Pondering The Good Ol' Days

Do you sometimes get "homesick", and find yourself going through old photo albums, in an attempt to recapture some of your favorite childhood memories? Well, occasionally, I do just that... and when I do, I'm usually caught somewhere between being teary-eyed, and laughing until my insides hurt. But it's a good kind of pain... this reminiscing into the past. It brings to mind all those silly (and often embarrassing) moments, growing up.

I've done alot of "revisiting" lately to my old home church, back home in Spartanburg. My super-sweet eternal friend, Stephanie, has caught me up on the folks I spent much of my childhood with... my teachers, my girl friends, my one and only "crush" (who shall forever remain nameless). It's been great to hear how everyone's doing, what they've all been up to for the past 25 years or so. My, how time flies!

I've also been thinking alot about Mama, and of my little brother ("Buck") and me, as we were growing up. It amazes me to think of how little we had back then; yet, at the same time, how MUCH we had! Truly, things were a lot different in those days, before the world became so.... well, "worldly"!

It didn't cost a thing, other than some sacrificial time and energy, for us to do "family outings" together. I recall how we spent many a rainy afternoons on the front porch, playing a "match-the-number " game (home-made cards cut from empty cereal or tea boxes). Mama wouldn't dare let us have a deck of cards in the house, so that's how we played card games! That's a far contrast to the many gambling establishments and casino boats/hotels that are popping up all over the place now... not to mention the LOTTERY our state now sponsors!

Mama somehow got to be a DSS worker (AKA "the neighborhood babysitter"), despite her age and ill-health. All the kids would gather at our house, so it was expected that she'd have plenty of Kool-Aid on hand... and in return, she'd share a Bible Story with them, and we'd always invite them to church with us on Sunday. We didn't have to have a special occasion like "Friend Day" or a free meal to rustle up some friends to take to church with us. They came simply because we asked... anytime! (Oh, to have that again!)

I remember, too, how Mama also carried the title of "Family Doctor". Whenever we were sick or hurting, no matter what ailed us, she was always "on call", praying for us, first of all... then doctoring us up with much love, and whatever medicine we had, if needed. She seemed to always know just what to do to make it all better. (Nowadays, parents are so quick to rush their children to the doctor's office, where they end up paying a fortune, only to receive an antibiotic that doesn't work any longer, because their child's system has grown immune to it, due to taking so much of it.) If only parents would lay hands on their children and pray for them today, as Mama did for us back then! (I bet the crime rate would decrease tremendously, as a result, as well!)

I used to think we had it so hard, growing up. We didn't have nearly the things (or rather, the "material things") that other kids had. We were raised by our Grandmother, so there again, I felt (at the time) we were missing out on the "normal" parent/child relationship. Was there anything we had, of any value??

Of course, in the years since, I've come to understand what truly mattered most... and that we, indeed, DID possess it. We had a loving, mature, GODLY woman bring us up in the nuture and admonition of the Lord! She taught us about Jesus, raised us in church, taught us right from wrong. Granted, we didn't always do what she instructed us to do. And many of the things she warned us against... unfortunately, sometimes we didn't steer clear from them. But she did her part in providing what meant the most... and that was in paving our walk with the Lord.

This past Sunday being Mother's Day, I've had her on my mind so much more this week. Though it's been over 10 years now, I still miss her terribly sometimes. But I cherish the thought of her being with Jesus now, and if I know her, she's probably looking after my little ones up there in Heaven. What a sweet thought!

I look around, and see the disrespect, disobedience, out-right defiant attitudes and behavior of kids today... especially those who seem to "have everything". It seems it's the children who are ruling the parents, anymore. And it makes me wish I'd appreciated what I had back then, because even though it may have seemed that I was poor... I was richly blessed in many ways. I thank God for granting me this priviledge of being raised by my Godly grandmother. I don't know where I'd be today, had it not been for her prayers and loving care for me back then.

Anyway, as I mentioned earlier, I've been looking through some old photographs lately. I wanted to share a few of them with you. The expressions and hairstyles are hilarious, but they bring back some of my absolute favorite childhood memories... times when things were simple, before the burdens of modern life today. Enjoy!

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Spend Wisely

I was intrigued by an interesting church-sign this evening. It read...

Life is like a coin. You can spend it however you wish. But the fact remains, you can only spend it once.

It seems I've been thinking ALOT lately about the years I spent away from the Lord. Or should I say, away from His Will. In doing so, I find that I'm all the more thankful for God's bountiful grace and mercy upon my life. There's absolutely nothing I did to deserve it. The fact is, I don't deserve it! Yet, He's poured out His goodness in more ways than I can even begin to mention here. That's for sure!

But the more I think about this church sign, the more I realize how very true its message is. We're each given this amazing gift called life. We only have one chance at it (here on earth). Yet, sadly, we waste so much of it! We "spend" it in all the wrong ways, in all the wrong places, and sometimes even with all the wrong people. That's my life in a nutshell... before I came back to the Lord.

Unfortunately, there are many who never realize their need of Christ in their life. They never come to the point of accepting His gift of salvation. They never enjoy the benefits of the Holy Spirit dwelling within their heart... that peace, joy, and love that can only come from Him. They never know the privilege of serving Jesus Christ, Who gave His life so they could live. They never share the blessings of fellowship with other believers.

What a sad, sad picture of how so many choose to "spend" their lives!

As I said earlier, that was my life... before I came back to the Lord. I was living life the way I wanted to live it. I gave no thought nor care for how He wanted me to live.

But even so, once I realized the error of my way and repented, He was ready and willing to wipe the slate clean. He forgave me, and He never brought my past up again... ever.

My favorite verse of Scripture is 2 Corinthians 5:17, which affirms the truth of what He did for me...

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things passed away; behold, all things are become new."

So you see, while the message on the church sign is accurate, on an earthly perspective... I'm so thankful it's a completely different story, spiritually. No matter how we "spend" our lives, nor how much of it we "waste", He's always there... ready and willing to forgive us and to wipe the slate clean. We have His Word on it!

Don't ever think that you, or someone you love, is a "lost cause". There's no such thing in God's eyes. He died for each and every one of us, all the same. No matter what we've done, nor where we've been. The only thing He's concerned about is where we're going. He wants us to come to Him. He's made it possible. All we have to do is believe... in Him... Who He is... what He did... and why.

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish but have everlasting life." - John 3:16

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." - Romans 10:9,10

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It's All About Forgiveness

Some of you already know that I was adopted by my grandmother (a wonderful Godly woman), who was "Mama" to my little brother and me. I didn’t have a relationship with my birth-mom until I was practically grown, and even then... up to now, even, it’s been the same ol’ same ol’, as in my entire childhood. She might want to be "Mom" today, but then decide not to be, the next day. It’s rediculous, I know, and there has been much, much pain involved, because of it. I forgive and try to forget, yet history repeats itself over and over again.

The same was true again yesterday. When I called my aunt to check on my uncle, who is in the hospital, on life-support (he is my birth-mom’s brother), I was told she was there at the hospital, so I asked to speak with her. My aunt tried to get her to the phone, but she refused. Like I said, history repeats itself.

The ironic thing is that her birthday is this coming Saturday, and I had just mailed her a card. It hadn’t had time to get there yet, of course, but in it, I simply told her that I loved her, and that I was praying for her.

For many years, I’ve caught alot of slack from people who say I shouldn’t have anything at all to do with her. But I don’t believe that’s the way I need to be towards her. My Bible teaches me that we are to bless those who hurt us (Luke 6:28). We are to love our enemies (Matt. 5:44; Luke 6:27,35). We are to forgive (Matt. 6:14,15; 18:35; Mark 11:25,26; Luke 6:37).

In all honesty, isn’t that what Christ did for us? Before we were saved, we weren’t His children. We weren’t considered "friends of God" then. So what’s the opposite of "friend"? Ahhhaa... "enemy".

So until we became Christians... born-again believers... we were enemies of God. Yet, look at what He did for us, regardless. Romans 5:8 tells us that even while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

So while the Bible also teaches us that we are to love one another as He loved us (John 15:12), why then should we feel like we’re above doing what He, Himself, did?? We shouldn’t! And that’s my reply to all those who disapprove of my trying to have a relationship with my birth-mom, despite what she has or hasn’t done.

I ask today that you join me in praying for her. (Her name is Sandra.) I fully believe that God has a plan for her life, as much as for mine, and He’s given me a burden to see her live for Him. I’ve seen the Lord work great and mighty things, in and around this crazy situation. Let me explain...

The Lord brought us in contact again in November 2005, after about 2 years of no contact whatsoever. (Again, with this "cycle"!). About 3 months later, she called me and told me of my step-dad’s having been diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver, and that the doctors said he only had a few weeks to live. Well, immediately my husband and I (and my infant nephew, who was living with us at the time) went up there to visit, with the sole purpose of leading him to Christ, before it was too late. (We were determined.)

As satan always does, when one attempts to free someone else from their eminent eternal torment in hell, he provided absolutely every possible distraction and hinderance to our "mission". Everything from phone calls, visits, my step-dad’s extreme fatigue and falling asleep mid-sentence... you name it, we fought it.

It was getting late, and after yet another visitor came by (and didn’t want to leave), we were so frustrated that we were the ones who left. My birth-mom walked us downstairs and saw us off, and we got about 3 blocks away, before the Holy Spirit stopped us, and reminded us of why we had driven 5 hours to get there in the first place, and urged us to go back. My husband stayed downstairs with the baby, and I went back up. I told the visitors I had something to talk to my step-dad about, and they were welcome to stay and hear it, or they could leave. But either way, I was gonna do what I came there to do. (Of course, the visitors left... and threw the gospel tracts I had given them on the floor of the elevator, too, I might add).

I began by telling him how much the Lord had done in my life, and all that He’d delivered me from. And how wonderful it was, knowing that all my sins had been forgiven, and that I knew I’d spend eternity in Heaven when I died. I then shared with him my burden for his eternal security. I went through the whole plan of salvation, taking him through the Romans Road. He didn’t fuss or complain, and miraculously, he did stay awake through all of it. But still, he had this look, as if to say, "That’s nice, little girl." I could almost sense him wanting to pat me on the head, to patronize me.

He was tough. There was definitely a wall there, but just before the point of giving up, I saw his whole countenance change. As I continued on with how much I wanted to leave there (knowing that I wouldn’t see him alive again) with the assurance that I would see him in Heaven, I watched this grizzly bear transform into a teddy bear. He broke down, and then I led him in a sinner’s prayer, where he asked Jesus to come into his heart. The Lord had performed a miracle right before my very eyes, and allowed me to be used in it. What a blessing!

The devil, of course, will always cause one to doubt anything the Lord does, so as we drove down the highway about an hour or so later, thoughts began to trouble me... that maybe he didn’t really mean it... maybe he was just trying to get me to shut up and get out of there.

But God... as always... is right on time, to cast away those doubts. He placed in the sky before me the most beautiful, complete rainbow. It was as if He gave me a sign to show me that it WAS real. I managed to get a picture of it, and I remember praising God for both gifts, that day.

Thirteen days later, my step-dad died. And because of the Holy Spirit working in our hearts that day, causing us to "go back and finish what we came for", I have never doubted where he might be today. I know he is in Heaven, and I’m so thankful for that assurance.

So you see, God does have a plan for my birth-mom’s life... despite all the pain and sorrow of the past (and present). He’s placed within me a burden to teach her in the ways of the Lord. She’s already witnessed His hand at work, and I’m confident that He will do a miracle in her life, as well.

Again, please join me in praying for her. Whether she ever wants to have a real relationship with me or not, that doesn’t matter. What truly does matter is that she has a real relationship with Christ. That’s the desire of my heart... for her, and for so many others in my family, whom I love.... and most importantly, whom the LORD loves.

Life is indeed complicated sometimes, but even so... I belong to Jesus, so as long as He's by my side, it doesn't matter who else is or isn't.

Thank you for your prayers. God bless you!

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Turning Point

As a few of you already know, I got some bad news this week. While reading the obituaries in my hometown paper (online), I saw the name of someone very familiar to me... though it was someone whom I hadn’t seen in many, many years. Back in my wandering days, when I was out in the world, living a life very displeasing to the Lord, there was a group of people I spent a great deal of time with... drinking, partying together. The man whose obituary I read was one of those people.

In fact, I had a particular fondness for him back then, because right after I first met him, he "saved me" from getting caught by the police, drinking in a bar (yes, I was under-age). When he saw them coming in, he quickly grabbed the beer from my hand and took it for his own. To my knowledge, they never suspected that I had been drinking. That act of kindness was always remembered, because I’ve known others who actually were caught later on, and the authorities didn’t go too easy on them. I was always grateful I had been spared that trouble with the law.

But anyway, my first response upon reading his obituary was, "Oh my, I hope he got saved since I last saw him." I reasoned that in 20 years or so, it is possible, after all. Oh, how I hoped that was the case!

I was curious as to how he had died, since there was no mention of an illness or anything. I looked through the previous few days’ articles, and saw nothing about an accident that claimed a life. I couldn’t shake my curiosity, so I then did a search with his name. To my horror, I found three articles which detailed the circumstances behind his death. He had been drinking with a friend on Monday night (at the friend’s house), and they got into an argument. That friend then shot him in the head, which killed him instantly.

I can’t tell you the thoughts that ran through my head upon reading this awful news. The hope that he had gotten saved and turned his life around suddenly died, as if right along with him. Then the guilt set in.

I began thinking of all the opportunities I had, to share the good news of Jesus Christ with him... but didn’t. I began to recall all the means I had available to contact him in the years since, even if it wasn’t face-to-face. I could have written, I could have called. I could have found SOME WAY to let him know about the change that Jesus had made in my life, and about how Jesus wanted to do the same thing in his life, as well. I should have shared Jesus with him. But instead, I kept Him all to myself. And because of that, I felt my friend’s blood was on my hands.

Thankfully, God has placed some pretty wonderful people in my life, who give me Godly wisdom, and remind me of what Scripture says, when I need it. One special friend, in particular, reminded me that God doesn’t give someone "just one chance" at salvation, and that if one person doesn’t share with them, He will send someone else to fulfill His purpose. But even so, ultimately, it’s up to the hearer as to whether or not he/she receives it.

I had a rough couple of days with this, but I can now say I’ve reached a turning point. Although I am still so very saddened at my old friend’s apparent eternal loss, I am all the more grateful for where the Lord has brought me from. And it’s made me all the more determined to reach those who’ve either never heard the gospel, or who have strayed away from the things of the Lord, as I did, all those years ago.

There is a goal, and we must all strive to achieve it in the time we have here on earth. None of us are promised tomorrow, so none of us can afford to put off today what needs to be taken care of, in light of where we (or those we know and love) spend eternity. Indeed, today is the day of salvation!

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Childhood Memories & Regrets

(As posted on my MySpace page last night)...

I guess I’ve been feeling somewhat nostalgic lately, largely due to my coming in contact with "long lost" family and friends again, after such a vast separation. (It’s funny how the Lord works in our lives, and brings to fruition those inner desires of our hearts. What a blessing!)

But anyway, as I’ve looked through online photos and old family photo albums, I’ve been thinking quite a bit about all those distant childhood memories (and people), some that I hadn’t thought about in several years. It’s been quite a journey, this stroll down Memory Lane. There are, of course, happy memories which make me smile. But then, too, there are the sad (even tragic) memories that bring on the tears. Either way, the trip is well-worth it, because as I eluded to earlier, the Lord has allowed this to come to pass for a reason. I believe that with all my heart. And I trust and pray GOOD things will come out of this, for HIS glory.

One of my cousins that I’ve recently come in contact with again... I’ve really had her on my heart ever since. She’s a number of years younger than me. In fact, it’s her older sister who’s the same age as me. But she (the younger one) used to come and spend the night with me quite a bit, growing up. I can remember how she often spent the night on Saturday, so she was able to come to church with us on Sunday morning. I loved that (as did she), because I got to fix her hair all pretty... sometimes with curls and/or ribbons. I got to "dress her up" in something I still had in my closet that was too small for me, but maybe just a tad bit big on her. For whatever length of time she was with us, she was like "my own little girl", at least that’s the way I saw it, anyway. Oh, how I enjoyed that!

In the years of time since then, somehow I feel like I failed "my little girl". I, myself, didn’t always walk the chalk-line. There were about 10 years or so (roughly) that I was out of church, beginning in those latter teen years. There were many things I did during that time, that I shudder to even think about today. What shame there is in looking back on my sin!

But as I do take that journey, I can’t help but think about those others whom my sin affected. I think of my own little brother, for instance. He NEEDED his sister... his only sister... to help him during his critical decision-making years. Yet, where was she? I was out in the world, doing my own thing, living life to the fullest. (What I didn’t realize until after-the-fact, was that no matter how "good" the good times were, life WASN’T its fullest. That was just one of those lies from the devil himself. Life isn’t at its fullest unless you’re walking in close communion with Christ! That’s REAL fullness!)

So not only did my sin alter my own life, but it also ultimately affected my brother’s life, as well. I look now at all the problems and struggles he’s had (and has), and I can see how differently things could be today, had I not gone out on my own expedition, leaving him totally to fin for himself. I could have truly been a "big sister" by helping him make good choices... the number one choice being, to live a life surrendered to and sold out to Christ! (If that’s there, everything else falls easily into place.)

I could also have helped him by giving him the encouragement he so needed, rather than constantly criticizing him for choices I didn’t necessarily agree with, over the years. What a difference that, in itself, would have made!

But as I mentioned, it wasn’t just my brother who my sin afftected. I think about my cousin, who I, on some level, considered for many years to be "my own little girl". I think about the difference there might be today in some of her choices, had my own choices been made more sensibly. What an awesome position I was in for all those years as we were growing up, to guide her and teach her the things of the Lord! I can remember how I used to take she and the other children outside, and do Bible Stories with them. Perhaps if I had continued on the right course myself, she nor I would have made the mistakes we’ve each made in the years since.

I think about she and my brother, and it truly breaks my heart. WHAT A FAILURE I AM, for abandoning the life that Christ meant for me to live!!! Even if for just a little while (or for 10 years, to be exact), so much damage was done! Those whom I loved dearly suffered (and are still suffering) because I was disobedient to God’s Word. I fell away from the life God had intended for me, and it became a chain reaction, that now affects so many others, as well.

I don’t know how to "fix" it now, other than to pray continuously for each of them, which I’m now committed to doing. I would love to see them living the abundant life God purposed for them. I do pray they see how much they are loved... by me, of course, but most of all, by our Heavenly Father. Once anyone truly "sees" HIS love, it’s hard to see anything else, despite what the devil may throw at us.

I am praying.

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She's Alive!

Okay, for those of you who have threatened to send flowers for my funeral, let me just say I've had good reason not be on here for a while. I AM alive, thank the good Lord! It's just been a very busy time. I've had work, studies, ministry involvement (including a *new* ministry in which I've begun, which I'll tell you more about later)... so many things going on all at once, that I just haven't found the time needed to post things here, as I'd like.

I HAVE thought about you, though, and have almost completely filled a little notepad, with tidbits and nuggets that I'd like to share with you here. But as Ecclesiastes 3:1 so simply but eloquently says, "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." So let's all practice patience, and then Lord willing, I'll begin the sharing process very soon. =)

As I mentioned, I've recently begun a new ministry (literally, "began" it), which has been a burden on my heart for some time. I'm amazed at how faithful our Lord continually proves to be, at granting us the desires of our hearts, when we diligently seek Him. What a wonderful God we serve!

So anyway, be blessed, and oh yeah... please be in prayer for my Pastor. He had eye surgery two weeks ago (two surgeries, actually... cataract, and also a lens implant). The lens, however, hasn't seemed to want to attach itself to his eye like it's supposed to do, so he's been ordered to lay flat on his back (4 different times now), and it was to the point that they were ready to re-do the surgery today, had it not shown improvement today, from yesterday. He's not one for sitting (much less "laying") still for too long, so he's like a fish out of water. He has to go back to Charleston again tomorrow, so please pray that there will be significant improvement, and that he'll soon be released from this "confinement", as he calls it.

I will say, he did surprise us all at church on Sunday. He was supposed to be at home in bed (Dr.'s orders), but he was going nuts, so he came and delivered the 11:00 message, which was a great blessing to each of us, as well as to him. He said it did him good to be in God's house, amongst God's people, especially after having missed several services. Amen to that! It truly was a blessing, and the message he delivered indeed spoke to MY heart. He had no idea what's been going on in my life lately... but God did. Again, I'm just in awe of God's faithfulness!

I'll be back on soon. Got lots to share, but gotta run for now!

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Snow Days

I was so blessed to have my niece and nephew with me this weekend. I got them on Saturday morning, and kept them until Sunday evening. We had the best time! We played every board game imaginable (or at least that's the way it seemed), all the while laughing and playing, and just enjoying our time together.

I made it a point not to have to go out, the entire time we had them. For one thing, it was quite yucky out... a cold, cold rain falling the entire day. And too, I stay "on the go" so much, I didn't want to dare do any of that "going" while I had the kids. This time was too precious to me!

I did get out and vote early on Saturday, (before picking the kids up) but was disappointed in how it turned out, once all the ballots were counted. Let's not go there now. [happy thoughts, happy thoughts]

Anyway, the kids and I (and Uncle Steve, too, of course) packed as much fun into a 2-day weekend as we possibly could. They had gotten new Bibles for Christmas, along with a wonderful Bible Story book, so we spent some time learning more about some of my favorite childhood Bible characters... Sampson, David, Queen Esther, and Ruth. They really enjoyed that... almost as much as I did. :)

One thing that made it so much fun was that we were anticipating some snowfall. Though it was raining throughout the day, the forecast was calling for snow later on. We talked to my Uncle back home in Spartanburg, and it was already falling there. We kept switching the TV to the Weather Channel, to see how long it might be before the snow would arrive. (Unfortunately, it never came... at least not here.) I got tickled at Skylar, because she even got out of bed around 11:30 and wanted to look outside to see if had snowed.

The kids got to come to church with us yesterday, which was a HUGE blessing. These are the kids I led to the Lord, back in October, but due to their situation at home, they don't get to go to church. So this was an answer to prayer, for me... and for them. Aren't they adorable?
I spoke with their mom on the phone after they went back home, and begged her to please make a proper home for them, and to let them go to church.

I did get some pics from the snow back home this weekend. My, how homesick I get, just looking at them! Winter is gonna be gone before we know it, and I would love to see some snow falling, and be able to play in it just once before Spring comes. Maybe the Lord will send us some. But if He chooses not to, I'll just keep looking at these pictures. [sigh]

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New Year's Blessings

I hope the new year has been good to you. Personally, I can say it's been fabulous to me. Of course, there are (and always will be) those daily bumps in the road, but all in all, I am so very blessed. ["Thank You, Lord!"]

One thing in particular that I'm especially blessed by is that a few days ago, I received a message from a childhood friend of mine. Not just any friend, but one whom I considered my "best friend" for many years, growing up. She and I went to church together, then later to school together, as well. Her parents were like my 2nd parents. I used to LOVE spending time at her house, when I was little... whether spending the night, or just going home with her after church on Sunday. Sometimes I'd even pretend her family was "my" family.

But anyway, she and I hadn't been in touch for several years. Although I've thought about her so many times, and could very easily have picked up the phone and called her (I still remember their phone number from memory, after all these years... and yes, it's still the same number.), I never did. I suppose mostly out of shame, for some of the roads I've traveled on in the years since I last saw them. I was sure this family whom I loved so, would never have approved of some of the choices I've made in my life. And therefore, they wouldn't want to have any part of me, now. That was my reasoning, atleast.

It's funny that even though I had long since gotten back on the right track, the shame of those past sins still had a way of keeping me from enjoying the abundant life God intended for me. Now I'm reminded of the importance of forgiving ourselves. I was talking with someone about that very thing, just the other day. Of course, at that time, I was encouraging her to do it. I wasn't in any way thinking I needed to apply it to myself, at that time. Isn't it funny how the Lord teaches us things, sometimes? :)

Well anyway, back to my childhood friend... after she had sent me the initial message, I quickly replied. Then she responded again, and again. Before I knew it, we had filled one another in on everything that's happened in our lives, since our last contact with one another. It was wonderful! She was even kind enough to update me on some of our church family, from years ago. I don't mean that she was gossiping... not at all. It wasn't like that. She was just letting me know who was still there, who had moved away, who had passed away, who had gotten married and how many kids they have. It was great to hear this type of update. I'd been away from there for so long, I've often wondered about these folks, whom had meant so much to me in my early years. Now I don't have to wonder. Thanks to my dear friend, I now know.

Sadly, there was also some bad news, amongst the good. My friend's father went home to be with the Lord, early last year. I wish I had known, so I could've been there for her, and the rest of her family, during their loss. I would gladly have gone up and helped out in any way I could.

Then, too, she told me about one of our childhood friends, whom had died of a drug overdose sometime back. That truly breaks my heart! I never would have guessed it, not him. But then, as I think back on my own life, and all the things I got myself entangled with during those "wandering years", I realize how easy it is for one to get off-course. Anywhere the devil can get a foot in the door, so to speak, he will eventually wreak havoc in our lives, if we allow him.

But as I think about our friend who died this way, it makes me all the more determined to help others get the help they so need, when they lose their way. Whether it's drugs, or alcohol, or just whatever their stronghold might be, it's so very important for folks to realize the stem of the problem BEFORE it gets out of hand. We know that satan himself is the stem of the problem, but it's not like he just walks up to our front door and says, "Hi, I'm the devil and I'm here to wreck your life." (If only he would be so upfront!) No, he slithers in, sometimes so discreetly that we don't realize he's even there until he's already done the damage. That's what I want to help prevent!

That's what all of us who work in the RUI program (Reformers Unanimous International Addictions Program) want to prevent, because we know God can (and wants to) deliver us from any and all strongholds! No one has to be bound! There IS a way out of it! That's what our program is all about! And like I said, upon thinking of my childhood friend, who apparently was bound by those chains of drugs, I'm just all the more determined to reach out to those whose lives are being torn apart by satan, regardless of the tool he's using to do it. God can deliver, and He can restore whatever the devil has robbed us of!

You can find a Reformers Unanimous meeting near you, by following the above link. There are over 500 chapters nationwide, and there are already some chapters worldwide.

So anyway, as we begin this new year, I feel more and more drawn to the wonderful verse that I claimed as my very own, when I came back to the Lord in 1997. Sometimes we are held captive by our past sins, not willing to forgive ourselves, where we've erred. But that's not God's Will. He forgave us, so why should we think we're any more important than Him? We're not!

Praise God for 2 Corinthians 5:17, which says, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

I can't think of a better new year's blessing than that!

I heard a song on the way to church this morning, one that I used to listen to quite frequently, but had actually "forgotten" about. Anyway, upon hearing it again this morning, I thought it very fitting to add to this post. Please open your hearts to "hear" the words, and be blessed!

There once was a woman who came to a well,
seeking relief for her thirst.
Everyone knew of her bad reputation.
She was considered the worst.
But that day she found more than just water.
She met the "Hope of the World".
She left town with one name,
won't they be surprised at what she says when she returns?

My new name is "Sanctified and Holy"
Just call me the "Righteousness of God"
I'm now known as "New Creation"
My nickname is "Covered by the Blood"
When hell calls me "Bound by my Past"
God calls me "Free at Last"
Nothing's the same, everything's changed
I've got my new name.

My friends used to call me by so many names,
I hardly remember them all.
A "two-fisted drinker", the "life of the party"
were some of the names I recall.
But after I made my trip to the altar,
my old way of living has changed.
I know what I was, but I know who I am
and nothing about me's the same.

'Cause my new name is "Sanctified and Holy"
Just call me the "Righteousness of God"
I'm now known as "New Creation"
My nickname is "Covered by the Blood"
When hell calls me "Bound by my Past"
God calls me "Free at Last"
Nothing's the same, everything's changed
I've got my new name.

(Written by Jeff R. Steele, Recorded by The Steeles, 2002)

Amen!

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Christmas 2007

Well, I hope you've had a wonderful Christmas Day, one filled with many blessings from above. Today, throughout all our festivities, I was thinking about all the things I've been blessed with this year. I'm sad to say, there have been many blessings I've taken for granted. Yet God remains faithful, still. He's given me far more than I've ever deserved, and continually shows His love for me, despite my failures and shortcomings.

For Christmas, we spent time with "my" family last night, and did presents with the kids (my brother's children) then. They're such sweet kids, and always so happy with whatever they get, no matter how big or small. By the time we left, I was broken to tears for them... because of their home situations. Please do pray for them (Thomas, Skylar, Hunter, and Jonas). The Lord knows their need, and all that's going on. And only He can work everything out. Please pray for these little ones, who are so precious to me. Pray for their parents, too, that the Lord would have His way in their lives.

This is a picture of my youngest nephew, Jonas. Isn't he handsome?

Today, we spent the day with Steve's family. One of his nephews just became a father last week, so everyone (including me) flocked around the family's newest addition. Last year at this time, Steve and I were both so heartbroken over the loss of our own baby. We didn't think we'd be holding a baby this Christmas. Even though he isn't ours, at least we do have one in the family now, and it was great to hold him in our arms, even if just for a little while. I'm so thankful that today was a good day, full of love and laughter... without any strife or conflict. You have no idea how refreshing that was, especially after yesterday!

Later on, Steve surprised me by treating me to something we've never done before... a movie. He had heard me say that I wanted to see the Chipmunk movie, so he made it happen after we left his brother's house tonight. It was really sweet of him, and we both laughed all through the movie... which again, was much-needed. The only thing that could've made it any better was if Thomas and Skylar had been there with us. [sigh]

Well, again, I pray you've had a wonderful Christmas. We all have so much to be thankful for! Please continue to pray for those whose Christmas hasn't been so bright this year. If at all possible, reach out to them and show them someone cares. Most of all, show them how much God cares for them.

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A Christmas Message

"When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy."

Matthew 2:10

Steve and I decided that we'd send out Christmas letters this year, instead of our usual Christmas cards. I wanted to make something special to send out to all our family and friends; not so much about its appearance, but more about the message to be included in it.

In light of events pointing to Christ's soon return, our hearts have been heavily burdened for the souls of our lost loved ones. After hearing one of our Pastor's most stirring messages recently, regarding what we do with the time we have left on this earth, I knew I had to reach out through whatever means I possibly could, to share with them the "wake-up call" they so need. This burden kept me up into the wee hours one night, where I imagined my loved ones perishing for all of eternity in hell.
"Not the people I love! No!"


The next day, I immediately began writing the following, our Christmas letter.

Dear Family & Friends,

It’s hard to believe another year has almost come and gone! Time sure seems to fly, these days. Thankfully, though, we can say it’s been a good year. The Lord has been so good… as always, so faithful to us. We pray you’ve had a wonderfully blessed year, as well.

I don’t quite know where to begin, in summing up the whole year in just a few short paragraphs. It’s definitely been a busy year. Steve and I have continued to be heavily involved in various ministries within our church. One of which, that we’re so privileged (and proud) to be a part of, is the Reformers Unanimous Addictions Program. It’s a faith-based program, with over 500 chapters, nationwide. Our church began the RU program in February of this year, and we’re excited about the progress our participants are making. We’ve had several men and women give their hearts to the Lord, through this ministry, and it’s such a blessing to actually see their lives transforming right before our eyes. It’s not just for those who are battling alcohol, drug, or gambling addictions, but for anyone who struggles with any type of stronghold. It’s truly an amazing program, and we’re so thankful for the opportunity God has given us, to be able to work in this vital ministry.

Something else that is equally as important to us is our study of Biblical Prophecy. This year, it has taken on a whole new level of urgency, given the headlines we read and hear everyday, and how they line up with Scripture. With all that’s going on around us, both near and far, it’s become more and more evident that the Lord is soon to return. In fact, we could be flying any day now!

On that note, I was thinking about the 3 wise men earlier today, and how the Bible says they were overjoyed when they saw the star. Why were they so joyful? Because they were highly knowledgeable men, when it came to the Scriptures. They knew of Isaiah’s prophecy concerning the birth of Jesus. They had been expecting it, and they knew it was time. They had purposely gone to great lengths not to miss it.

My, what an example for each of us today! We all need to know what the Bible says… about why Jesus came to earth (then), and also about His (soon) return. We need to know about the signs of the time, so we can be ready to meet Him when He comes. We don’t want to miss it!

Like I said, I was thinking about those wise men, and how exceedingly glad they were when they finally saw what they had been looking for, for so long. I think about how we, as Christians, will be exceedingly glad when we hear Gabriel’s trumpet sound, and be taken up to meet Jesus in the sky. We ought to be eagerly anticipating that, each and every day.

Sadly, though, there’s a part of my heart not quite as anxious for that moment, as I wish it were. And that’s because I think of all our family and friends who might not be ready. I shudder to think of any of you (whether in our immediate families, or extended) spending eternity in hell, especially if we could have done or said something to change it.

Please know we’re sending this to everyone on our Christmas card list. No one is being singled out, so please don’t be offended. It’s with a heart of love that we send this, because Steve and I care about you, and your standing with God. We want you to understand that we don’t have much time left, and the time we do have, we need to spend wisely… spreading the Word and reaching our family and friends for Jesus. It truly is a matter of urgency these days. If your heart is right, praise God. We rejoice in that! But if it’s not, please humbly seek the Lord today, before it’s too late. Honestly, there’s no more time to waste!

We can’t turn on the TV anymore, without hearing of all the tragedies already taking place, as well as those that could be taking place tomorrow. In addition, our country is at an all-time low, spiritually… we’re in need of a great revival. Yet the Lord has continued to pour out His blessings upon us. Sadly, with each passing day, we seem to only grow more and more wicked. We’ve returned to the days of Noah, as the Bible foretold. We have the characteristics of Sodom and Gomorrah. God was good to them, too… until they were so wicked, He had to pour out His wrath upon them. Keep in mind that yes, He is a loving God, not willing that any should perish. But He’s also a just God, Whom will not be mocked!

Will America be next? Will the Lord return before His judgement falls upon our land? Either way, the urgency remains for each and every one of us to search our heart, and make sure it’s ready to meet the Lord. It’s definitely later than we think!

Someone made mention recently of how great it would be, to be Raptured before Christmas, and then to spend this Christmas in Heaven. That’s a wonderful thought, except for all our loved ones who aren’t yet ready.

Our prayer for each of you is that you do have the assurance of your salvation, knowing without any uncertainty that if you were to die (or if the Rapture took place) today, you’d spend eternity in Heaven. That’s our Christmas wish for all our family and friends this year! We love you and pray you have a most blessed Christmas and a wonderful New Year, should the Lord wait a little longer! We look forward to seeing you in the clouds real soon! God bless you all!

With much love,

Steve and Lois Clardy

Our prayer is that through this letter, our friends and family members will realize their need of Jesus. Without Him, none of us can get to Heaven. I think, too often, that's misunderstood. Yet, it's so simple. God loved us so much, that He sent His only Son into this world to pay the sin debt for us.

Friends, if there's any question about where you'd spend eternity, I pray you'll settle that right now. All it takes is a simple prayer, asking Jesus to forgive you of all your sins, to come into your heart. And in return, you make Him Lord of your life. Let Him lead and guide every aspect of your life. This could be your last chance. Tomorrow may be too late.

God bless you!

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'Tis The Season... Busy, Busy

As you may have guessed, it's been pretty busy around here lately. More so than usual. (Waaaaaay more than usual.) Thus the reason I've failed to keep up with my blogging. But if you'll bear with me, I'll try to catch you up on the major things that's been going on.

First of all, Steve and I attended a revival last week (Monday - Thursday), at a little country church down the road from our home. I ask that you pray for this little church (the Lord knows its name). They've been struggling enormously with their attendance and with the commitment/dedication of their members. It's obvious the devil doesn't want them to grow, to flourish, nor to reach that undeniable potential that's before them.

But the Lord really poured out His blessings upon this revival. Several of us came out to help support and encourage them. Then, in the process, we received perhaps one of the greatest blessings of all. We were reminded of what it's like to get back to the basics... just a few gathered together to worship God, letting the Spirit be in complete control of the service.

It was good to see that folks still come out to worship, no matter if it's three or four, or one-hundred and four. No number is too small. As long as there's one willing to come, there's always another One willing to meet them there.

Often times, I think one of the problems in larger churches, is that it seems things are far too dependent upon man. When that's the case, things tend to fall apart when someone is out, or when gadgets don't cooperate. Don't get me wrong, technology is a wonderful thing. I'm so thankful for it! But we shouldn't be so dependent upon it, that we leave the work of the Holy Spirit out in the cold. Sure, things need to be done decently and in order (1 Cor. 14:40); just not at the expense of the Guest of Honor. We can't forget that His Presence is what it's all about.

So anyway, being in that quaint little church last week, and seeing how the Lord was working there, despite the lack of many of the things found in most churches today, it was just wonderful. Having grown up in a small church... one a little larger than this one, it really blessed my heart to be reminded that it doesn't have to be a big production. The Word of God stands, with or without the technological advances we often strive to keep up with. (Hmmm....good food for thought!)

.::..::..::..::..::..::..::..::..::.

In other news, a dear friend of mine had her first child last week, and I was privileged to be able to be there with her for this blessed arrival. She had the most beautiful baby girl, weighing in at 8 lbs, 10 oz... just in time for Christmas. I'm sure I'll be sharing photos in the near future, but for now, I'm doing good just to get this blog post completed. Please keep mother and daughter in your prayers (and Daddy, too), as they all adjust to the changes taking place in their lives right now. Pray for their health and well-being, also. Thanks!

Until I get caught up on some things, I must run for now. Lord willing, I'll get another post in sometime this week. :o)

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Reaching Out At Street Reach

Last night, we had the most wonderful blessing of preparing a meal, then taking it and serving it to our friends at Street Reach, a local mission and homeless shelter. I can't put into words what a joy it is to be involved in this ministry. We've seen so many souls saved over the years, as we always share the gospel and do our very best to show them Jesus living in us.

Last night, Bro. George Lowe presented the message, and did a fabulous job, I might add. I can't get over the attentiveness in last night's service. Usually, there are a million distractions, which often quenches the work of the Holy Spirit. But last night, everyone sat perfectly still and as I looked around the room, I was amazed at how they seemed to hang on to Bro. George's every word. What a blessing!

As I've mentioned before, our church does this on the first Tuesday of every month. Other churches are involved, as well, filling the rest of the calendar each month, so that these folks get a good, hot meal every night of the week. I think it's great, the work they're doing there, to help folks who are struggling to get back on their feet. Granted, some of them have done horrible things in their lives, which have ultimately led them to a place like this. But do ya know what?
Some people in churches have done horrible things in their lives, which have ultimately led them to church. (Praise God!)

I know, because I'm one of them. Though I was raised in, and saved in church at a young age, I got out into the world in my latter teen years, and really messed up. It wasn't until about ten years later that I came back, after praying for God to forgive me and then rededicating my life to Him. Thankfully, that was ten years ago, this past October 31st. I've tried to faithfully serve Him ever since!

So you see, it doesn't matter who we are, or where we've been, or even where we are now. What matters is where we're going. And that, my friend, is what it's all about. We're all in the same boat, when it comes to our souls. God made each and every one of us the same. Sure, we can make poor choices, which can cause us much heartache and shame. But it doesn't mean the end. The only "end" we face, is if we die without accepting Christ as our Saviour!

But anyway, these folks there at Street Reach, though they may have fallen on hard times through some fault or failure of their own, they're not "beyond repair", as some might view them. And honestly, they're no more dirty nor sinful than the rest of us! The same blood that covers our sin, covers theirs, as well. And it's our job to lead them to the cross, where they can find that healing flow. That's why I love being a part of this ministry. And I've kind-of made it my calling, to be that traffic-director, so to speak, pointing them to Jesus. Again, what a blessing! Indeed, what a privilege!

We were also blessed, this month, to have so many helpers come and join us. Back at the church, we had lots of hands helping to prepare the meal, and to clean up afterwards. We even had some children come and get involved in giving of themselves and sharing Jesus' love. I can't think of a more valuable lesson to teach young children, in this world of self-centeredness and disrespect!

My friend, Son Hwa, is a special blessing to each of us in this ministry. She truly has a heart to serve, in any and every way she can. God has blessed me with her friendship of 14 years or so, and it's such a blessing to me, personally, to serve and to worship alongside her, here at Grand Strand. As you can see, she's getting ready to have a baby... next week, in fact. So this was her last night to serve in this ministry for a while! :)




She tickled me to pieces, how she was all excited over her "new little Bible", which she bought to take with her to the hospital. While we waited for the food to cook, she found a few moments to read from it. (I wonder what passage she was reading?)






Mr. Earl Conway is a wonderful asset to us, as well. He's always so willing to jump in and do the heavy lifting for us, and take things from the ovens, so we don't get burned. What a gentleman! (We love and appreciate you, Mr. Earl!)




Miss Natalie is a barrel of laughs, constantly cracking us up with her whimsical charm. She loves working in the kitchen, whether it's for Street Reach or for our meals here at the church. Her favorite thing is chopping onions... which unfortunately, she didn't get to do this week.
(Sorry, Nat.)



"Those meatballs sure do smell good!
I think Baby wants to try a few." :)







Again, we're all so blessed to be a part of this wonderful ministry. Together, we're reaching out to those who are less fortunate than we are. And as I've said so many times before, it's only by God's grace that we aren't where they are.

Now is a great time for all of us to share in the joy of giving. I encourage you to take the time to give of yourselves during this most special time of year... a time that's not so bright for some. Follow Christ's example of reaching out to those who are normally shunned by everyone else, and help make their Christmas a blessed one. You will be blessed, in the process!

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God is Great, God is Good

Today has just been FULL of blessings. I feel I'd be doing God a terrible injustice, by keeping it all to myself. He's been so good, and so faithful to me, despite all my failures and shortcomings. I just have to share with you how wonderfully blessed I'm feeling right now.

First of all, I heard from someone today whom I'd helped relocate to another city recently, in hopes of a fresh start... a clean slate, as he got his life back on track. I'd been concerned, because I hadn't heard from him since my husband and I drove him to his new home there, more than 2 weeks ago. But thankfully, I did today... and he seemed to be doing really well. Everything he said was positive and with much appreciation for his new life there. There seemed to be much progress, for which I'm very thankful. Praise God for never giving up on us when we mess up! And praise Him for putting those people in our paths, who would help to steer us in the direction we need to be going, to fulfill God's purpose for our life. He's sure done so for me, throughout my life. It's only fitting that I use what He's taught me, to help others find their way, as well.

And on that note, we had a young college girl come by the church office this afternoon, just totally adrift. She was almost like a suddenly-blinded bird, having lost all sense of direction in life, wanting desperately to find her way. Our hearts went out to this young girl, after hearing of her struggle with various difficulties. It's so obvious that satan never meant for this girl to find the happiness and peace in life that God intended for her. One of my coworkers, Kenny Beard, talked with her about receiving Christ, and ultimately led her in the sinner's prayer, where she asked Jesus into her heart. He gave her a new Bible, and bless her heart, she was so hungry to learn, so full of questions, which we answered as best as we could. I then talked with her about our RU program, and she seemed so excited about coming to it. Please pray for her, that the devil won't talk her out of coming tomorrow night, and that she'll follow through in this comittment she's made to live her life now for Christ. What a joy it was to see the Lord working in one's heart, starting that transformation right before our eyes!

Right after this happened, we completed this semester's Good News Club at Forestbrook Elementary School today... with salvations. It's such a blessing to be able to serve in this ministry, where we're allowed to actually go into the public schools and share the gospel of Jesus Christ with precious little ones, who are so hungry for God's love. Earlier in the semester... on my first day, actually... I was privileged to lead a young girl in 1st grade to Jesus. I've prayed with several more, in the weeks since, for various burdens and needs expressed. Then today, on the last day for this semester, I was blessed to lead an exceptionally bright young fellow to the Lord. Despite only being in Kindergarten, he was so full of questions, and just amazed me with his longing to know for sure how he could get to Heaven. What a blessing it was to show him in God's Word the answers to all his questions.

We did Paddleball crafts with the children today, being it was their last day. They sure seemed to enjoy that!


Then they listened attentively as Mr Allen brought the lesson.

And after the lesson and counseling time was over, we then presented each child a new Bible of their own, compliments of our church. Should the Lord tarry, how wonderful it'll be for the children to be able to remember their time spent in the Good News Club, each time they look at their Bibles. For some, an even more special memory, as this was where they came to know Jesus as their personal Saviour.



Again, I'm so thankful for being privilege of being able to serve in this vital ministry. We have to reach them while their hearts are young and tender, before satan has a chance to corrupt their minds with lies, and cause them to follow down the road leading to destruction.

Later this evening, our church had our annual Ladies Christmas Dinner, where we enjoyed a wonderful time of fellowship and fun. Several of our Sunday School Classes sponsored a table, which we decorated and set for a full-course meal for 8. There were several beautiful tables again this year.

(Mine, pictured below, didn't win, but that's okay.)



This (below) is the table that actually won. Congratulations to the Young Couples' Sunday School Class, for doing a great job! (I think this was 2 years in a row, for them.)



We had a wonderful meal, catered by "The Trestle" in Conway. Then Roxanne's Mom gave her testimony, which was amazingly similar to my own, in many ways. She truly touched our hearts, and we're thankful she was willing to share her story with us. We never know whose life our testimonies may touch in a special way.



We also played some fun little Christmas games, got to know our Sisters-in-Christ better, and as women tend to do, we laughed and cried together. (What more could we have asked for?)

I was blessed to have some of the most beautiful women in our church seated at my table. My special friends include Cynthia Garris, Tammy Sims, Natalie Brown, Louise Wells, Debbie Mattocks, Mary Nelson, and the infamous Julia Goins (love ya, Ms Julia!). The conversations we had during the course of the evening, proves to me all over again that I am indeed very blessed. God has placed me here for a reason, and I praise Him for the opportunities and for the friendships He's given me. Truly, our God is great. Our God is good!

By the way, one more word of praise... at the dinner, Ms Julia gave me the newest edition of The Christian Voice Magazine, (hot off the press) in which another article of mine appears (page 18). I had a burden to share this message so that hearts would be softened, and hopefully led to reach out to folks in brotherly love, no matter where they come from or where they are now. Jesus loves us all, and so should we! (John 15:12)

You can find these magazines in many area Christian bookstores and churches. (Yes, we have plenty of them available at Grand Strand Baptist. See me if you have trouble finding one.)

If you're a business owner or church Pastor, you might want to consider advertising in The Christian Voice. Follow the link to their website, and then contact Mr. Dave or Ms Julia for further information. (Tell them I sent you.)

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Thankful for the Thorns

A dear friend of mine sent me this today. I just HAD to share...

Sandra felt as low as the heels of her shoes when she pulled open the
florist shop door, against a November gust of wind. Her life had been
as sweet as a spring breeze and then, in the fourth month of her second
pregnancy, a "minor" automobile accident stole her joy. This was
Thanksgiving week and the time she should have delivered their infant
son. She grieved over their loss.

Troubles had multiplied. Her husband's company "threatened" to transfer
his job to a new location. Her sister had called to say that she could
not come for her long awaited holiday visit. What's worse, Sandra's
friend suggested that Sandra's grief was a God-given path to maturity
that would allow her to empathize with others who suffer.

"She has no idea what I'm feeling," thought Sandra with a shudder.
"Thanksgiving??? Thankful for what?" she wondered. "For a careless driver whose truck was hardly scratched when he rear-ended me? ‘For an airbag that saved my life, but took my child's?"

"Good afternoon, can I help you?"
Sandra was startled by the approach of the shop clerk.

"I ... I need an arrangement," stammered Sandra.

"For Thanksgiving? I'm convinced that flowers tell stories," the clerk continued. "Are you looking for something that conveys 'gratitude' this Thanksgiving?"

"Not exactly!" Sandra blurted out. "In the last five months, everything that could go wrong has gone wrong."

Sandra regretted her outburst, and was surprised when the clerk said, "I have the perfect arrangement for you."

Then the bell on the door rang, and the clerk greeted the new customer, "Hi, Barbara, let me get your order." She excused herself and walked back to a small workroom, then quickly reappeared, carrying an arrangement of greenery, bows, and what appeared to be long-stemmed thorny roses… except the ends of the rose stems were neatly snipped:
there were no flowers.

"Do you want these in a box?" asked the clerk. Sandra watched - was this a joke? Who would want rose stems with no flowers! She waited for laughter, but neither woman laughed.

"Yes, please," Barbara replied with an appreciative smile. "You'd think after three years of getting the special, I wouldn't be so moved by its significance, but I can feel it right here, all over again," she said, as she gently tapped her chest.

Sandra stammered, "Ah, that lady just left with ... Uh ... She left with no flowers!"

"That's right," said the clerk. "I cut off the flowers. That's the 'Special'. I call it the Thanksgiving Thorns Bouquet. Barbara came into the shop three years ago, feeling much as you do today," explained the clerk. "She thought she had very little to be thankful for. She had just lost her father to cancer; the family business was failing; her son had gotten into drugs; and she was facing major surgery. That same year I had lost my husband," continued the clerk. "For the first time in my life, I had to spend the holidays alone. I had no children, no husband, no family nearby, and too much debt to allow any travel."

"So what did you do?" asked Sandra.

"I learned to be thankful for thorns," answered the clerk quietly. "I've always thanked God for the good things in my life and I never questioned Him why those good things happened to me, but when the bad stuff hit, I cried out, 'Why? Why me?!'
It took time for me to learn that the dark times are important to our faith! I have always enjoyed the 'flowers' of my life, but it took the thorns to show me the beauty of God's comfort! You know, the Bible says that God comforts us when we're afflicted, and from His consolation we learn to comfort others."

Sandra sucked in her breath, as she thought about what her friend had tried to tell her before. "I guess the truth is I don't want comfort. I've lost a baby and I'm angry with God."

Just then someone else walked in the shop. "Hey, Phil!" the clerk greeted the balding, rotund man.

"My wife sent me in to get our usual Thanksgiving arrangement ... Twelve thorny, long-stemmed stems!" laughed Phil as the clerk handed him a tissue wrapped arrangement from the refrigerator.

"Those are for your wife?" asked Sandra incredulously. "Do you mind telling me why she wants a bouquet that looks like that?"

"Four years ago, my wife and I nearly divorced," Phil replied. "After forty years, we were in a real mess, but with the Lord's grace and guidance, we trudged through problem after problem, the Lord rescued our marriage. Jenny here (the clerk) told me she kept a vase of rose stems to remind her of what she had learned from "thorny" times. That was good enough for me. I took home some of those stems. My wife and I decided to label each one for a specific "problem" and give thanks for what that problem taught us."

As Phil paid the clerk, he said to Sandra, "I highly recommend the Special!"

"I don't know if I can be thankful for the thorns in my life" Sandra said to the clerk. "It's all too ... fresh."

"Well," the clerk replied carefully, "my experience has shown me that the thorns make the roses more precious. We treasure God's providential care more during trouble than at any other time. Remember that it was a crown of thorns that Jesus wore so we might know His love. Don't resent the thorns in your life."

Tears rolled down Sandra's cheeks. For the first time since the accident, she loosened her grip on her resentment.

"I'll take those twelve long-stemmed thorns, please," she managed to choke out.

"I hoped you would," said the clerk gently. "I'll have them ready in a minute."

"Thank you. What do I owe you?"

"Nothing. Nothing but a promise to allow God to heal your heart. The first year's arrangement is always on me."

The clerk smiled and handed a card to Sandra. "I'll attach this card to your arrangement, but maybe you'd like to read it first."

It read:

"My God, I have never thanked You for my thorns. I have thanked You a thousand times for my roses, but never once for my thorns. Teach me the glory of the cross I bear; teach me the value of my thorns. Show me that I have climbed closer to You along the path of pain. Show me that, through my tears, the colors of Your rainbow look much more brilliant."

Praise Him for the roses; thank Him for the thorns.
God Bless all of you. Be thankful for all that the Lord does for you.

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Giving Thanks in Times of Peril

Happy Thanksgiving to each of you! I pray you have a wonderfully blessed day, surrounded by those you love. If you can't be with family and friends today, then I pray you are reminded that you are never alone. Our Heavenly Father is with you always! (Hebrews 13:5 - "...for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.")

I read an interesting article yesterday, by Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein (President of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews). It really struck a chord with me, so I wanted to share a portion of it with you here.

In 1863, U.S. President Abraham Lincoln issued a proclamation that created a cherished American holiday. Reflecting upon the year that was soon to close, which he said had been "filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies," he declared that the U.S. should "observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens."

Note again the date of this proclamation: October 3, 1863. At this time, the nation Lincoln led was involved in the Civil War, the bloodiest conflict in U.S. history and one that quite literally pitted brother against brother.

President Lincoln's job of seeing the war through to victory for Union forces and healing his nation afterward was one of the most formidable challenges faced by any president. At this date, he could not have been certain he would succeed. And yet, he told his countrymen to set aside time to give thanks to God.

It is an example we would all do well to follow — in good times and bad, not just on Thanksgiving, but every day.

I think about the road our nation is on today. This wonderful nation that was founded on Godly principles has done a complete turn-around. We've abandoned those principles for what might be "more politically correct", despite the damnation to follow. I pray we realize the damage that's been done, and what it would take to get us back on the right path... and then do something about it.

I thank God for the privileges we, as Americans... and as Christians, have today. But yet, I live in fear because more and more of those privileges are being taken away every day, it seems. That's not right! God has blessed our nation tremendously, yet we've abandoned Him. How much longer do we expect to live "as we want to live", before He cuts off those blessings? How much longer before He pours out His wrath upon what once was a Bible-believing Godly nation?

Yes, our God is a loving God. No one could ever love us more than He! (John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life.")

But He is also a just God. (Romans 7:12 - "Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.") (Rev. 15:3 - "And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints.")

We all need to look back through the history books... and more importantly, through God's Word... and then humble our hearts with a true spirit of Thanksgiving (giving thanks to Him), for the bountiful blessings He's bestowed upon us. As I said earlier, He's so richly blessed our country with the freedoms that we have today. We should love and appreciate Him for that... and draw nearer to Him, rather than turning away from Him!

Today, on this special day that we've set aside to give thanks for our many blessings, I am indeed thankful for His goodness and mercy. He has continually poured out many, many mercies in my life, and I cannot thank Him enough for that. I thank Him for His blessings upon our country, despite our attitude towards Him, as a nation. I do believe we're living in times of peril, but we can still praise God, just the same. We have so much to be thankful for!

And I believe 2 Chronicles 7:14 to be true... that if we humble ourselves before the Lord, and pray and seek His face, and turn from our wicked ways, then He will hear from Heaven, forgive our sins, and heal our land. I pray that each of us will make it a point to pray fervently for our country, for a true revival throughout, and for God to be given the glory and honor in which He so deserves.

I pray you have a wonderful Thanksgiving! God bless you!

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