I’m taking the remainder of April and all of May 2022 off to decompress. May God continue to bless you.
Writing Sabbatical
Moved to Tears
Today in church, I was moved to crying during this song. I have heard before and always have the same reaction. Palm Sunday is such an emotionally potent day. Imagine being Jesus, you arrive to Jerusalem, the people are waving palm fronds at you, laying down their garments for your lowly donkey to walk over, there is a feeling of joy and celebration in the air and then………the mobs start shouting “crucify him, crucify him.” And you aren’t even able to defend yourself because you know this is the way. Your path. Christ died for sins he never committed. On a lighter note, I love the concept of not only Jesus being a lamb, but we are called to be also.
As we gather together for the journey of Easter, be as present as you can; and if you cry in church, it’s okay – it means that Jesus is touching your heart.
Writing Doldrums
I have been uninspired to write. This is unlike me, because I love to write. I love to share the messages that God gives to me. He is still sending the words, and I’m still receiving them, but….. I don’t know.
Today after duking it out with a seller on Ebay and then getting a favorable response from a customer service agent, I’m happy once again. Isn’t that how our spiritual life can sometimes work? I know for a fact that feelings come and go, they are like the waves in an ocean. To that end, feelings are not trustworthy or factual.
What is? The WORD of God. I have started to “encounter God through Scripture” through my own home study. Jeremiah 15:16 sums it up perfectly:
“When I discovered your words, I devoured them;
they became a source of joy to me
and the delight of my heart,
because I bore your name,
O Lord, God of hosts“
How do YOU encounter God? How do you hear the messages? Where do you share them? Do you share them? #inquiringminds #Godwritesyourstory
The Wishing Machine
Today as I hold tight onto a prayer request, hoping that Jesus will push this one through, I am reminded and have confessed to; that God is not a wishing machine.
We cannot go to Him when we have exhausted all earthly attempts at solving the issue. He must be our FIRST line of defense. Why do we treat God this way? He is the Most Holy. Prayer, even desperate requests need to start at the source.
Is your good friend John going to make all the pieces fit? Can your boss cash in a big favor so that your need is met (and then delight in the fact that now YOU owe HIM?)
Fickle creatures we are. Wanting to live our best life, while managing it “so well” “most of the time” until it crashes and we need “this to work in our favor.” Please God, I need you to A, B or C so I can be Happy/Employed/Married, again.
Let us value the relationship we have with God, with respect and reverence.
Romans 8:26 Likewise, the Spirit helps us in our weaknesses, for we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.
Your own mission statement
About eight years ago I was taking a class at the local Unitarian church. It was called: “What do you believe.” It was very informative and from a Christian view, it really helped me understand what I believed, why, and how I could back it up. We were asked to write a “mission statement” which in the business world; describes your acumen, philosophy, traits that are important for customers. But on this day, it was far more personal. Mine has changed many times, in fact here – in this post, I’m sharing where I stand today; this very moment.
I encourage you to do some journaling and discover what your “mission statement” is regarding your faith.
My Mission Statement
I believe that God lives in me and my life. I believe that Jesus died on the cross for my sins. I am a better person for these beliefs. I willingly share my story of faith if it draws them closer to a relationship with Christ. And I love ALL people, as Christ loves me.
New Year, New Pieces
I have on occasion, written for a local church newsletter. I always included scripture with a small story or musing about life; mine or just in general. I am continuing this tradition, going forward here. Enjoy and please comment if you are so inclined!
My desk faces the front yard of my home. We have many trees and in the summer they are filled with leaves, the grass is green, the sky blue, the weather warm with slight breezes. In the winter, as it is today; Tuesday, January 11, the sky is blue but that is the only similarity. It’s is a chilly 34 degrees, there is snow on every inch of the ground, the trees are bare, but there is life. Oh – is there life! Birds flock to our feeders, or the front bushes for shelter, squirrels scamper up and down trees, bunnies peek out from underneath the neighbors shed, and crows or ravens – they keep the neighborhood safe with their frequent and loud caws.
Be aware of your surroundings. The beauty that is a true gift from God. Have a lovely and blessed week.
Christmas Pieces
Oh to be present when our Savior entered this world in human form. Perhaps, as some historians state; the birth of Jesus was likely in September; keeping in mind the Gregorian calendar was mostly ruled by circumstance, the alignment of certain stars, etc.
Whenever He was born, He brought the one true light into our lives, similar to ET’s “home” light. It is a part of every single soul that is born. It is the beacon for our Heavenly home.
Christmas is a Holy day, time of year, way of life. Let us celebrate the birth of Christ every day in our hearts.
Pieces of our heart
I’ve been in semi-regular contact with a dear friend I’ve never met. We attempt to talk a few times a month, catching up; and my favorite – praying together. We “met” through an online prayer request page. I told her this afternoon, that when summer comes, I’m driving out to her house with my swimsuit (she has a pool!), and I will look forward to hugging her in person, and having a faith-filled fun day.
We need people in our life. Some are “have to’s” i.e. family members, a boss, coworkers, neighbors. The ones we can choose; aka “framily” are my favorites! Friends that become family.
Fellowship is so important to our spiritual growth. The word “friend/friends” is mentioned 285 times in the Bible! Granted, some of the scripture is pretty tough from the Old Testament, but overall, the message is encouragement.
John 15:11-15 “I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I’m no longer calling you servants because servants don’t understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I’ve named you friends because I’ve let you in on everything I’ve heard from the Father.”
Psalm Pieces
I have always loved Psalm 42:1 As the deer pants for water, so I long for you, O God. What a beautiful, visual reminder of our love for God, how we strive to become closer to Him.
Where do you go for spiritual guidance? I love to walk in nature, surrounded by trees, water, blue skies and a warm breeze. There, I find peace of heart and mind, quieting my soul. He speaks to me, reaches out to me, touches the scarred places. He heals and renews my spirit.
Be like the deer this week, walk silently on the path, open your heart to receive all that God lovingly wants to rain down on you.
Pieces of Recovery
A little over three weeks ago I had my left knee replaced. It’s been quite a recovery process. Today is the first day that I am motivated. The previous days and weeks have been ‘forced.’ PT cracks the whip and my husband reminds me that I must do more than I think I can, and then there is the necessary self guilt; if I don’t rehab well, the surgery won’t have been a success.
I’ve been inspired to praise God with music the past few days. And a friend shared a mighty scripture with me; Corinthians 1:3-5 (I’m using The Message Bible version).
The Rescue
3-5 All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us. We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort—we get a full measure of that, too.
May you receive the powerful healing of Christ. He restores and loves!
Pieces to Pray
Do you pray every day? With your morning coffee or before bed?
Do you have a “prayer closet?” (a private, quiet place where you go specifically to pray).
Do you use contemplative prayer or meditation? Maybe you journal or write poetry. Color or create art? Sing, lifting your voice to God?
There is no specific or better way to pray. THAT you do, is all that matters.
When I pray, I try to incorporate a lot of gratitude into my words.
“Holy Father, you are my friend and guardian. Thank You for being kind and comforting in times of darkness and hurt. Thank You for the sunshine and warmth on my skin. I appreciate all that I have, and for the gentle prods to forgive easier, not speak in anger and to love without ceasing. Help me to keep my eyes on You and my heart open to Your instruction.” Amen.
Pieces of Peace
It’s Sunday morning, I’m home watching the leaves drop from the tree out front. There is a slight breeze, the sky is dotted with clouds. It’s a peaceful day. Sometimes this is my church.
There is a quietness to the day, it fills my heart and soul. It reminds me that even though the last week has been hard, I’m still loved by my Heavenly Father. He envelopes me in kindness and comfort.
And as a new week begins, remind me that You are already there. Today, I say thanks for peace and grace.
Facebook Pieces
Today, October 4, 2021 at 4:46 p.m. CST Facebook is STILL down. And Instagram and Whatsapp if you use those. I’ve been in FB withdrawal, anxious to post a really cool pic and ask for prayers for an appointment I have tomorrow and I’ve realized that I don’t know how to reach out to (A LOT) of people without access to FB. And of course this gives me a pause about how dependent I AM on FB.
It’s a vicious cycle. I had a friend who NEVER WAS on FB. I can’t even fathom that. I have other friends who periodically deactivate their accounts, but eventually come back. And a handful who are never ever on FB, no recent posts, no cute pics of their rabbits or updates on their lives, and for those people – I have to text or IM or maybe actually call (yegads, I do not like to talk on the phone, but do for certain people).
So maybe when this post lands in your mailbox you’ll know I really like you (or you like me because you subscribed to this blog), but either way:
Grieving Pieces
Last month I shared the loss of my friend Carol who passed away after battling cancer, the death of her husband and her zest for life. I think the latter is what is the most sad. We’ve had another loss in our family; the kids’ mom, my husband’s first wife. She also was tired of the pain and being a burden on her kids (a mother is never a burden).
Grieving is so difficult no matter what stage you are in. My mother died in 1978, she was 53 years old and I was 14. It’s been 43 years since I’ve seen her. The hope that she is with Jesus soothes my broken heart.
Matthew 5:12 Be happy about it! Be very glad! for a tremendous reward awaits you up in heaven.
1 Peter 1:4 And God has reserved for his children the priceless gift of eternal life; it is kept in heaven for you…
Yesterday, an acquaintance shared the story of an 103 year old woman who; in excellent health asked in her daily prayer: “Jesus, did you forget about me?” She was heaven-bound a few months later. Jesus never forgets us, but it’s all in His time, not ours.
May you be blessed while grieving, may your heart heal with the balm of God’s love. Peace.
A big sigh
Have you ever sat in your chair or stared out the window and just did a big sigh? I’ve been doing this frequently. I don’t know what it means. My friend passed away last week, I’ve been certainly grieving the loss, while planning the Celebration of Life (what an oxymoron)! But overall I feel disconnected and have a need to stay unusually busy.
I wonder if God sighs when He looks at our chaotic lives. Does He ask Himself; “I gave these human beings a good heart and mind, why do they worry and create so much tension for themselves?”
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.
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!
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.
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
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
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)!
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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)?
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.
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?
- Check on a neighbor, do an errand, or bring a bright bouquet of flowers on a snowy or cold day!
- Stretch when you wake up each morning.
- Drink water, at least 8 glasses a day; do this even if you aren’t thirsty!
- Dejunk or rid clutter from a small area in your home or office once a day.
- Start a gratitude journal, write one thing down each day that you are grateful for.
- Recycle.
- Meditate, try centering prayer, or your own bible study.
- Send notes in the mail instead of email or texts.
- If your church is “open” pop in on any given day, find a pew and soak up the silence that is God.
- Walk a little further, or bike if your weather permits. Take up jogging. Get moving.
- Fresh or frozen fruit, ice, yogurt – start your morning off with a healthy smoothie.
- The dog will always need a walk!
- Sort and organize your bills.
- 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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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
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
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?
Song Lyric Pieces
Where you go, I’ll go, where you stay, I’ll stay.
This has been in my brain all morning. Here it is, to cheer you along on your day!
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.
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.
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?
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.
THE PIECES 