Posted on by Dawn Huberty

True Pieces

I’ve been away from the blog for awhile, as I’ve been caring for a friend who has several health concerns and is now in hospice. A few days ago I was tasked with the job of finding caregivers and hospice and arranging for med delivery and all sorts of things that weren’t in my wheelhouse. Never in my life have I been so grateful for the internet! 🙂

What I did find after a long day of phone calls and appointments, was the grace of God. He literally put the pieces together, and it was not lost on me that I needed to update the blog and be thankful for the sense of humor Jesus shares with me on occasion. Pieces in relation to this blog and the book, do not just mean scraps of paper; now they are true pieces; almost like parts of a puzzle that fit together; primarily when I let God take charge; instead of me.

Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Growth Pieces

As we walk in faith, growth builds our spiritual character.

I remember as a young child, attending Sunday school, how fun it was singing “Jesus Loves Me,” and learning about Noah. Or making macaroni necklaces at camp. As I was confirmed into my Lutheran church, there was a lot of scripture memorization and being able to ask the Pastor serious life questions. I doubt any of us did, maybe out of embarrassment or just the times (1975). For most of us in our confirmation class, it was a rite of passage. An obligation. I don’t recall it changing my life in any way. Three years later my mother died. This shock to my system, faith, and reality began a 25 year journey of anger towards God. I occasionally attended church, but my heart wasn’t in it. Any religion or spirituality became non-existent.

God never gave up on me. He met me where I was. God’s grace saved me.

I’ve had a lot of stops and starts on this journey. But each day I know who I am (a child of God), I know that my steps are blessedly marked and that I have an eternal home.

Keep growing, changing, believing, seeing, letting go, forgiving (yourself), and trust in the will of God, He will never leave you alone. And remember, He is a life changer, second chance bringer and breaker of chains.

May you be blessed this week!

Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Pieces of Discontent

We don’t one day, just decide we aren’t happy/satisfied/content with our life. It usually is a slow process of disappointment, sadness, guilt, or a myriad of emotions. But the thing we have to remember (beat my head against the wall), is that our God doesn’t want us living by emotions. He wants us to trust Him 150% for every single in our life. He desires that we are content, free of worthlessness, and substantially filled with His grace.

When hard times come, and they will; and they have, it is then we must lean heavy on our faith, the strength of Christ, the commitment to walking blindly (this is grace). And oftentimes, these stumbling blocks are to draw us closer to Him. He only ever wants to be in our lives; it is us; the stubborn human beings who say “I can do it, God,” or “I can’t wait for your timing, I need to get this resolved now.” (And watch, that never ends well)!

And the biggest misquoted statement of our generation: “Tough times never last, but tough people do.” What a lie the enemy has served up. Only the strong survive? If that were true we wouldn’t have a need for Christ in our life. He is the mighty strength in our life; count on that during every moment in your life. May you be blessed by His love and spirit.

Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Easter Blessings

May the glory and the promise of this joyous time of year bring peace and happiness to you and those you hold most dear.

And may Christ, Our Risen Savior, always be there by your side to bless you most abundantly and be your loving guide.

— Author Unknown

Lord we lift our hearts to you. As the dawn breaks, may we carry the unity we share into every moment knowing that we are one with the risen Christ. Lord, we lift our eyes to you. As the sunrises, may this moment stay with us, reminding us to look for the beautiful colors of promise in your word. Lord, we lift our prayers to you. As the dew air falls, may we breathe this morning in and know that like the earth, you sustain us, keep us and work within us always. And so, we lift our voices to you. We celebrate the greatest day in history, when Jesus rose from death, defeated darkness and bathed the world in stunning resurrection light. May we ever live to praise you! Amen.

— Author Unknown

Happy Easter May The Renewal Of Life At Easter Bring New Blessings | Happy easter quotes, Easter inspirational quotes, Happy easter pictures

Christ is Risen: The world below lies desolate

Christ is Risen: The spirits of evil are fallen

Christ is Risen: The angels of God are rejoicing

Christ is Risen: The tombs of the dead are empty

Christ is Risen indeed from the dead, the first of the sleepers, Glory and power are his forever and ever.

— St. Hippolytus of Rome

Lord God,

You loved this world so much,

That you gave your one and only Son,

That we might be called your children too.

Lord, help us to live in the gladness and grace

Of Easter Sunday, everyday.

Let us have hearts of thankfulness

For your sacrifice.

Let us have eyes that look upon

Your grace and rejoice in our salvation.

Help us to walk in that mighty grace

And tell your good news to the world.

All for your glory do we pray, Lord,

Amen.

— Rachel Marie Stone

Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Passover Pieces

On Sunday, March 28, both Palm Sunday and Passover are celebrated.

Palm Sunday is the Christian holiday that occurs on the Sunday before Easter. This celebration commemorates Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem , mentioned in each of the four Gospels. Jesus entered the city knowing He would be tried and crucified and welcomed His fate to rise from the grave and save us from sin!

I did a lot of research on the meaning of Passover and how it is presented. This link is very informative, I hope you explore!

A year ago, I was invited to a Seder dinner, unfortunately, due to the pandemic, it was cancelled. I was so looking forward to it. Perhaps another invite will come my way next year! (Hint hint to my Jewish friends)!

Passover | Story, Meaning, Traditions, & Facts | Britannica
Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Lent Pieces

Lent is an incredibly powerful time of year. We read daily scripture or stories leading up to the arrest, judgment, crucifixion, resurrection, 40 days Jesus lived on earth and the final ascension. It’s important as believers that we know WHY we are saved, the sacrifice that was made for our freedom from sin, forgiveness and the promise of an eternal home.

SAMAA - How do Pakistan's Christians fast in Lent

The road to the cross was heartbreaking for all who had walked with and followed Jesus’ ministry. From his family and disciples, to those who had been miraculously healed, shared in a meal of fish and loaves that fed 5,000 people, water turned into wine.

Jesus was loved and held. His mother wept and grieved. Some denied His existence. Others ran from guilt. And in the end, He took the nails for us. By His stripes we are healed. He arose from the dead. He walked for 40 days in human form. And then, in a cloud of glory Jesus returned to Heaven to sit at the throne with His Heavenly Father.

What greater love has ever sacrificed?

Empty Tomb
Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Scraps of Paper

“The Pieces” the book and this blog, started out from scraps of paper I would write and save. Usually from a morning meditation or a scripture that called to me. In time, I had an envelope full of these scraps and a desire in my heart to share The Good News with those who may be like minded; but more so – those who weren’t. Those who needed a new lease on life.

Write your love to God on a heart!

Since the book was published and this blog read; I’ve received very good feedback. Thanks for all who have followed my personal walk of faith. I haven’t updated a few parts; that I became Catholic at Easter, 2019. Or that I still am close to the two other churches I was involved with; Episcopalian and UU. I’ve never believed God puts a “stamp of approval” on a certain religion, but I do believe you must be born again (walk a life of faith) to enter the Kingdom of God. And that you must dislodge selfishness and share the love of Christ with all.

There is an old song by The Imperials, I heard today on Pandora, it’s called “Old Buddha” It’s a reminder that the most charismatic or born again Christian, or lifelong Baptist won’t get into heaven if he hates another.

Hate is a hard pill. We all have experienced, either personally or through life the past year. It’s not always about race, gender, sometimes people just decide to hate others because they were raised that way, or they would rather agree/disagree than have a voice.

This post does seem to be going every which way, right? Sometimes my brain isn’t connected with my fingers typing, but God authors these posts, so I just have to go with it. May you be blessed in your daily lives. Take time for prayer, gratitude, and love for your neighbor.

6th May 2018 – 6th Sunday of Easter (B) | Church Of Christ The King
Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Soul Pieces

I have been listening to a series titled “I thirst” it is a 3-part audio message. Two phrases touched my heart deeply, I’d like to share them with you today.

“Run to me when you fall.”

“Unburden your soul.”

Isn’t the last place we tend to go, to the arms of our loving Savior? Why is that? Fear? Anxiety? Embarrassment? I have often heard that “God meets us where we are.” I find it very reassuring and it is true – wherever we land; particularly the hard places in our lives, He is there, in fact – He is already there. He took the nails so He could meet us in our pain. He could deliver us from; ourselves. Next time you are feeling alone, defeated, afraid – run to Jesus, let Him envelope you in the purest form of love.

Image result for run to Jesus

Set your soul free from the bondage of the “have-to” and “must do” and the worry, stress that comes when we are committed to “handling it ourselves.” It usually doesn’t end well; trusting ourselves. Open your heart and mind and soul to the beauty that is your Lord and Savior. Let him rain down on you all of His Holy grace. He has the power to restore, renew and captivate.

Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Dog Pieces

This might be the first post I’ve written about a dog. While looking for inspiration this morning, I discovered this little sign my friend Mari painted for Max’s room (my dog)!

I’ve discovered during the pandemic, that Max might not be the only one who prefers the company of other dogs to people. We tend to complain that we are soooooo bored, or are missing hugs, or sick of eating at home all the time. I miss movie dates with my hubby, popping by to visit a friend because I was “in the neighborhood.” Heck, even going to the grocery store and realizing after locking the car and walking 1/2 a block, I DON’T HAVE A MASK ON!! It’s getting old. No doubt about it. But what does it say for our faith when we are constant complainers or whiny about the state of our life?

2 Corinthians 5:7 For we live by believing and not by seeing.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.

James 1:2-8 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Prayerful Pieces

I have recently started an online study titled: “The 28 day Prayer Journey.” The reminders of why prayer with our Heavenly Father is so important are compounded with simple words of grace.

Prayer connects us to God, any day, time or situation.

Believe that He hears you.

God WANTS to talk to you.

As human beings we tend to get into prayer holding patterns. A prayer before a meal, or before bed. Perhaps with our coffee in the morning. These are good, and important, but are we having actual conversation with our Savior? Are we allowing ourselves to spill the agony, embarrassment, defeat? Are we excited to share wonderful news? A new grandchild, the blessing of a prayer answered (asked so long ago)?

40 Top Bible Verses About Prayer - Encouraging Scripture

My own prayer habits have changed. I used to pray for those who had specific requests while I folded laundry. Now I’ve found myself hustling through the “chore” of folding laundry, not talking to God and not using this valuable piece of time as I once had. What changed? Maybe it was the monotony? The boredom of the “same old prayers.”

Use 2021 to grow in your prayer life. See how God change your heart.

Prayer is conversation with God

Posted on by Dawn Huberty

21 Days

Perhaps it is because the new year is approaching and people are writing their resolutions, but I’ve been seeing a lot of “21 day challenges” on Facebook. I’ve decided to make a list of my own that is achievable and more people-friendly. Make your own list or conquer some of mine?

21 New Year Quotes and Captions for a Fresh Start to 2021 | Real Simple
  1. Check on a neighbor, do an errand, or bring a bright bouquet of flowers on a snowy or cold day!
  2. Stretch when you wake up each morning.
  3. Drink water, at least 8 glasses a day; do this even if you aren’t thirsty!
  4. Dejunk or rid clutter from a small area in your home or office once a day.
  5. Start a gratitude journal, write one thing down each day that you are grateful for.
  6. Recycle.
  7. Meditate, try centering prayer, or your own bible study.
  8. Send notes in the mail instead of email or texts.
  9. If your church is “open” pop in on any given day, find a pew and soak up the silence that is God.
  10. Walk a little further, or bike if your weather permits. Take up jogging. Get moving.
  11. Fresh or frozen fruit, ice, yogurt – start your morning off with a healthy smoothie.
  12. The dog will always need a walk!
  13. Sort and organize your bills.
  14. Cut up old magazines and make a collage of what you need in 2021. One example:

15. Enjoy a moment, put your phone down, describe the fun instead of showing a snap!

16. Make a good cuppa coffee at home, save the extra $ and add to the collection plate or charity of your choice.

17. Figure out why the spacing is wonky on this post. Ha! 🙂

18. Create a “prayer closet” or space that is just for your quiet time. Special books, icons, candles, photos, a comfie chair, journals or recipe cards for jotting prayer requests or inspirational quotes, scripture. Hang a “do not disturb” sign on door!

19. If in a season of grief or sorrow, call a good friend who can be an ear or an advisor. Ask for prayer. Be kind to your self.

20. If you are still in the mood for Christmas music, you can find it on most internet channels like Pandora, Spotify or good old, YouTube!

21. Start a new list each month! Be creative, find your bliss.

Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Advent Pieces

The colors of Advent have specific meanings, have you ever wondered about them? Tonight it’s a “101” class! Enjoy and learn! Thanks to crosswalk.com

The Meaning of the Advent Wreath | Advent candles, Advent wreath candles, Advent candles meaning

The First Sunday of Advent’s Purple Candle Signifies Hope

The first Sunday of Advent leads our hearts to Hope. The purple color symbolizes royalty, repentance, and fasting. This week is a time for us to reflect on what it must have been like to feel the depth of God’s silence during the period between the Old Testament and New.

It is a time to ponder the prophecies about the promised Messiah. We begin the season with a mindset that creates hope in our hearts.

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone (Isaiah 9:2).

For to us a child is born. To us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore (Isaiah 9:6-7).

The Second Sunday of Advent’s Purple Candle Signifies Preparation

On the second Sunday of Advent, we light the Hope candle and then we light the Preparation candle. First, hope blooms as we realize the prophecies about the Messiah are true. Then we begin to prepare our hearts to receive the Lord Jesus.

Imagine how Joseph must have rushed to prepare the crude stable for Mary and the soon-to-be-born Jesus. As we rush through the season of buying gifts and attending parties, may we pause and reflect on the words of Isaiah:

A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be lifted up and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken” (Isaiah 40:3-5).

The Third Sunday of Advent’s Pink Candle Signifies Joy

The third Sunday of Advent brings us to Joy. The color pink represents rejoicing. We light the previous two purple candles and then light this week’s pink one. Rejoicing is our response to the Good News — joy that our Messiah has come.

The light of the world sweeps away the darkness in our world and in our hearts. We seek him and, in joy, find him.

And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11).

The Fourth Sunday of Advent’s Purple Candle Signifies Love

On the fourth Sunday of Advent, we reach the culmination of Love. The Messiah comes in love and righteousness. The angels filled the sky with the greatest news of love.

They visited the lowest of the lows in Jewish society, the shepherds, with the most amazing birth announcement. This love is no respecter of persons but is for all who receive. As we light the four candles, we ponder,

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him (John 3:16-17).

Why Some Add a Fifth White Candle

A fifth candle is an optional addition to the traditional advent celebration and represents Christ. This candle is lit on Christmas Eve. The color white stands for purity, light, and victory.

Jesus is pure — without sin and because of his sacrifice he makes us white as snow. He is the light in the darkness and the victor over sin and death. We have life because of him.

Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins be like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool (Isaiah 1:18).

A Prayer for Hope

Holy God, we begin this week of advent with a heart awakening to hope. You are our signpost lighting our way forward. Darkness may abound, but you reveal light. Night may linger, but hope comes in the morning because of you. May we turn our hearts turn toward you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A Prayer for Preparation

Holy God, we praise you for the hope you give us. As we move into the second week of Advent, we prepare our hearts to receive you. Just as Mary and Joseph journeyed to Bethlehem over rough terrain, so our lives lead us down rocky paths.

Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Zoom Pieces

I have a love-hate relationship with Zoom and/or video chats. If there are too many people and they aren’t all muted, it’s distracting to hear background noise or when people talk at the same time. I’m guilty of this, as I have a barking dog or often talk to my self while writing notes, or nodding in agreement.

There are definitely people who ARE good at this. I want you to teach me how to be a good Zoomer. 🙂

The more amazing technology is; the harder it seems to communicate with God. We have everything at our fingertips to relate to human beings, but have we stepped away from conversation with God because it’s just not fast enough or easy? Oh goodness, we are so spoiled. It’s super fast to talk to God, just open your mouth and your heart.

Zoom in With God Sermon Series | The Depot Church

Conversations or prayer; for me, usually involve everyday activities. While folding laundry I pray for people in my life. When I’m working at my desk, I try to update this blog, which inspires people with God’s word.

40 Top Bible Verses About Prayer - Encouraging Scripture

The Power of Prayer

Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray. Are any of you happy? You should sing praises.

James 5:13
Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Ritual Pieces

In the U.S., we will soon celebrate Thanksgiving. This year it is bound to look different; smaller groups of people at the table, less hugs and greetings, no touch football in the backyard, and as cousins and an auntie do in my family; gather to make homemade lefse. Rituals that are ingrained in our very being for many generations will be set aside. Instead of missing what we can’t do; let’s make new plans and ideas!

What new rituals can we create during this holiday season? We can still decorate a tree together, or make ornaments, maybe we can donate canned goods to our local food shelves in lieu of working in a soup kitchen. I’ve seen so many ideas online to help the homeless; keep a few paper bags in your trunk filled with warm socks, mittens, granola bars, bottled water, snacks that don’t need utensils or to be cooked. Hair brush, deodorant, toothpaste, tooth brushes. Care packages. Dog food or treats. Let’s set the world on fire with kindness and care.

We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. ~Hebrews 12:2 NLT

Homeless care kit | The balm, Easy diy, Diy gifts
Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Honest Pieces

I have been known to spend an entire day binge watching a favorite show, or eating ice cream for breakfast, I’ve went days without reading scripture or doing a meditation, I even have hit the pillow without a prayer in my brain. I’m not bragging; but I am sharing that I’m a human being – like you. I miss out on opportunities that God has put in my path from pure laziness. Trust me, this is part of my “work in progress,” ignoring the nudges does not – a strong walk in faith make.

Just saying I’m going to do better tomorrow rarely works. I have started plastering post-it notes on my laptop, or cell phone; two places I’ve been known to waste a lot of time. They are reminders to pray for certain people or to crack open the rusty Bible.

I am committing to doing better. Join me?

We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been pr… | Faith bloggers, Spiritual truth, Christian author
Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Pieces of Symbolism

Yesterday I attended a socially distanced, masks optional, great scones and coffee class on prayer journaling. One of my favorite parts was using a scrapbooking technique to decorate a page in our journal. We cut up magazine pics or phrases, words, whatever was inspiring. It was fun and enlightening. Some people are so incredibly talented and creative; I am not. I am good at writing, but I do like decorating, doodling, making collages, journey boards. I find whenever I take on a project like this; the same words or images appear.

We journal, write, and meditate to draw closer to ourselves, and also our Heavenly Father. In time we can see the progression of our walk in faith.

Do you journal? Are you crafty and do a neat bullet notebook? Do you use your phone calendar for daily living and a customizable journal type book at home? Please share! Inquiring minds want to know!

Proverbs 3:3 Do not let kindness and truth leave you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart.

1 John 1:4 These things we write, so that our joy may be made complete.

Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Furry Pieces

If you are person living with a fur; dog, cat, ferret, heck-even fish – the you know the importance of this kind of love. It’s completely non-conditional, they want nothing from you, except for love, but they don’t expect it. They may “talk” to you, but it will be more like baby talk-woof, meow, purr, or bubbles in the tank!

The companionship of an animal helps alleviate stress, loneliness and I’ve found to be a very gentle form of healing.

Companion animals: can they alleviate loneliness among older adults?

I wonder when Jesus was a child, did He have a pet? Were animals domesticated yet? I know the Queen of Sheba had many cats!

Have you found compassion with an animal? Do you live with a furry creature?

Posted on by Dawn Huberty

Peaceful Protesting

There is so much unrest in our nation. It started with Covid19 and and only five months into 2020, the world is once again fighting an invisible enemy. Racism and police brutality. There is a lot of opinion, but on this page, today, I’m not sharing mine. Instead I’m making some suggestions to change the narrative and how we, as believers can support hurting people.

1. Educate yourself on a particular movement.

2. Work on your own habits and beliefs.

3. Research the local presence.

4. Take action in your community.

5. Go to a protest or demonstration.

6. Use social media.

7. Volunteer your time.

Lastly, choose to have conversation in a calm manner. Many social injustices bring out anger and hostility in people. Pray first, maybe even ask to pray before the conversation begins. Show your faith, not your emotions. Be a guiding light. Keep it real.