My friend writes a glum and hopeless sounding update. But, won't you join me in praying for a miracle? I know that God is greater and Bobby can receive a miraculous interventive healing from our creator. Lift him up in ferverent prayer, won't you?
Good Evening Everyone,
Today was a very sobering day as the doctor had a sit down with us (me and my sister-in-law). It looks like they are going to keep him on the phentobarbital through the weekend as expected. The doctors are going to try and take him off possibly on Monday in order to see if his body will give us any type of response. There is a possibility that his inner cranial pressure has been high enough where he may have had a stroke. Once again there is no way to determine the amount of damage that was done to the brain without an MRI and they have been unable to do an MRI as he has not been medically stable enough to do one. In addition, the amount of fluids that he has been dumping through his urine is making a possibility of dehydration, and with all the medication that they have been giving him there is a possibility of kidney failure. The doctors have also told us that he has a slim/low chance of having a normal lifestyle if he is able to overcome the swelling on the brain and low blood pressure and dehydration. Chances are very strong that he would have to be on a ventilater and a feeding tube for the rest of his life. At this point they are unable to do surgery to remove a flap from his skull as he is not stable enough to go into surgery and the risks would be very high right now.
Please continue with the positive thoughts and prayers he really needs them.
Thank you,
Michelle
Monday, August 28, 2006
Friday, August 25, 2006
More on Bobby
Good Evening Everyone,
No real change today, the inner cranial pressure stayed about the same around 15 to 19. They are still having a difficult time keeping him from dumping so much fluid from his urine. They are trying to find the happy medium between keeping his inner cranial pressure down and keeping him from dehydrating himself from peeing to much.
Please keep up the positive thoughts and prayers.
Thank you,
Michelle
Father, I ask You to bless my friends, relatives and those that I care deeply for, who are reading this right now. Show them a new revelation of Your love and power. Holy Spirit, I ask You to minister to their spirit at this very moment. Where there is pain, give them Your peace and mercy. Where there is self-doubt, release a renewed confidence through Your grace. Where there is need, I ask you to fulfill their needs Bless their homes, families, finances, their goings and their comings. In Jesus' precious name. Amen.
Michelle,
Here is my own little prayer,
Love Susan
Precious Heavenly Father,
I come to you in prayer with my friends Bob and Michelle. Together, we pray in one accord and where three are gathered in your name...there you will be also. We lift up the health and welfare of Bobby to you Lord God. He is one of your beloved, one of your children. Created by you before the foundation of the world, you knew where he would be this day. We know that your word says you will not forsake him and we trust you in your infinite wisdom and holiness.
You are the master healer, physician extraordinaire and we place his care in your hands. Be with the physicians, technicians, hospital staff and specialists as they attend to his needs. Oversee every decision and medication given. Give his parents, sibling, friends and loved ones strength, faith, and hope to endure the difficult waiting period as he recuperates. Father, stand with them and give them comfort; for it is difficult to see your child helplessly laying in a hospital bed with monitors, tubes, IV's and countless other medical instruments.
Speak to Bobby in his dreams and draw him close. Give him the willpower to fight so his body will respond in the way necessary to heal completely. Grant him a full and complete recuperation Lord God...this young man has work yet to do. Your work Father.
We love you and praise you Holy Father. Thank you for the gift of children. Thank you for all that you give us each day. We pray these things in the wonderful name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Amen
No real change today, the inner cranial pressure stayed about the same around 15 to 19. They are still having a difficult time keeping him from dumping so much fluid from his urine. They are trying to find the happy medium between keeping his inner cranial pressure down and keeping him from dehydrating himself from peeing to much.
Please keep up the positive thoughts and prayers.
Thank you,
Michelle
Father, I ask You to bless my friends, relatives and those that I care deeply for, who are reading this right now. Show them a new revelation of Your love and power. Holy Spirit, I ask You to minister to their spirit at this very moment. Where there is pain, give them Your peace and mercy. Where there is self-doubt, release a renewed confidence through Your grace. Where there is need, I ask you to fulfill their needs Bless their homes, families, finances, their goings and their comings. In Jesus' precious name. Amen.
Michelle,
Here is my own little prayer,
Love Susan
Precious Heavenly Father,
I come to you in prayer with my friends Bob and Michelle. Together, we pray in one accord and where three are gathered in your name...there you will be also. We lift up the health and welfare of Bobby to you Lord God. He is one of your beloved, one of your children. Created by you before the foundation of the world, you knew where he would be this day. We know that your word says you will not forsake him and we trust you in your infinite wisdom and holiness.
You are the master healer, physician extraordinaire and we place his care in your hands. Be with the physicians, technicians, hospital staff and specialists as they attend to his needs. Oversee every decision and medication given. Give his parents, sibling, friends and loved ones strength, faith, and hope to endure the difficult waiting period as he recuperates. Father, stand with them and give them comfort; for it is difficult to see your child helplessly laying in a hospital bed with monitors, tubes, IV's and countless other medical instruments.
Speak to Bobby in his dreams and draw him close. Give him the willpower to fight so his body will respond in the way necessary to heal completely. Grant him a full and complete recuperation Lord God...this young man has work yet to do. Your work Father.
We love you and praise you Holy Father. Thank you for the gift of children. Thank you for all that you give us each day. We pray these things in the wonderful name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Amen
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Update on Bobby
It's been up and down, touch and go for our young friend Bobby. His mom writes daily and this time she had some hopeful news:
Good Evening Everyone,
Well I am moved back into the hotel. Today was a fairly good day for Bobby, his inner cranial pressure stayed between 2 -6. Then we found out he was dumping too much fluid and that was why his inner cranial pressure was so low. So the doctors put him on another fluid to retain some of the fluid and that brought his inner cranial pressure up to between 14 & 16 which is still good. The pituitary gland is what regulates your fluid retention level and right now his gland is telling his body to dump all fluids and that will cause his body to de-hydrate which is not good either. Tomorrow they are doing a trachostomy so that the ventilator will go through a hole in his neck instead of through his mouth. The doctors say that is better and gives him less of a chance of getting recurring pneumonia.
Well I think that covers everything.
Thanks again for all of your thoughts and prayers.
Michelle
Dear Father God,
Once again we come before you with praise, hope, and love. Your word tells us to lay everything at the feet of our Lord Jesus. We humbly do that now. We trust you with our very lives and it is that trust once again with which we appeal to you for the sake of Bobby. You are working on his body Father, and we ask that you continue to heal him. We also pray for his spirit Lord God. Draw him (and all those who don't know you completely) gently back to the fold. Keep us every mindful of our own walk and help us to be faithful "do-ers". Let everyone see the rainbow after the flood Father. Let those who don't know you weep with joy and adoration of the fullfillment and revelation the Holy Spirit brings.
I love you Father God. WE love you and pray together in one accord in the powerful and wonderful name of the Lord, Jesus Christ.
Amen
Good Evening Everyone,
Well I am moved back into the hotel. Today was a fairly good day for Bobby, his inner cranial pressure stayed between 2 -6. Then we found out he was dumping too much fluid and that was why his inner cranial pressure was so low. So the doctors put him on another fluid to retain some of the fluid and that brought his inner cranial pressure up to between 14 & 16 which is still good. The pituitary gland is what regulates your fluid retention level and right now his gland is telling his body to dump all fluids and that will cause his body to de-hydrate which is not good either. Tomorrow they are doing a trachostomy so that the ventilator will go through a hole in his neck instead of through his mouth. The doctors say that is better and gives him less of a chance of getting recurring pneumonia.
Well I think that covers everything.
Thanks again for all of your thoughts and prayers.
Michelle
Dear Father God,
Once again we come before you with praise, hope, and love. Your word tells us to lay everything at the feet of our Lord Jesus. We humbly do that now. We trust you with our very lives and it is that trust once again with which we appeal to you for the sake of Bobby. You are working on his body Father, and we ask that you continue to heal him. We also pray for his spirit Lord God. Draw him (and all those who don't know you completely) gently back to the fold. Keep us every mindful of our own walk and help us to be faithful "do-ers". Let everyone see the rainbow after the flood Father. Let those who don't know you weep with joy and adoration of the fullfillment and revelation the Holy Spirit brings.
I love you Father God. WE love you and pray together in one accord in the powerful and wonderful name of the Lord, Jesus Christ.
Amen
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Bobby's Prayer Request
My friend Michelle emailed me with a prayer concern. Please pray for her son and her family.
I haven't had time to call everyone, so this was the best way I know to let everyone know what is going on with Bobby. For those that don't know Bobby was in an automobile accident early Monday morning. The car rolled 6 times and he was ejected out of the vehicle. He is at the UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento and this is what we know so far.
He does not have any broken bones.
He does have a dislocated knee.
He does have head trauma. He is in an induced Coma to reduce the swelling of his brain and has had a line inserted in his skull to drain the fluid from his brain. He will probably stay in the induced Coma & Paralysis for the next week to try and keep his inner cranial pressure down. The doctors will try every couple of days to reduce the meds that put him in the Coma and see what the inner cranial pressure is. If they can get the inner cranial pressure stabilized than they have to evaluate how severe the damage is to his brain. He has multiple bruises on the brain so until they get the fluid and swelling down there is no way to tell what kind of damage we are talking about. If the doctors can not bring the swelling down than they will have to go to alternative measures up to and including surgery, but it does not look like we will have to go that route as his pressure is being managed with the line that was inserted in his skull.
Heavenly Father,
We come before you with praise and adoration this day. We know that you love every soul on earth beyond what we can think or comprehend. And Father, it is that love and compassion we appeal to today. We lift Bobby up to you and put his health concerns in your capable hands. Lord, give him strength and provide him with the best care as he recuperates. Grant him a full recuperation. Be with the doctors and staff that watch over him and help them make the best decisions. You are the master physician, healer, and creator. We trust in your miraculous intervention.
And Father, be with Bob, Michelle and Michael during this time. His family is concerned and worried. Bolster their faith Lord. Give them rest and peace, help them with the financial burden that is bound to arise.
We thank you in the glorious name of Jesus Christ.
Amen
I haven't had time to call everyone, so this was the best way I know to let everyone know what is going on with Bobby. For those that don't know Bobby was in an automobile accident early Monday morning. The car rolled 6 times and he was ejected out of the vehicle. He is at the UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento and this is what we know so far.
He does not have any broken bones.
He does have a dislocated knee.
He does have head trauma. He is in an induced Coma to reduce the swelling of his brain and has had a line inserted in his skull to drain the fluid from his brain. He will probably stay in the induced Coma & Paralysis for the next week to try and keep his inner cranial pressure down. The doctors will try every couple of days to reduce the meds that put him in the Coma and see what the inner cranial pressure is. If they can get the inner cranial pressure stabilized than they have to evaluate how severe the damage is to his brain. He has multiple bruises on the brain so until they get the fluid and swelling down there is no way to tell what kind of damage we are talking about. If the doctors can not bring the swelling down than they will have to go to alternative measures up to and including surgery, but it does not look like we will have to go that route as his pressure is being managed with the line that was inserted in his skull.
Heavenly Father,
We come before you with praise and adoration this day. We know that you love every soul on earth beyond what we can think or comprehend. And Father, it is that love and compassion we appeal to today. We lift Bobby up to you and put his health concerns in your capable hands. Lord, give him strength and provide him with the best care as he recuperates. Grant him a full recuperation. Be with the doctors and staff that watch over him and help them make the best decisions. You are the master physician, healer, and creator. We trust in your miraculous intervention.
And Father, be with Bob, Michelle and Michael during this time. His family is concerned and worried. Bolster their faith Lord. Give them rest and peace, help them with the financial burden that is bound to arise.
We thank you in the glorious name of Jesus Christ.
Amen
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
What About Me?
I AM - a child of God, taking baby steps each day by His wonderful grace.
I AM THANKFUL - for God's Love and for His son, our Lord, Jesus Christ.
I SAID - I'd be an entertainer (singer) when I grew up.
I WANT - so much good and happiness for my children and grandchildren.
I WISH - I had more self control in areas of great weakness.
I MISS - my family and friends in California (and Wisconsin).
I HEAR - God speaking to me through music and song.
I WONDER - when I will truly grow up.
I REGRET - every single bad choice I made and every sin I committed.
I AM NOT - disloyal.
I DANCE - when no one is looking.
I SING - whenever I can.
I CRY - like a ninny all the time over silly sentimental things like kindergarten graduation or handmade birthday cards.
I AM NOT ALWAYS - on time, or focused.
I MAKE WITH MY HANDS - creative little scrapbooks of love, memories, and family history as a token of my heart.
I WRITE - because I can express myself with ease through written words, whereas verbally I solidify.
I CONFUSE - directions.
I NEED - to spend more time with God.
I SHOULD - lose 40 pounds.
I START - getting melancholy over the speed at which time has passed.
I LOVE - to love.
I AM THANKFUL - for God's Love and for His son, our Lord, Jesus Christ.
I SAID - I'd be an entertainer (singer) when I grew up.
I WANT - so much good and happiness for my children and grandchildren.
I WISH - I had more self control in areas of great weakness.
I MISS - my family and friends in California (and Wisconsin).
I HEAR - God speaking to me through music and song.
I WONDER - when I will truly grow up.
I REGRET - every single bad choice I made and every sin I committed.
I AM NOT - disloyal.
I DANCE - when no one is looking.
I SING - whenever I can.
I CRY - like a ninny all the time over silly sentimental things like kindergarten graduation or handmade birthday cards.
I AM NOT ALWAYS - on time, or focused.
I MAKE WITH MY HANDS - creative little scrapbooks of love, memories, and family history as a token of my heart.
I WRITE - because I can express myself with ease through written words, whereas verbally I solidify.
I CONFUSE - directions.
I NEED - to spend more time with God.
I SHOULD - lose 40 pounds.
I START - getting melancholy over the speed at which time has passed.
I LOVE - to love.
Monday, August 07, 2006
Hallmark Humor
I love the Hallmark character "Madge" and the little note to the right came to me in an email. Isn't it funny how sometimes things are just so appropriate? I'm REALLY dragging today and when a friend sent a few of "Madge's" little blurbs (courtesy Hallmark Cards) it brought a chuckle to this tired soul.
Speaking of which, they have a "tax free" weekend in Texas for school supplies and school clothes, etc. All the stores have special sales cuz' there's no tax! We just had it and I a spent fortune. Darn teenagers just keep growing! I used to love to shop...but now, I just see gobs of money slipping through my fingers and I'm exhausted at the end of the day. Then I feel guilty because I should have paid bills but the kids had needs that had to be met. I only have 2 school aged children left in the house (and of course I had to send my granddaughters' a little something for 1st grade), but it still seems like I'm borrowing from Peter to pay Paul whenever it's back to school time. There was a time when there were 4-5 in the house to buy for!!! I should be grateful.
Then, if they are in sports (like mine are) there's also sports gear and various sundries. Did God make a money tree? Cuz' if he did, I need to plant one PDQ (PRETTY DARN QUICK). No matter how hard I try to budget and save, something always happens. Like, last weekend someone broke into our building and stole a motorcycle. Again! This is the second time that motorcycle has been stolen (this time, I doubt it will be recovered).
Anyway, what do you all do when it's back-to-school time?
Saturday, August 05, 2006
Flaming Hot
Oh my goodness! It has been hot here in the Southwest (and California too I'm told). I recently heard a Christian comedianne explain what living in Arizona was like. She said, "If you want to experience the Arizona heat, go home...plug in your hair dryer and stick it in your mouth!" LOL! That is exactly how it feels here in Texas right now. Every swimming pool in sight is full of kids. I must have made a dozen glasses of fresh squeezed lemonade and my mouth still feels like I ate a sandwich made of cotton balls.
What are you doing to beat the heat?
What are you doing to beat the heat?
Saturday, July 22, 2006
110 DEGREES!
It's 110 degrees in Northern California! We just got over 107 degrees here in Texas. But, after talking with my grandchildren today--"Mommy can't get the big pool blowed up, we have to wait for Daddy" --I decided to publish these pictures from a visit in April. It was warm then. It reminded me that we all need to bring out the inner child within and run through the sprinklers, letting the water tickle our tongue. Especially when it is 110 degrees. Not only then, but especially then. Let the grass tickle our bare feet and giggle when we get the "itchies" from it. Why? Because youth passes in an instant and we should revel in the glory of childhood. Children are most precious to God. Thank you Father for giving us children! You are worthy of all our praise.
Speaking of Christian Songs
...have you heard the relatively new Brad Paisley/Dolly Parton duet? When I Get Where I'm Going? My husband called me when it first came out (to tell me how it touched him)! There is another one by Tim McGraw (that escapes me right now) that "made sense" to him in the scheme of things. Garth Brooks (yes...I enjoy country western music, along with rock and roll, christian, some contemporary...I'm a lover of music) Some of God's Greatest Gifts (Are Unanswered Prayers).
Speaking of prayers, please pray for my husband. (His parents named him because a prophet told them when his mother was pregnant that she would have a son who would one day bring many to Christ). He feels like "he spent enough time in church as a kid" that he "paid his dues." And, "Why does God let bad things happen to good people?" "Why does He let babies die?" Or, "Why is His son more important then mine?" (Teardrop)
That just brings Richard Mullin's song Creed to mind. "I believe in God the Father, almighty maker of heaven and maker of earth... and in Jesus Christ His only begotten Son our Lord..." ..."And I believe what I believe, it's what makes me what I am...I did not make it, no it is making me, it is the very truth of God not the invention of any man."
I believe.
Speaking of prayers, please pray for my husband. (His parents named him because a prophet told them when his mother was pregnant that she would have a son who would one day bring many to Christ). He feels like "he spent enough time in church as a kid" that he "paid his dues." And, "Why does God let bad things happen to good people?" "Why does He let babies die?" Or, "Why is His son more important then mine?" (Teardrop)
That just brings Richard Mullin's song Creed to mind. "I believe in God the Father, almighty maker of heaven and maker of earth... and in Jesus Christ His only begotten Son our Lord..." ..."And I believe what I believe, it's what makes me what I am...I did not make it, no it is making me, it is the very truth of God not the invention of any man."
I believe.
Sending Up a Thank You
Was just listening to a cd by the late Richard Mullins. I love this particular cd. Every single song on it is salve to my soul. I love to sing and don't do it enough anymore. (My husband is not a believer and doesn't like Christian music or gospel). Whenever he is gone, Mercy Me, Casting Crowns...and soon Steve Sporre's cd are in my computer playing! Some of my favorites from Richard such as Sing Your Praise to the Lord, Our God is an Awesome God, Screen Door come to me when I'm having a hard day or feeling challenged by the world.
I just want to send up a thank you for blessing us with your talent Richard, and for drawing us closer to God. Truly, you are and have always been one of His angels Richard! We miss you and can't wait to hear you sing again one day!
Our God IS an awesome God, He reigns from heaven above with wisdom, power, and love...our God is an awesome God!!!!!
Amen
I just want to send up a thank you for blessing us with your talent Richard, and for drawing us closer to God. Truly, you are and have always been one of His angels Richard! We miss you and can't wait to hear you sing again one day!
Our God IS an awesome God, He reigns from heaven above with wisdom, power, and love...our God is an awesome God!!!!!
Amen
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Fish N Chips Anyone?
A snapshot of me and my brother-in-law and sister at a local festival on one of the great lakes. Ya' can't beat the fish and chips when it's lake perch! Notice I'm drinking a beverage indigenous to the area while the youngin's are enjoying a Mike's Hard Lemonade. We all imbibe about once a year (we're light weights). No offense to those who battle substance or alcohol abuse. I might have had a problem years ago, but when I had my daughter...it changed everything. The last time I was drunk she was 11 months old and she is 29 now. I haven't had more then 1 or 2 drinks a year because alcoholism runs in my family. It was one struggle God gifted me with strength enough to avoid.
The weather was 98 degrees that day and even the almost non-existent breeze from the lake didn't offer comfort from the heat and humidity. We were dripping perspiration just sitting still! My old joints were aching and by the end of the day, my hip hurt so bad my brother-in-law had to literally pull my leg! I could barely walk. Folks, it really is all down hill after 40! Just kidding. I usually don't have any problems, but for some reason I must have had a virus or something that attacked my joints that week. Any who...if I haven't already said so, I had a blast visiting family recently. Will have to wear out my welcome and do it again soon.
COUSINS
Here are five cousins. My cousin P is in the purple shirt. She is one of SEVEN cousins from my Aunt C (my mother's twin sister). My sister J is the "short one" ;-) and this was taken in her yard. My sister "Shenna" is next to me and my bro "B" is in the back. Sort of a small family reunion since I haven't seen this cousin in over 10 years!
I Got All My Sisters With Me
We are
F-A-M-I-L-Y,
get up everybody and sing! Me and the sistas' during a recent visit. Notice the baby of the family to my right (Shenna), I'm in the middle (wearing light blue) and J is to my left. Nothing like sisters folks. They are the only people on earth who truly understand EVERYTHING there is about you, and put up with you anyway. God blessed me with two beautiful sisters and great friends too. I love my sisters. I am who I am because of them.
30th Reunion
My bro and I recently attended our 30 year high school reunion. Yup, PWHS class of 1976. No, we're not twins...he's 10 months older then me. We are twins for about a month and a half. NONE of our friends were there, so it was a little disappointing. But, we did bump into classmates (had to look at the nametags before we could recognize them) and mingled a bit. Swapped a few stories, caught up on the local gossip. It was great. "Those were the days my friend, we thought they'd never end."
We left early and went to my brother's house for a tour. Then, stopped off at my nephew's house and kissed my great nephew. Was great to be back home with the "rents" and sisters too.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
THE DASH
I'm Glad You're In My Dash
I read of a man who stood to speak
At the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on her tombstone,
From the beginning...to the end.
He noted that first came her date of birth
And spoke the following date with tears,
But he said what mattered most of all
Was the dash between those years.
(1934 - 1998)
For that dash represents all the time
That she spent alive on earth...
And now only those who loved her,
Know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not, how much we own;
The cars...the house...the cash,
What matters is how we live and love
And how we spend our dash.
So think about this long and hard...
Are there things you'd like to change?
For you never know how much time is left,
That can still be rearranged.
If we could just slow down enough
To consider what's true and real,
And always try to understand
The way other people feel
And be less quick to anger,
And show appreciation more
And love the people in our lives
Like we've never loved before.
If we treat each other with respect,
And more often wear a smile..
Remembering that this special dash
Might only last a little while.
So, when your eulogy's being read
With your life's actions to rehash...
Would you be proud of the things they say
About how you spend your dash?
You are truly special and unique.
I'm glad that you're in my life and part of my dash.
Share this with those you care about,
From my dash to yours.
LAUGH LONG, LIVE LONG,
YESTERDAY IS HISTORY
TOMORROW IS A MYSTERY
TODAY IS A GIFT. . .
THAT'S WHY THEY CALL IT
THE PRESENT.
God Bless You!!!
Friday, June 30, 2006
Rest in Him
Received this via email from a friend:
Thought this was good and great reminder to take time for God daily.....love to you all.....
dont forget to say a prayer for this mission today!!!
Blessing to you today, Susan
M. Maketime to seek Jesus daily
E. Ease into a routine.
E. Expect more from yourself.
T. Teachable. Always be ready to learn.
From: Proverbs31devotions@comcast.net
To: "Devotions"
Subject: [devotions] 6-28/Encouragement for Today
Date: Wed, 28 Jun 2006 08:41:23 -0500
June 28, 2006
"Be Still and Know"
Van Walton
Proverbs 31 Speaker Team Member, Director of Hispanic Ministries
Key Verse:
Psalm 46:10a, "Cease striving and know that I am God." (NASB)
Devotion: I find it hard to accept the fact that relaxing and reveling in life by simply resting and being still is an acceptable activity. What about you? Do you easily take time out from your busy schedule to sit before the Lord, ask Him to speak, enjoy the works of His hands, rest in Him, and delight in the blessings He has so generously poured on you? If you are like so many busy women today, carving out time to sit quietly or romp around seizing the day is not a priority.
Early in the spring, I stepped out into my yard to clear out what the last frost of the fall had destroyed. Working in flower beds, around bushes, by the fence, and next to my front porch I cleared, pruned, and tidied. I brought out the bird baths and scrubbed them down. Then I returned my concrete pieces of yard art to their specified places, filled with water. I did the same with bird feeders, filling them with thistle seed, sunflower kernels, safflower, and wild bird mixture. I ended my day by planting a few of the latest selections from my favorite garden center, and digging up and separating various grasses and lilies. When I finished, I slowly straightened my bent over body, working the stiffness from my wintered joints. There I stood in my back yard. Slowly I turned and surveyed my work. It looked good and I was pleased.
Going inside, I poured myself a glass of lemonade and returned to the fresh air of the outdoors. My favorite lawn chair beckoned so I kicked off my shoes, threw my legs up on the cushions, and put my head back to enjoy the little world I had developed.
It dawned on me that just as God had declared that His work was good, so I had found delight in my creative work. I liked the appearance of my surroundings. God rested after His work in Eden. I certainly was enjoying my brief moment, but in less than 5 minutes my body rebelled! I found, that no matter how I longed to commune with the One Who had brought me to this garden, I could not nail myself to the chaise on which I was relaxing. Finishing my refreshing drink, I stood up, stretched and moved on.
The following morning, even before the earliest rays of sunshine penetrated my sleep, I heard the songs of birds. Each little creature had his own song to sing.
I heard sharp chirps and melodious whistles. One little bird sat on a branch outside my window and serenaded me with all he had. After several minutes, his vigorous voice drew me to the window where I spotted him. As he sang, his little throat pulsed in and out, feathers ruffled, beak wide open, head held high. On and on he sang. This little guy's pitch was perfect. I noticed that the chirpers and the crowers were not intimidated, though. They did not stop their singing because there were others in the choir whose voices were more melodious.
While I listened to him and his fellow feathered friends I surveyed the work I had accomplished the previous day. A cardinal sat on a bird feeder. Robins poked around the freshly turned soil. Little wrens flew in and out of my fancy bird house. Blue jays took turns splashing in the bird bath. Clearly the flying fellows in this small lot on planet earth had no trouble basking in the garden where I had spent my time creating and developing a lovely retreat.
I stepped outside to join my 'neighbors' and participate in their praises. As I did so, God reminded me, through my own sense of delight, that it is good to enjoy and savor my Father's provisions. I felt a sense of satisfaction and joy; the birds' obvious pleasure honored and affirmed me.
I sensed God whisper: "Consider the birds of the air. They thrill in the results of your labor and by so doing, they deeply gratify you." "Child," my Father murmured, "gratify me with praise. I created earth for your pleasure. Bask in my presence. Be still and know that I am He who watches and delights while you revel in that which I have created for you."
Next time you feel a tug to sit and rest or a nudge to slow down and savor the world around you, gratify God. Do it! You will honor Him and the work of His hands. He created earth and placed you here to "take delight in the Lord." (Psalm 37:4)
My Prayer for Today:
My Father, My Creator, Your beauty is reflected here on earth in everything You created. You invite me to experience the garden, knowing I have to slow down in order to do so. Help me accept that quiet time spent with You is a good and healthy activity. Thank you, Lord for the beautiful gift of life and nature. I ask this in Jesus' Name, Amen.
Application Steps:
Read Genesis 1 - 2:21, John 14:1-4, Revelation 21:1-3; 21:9-22:2
In each of these passages God reminds me that He wants to prepare a marvelous place for me. What are the similarities in each of these three scripture readings?
Two of the greatest kings in the Hebrew nation, David and Solomon, wrote beautiful poetry and lengthy praise songs. I learn two things from their writings: 1) They knew God. 2) They didn't mind spending the necessary time needed to praise him and write about His glory. If they, in the midst of their royal duties, took time to enjoy God and tell Him so, then shouldn't I do the same?
Reflection Points:
Is my life characterized by a constant state of busyness or am I able to enjoy the presence of God on a regular basis?
Is there room in my daily schedule to spend more time with God, so I might learn more about my Father?
Do I want to have a deeper relationship with God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit?
Power Verses:
Job 22:26-27, "Surely then you will find delight in the Almighty and will lift up your face to God. You will pray to him, and he will hear you, and you will fulfill your vows." (NIV)
Psalm 24:1, "The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it." (NIV)
James 4:8a, "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." (ESV)
Additional resources:
· Becoming a Woman who Listens to God, by Sharon Jaynes
· Breathe, by Keri Wyatt Kent
· What Happens when Women Walk in Faith, by Lysa TerKeurst
Thought this was good and great reminder to take time for God daily.....love to you all.....
dont forget to say a prayer for this mission today!!!
Blessing to you today, Susan
M. Maketime to seek Jesus daily
E. Ease into a routine.
E. Expect more from yourself.
T. Teachable. Always be ready to learn.
From: Proverbs31devotions@comcast.net
To: "Devotions"
Subject: [devotions] 6-28/Encouragement for Today
Date: Wed, 28 Jun 2006 08:41:23 -0500
June 28, 2006
"Be Still and Know"
Van Walton
Proverbs 31 Speaker Team Member, Director of Hispanic Ministries
Key Verse:
Psalm 46:10a, "Cease striving and know that I am God." (NASB)
Devotion: I find it hard to accept the fact that relaxing and reveling in life by simply resting and being still is an acceptable activity. What about you? Do you easily take time out from your busy schedule to sit before the Lord, ask Him to speak, enjoy the works of His hands, rest in Him, and delight in the blessings He has so generously poured on you? If you are like so many busy women today, carving out time to sit quietly or romp around seizing the day is not a priority.
Early in the spring, I stepped out into my yard to clear out what the last frost of the fall had destroyed. Working in flower beds, around bushes, by the fence, and next to my front porch I cleared, pruned, and tidied. I brought out the bird baths and scrubbed them down. Then I returned my concrete pieces of yard art to their specified places, filled with water. I did the same with bird feeders, filling them with thistle seed, sunflower kernels, safflower, and wild bird mixture. I ended my day by planting a few of the latest selections from my favorite garden center, and digging up and separating various grasses and lilies. When I finished, I slowly straightened my bent over body, working the stiffness from my wintered joints. There I stood in my back yard. Slowly I turned and surveyed my work. It looked good and I was pleased.
Going inside, I poured myself a glass of lemonade and returned to the fresh air of the outdoors. My favorite lawn chair beckoned so I kicked off my shoes, threw my legs up on the cushions, and put my head back to enjoy the little world I had developed.
It dawned on me that just as God had declared that His work was good, so I had found delight in my creative work. I liked the appearance of my surroundings. God rested after His work in Eden. I certainly was enjoying my brief moment, but in less than 5 minutes my body rebelled! I found, that no matter how I longed to commune with the One Who had brought me to this garden, I could not nail myself to the chaise on which I was relaxing. Finishing my refreshing drink, I stood up, stretched and moved on.
The following morning, even before the earliest rays of sunshine penetrated my sleep, I heard the songs of birds. Each little creature had his own song to sing.
I heard sharp chirps and melodious whistles. One little bird sat on a branch outside my window and serenaded me with all he had. After several minutes, his vigorous voice drew me to the window where I spotted him. As he sang, his little throat pulsed in and out, feathers ruffled, beak wide open, head held high. On and on he sang. This little guy's pitch was perfect. I noticed that the chirpers and the crowers were not intimidated, though. They did not stop their singing because there were others in the choir whose voices were more melodious.
While I listened to him and his fellow feathered friends I surveyed the work I had accomplished the previous day. A cardinal sat on a bird feeder. Robins poked around the freshly turned soil. Little wrens flew in and out of my fancy bird house. Blue jays took turns splashing in the bird bath. Clearly the flying fellows in this small lot on planet earth had no trouble basking in the garden where I had spent my time creating and developing a lovely retreat.
I stepped outside to join my 'neighbors' and participate in their praises. As I did so, God reminded me, through my own sense of delight, that it is good to enjoy and savor my Father's provisions. I felt a sense of satisfaction and joy; the birds' obvious pleasure honored and affirmed me.
I sensed God whisper: "Consider the birds of the air. They thrill in the results of your labor and by so doing, they deeply gratify you." "Child," my Father murmured, "gratify me with praise. I created earth for your pleasure. Bask in my presence. Be still and know that I am He who watches and delights while you revel in that which I have created for you."
Next time you feel a tug to sit and rest or a nudge to slow down and savor the world around you, gratify God. Do it! You will honor Him and the work of His hands. He created earth and placed you here to "take delight in the Lord." (Psalm 37:4)
My Prayer for Today:
My Father, My Creator, Your beauty is reflected here on earth in everything You created. You invite me to experience the garden, knowing I have to slow down in order to do so. Help me accept that quiet time spent with You is a good and healthy activity. Thank you, Lord for the beautiful gift of life and nature. I ask this in Jesus' Name, Amen.
Application Steps:
Read Genesis 1 - 2:21, John 14:1-4, Revelation 21:1-3; 21:9-22:2
In each of these passages God reminds me that He wants to prepare a marvelous place for me. What are the similarities in each of these three scripture readings?
Two of the greatest kings in the Hebrew nation, David and Solomon, wrote beautiful poetry and lengthy praise songs. I learn two things from their writings: 1) They knew God. 2) They didn't mind spending the necessary time needed to praise him and write about His glory. If they, in the midst of their royal duties, took time to enjoy God and tell Him so, then shouldn't I do the same?
Reflection Points:
Is my life characterized by a constant state of busyness or am I able to enjoy the presence of God on a regular basis?
Is there room in my daily schedule to spend more time with God, so I might learn more about my Father?
Do I want to have a deeper relationship with God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit?
Power Verses:
Job 22:26-27, "Surely then you will find delight in the Almighty and will lift up your face to God. You will pray to him, and he will hear you, and you will fulfill your vows." (NIV)
Psalm 24:1, "The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it." (NIV)
James 4:8a, "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." (ESV)
Additional resources:
· Becoming a Woman who Listens to God, by Sharon Jaynes
· Breathe, by Keri Wyatt Kent
· What Happens when Women Walk in Faith, by Lysa TerKeurst
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Love In Pure Form
I just remembered an evening about a year ago when God showed me Love In Pure Form. I had flown in and was visiting with my granddaughters for the week and sleeping on their bottom bunk bed. (It was the night before I had to leave). They were 5 and sharing the top bunk. I miss them and worry about them, and I know they probably have been to church only the 1/2 dozen times I took them before I moved away. I worry about their spirituality and wonder if they know about Jesus or God. I had flashbacks of my own son (at about their age) going to church for the first time at Christmas and saying, "Who are Mary and Joseph? Who is Jesus?" Tears, buckets of tears. Anyway, I said, "Do you want to say a bedtime prayer with Grandma?" I started to recite, "Now I lay me down to sleep..." Grace said (yes, they are twins named Faith and Grace) "I pray the Lord my soul to keep..." I was shocked, and thrilled, and with great surprise said, "How do you know that prayer?" She said, "C (her little brother) has a teddy bear that says it. Do you want me to go get it?" I said, "No." But, we finished our prayer.
Suddenly, it was clear to me that He loves them even more then I do! I mean bright light clear. How foolish I was to think that my prayers, my love, my hopes and dreams for them could even compare to His! Like I was their only lifeline to Him! (I'm so ignorant and gullible and mortal sometimes. I feel as if my brain is stuffed with cotton fluff). He told me, in that moment, without words; He will take care of them, protect them, guide them, and love them. My love for them is immeasurable and His surpasses understanding! He blessed me with children and grandchildren, and He blessed me with a glimpse of Love In Pure Form. It was so cleansing and humbling...all I could do was cry. Buckets and buckets and buckets of tears. Happy tears. For a good hour. I felt enveloped in the most beautiful expression of love anyone could ever hope to experience!
Suddenly, it was clear to me that He loves them even more then I do! I mean bright light clear. How foolish I was to think that my prayers, my love, my hopes and dreams for them could even compare to His! Like I was their only lifeline to Him! (I'm so ignorant and gullible and mortal sometimes. I feel as if my brain is stuffed with cotton fluff). He told me, in that moment, without words; He will take care of them, protect them, guide them, and love them. My love for them is immeasurable and His surpasses understanding! He blessed me with children and grandchildren, and He blessed me with a glimpse of Love In Pure Form. It was so cleansing and humbling...all I could do was cry. Buckets and buckets and buckets of tears. Happy tears. For a good hour. I felt enveloped in the most beautiful expression of love anyone could ever hope to experience!
My Head Hurts
My head always hurts. I have a headache 4 out of 7 days a week. Sometimes, it's a full blown migraine. I have no idea why. Sometimes, I think it is a hormone imbalance...other days I know it's sinus/allergy, plus I have a degenerative disc in my neck and I know it (and my back) are out of alignment, still other times it's stress. I'm sick of headaches. Sick of them! I hate them. They are all consuming. Like they have a life of their own. No fun. Paralyzing. They make me cranky. Going to work and popping tylenol or asprin or advil every 3-4 hours (I push it on really bad days and take them an hour early), is a pathetic existence. My husband thinks I'm hypochondriac "like my mother". I'm nothing like my mother in that respect. But, his intolerance for "weakness" and "imperfection" only bring on more headaches. Sometimes, I wish God would just bring me home so I would never again have another headache.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Electric Light Parade
Have any of you ever been to Disneyland? It's Disney's 50 year anniversary this year, so after the Electric Light Parade (a nightly tradition at Disneyland...just an hour before closing they parade through the park with all kinds of "floats" made from thousands of lights) they also have fireworks. It was breathtaking! No matter how many pictures I tried to take, they just didn't do it justice. The light parade makes it a truly "magical" experience for kids and adults alike. It has synthesizers too and the people on or "in" the floats "interact" with the audience. I recommend it to almost everybody! Bring out the child in yourself!
Going on Rides
The kids had no problem on the kiddie rides. F even went on some big people rides (G got scared on Space Mountain and wouldn't go back on). But, Grandma braved the big ferris wheel for their sake. Here is J with the kids on one of their roller coasters. The lines are always horrible though. Especially for favorites like Splash Mountain! They accidentally took both the girls on this hotel terror ride and they ran off crying to Grandma...F says, "those people are NOT normal"!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)