' down this long and winding road (Long and winding road)
Seasons comе and seasons go
They take mе high, then leave me low
But I'm still standin' on the only Rock I know
You're my cornerstone

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday with having Andy in our home for breakfast, Marion in our home for lunch, and our time celebrating our first month anniversary at Hilton Head! Thank You for bringing Doug into my life! I praise You for our server yesterday who was so thankful for our prayers! Cleanse me so You can fill me with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your peace over Debbie with her procedure this morning and for others who are going through difficult days. My Momma, my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Steph as she recuperates from surgery; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; Mr John; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff’s husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; Mr Mullett; David; and Damon. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Russ; a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Cornerstone! Amen.

Psalm 37 - "Jesus Will Still Be There"

The Lord woke me this morning with the direction to read Psalm 37. This Psalm has great reminders for us when life is overwhelming. I was reminded of verse four last night as I wrote my district report. Waiting on God is crucial if we desire to walk in His will. When we get ahead of God, we will mess up His plans. Instead we need to Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him...(vs 7). In order to do that we must Trust in the Lord and do good as verse three encourages us to do. Verse four is one I strive to live by every day. Take delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. The word delight means to please someone greatly. That is exactly what I want to do with God. I want to please Him by my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I want to make Him proud of me. The way to do this is found in verse five where David shares with us to Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him... As we live in this manner we will realize verse six. It reads in The Passion Translation: He will appear as your righteousness, as sure as the dawning of a new day. He will manifest as your justice, as sure and strong as the noonday sun. David continues in this Psalm with reminders to refrain from anger and not to fret in verse 8. As we live in this manner we will live in God's peace and prosperity (vs 11). I do not believe David is speaking of financial prosperity but rather spiritual prosperity. He also speaks many verses of the way the wicked live. We see people all around us who strive to cause problems in people's lives with gossip, lies, etc. It is sad to see people so unhappy they resort to such ways. I praise God for His love and grace that are there for us when we allow the enemy an open door into our life with such actions. I love the knowledge in verse twenty-four, ...though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand. Woo hoo! I also love the knowledge of verse twenty-seven. Turn from evil and do good; then you will dwell in the land forever. Woo hoo! David concludes this Psalm with words of hope and encouragement. It reads in the NIV: The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in time of trouble. The Lord helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him. Praise His Holy Name for this knowledge! No matter what is thrown our way God is there for us. He is there to listen to our cries, dry our tears, wrap His loving arms around us, and allow us to be loved. Overwhelming times come from health issues in ourselves and loved ones. They come from being verbally attacked by others. They come from the busyness of life being too much. No matter what the reason when we find ourselves overwhelmed God is here for us. Yesterday was a day to decompress. It was a day where ministry still happened but it was done on a more scaled-down manner. After spending time writing my blog Doug and I had breakfast and went for a walk in God's beautiful nature. We had some errands to run and then had lunch before going to the beach for a couple hours of down time. On the way home we picked some strawberries which always puts a smile on my face. The evening included using a gift card given to us for dinner at Dockside and then another walk at the waterfront. It was a much needed day that reminded me of Psalm 37:4. I know I pleased God with the manner in which I spent the day because He blessed me with yesterday. Woo hoo! I am blessed in so many ways. One of them is in the knowledge "Jesus Will Still Be There" no matter what is happening in life.

Jesus will still be there.
His love will never change,
Sure as a steady rain,
Jesus will still be there.
When no one else is true,
He'll still be lovin' you.
When it looks like you've lost it all
And you haven't got a prayer,
Jesus will still be there.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday with a low-key type of day! Thank You for Doug being with me to share it! Cleanse me so You can fill me with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your peace over many going through difficult days. My Momma, my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Steph as she recuperates from surgery; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; Mr John; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff’s husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; Mr Mullett; David; and Damon. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Russ; a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Refuge! Amen.

Matthew 6:9-10, 28:18-20 - "The Lord's Prayer (It's Yours)"

Yesterday was another day in paradise that was enjoyable yet tiring. Being with my church family for our annual meeting and worship followed by lunch was a treasure in my memory bank. I received a text afterward saying 'Pastor, that was your best sermon yet! We all needed to hear it.' I hope it wasn't because it was a short sermon that made it my best...lol. God gave me Matthew 28:18-20 for our vision for the coming church year. We are to go, baptize, and teach. God has told me we are going to be the hands and feet of Jesus in our little world. As I said yesterday, He has not given me the details but I need to be still and wait on those to follow what He has already given us. As we fulfill this vision we will grow in our individual lives along with our corporate spiritual realm. God has great things ahead for the Beaufort Church of the Nazarene but we must get out of His way for those things to be realized. We must remember three things. The past is the past. The present is the present. The future is the future. We cannot live in the glory days of the past but instead live in His presence in the present. We must be still before Him as we wait on the details of what Matthew 28:18-20 will look like for us. I woke up this morning with the song "The Lord's Prayer (It's Yours)" going over and over in my mind. 

Father, let Your Kingdom come 
Father, let Your will be done 
On Earth as in Heaven 
Right here in my heart 

Yes! I am so excited to see His Kingdom come as we become more and more the hands and feet of Jesus. I love details and can get a little impatient waiting on them to be revealed but I know His timing is perfect. I am so thankful for the way God works in my life personally and as a pastor. I am thankful for Him promising Doug to me last spring and for me waiting for the reveal of him in February. So much has happened in the last three months but when God is in the center of things that is how life can be. Doug wrote in his journal, "The future is bright when God is in control..We must always remember, His plan in His time frame." It amazes me how God speaks to both of us on the same subject so many times. Yesterday after having our 'Nazarene nap' after church we went shopping for some shoes to replace mine with holes in them and get him some shorts since his are three sizes too big. After shopping we went to the waterfront and sat on the swings with some ice cream. We didn't do too much walking since my legs were hurting but instead enjoyed being out in God's nature. My tiring day put me in bed early and I ended up with ten hours of sleep. What a blessing! I say it often and mean it every time. I am one blessed lady!

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! I am so worn out physically, mentally, and emotionally but blessed with the way You keep my spiritual tank going. Thank You for Doug who supports me so well not only here at home with cooking and cleaning but in every aspect of life! It blesses me in abundance with the way he hands out my business cards. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray Your strength over many going through difficult days. My Momma, my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Steph as she recuperates from surgery; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; Mr John; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff’s husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; Mr Mullett; David; and Damon. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Russ; a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Vision Supplier! Amen.

Psalm 113:3 - "That's The Thing About Praise"

I love Sundays! I love gathering with my church family for worship and fellowship! Yesterday's Celebration of Vows Ceremony with some of my South Carolina tribe was such a joy. I look forward to today's gathering with Sunday School, Morning Worship with Annual Meeting business, communion, me presenting the vision God has given me to share, and our time of fellowship after church. God continues to pour down His blessings upon not only myself but the Beaufort Church of the Nazarene. He continues to guide our steps and for that I am thankful. As I prayed for pastors before going to bed, during the night, and again this morning I asked God to give them contentment in their heart for where He has them. I prayed for every pastor to be in relationship with God where they not only hear His voice but desire to walk in His full empowerment to live out His will. God has such great plans for all of us all we have to do is be willing to be submissive to Him. We need to be willing to not live in the past but learn from it. We need to be willing to live in the present where we will realize every day what He has for us. We need to be willing to look to the future to realize God's will for us. After resting for a bit after the ceremony yesterday we decided to go out and take a walk on the beach. What a blessing it is when Doug gets me to 'stop and smell the roses' and take time to be out in nature. I received such a blessing on the way to the beach as I was dealing with a couple phone calls. Doug pointed out how every song that was played on the radio was for that particular moment. They were songs that encouraged us to praise God no matter what was happening. Walking on the beach was another blessing. I saw some wildflowers growing out from an overturn tree at the beach and Doug commented how I see beauty in nature that many miss. I am so blessed by nature and really blessed by the love of my husband. On the way home we realized it was getting close to sunset so we drove to Pigeon Point and watched some dolphins play as the sun set. I love this time of year with the mimosa trees blooming and was blessed last night with taking a picture of one with the sunsetting behind it. Once again I thanked God for the beauty of His creation. It is sad to think of how many times I took nature for granted. How many times did I walk past a beautiful plant, flower, or tree without actually seeing it? How many times did it take for a strong scent from flowers before I finally smelled it? How many times sun rises or sunsets happened without me actually seeing them? It is sad to think about yet I am grateful God continues to pour the beauty of His creation out to be enjoyed. I am grateful for the way God works through His creation to encourage me through days that seem so overwhelming. I am thankful He doesn't tire of lifting me up. Blessing Offor sings a song called "That's The Thing About Praise" that reminds me to praise Him through the 'good' days and the 'tough' ones. It reminds me He is always here for me and nothing surprises Him.

Therе's what I want and then there's where I'm at
Every one step forward, it got me five steps back
And I cried, I called, God knows I prayed
But most days faith is climbin' up a mountain that stayed

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the privilege to pray for pastors before going to bed, during the night, and again this morning! Thank You for all who made our Vow Celebration Ceremony so beautiful! Thank You for my dear husband Doug who loves me so well and reminds me to 'stop and smell the roses'! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May  people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray a blessing over my annual report and the sharing of the vision You have given me for our church. I pray for many going through difficult days to find reason to praise You. My Momma, my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Steph as she recuperates from surgery; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; Mr John; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff’s husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; Mr Mullett; David; and Damon. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Russ; a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues; and Kaytlin’s husband. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Praise Maker! Amen.

Philippians 4:11-13 - "His Strength Is Perfect"

Last night before bed Doug had another time to console me as the tears fell. Goodness he is getting a lot of experience with this of late. As I was getting ready to climb into bed I thought 'I need to call Momma to tell her the church is ready for tomorrow.' It is so hard to not be able to pick up the phone and call her. I miss our conversations when one of us needs to talk we call. Her not having a phone in the nursing home is the pits. As the tears fell it hit me this is just another way God is preparing me for the days ahead when she won't be here. I am so thankful for friends like Pam who called me yesterday when she was visiting Momma so I could talk to her. I am thankful for friends like Tom and Cheryl who give me updates on how she is doing when they visit her. I am so thankful for friends like Kaye who encourage me greatly when I'm struggling. My life is full of people who love me with God's love. Some I've known for forty plus years while others are newer on my journey. It does not matter the distance between us, the time we've known one another, or the circumstances of our friendship. God provides exactly what we need when we need it. I desire to be a friend people can depend upon. I desire to share His love with all I meet. Yesterday when we were on our way to the church I received a phone call from a friend who is going through a tough time with her parents. I'm sorry she is going through this time but it helped me to get my mind off of what I am going through as I prayed over the phone with her. After having my breakdown with tears last night I prayed for many going through tough times. That time helped me to get my mind off of myself. Once again, God knows what is needed and provides. I am so thankful for Cait and Annabelle's help getting the church set-up yesterday and for Terri taking the veggies to prepare for today. I am thankful for my husband who smoked the meat for today and prayed over me this morning. My tank is feeling depleted yet God continues to fill it back up. The tingling in my head is driving me crazy yet God continues to take my mind off of it. I am exhausted yet God continues to give me energy to put one foot in front of the other. I am once again reminded of Paul's words to the Philippians in chapter four where he encourages them to continue serving God no matter what their circumstances. He tells them the secret to contentment is found in God. We can be content with life in the 'good' times and in the 'tough' times. I am reminded of the words to "His Strength Is Perfect" and feeling blessed...

We can only know
The power that He holds
When we truly see how deep our weakness goes
His strength in us begins
Where ours comes to an end
He hears our humble cry and proves again
His strength is perfect when our strength is gone
He'll carry us when we can't carry on
Raised in His power, the weak become strong
His strength is perfect, His strength is perfect

Dear Jesus, Thank You for Doug who was here to encourage me when I fell apart last night! Thank You for Annabelle and Cait who helped set-up for today! Thank You for Pam, Tom, and Cheryl who gave me updates on my Momma yesterday! Thank You for Kaye who loves me through messages! I am one blessed lady to have so many people who love me with Your love. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray blessings on the day ahead with our Vow Celebration. I also pray blessings on many going through 'tough' days to feel Your empowerment. My Momma, my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Steph as she recuperates from surgery; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; Mr John; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff’s husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; Mr Mullett; and Damon. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Russ; a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues; and Kaytlin’s husband. May You continue to be close to Andy and Sharon with the loss of their daughters. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Empowerment! Amen.

Philippians 4:13 - "Ain't Nobody"

Throughout the night and again this morning I had these words from a song Cody Carnes sings called "Ain't Nobody" on my mind...

He gave me joy for the mourning
For the ashes a crown
Yeah, I'm a walking talking miracle
And I just gotta let it out
Ain't nobody love me like Jesus
Ain't nobody love me this good

Yes! His love for me is greater than anything. It is greater than the hurts of life that seem to be so overwhelming at times. It is greater than the mistakes made that make us feel like a failure. It is greater than the expectations we put on ourselves and others put on us that are so unrealistic. His love brings us through 'tough' days stronger than ever before. His love pulls us out of the 'junk' of life to realize He never leaves us. He knew I needed reminded of His love. That is why this song was put on my mind throughout the night. I'm physically, emotionally, and mentally exhausted. The circumstances of life are overwhelming at this point but I cannot allow any of them pull me away from God. I cannot allow the enemy an open door into my life. Instead I must stand upon Paul's words from Philippians 4:13. I must allow God's supernatural strength to be what I walk in. I have often heard the saying 'God will not give you more than you can handle' and have often thought He must think I'm pretty strong. He knows I'm strong by the way I trust Him. He knows I find His strength in the ways He pours Himself into me. This morning I was reminded of the trillium wildflowers we saw growing when Doug and I walked at Johnson's Woods Sunday morning. They look so delicate yet they survive physical storms. We may feel delicate yet we survive 'storms' in life with God's strength. The trillium are so pretty as God's creation just as we are pretty in His eyes. Even when we may not feel as such we still are as God oozes out of us. There is no better compliment than hearing the smile on my face shows God's love in me. 

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of a safe trip home, for friends like Matt and Billy who unloaded the smoker, and for hugs from Sierra to welcome us home! Thank You for clarity in thinking when I feel so overwhelmed! Thank You for Doug who already had laundry done when I woke up this morning! You bless me in abundance over and over again. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. May people see a smile on my face that reflects Your love in me. I pray Your strength over many going through difficult days. My Momma, my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Steph as she awaits surgery; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Rhonda; Mike; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt and her parents; some young ladies with anxiety; a young man out of rehab; Mary Lilley; a husband/father separated from his wife; Brooklyn; Kristen Batten; April; families in turmoil; Gay and Doug; Sherry; Mr John; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many dealing with ‘c’ and/or going through treatments…Audrey; Chrissy’s cousin; Shirley Jones; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Little Ivy; Little Judson; Little Roselynn; a young girl in our community; a lady whose breast cancer has returned; a lady diagnosed with stage two breast cancer; a lady diagnosed with throat cancer; Sue Danhoff’s husband Harv; Michele with breast cancer; Mr Mullett; and Damon. I pray for: the Long family; Becky; Russ; a couple contemplating divorce and another couple having serious issues; and Kaytlin’s husband. May You continue to be close to Andy and Sharon with the loss of their daughters. Thank You for continued healing for Pastor Tommy and Pam! Thank You for being My Strength! Amen.