On the road again, with my grandsons and I belted in safely (even in the Land of Abundant Living, we need to follow safety rules), Little c, the two-year-old, asks Grandma to play his CD.
"Certainly," I reply, pushing in the kids' favorite CD with Jesus Praise Songs. After singing along to several melodies, we come to my favorite, "Dare to be a Daniel." When the song ends, I turn the music off.
"Why are you stopping the music, Grandma?" asks seven-year-old Big C.
Little c goes on singing as though nothing had happened, "Dare to be a Daniel; Dare to stand a-looone . . . "
"I want to tell you a story." Little c stops singing in mid-stanza at the thought.
"Here's a pretty little park. Let's stop the car and have a snack with our story."
When we are settled on the ground with the bright sun shining on us and the soft breeze ruffling our hair, I pass out baggies of grapes and granola bars and begin.
"You both have heard the story of Daniel in the Lion's Den." Two heads nod intently as they munch their juicy grapes.
"Well," I continue, "You know then that Daniel was a young man who had so much trust in God that he wouldn't give up his faith as the king commanded. So the king threw him into the hungry lion's den, but God closed the mouths of the lions and saved Daniel's life." Two heads nodded again.
"Now when Daniel grew older, King Nebuchadnezzar asked him to describe a dream the king had and tell him what the dream meant. Now Daniel, of course, couldn't do either one of those things by himself, but God told Daniel the dream and explained the meaning for him so he could share it with the king.
"This is the dream: The king saw an enormous statue made of gold, silver, bronze, iron and baked clay. Then a Rock was cut out by God and struck the statue, breaking it to pieces and sweeping away the chaff with the wind. Next, the Rock became a huge mountain and filled the whole earth."
"Wow! That sounds scary!" said Big C.
"Wok dis big!" Little c stretched out his chubby arms as far as he could reach.
"Well, it was even much bigger than that, Little c. And it did worry the king so he had trouble sleeping. So Daniel told the king the meaning of the dream, too. Each of the metals represented a certain kingdom that would appear and rule at a future time."
"God know tomorrow?" Little c's eyes grew large.
"Yes, Sweetie, God knows everything about yesterday and tomorrow. He is very smart."
"I think I know what the big Rock is! Is it Jesus?" guessed Big C.
"Excellent guess, Big C! Yes, the Rock that broke the last kingdom and filled the whole earth is God's own kingdom with King Jesus Christ as the ruler. You see, when the time for the other kingdoms to have power is over and Jesus comes back to earth, He will set up a new kingdom that will never be destroyed and will last forever!"
"I want to be in God's Kingdom!" said Big C.
"Me, too," Little c agreed.
"So when I hear this song about Daniel, I remember that story of the Rock."
"That's the same Rock we talked about at the lake," said Big C.
"Yes, it is. Please sing the Daniel song with me again."
TO BE CONTINUED NEXT WEEK . . . .
Showing posts with label Endorsements for the Rose Journal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Endorsements for the Rose Journal. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
KEY #SB6: THE OLD COUNTRY CHURCH
Back to a road trip adventure in the Land of Abundant Life! Today I left the park and picked up my precious grandsons, 7-year-old Big C and 2-year-old Little c. Since Big C is out of school for the summer, his mommy and daddy graciously agreed that I could take them with me for a journey.
We're on our way now to the old country church that still stands a couple of miles from the lake where I grew up.
As I turn into the long, gravel driveway, Big C spots the small, white building with its steeple pointing to heaven.
"There it is, Grandma!" he proudly claims discovery.
"I see, too, Gamma!" Little c joins in, excitedly. Of course, neither of them knows yet why they are excited. Only that they are on a trip of discovery with Grandma!
"Oh, look, Grandma, a graveyard," Big C whispers, suddenly turning solemn.
Little c looks perplexed. "Gaveyard bad?" he asks.
"No, not at all. Come with me. We'll be careful not to step on any of the graves, out of respect."
"We-spek." Little c nods vigorously, smiling again because he sees Grandma is not afraid.
"When I was just a little girl," I take hole of his pudgy little hand and begin to explain, "my mommy took me to another graveyard every spring and I helped her put flowers on the gravestones of some of our family members who had died. She always told me that we don't have to be afraid of graveyards because we know Jesus as our Savior. When we die, Jesus will take us to Heaven to live with Him where we will be happy forever! So I liked going with her to visit the graves because I knew Jesus promised to come and get me later and He always keeps His promises."
I sat down on the green grass and the boys sat next to me. I put one arm around each of them. "Jesus tells us in the Bible, 'In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.
'And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also."
"Jesus is my best friend!" said Big C. "I tell my friends about Him and bring my Bible to school to show them."
"Me, too!" echoed Little c. "I weed BiBo."
"That's wonderful," I hugged my grandsons. "Want to know something?"
"Sure!"
"Sur!"
"When we lived by the lake, my mother . . . your great-grandmother . . . used to come here sometimes in the summer with her friends and they would have a picnic in the graveyard and study their Bibles there together."
"Can we do that?" asked Big C.
"Certainly! Please go and get my Bible and the picnic basket out of the back seat in the car. After we eat, we'll explore the inside of the church."
Glad you came along for the ride, my friends. Hope to see you again next week when we find out what's inside the church!
We're on our way now to the old country church that still stands a couple of miles from the lake where I grew up.
As I turn into the long, gravel driveway, Big C spots the small, white building with its steeple pointing to heaven.
"There it is, Grandma!" he proudly claims discovery.
"I see, too, Gamma!" Little c joins in, excitedly. Of course, neither of them knows yet why they are excited. Only that they are on a trip of discovery with Grandma!
"Oh, look, Grandma, a graveyard," Big C whispers, suddenly turning solemn.
Little c looks perplexed. "Gaveyard bad?" he asks.
"No, not at all. Come with me. We'll be careful not to step on any of the graves, out of respect."
"We-spek." Little c nods vigorously, smiling again because he sees Grandma is not afraid.
"When I was just a little girl," I take hole of his pudgy little hand and begin to explain, "my mommy took me to another graveyard every spring and I helped her put flowers on the gravestones of some of our family members who had died. She always told me that we don't have to be afraid of graveyards because we know Jesus as our Savior. When we die, Jesus will take us to Heaven to live with Him where we will be happy forever! So I liked going with her to visit the graves because I knew Jesus promised to come and get me later and He always keeps His promises."
I sat down on the green grass and the boys sat next to me. I put one arm around each of them. "Jesus tells us in the Bible, 'In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.
'And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also."
"Jesus is my best friend!" said Big C. "I tell my friends about Him and bring my Bible to school to show them."
"Me, too!" echoed Little c. "I weed BiBo."
"That's wonderful," I hugged my grandsons. "Want to know something?"
"Sure!"
"Sur!"
"When we lived by the lake, my mother . . . your great-grandmother . . . used to come here sometimes in the summer with her friends and they would have a picnic in the graveyard and study their Bibles there together."
"Can we do that?" asked Big C.
"Certainly! Please go and get my Bible and the picnic basket out of the back seat in the car. After we eat, we'll explore the inside of the church."
Glad you came along for the ride, my friends. Hope to see you again next week when we find out what's inside the church!
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
KEY #H4: HELPFUL HOSPITALITY HINTS
Looking for some helpful hospitality hints? I've asked some friends for suggestions that worked for them when entertaining guests. It was interesting to notice that the Golden Rule kept coming up in our conversations in various ways. "Therefore, however you want people to treat you, so treat them, for this is the Law and the Prophets." Matthew 7:12. Or paraphrased, as many of us learned it, "Do unto others the way you want them to do unto you." After all, isn't that what having good manners is all about? Showing love and consideration to others by treating them the way we would want to be treated? It's amazing how following that very simple rule automatically takes care of a host of hospitality questions! For example . . .
Question: What should I feed my guests? Answer: Ask them if they have any food allergies or preferences.
Question: What theme should I choose for my party? Answer: Think about the interests of your guests and pull those interests into a theme.
Question: Where should I seat my guests at the table? Answer: Consider my guests' personalities, if they would prefer to sit by someone they feel comfortable with or make a new friend.
God's Word is so practical for all circumstances, isn't it?
Let's get on with the tips! After contacting several friends, here is the gist of what they suggested. Some overlap, so I tried to minimize repetitions.
"A fun idea," says Tina, "to make your overnight guests feel welcome is to have a basket in the bathroom with little toothpastes, hotel soaps, shampoo, etc. Also, a mint on their pillow when they open up their bed for the first time is so fun!" (Personal tip from Linda: Great idea, Tina! Although if you have a dog that climbs on beds, you may want to close their bedroom door! Dogs aren't supposed to eat chocolate, you know. :o) )
Bonnie suggests, "I leave their clean bath linens on their freshly made bed before they arrive. Also, I make sure Kleenexes are plentiful."
Rose, a hostess whose overnight hospitality I have personally enjoyed on many occasions, shares the following: "When someone stays overnight in your home, put yourself in their place (Notice the Golden Rule here?). If they wake up during the night, is there going to be enough light from a street light so they can tell where they are? It's often confusing to wake up in a strange house. Keep a couple of night lights handy to plug in when you have company, even if you don't need them yourself. We are fortunate to have two bathrooms. When we get company, we use the one in the basement and let our guests have the main bathroom next to their bedroom. It's handier for them to have their own space to spread out into. Keep an eye on the toilet paper supply. We have friends who keep an extra roll in a little basket in plain sight. Little things go a long way. "
Rose continues, "People are more important than things. Usually overnight guests are not coming to inspect your home. They are there to see YOU! So be yourself, get a good night's rest so you can enjoy your company without being tired. What you don't get done, chances are they'll never notice. If you didn't get that special dessert baked for them, take out the pail of ice cream; they'll be none the wiser. (Tip from Linda: Ice cream makes a great treat for drop in guests, too! Purchase vanilla and keep several toppings on hand.)
The first thing Donna said was also "I put myself in their place" (Again notice the Golden Rule!). I want them to have all the comforts of home and not have to ask for them. " She mentioned many of the same things others have already said and then gave me additional suggestions of things to have handy for overnight guests.
Donna keeps a drawer in the guest bedroom that contains an assortment items that may be needed including a hair dryer, heating pad, shoeshine, lotions, toothbrushes and toothpaste, aspirin. Bottled water and drinking glasses are available and she places a bowl of fruit for snacking. She also suggested that a min-fridge would be a great idea for the guest room!
Deb, the hostess for a party I recently attended, had a delicious and creative, yet simple menu plan. The entree she served was called "Tropical Mountain" and it truly was a mountain (at least it was on my plate! :0) ), heaped with yummy food. Set up a help-yourself bar in this order: lettuce, bag of Fritos corn chips (crushed), refried beans, rice (optional) ground beef cooked with taco seasoning (this she had on the stove; you could use an electric heating plate), onions, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped tomatoes, black olives, pineapple chunks, and chopped pecans, shredded coconut, and salsa. Deb's side dishes included guacamole, tortilla chips and salsa. A simple dessert of cookies, bars and fruit easily complete the meal. For "pot luck" style, each guest could bring a topping.
A very special thank you to each of you who gave me suggestions! And please feel free to share any additional tips of your own under "Comments."
Next Wednesday, please join me for a tribute to Mothers, in honor of Mother's Day coming up this Sunday!
Question: What should I feed my guests? Answer: Ask them if they have any food allergies or preferences.
Question: What theme should I choose for my party? Answer: Think about the interests of your guests and pull those interests into a theme.
Question: Where should I seat my guests at the table? Answer: Consider my guests' personalities, if they would prefer to sit by someone they feel comfortable with or make a new friend.
God's Word is so practical for all circumstances, isn't it?
Let's get on with the tips! After contacting several friends, here is the gist of what they suggested. Some overlap, so I tried to minimize repetitions.
"A fun idea," says Tina, "to make your overnight guests feel welcome is to have a basket in the bathroom with little toothpastes, hotel soaps, shampoo, etc. Also, a mint on their pillow when they open up their bed for the first time is so fun!" (Personal tip from Linda: Great idea, Tina! Although if you have a dog that climbs on beds, you may want to close their bedroom door! Dogs aren't supposed to eat chocolate, you know. :o) )
Bonnie suggests, "I leave their clean bath linens on their freshly made bed before they arrive. Also, I make sure Kleenexes are plentiful."
Rose, a hostess whose overnight hospitality I have personally enjoyed on many occasions, shares the following: "When someone stays overnight in your home, put yourself in their place (Notice the Golden Rule here?). If they wake up during the night, is there going to be enough light from a street light so they can tell where they are? It's often confusing to wake up in a strange house. Keep a couple of night lights handy to plug in when you have company, even if you don't need them yourself. We are fortunate to have two bathrooms. When we get company, we use the one in the basement and let our guests have the main bathroom next to their bedroom. It's handier for them to have their own space to spread out into. Keep an eye on the toilet paper supply. We have friends who keep an extra roll in a little basket in plain sight. Little things go a long way. "
Rose continues, "People are more important than things. Usually overnight guests are not coming to inspect your home. They are there to see YOU! So be yourself, get a good night's rest so you can enjoy your company without being tired. What you don't get done, chances are they'll never notice. If you didn't get that special dessert baked for them, take out the pail of ice cream; they'll be none the wiser. (Tip from Linda: Ice cream makes a great treat for drop in guests, too! Purchase vanilla and keep several toppings on hand.)
The first thing Donna said was also "I put myself in their place" (Again notice the Golden Rule!). I want them to have all the comforts of home and not have to ask for them. " She mentioned many of the same things others have already said and then gave me additional suggestions of things to have handy for overnight guests.
Donna keeps a drawer in the guest bedroom that contains an assortment items that may be needed including a hair dryer, heating pad, shoeshine, lotions, toothbrushes and toothpaste, aspirin. Bottled water and drinking glasses are available and she places a bowl of fruit for snacking. She also suggested that a min-fridge would be a great idea for the guest room!
Deb, the hostess for a party I recently attended, had a delicious and creative, yet simple menu plan. The entree she served was called "Tropical Mountain" and it truly was a mountain (at least it was on my plate! :0) ), heaped with yummy food. Set up a help-yourself bar in this order: lettuce, bag of Fritos corn chips (crushed), refried beans, rice (optional) ground beef cooked with taco seasoning (this she had on the stove; you could use an electric heating plate), onions, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped tomatoes, black olives, pineapple chunks, and chopped pecans, shredded coconut, and salsa. Deb's side dishes included guacamole, tortilla chips and salsa. A simple dessert of cookies, bars and fruit easily complete the meal. For "pot luck" style, each guest could bring a topping.
A very special thank you to each of you who gave me suggestions! And please feel free to share any additional tips of your own under "Comments."
Next Wednesday, please join me for a tribute to Mothers, in honor of Mother's Day coming up this Sunday!
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
KEY #A3: INTELLECTUAL INTEGRITY
Welcome back! My heart is pounding rapidly because I'm especially excited about this blog. Today, we will open a door that will show us the basic foundation of life!
I have a burning desire to know the Truth. Do you? There are so many belief systems in our world and all of them have a certain amount of wisdom and logic so that, if we don't examine their core statements, it would be very easy to fall into a trap of believing a huge lie and basing our lifestyle on deception. That is not what I want to do!
By the way, I just made a spelling error by leaving the "f" out of the word lifestyle in the above line and corrected it, then thought about it and realized the true statement: We either possess a "life-style"wherein we experience the Abundant Life, or we possess a "lie-style" wherein we are living out a lie that affects the core of our existence in this world and even on into Eternity! Personally, I want the "life-style!" Now, there's a good example of learning from our mistakes! :o)
Now to get down to business: Where do I go for the Truth? What will I see behind this door? As I turn the Key of Intellectual Integrity in the massive door and slowly swing it open, my first sensation is a whiff of fresh, clear air mingled in a pleasant way with the scent of an antique, musty, collection of books, like found in the seldom used stacks of an old, semi-deserted library. Yes, my guess was correct. I see now the expansive room is lined with shelves from floor to ceiling, completely surrounding me and spreading out in every direction, with an endless assortment of literary volumes of all colors and sizes. I am overwhelmed. Must I read all these books in order to find the truth? I take a deep breath, grab a cup of tea from the conveniently located rack near the door, a cinnamon scone topped with clotted cream and reach for the nearest book. As I open it I realize that this one is a Bible. How interesting that a Bible would be the first one I selected! My curiosity aroused, and my mind tingling with anticipation, I hold my breath and reach for the book next to it. This one, too, is a Bible! My eyes sweep the shelves as it appears that this entire collection might be composed of Bibles. Of course! The only book that can be trusted to be a source of total intellectual integrity would be this timeless book, the Written Word of God . . . and only this book.
Can it be? Is it true? How do I know I can believe it?
I see a computer on the table and flick it on. The screen opens with this heading:
"Objective and Internal Evidence Proves the Bible Alone is Trustworthy."
1. More than 5000 ancient Greek copies of all or portions of the New Testament have been found. The scribes who copied the original manuscripts would destroy the entire scroll of only one error was found!
2. No other ancient writings have as much manuscript evidence as does the Bible. The New Testament has about 14,000 copies, as compared to 643 copies of Homer's works, and other classic works which have anywhere from 3 to 20 copies each. The quality of Biblical manuscripts is also unsurpassed.
3. Time span: The Dead Sea Scolls, dating from 200 B.C. to A.D. 68, greatly reduce the time span between the writing of the Old Testament books to our earliest existing copies of the Old Testament, a very low figure.
4. Archaeological evidence has affirmed the historicity of the Bible, along with extra-bibical, historical writings.
5. As science progresses, more and more facts that were once supposed contradictory to the Bible are now revealed to conform to its truth statements.
6. 2 Timothy 3:16 says men, "moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God." Every word in the Bible is directly given by God. Every part of the Bible is inspired. The Bible does not merely contain the words of God, but it actually is the Word of God. Thus, the original writings, preserved meticulously, are without error.
(*Most of the above list is taken from the reference pages of the New American Standard International Inductive Study Bible)
7. Finally, the Bible has 66 books, 39 authors, was written in 3 different languages (original script), on 3 different continents, over a period of 1500 years. This supernatural book could only have been composed by the hand of God! And the more I study it I am amazed how its message is intricately woven together like a piece of fine artwork, from beginning to end, from Genesis through Revelation.
Jesus said "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me." John 14:6." and "for this I have come into the world, to bear witness to the truth." John 18:37
Time to quit for this week, though I could go on and on about this precious book! I love it; my whole life is founded on the truth found inside. I base my present life and my eternal future on its truths.
So, now you have the first 3 letters of the word phrase: ILI.....is that telling you anything yet??? Don't be hasty; remember, you only get one guess!
Hope to see you next week!
I have a burning desire to know the Truth. Do you? There are so many belief systems in our world and all of them have a certain amount of wisdom and logic so that, if we don't examine their core statements, it would be very easy to fall into a trap of believing a huge lie and basing our lifestyle on deception. That is not what I want to do!
By the way, I just made a spelling error by leaving the "f" out of the word lifestyle in the above line and corrected it, then thought about it and realized the true statement: We either possess a "life-style"wherein we experience the Abundant Life, or we possess a "lie-style" wherein we are living out a lie that affects the core of our existence in this world and even on into Eternity! Personally, I want the "life-style!" Now, there's a good example of learning from our mistakes! :o)
Now to get down to business: Where do I go for the Truth? What will I see behind this door? As I turn the Key of Intellectual Integrity in the massive door and slowly swing it open, my first sensation is a whiff of fresh, clear air mingled in a pleasant way with the scent of an antique, musty, collection of books, like found in the seldom used stacks of an old, semi-deserted library. Yes, my guess was correct. I see now the expansive room is lined with shelves from floor to ceiling, completely surrounding me and spreading out in every direction, with an endless assortment of literary volumes of all colors and sizes. I am overwhelmed. Must I read all these books in order to find the truth? I take a deep breath, grab a cup of tea from the conveniently located rack near the door, a cinnamon scone topped with clotted cream and reach for the nearest book. As I open it I realize that this one is a Bible. How interesting that a Bible would be the first one I selected! My curiosity aroused, and my mind tingling with anticipation, I hold my breath and reach for the book next to it. This one, too, is a Bible! My eyes sweep the shelves as it appears that this entire collection might be composed of Bibles. Of course! The only book that can be trusted to be a source of total intellectual integrity would be this timeless book, the Written Word of God . . . and only this book.
Can it be? Is it true? How do I know I can believe it?
I see a computer on the table and flick it on. The screen opens with this heading:
"Objective and Internal Evidence Proves the Bible Alone is Trustworthy."
1. More than 5000 ancient Greek copies of all or portions of the New Testament have been found. The scribes who copied the original manuscripts would destroy the entire scroll of only one error was found!
2. No other ancient writings have as much manuscript evidence as does the Bible. The New Testament has about 14,000 copies, as compared to 643 copies of Homer's works, and other classic works which have anywhere from 3 to 20 copies each. The quality of Biblical manuscripts is also unsurpassed.
3. Time span: The Dead Sea Scolls, dating from 200 B.C. to A.D. 68, greatly reduce the time span between the writing of the Old Testament books to our earliest existing copies of the Old Testament, a very low figure.
4. Archaeological evidence has affirmed the historicity of the Bible, along with extra-bibical, historical writings.
5. As science progresses, more and more facts that were once supposed contradictory to the Bible are now revealed to conform to its truth statements.
6. 2 Timothy 3:16 says men, "moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God." Every word in the Bible is directly given by God. Every part of the Bible is inspired. The Bible does not merely contain the words of God, but it actually is the Word of God. Thus, the original writings, preserved meticulously, are without error.
(*Most of the above list is taken from the reference pages of the New American Standard International Inductive Study Bible)
7. Finally, the Bible has 66 books, 39 authors, was written in 3 different languages (original script), on 3 different continents, over a period of 1500 years. This supernatural book could only have been composed by the hand of God! And the more I study it I am amazed how its message is intricately woven together like a piece of fine artwork, from beginning to end, from Genesis through Revelation.
Jesus said "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me." John 14:6." and "for this I have come into the world, to bear witness to the truth." John 18:37
Time to quit for this week, though I could go on and on about this precious book! I love it; my whole life is founded on the truth found inside. I base my present life and my eternal future on its truths.
So, now you have the first 3 letters of the word phrase: ILI.....is that telling you anything yet??? Don't be hasty; remember, you only get one guess!
Hope to see you next week!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
KEY # 7: RESPECT LIFE!
How are you doing with the contest? Soon ready to make a guess? You only get one chance, remember! Just put together the letters of the first letter of each Key we have used to determine the phrase. See what words you get so far . . . a total of ten letters.
A free Rose Journal novel to the person who guesses correctly!
God highly values life because He is life and He gives life to us!
How highly do I value His gift of life? To me? To others?
Considering several questions I need to ask myself:
Have I ever entertained thoughts of taking my own life? Of throwing it back in His face instead of trusting God to bring me through my difficulties to even ground?
Do I waste the time He's allotted to me. . . beyond what is reasonable for necessary relaxation and restoration?
Do I condone the act of abortion. . . killing an innocent child that God made in His own image?
(*Please know that if you have aborted a child, you can always find forgiveness from God and the assurance that your precious baby was placed in His care.)
Do I honor the elderly? (Guess I'd better. I'll probably be one some day!) Do I treat them with dignity and consideration, the way I want to be treated when I am old? Do I value elderly adults for the person they are even when they are not able to do the useful things they once did?
Love Comes Full Circle
I have images in my mind that are etched as vividly as if they were imprinted on a camera lens.
Memories. . .
I was staying with my family at my parents' home on a lake years ago, where I had spent most of my childhood. The early morning sun waved its magical wand over the waters and multitudes of glittering silver jewels appeared where moments before had merely existed a hazy mist.
My mother and I watched from the kitchen window. Just beyond the dock, my Dad's boat drifted on calm waters. In it were 2 figures. One was my 89-year-old father . . my strong, capable "can do anything" Daddy who was sitting patiently while my 15-year-old son, Kaleb, bent down before him to fasten the latches on his grandfather's life jacket.
My father's tender but worn old hands had built the roof over our heads along with two other houses. . .
His hands had designed and crafted an entire well-drilling rig as a means of supporting his family. . .
had carried his little girl from the car when she'd fallen asleep. . .
had sat by her bed night after night when she was ill . . .
had mended her dolls when no one else could . .
had dried the tears of a teen-ager daughter with a love-struck heart.
These hands were shaking now and needed help to simply fasten a life jacket.
His teen-age grandson who had spent his life observing an old man's example of unselfish love was now ready. Ready to extend the same gentle hand of concern and respect.
Role reversal? It's more than that. It's love going the full circle.
The love that gave gets back and keeps giving.
A free Rose Journal novel to the person who guesses correctly!
God highly values life because He is life and He gives life to us!
How highly do I value His gift of life? To me? To others?
Considering several questions I need to ask myself:
Have I ever entertained thoughts of taking my own life? Of throwing it back in His face instead of trusting God to bring me through my difficulties to even ground?
Do I waste the time He's allotted to me. . . beyond what is reasonable for necessary relaxation and restoration?
Do I condone the act of abortion. . . killing an innocent child that God made in His own image?
(*Please know that if you have aborted a child, you can always find forgiveness from God and the assurance that your precious baby was placed in His care.)
Do I honor the elderly? (Guess I'd better. I'll probably be one some day!) Do I treat them with dignity and consideration, the way I want to be treated when I am old? Do I value elderly adults for the person they are even when they are not able to do the useful things they once did?
Love Comes Full Circle
I have images in my mind that are etched as vividly as if they were imprinted on a camera lens.
Memories. . .
I was staying with my family at my parents' home on a lake years ago, where I had spent most of my childhood. The early morning sun waved its magical wand over the waters and multitudes of glittering silver jewels appeared where moments before had merely existed a hazy mist.
My mother and I watched from the kitchen window. Just beyond the dock, my Dad's boat drifted on calm waters. In it were 2 figures. One was my 89-year-old father . . my strong, capable "can do anything" Daddy who was sitting patiently while my 15-year-old son, Kaleb, bent down before him to fasten the latches on his grandfather's life jacket.
My father's tender but worn old hands had built the roof over our heads along with two other houses. . .
His hands had designed and crafted an entire well-drilling rig as a means of supporting his family. . .
had carried his little girl from the car when she'd fallen asleep. . .
had sat by her bed night after night when she was ill . . .
had mended her dolls when no one else could . .
had dried the tears of a teen-ager daughter with a love-struck heart.
These hands were shaking now and needed help to simply fasten a life jacket.
His teen-age grandson who had spent his life observing an old man's example of unselfish love was now ready. Ready to extend the same gentle hand of concern and respect.
Role reversal? It's more than that. It's love going the full circle.
The love that gave gets back and keeps giving.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
ABUNDANT LIVING KEY #4: ENERGIZE
Have you signed up yet for your free e-book, Joshua's Story?
You can also sign up in the box on the right side to get all my blogs delivered to your inbox!
I once heard someone say, "You can't steer a car that isn't moving." So true. Today we'll use Key #4 to find out how to ENERGIZE our vehicles as we journey on with Jesus.
*Note for those in participating in the contest: Add the "E" from Energize to the previous key letters and see what you get!
Bible verse for the week: "For in Him we live and move and exist . . ." Acts 17:28a
Instead of gasoline (which has gotten way too expensive), we'll fill our tanks with . . .
. . . the 3 Productive P's: Power, Praise and Prayer.
The first "P" is Power. First of all, let's pour some power into our tanks by plugging into the source of power, the almighty God. When I unplug my television set, the picture doesn't appear. I plug it in, and voila! The show begins!
Likewise, we won't produce positive results for eternity (remember the pulp from Key #2?) if our spirits are not "plugged in" to God. We plug in. . . leave the cord attached. . . as we connect to God's Spirit through submission to His will, Bible reading and conversation with Him. And watch out for sin. Sin is a great "cord-yanker!"
The second "P" is Praise. Praising God comforts and encourages me because it turns my focus away from my problems and difficulties to remembering who God is. . . the awesome Creator. "For nothing will be impossible with God." Luke 1:37
A phrase in Psalm 116:17 stumped me for a long time. It refers to the "sacrifice of praise (or thanksgiving)." How, I wondered, can praising God be a sacrifice? Then it occurred to me that when I find myself in tough circumstances. . . even painful circumstances. . . and I choose to "sacrifice" my feelings of despair and cancel my pity party to simply praise God for who He is, I give Him a great gift. Whenever I let my anxiety go and sincerely praise and thank God, He gives me a gift in return, the "peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension. . . " Philippians 4:7a
The third "P" is Prayer. Through talking with God and trusting Him, we unleash His power. . . the power that can move mountains and bring strong men to their knees, the same power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead, according to Ephesians 1:18-20.
So let's fill up our tanks with the 3 Productive P's and get those vehicles running!
You can also sign up in the box on the right side to get all my blogs delivered to your inbox!
I once heard someone say, "You can't steer a car that isn't moving." So true. Today we'll use Key #4 to find out how to ENERGIZE our vehicles as we journey on with Jesus.
*Note for those in participating in the contest: Add the "E" from Energize to the previous key letters and see what you get!
Bible verse for the week: "For in Him we live and move and exist . . ." Acts 17:28a
Instead of gasoline (which has gotten way too expensive), we'll fill our tanks with . . .
. . . the 3 Productive P's: Power, Praise and Prayer.
The first "P" is Power. First of all, let's pour some power into our tanks by plugging into the source of power, the almighty God. When I unplug my television set, the picture doesn't appear. I plug it in, and voila! The show begins!
Likewise, we won't produce positive results for eternity (remember the pulp from Key #2?) if our spirits are not "plugged in" to God. We plug in. . . leave the cord attached. . . as we connect to God's Spirit through submission to His will, Bible reading and conversation with Him. And watch out for sin. Sin is a great "cord-yanker!"
The second "P" is Praise. Praising God comforts and encourages me because it turns my focus away from my problems and difficulties to remembering who God is. . . the awesome Creator. "For nothing will be impossible with God." Luke 1:37
A phrase in Psalm 116:17 stumped me for a long time. It refers to the "sacrifice of praise (or thanksgiving)." How, I wondered, can praising God be a sacrifice? Then it occurred to me that when I find myself in tough circumstances. . . even painful circumstances. . . and I choose to "sacrifice" my feelings of despair and cancel my pity party to simply praise God for who He is, I give Him a great gift. Whenever I let my anxiety go and sincerely praise and thank God, He gives me a gift in return, the "peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension. . . " Philippians 4:7a
The third "P" is Prayer. Through talking with God and trusting Him, we unleash His power. . . the power that can move mountains and bring strong men to their knees, the same power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead, according to Ephesians 1:18-20.
So let's fill up our tanks with the 3 Productive P's and get those vehicles running!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
KEY #3: VISUALIZE
Join me for one more walking excursion today, and next week we'll climb into our vehicle of choice and get it moving!
Our key for this week is the 3rd one: "Visualize." Now you have the L,I, and V. Maybe you can guess the first word of the contest phrase? Remember, you only get one guess for the whole phrase, so make sure you are right!
Bible verse for the week: "Thy Word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path." Psalm 119:105
I am one of those pathetic persons who are directionally challenged. It's true; the root cause for my infirmity is buried deep inside my subconscious store of childhood experiences. You see, my father could always tell what direction was north. Even if you planted him in the center of a corn field with 7 foot stalks, he'd find his way out. Now my mother was a different story. She, and her best friend, Shirley (although both were very intelligent and capable women), didn't seem to get the concept of North, East, South and West. Since they were my primary role models as a young girl, I grew up thinking it was unfeminine to know where I was!
Fortunately, my daughter didn't succumb to that unrealistic concept. She has led me from many restrooms back to our camping spot when we travelled together!
But I'm good with maps. I can navigate quite well if I have a map.
Fortunately God's Word, the Bible, is a map. It is also a lamp that lights up the roadway that God has laid out for me.
Reading and studying it daily helps me to see where I was. . . lost in sin,
where I am. . . walking with God clinging tightly to His outstretched hand,
and what my final destination is. . . heaven.
God's "map" shows me my strengths and the characteristics I need to work on, with the help of His Spirit. It also encourages me when I see progress I have made.
Talking with Him in prayer helps me to set goals and specific plans to reach them.
God made each of us unique. For a long time I struggled against envy and jealousy, wishing I was like someone else and even trying to become like her. Then I came to my senses and realized that God made me the way I am for a specific reason. God did not want two "Mary Janes"or whomever I admired at the time. He wanted one "Mary Jane" and one "Linda Ruth." What a relief! Now I am free to discover who I am and put those discoveries to use in setting my goals. I make a much better Linda Ruth than a Mary Jane! God knew what He was doing when He created me. . . and you!
Let's ask God to help us visualize the road He has prepared for us to explore.
Join me next week and we'll get our motors running!
Our key for this week is the 3rd one: "Visualize." Now you have the L,I, and V. Maybe you can guess the first word of the contest phrase? Remember, you only get one guess for the whole phrase, so make sure you are right!
Bible verse for the week: "Thy Word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path." Psalm 119:105
I am one of those pathetic persons who are directionally challenged. It's true; the root cause for my infirmity is buried deep inside my subconscious store of childhood experiences. You see, my father could always tell what direction was north. Even if you planted him in the center of a corn field with 7 foot stalks, he'd find his way out. Now my mother was a different story. She, and her best friend, Shirley (although both were very intelligent and capable women), didn't seem to get the concept of North, East, South and West. Since they were my primary role models as a young girl, I grew up thinking it was unfeminine to know where I was!
Fortunately, my daughter didn't succumb to that unrealistic concept. She has led me from many restrooms back to our camping spot when we travelled together!
But I'm good with maps. I can navigate quite well if I have a map.
Fortunately God's Word, the Bible, is a map. It is also a lamp that lights up the roadway that God has laid out for me.
Reading and studying it daily helps me to see where I was. . . lost in sin,
where I am. . . walking with God clinging tightly to His outstretched hand,
and what my final destination is. . . heaven.
God's "map" shows me my strengths and the characteristics I need to work on, with the help of His Spirit. It also encourages me when I see progress I have made.
Talking with Him in prayer helps me to set goals and specific plans to reach them.
God made each of us unique. For a long time I struggled against envy and jealousy, wishing I was like someone else and even trying to become like her. Then I came to my senses and realized that God made me the way I am for a specific reason. God did not want two "Mary Janes"or whomever I admired at the time. He wanted one "Mary Jane" and one "Linda Ruth." What a relief! Now I am free to discover who I am and put those discoveries to use in setting my goals. I make a much better Linda Ruth than a Mary Jane! God knew what He was doing when He created me. . . and you!
Let's ask God to help us visualize the road He has prepared for us to explore.
Join me next week and we'll get our motors running!
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
KEY #2: "I" INVEST
Please come with me today to unlock the next inside door with the Second Key: INVEST. Add the "I" from today's blog to the "L" from last week and you're on your way to solving the puzzle of the phrase! (For contest information, see the box on the right.)
Bible verse for the week: "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you." Matthew 6:33
Have you ever made an investment without expecting a return? Probably not. For example, we might put money into a CD because it will draw interest. We may spend four years or more in college expecting to obtain a better job than we could without that education. We put time and energy into raising our children so they will become good citizens. But are you aware of the fact that your whole life could be considered an investment?
I have a choice. I can waste my life. . . throw it away. . . searching for pleasures that yield instant gratification yet no permanent, positive results. Or I can give my life to God who will then extend my natural limitations for pleasure and purposes that will last forever!
Picture a sink drainer, a common, ordinary sink drainer. I'll explain its purpose in a moment.
A close friend once told me this saying: "Only one life, 'twill soon be past. Only what's done for Christ will last."
I"ve translated that saying into a practical image. Here is where the sink drainer comes in. In your mind's eye, pour a pint of freshly squeezed orange juice through it. Watch the colorful, tasty liquid spiral down through the tiny holes. Now pick up the drainer. What is left? Yes, the pulp! Now you have my unique, personal interpretation of the saying: "Only one life, soon down the drain. Only what's done for Christ will remain."
The juice represents everything we do, both positive and negative, that will disappear forever when we die. The pulp represents all we do that effects eternity. Let's live so that our "drainers" will be full of "pulp" when we leave this world and meet God!
Give your life to the Giver of life. The returns on your investment will amaze you!
Bible verse for the week: "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you." Matthew 6:33
Have you ever made an investment without expecting a return? Probably not. For example, we might put money into a CD because it will draw interest. We may spend four years or more in college expecting to obtain a better job than we could without that education. We put time and energy into raising our children so they will become good citizens. But are you aware of the fact that your whole life could be considered an investment?
I have a choice. I can waste my life. . . throw it away. . . searching for pleasures that yield instant gratification yet no permanent, positive results. Or I can give my life to God who will then extend my natural limitations for pleasure and purposes that will last forever!
Picture a sink drainer, a common, ordinary sink drainer. I'll explain its purpose in a moment.
A close friend once told me this saying: "Only one life, 'twill soon be past. Only what's done for Christ will last."
I"ve translated that saying into a practical image. Here is where the sink drainer comes in. In your mind's eye, pour a pint of freshly squeezed orange juice through it. Watch the colorful, tasty liquid spiral down through the tiny holes. Now pick up the drainer. What is left? Yes, the pulp! Now you have my unique, personal interpretation of the saying: "Only one life, soon down the drain. Only what's done for Christ will remain."
The juice represents everything we do, both positive and negative, that will disappear forever when we die. The pulp represents all we do that effects eternity. Let's live so that our "drainers" will be full of "pulp" when we leave this world and meet God!
Give your life to the Giver of life. The returns on your investment will amaze you!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
KEY #1: "L" LISTEN AND LEARN
We have now gained entrance through the doorway to the Land of Abundant Living and need to get on our way! Our first inside door is within walking distance but we will soon be on the road, so I suggest you design in your imagination a vehicle of your choice. Mine is a small automobile (not sure what kind; I'm not very up on car models), painted light lavender with sparsely flowing green vine-type lines adorned with tiny wildflowers of various colors. Just a few flowers, not enough to distract another driver!
What does your vehicle look like?
Sounds good! We'll just park them near the main doorway for now. Now let's approach the first inside door and use our key to unlock it.
FIRST KEY: LISTEN AND LEARN
*If you are participating in our contest, note the first letter of our phrase is the letter "L": LISTEN AND LEARN. Keep track of the first letter each week to spell out the phrase/sentence to win my novel!
Bible verse for the week: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction." Proverbs 1:7
Picture a mouse, a cute little mouse. Yes, I too cringe at that image, but I want you to like him. Let's give him a name. How about Tiny? Now, Tiny is perched on his two hind feet peering over a threshold into a small room where positioned on one side of the room is a mousetrap enticing him with a large hunk of cheese. On the other side of the room sits a plate that holds a small piece of cheese. Let's suppose that Tiny has somehow acquired wisdom and understanding far beyond his natural, feeble brain power. He knows perfectly well that the large hunk of cheese, being housed in a trap, will eventually kill him. And that the small piece of cheese . . . nutritious and safe to eat. . . will satisfy and nourish him.
What choice do you think Tiny will make? What choice do you think he should make?
I agree! The cheese on the plate.
Do you realize that we. . . myself included. . . are so often dumber than Tiny? If we have a Bible, God's book of wisdom and information, available to us, how much do we consult it? Study it? I mean really delve into it in a serious effort to find God's guidance and solutions to our problems? Do we feed on God's Word that will nourish and satisfy us? Or do we feed mostly on the "junk food" of immoral media, advice from unwise companions, and unhealthy addictions that will eventually destroy us?
We all have choices. Let's determine to make good ones!
The verse for this week says that fools despise wisdom. I don't want to be a fool! Do you? The fear (respect) for God will give us the wisdom we need to navigate along life's roadway.
Here's a little acrostic I came up with on the word "WISDOM":
W--Willingness to learn
I---Integrity
S--Sensitivity to God's Spirit
D--Discipline
O--Obedience to God's direction
M--Meaningful life is the result!
HOW ABOUT YOU? If you'd like to share a moment of wisdom from your own life, please comment on my "Meet Linda" page! I'd love to hear about your experiences!
Remember to sign up for the FREE e-book, Joshua's Story!
Hope to see you next Wednesday!
What does your vehicle look like?
Sounds good! We'll just park them near the main doorway for now. Now let's approach the first inside door and use our key to unlock it.
FIRST KEY: LISTEN AND LEARN
*If you are participating in our contest, note the first letter of our phrase is the letter "L": LISTEN AND LEARN. Keep track of the first letter each week to spell out the phrase/sentence to win my novel!
Bible verse for the week: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction." Proverbs 1:7
Picture a mouse, a cute little mouse. Yes, I too cringe at that image, but I want you to like him. Let's give him a name. How about Tiny? Now, Tiny is perched on his two hind feet peering over a threshold into a small room where positioned on one side of the room is a mousetrap enticing him with a large hunk of cheese. On the other side of the room sits a plate that holds a small piece of cheese. Let's suppose that Tiny has somehow acquired wisdom and understanding far beyond his natural, feeble brain power. He knows perfectly well that the large hunk of cheese, being housed in a trap, will eventually kill him. And that the small piece of cheese . . . nutritious and safe to eat. . . will satisfy and nourish him.
What choice do you think Tiny will make? What choice do you think he should make?
I agree! The cheese on the plate.
Do you realize that we. . . myself included. . . are so often dumber than Tiny? If we have a Bible, God's book of wisdom and information, available to us, how much do we consult it? Study it? I mean really delve into it in a serious effort to find God's guidance and solutions to our problems? Do we feed on God's Word that will nourish and satisfy us? Or do we feed mostly on the "junk food" of immoral media, advice from unwise companions, and unhealthy addictions that will eventually destroy us?
We all have choices. Let's determine to make good ones!
The verse for this week says that fools despise wisdom. I don't want to be a fool! Do you? The fear (respect) for God will give us the wisdom we need to navigate along life's roadway.
Here's a little acrostic I came up with on the word "WISDOM":
W--Willingness to learn
I---Integrity
S--Sensitivity to God's Spirit
D--Discipline
O--Obedience to God's direction
M--Meaningful life is the result!
HOW ABOUT YOU? If you'd like to share a moment of wisdom from your own life, please comment on my "Meet Linda" page! I'd love to hear about your experiences!
Remember to sign up for the FREE e-book, Joshua's Story!
Hope to see you next Wednesday!
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
DOORWAY INTO THE LAND OF ABUNDANT LIFE
Welcome again! I'm happy to see that you returned.
Have you signed up yet to receive your free e-book, "Joshua's Story," that I told you about last week?
Today I'll talk about how to gain entrance into the Land of Abundant Life through its imposing doorway.
A multitude of keys are available to unlock doors to explore once we have gotten inside. I have selected 10 keys that I believe are crucial and plan to share these keys with you.
But first of all, we need to get through the entrance door!
*Please understand that if, after my explanation, you realize you have already entered this door, you are also invited come along with me in following weeks as together we discover ways to make the most of our journey through the Land of Abundant Life.
Now, let's continue on our way!
Our entrance is made possible. . . only by asking the One who stands at the door, Jesus Christ, for permission. Jesus says in the book God wrote for us, the Bible, "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved. . . " John 10:9a. Jesus also says, ". . . no one comes to the Father, but through Me." John 14:6b. You see, the God who made us is perfect and holy and wants to have a relationship with me. . . and you. But since the time of Adam and Eve, all human beings have been born with self-centered tendencies which are called "sin." To sin means to want to live life our way instead of God's way. So since we are born with sin, we are not capable of having a relationship with a perfect God on our own power. But God loves us so much and wants each one of us to know Him personally that He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, into this world. Jesus was the only person who could live a life without sin because, you see, He was also God. Jesus was sent to take our sins upon His own body and die a horrible death on a Roman execution cross to pay the penalty for the sins that we committed. Three days later, He proved His power over death by rising from the dead! And He is alive today!
I have asked God to forgive my sins and accepted Jesus' costly payment when He died in my place, taking my punishment upon Himself. In taking that step, I have found true peace and purpose. . . in other words. . . the abundant life!
I invite you to make this your prayer also, that God will forgive you for your sins against Him and accept Jesus' death in your place. There is nothing we can do to earn our way to heaven; all we can do is accept this precious gift from a God who loves each one of us immensely, with a perfect love that we can not even begin to comprehend.
It's simple. Just talk to Him. And find a Bible, which tells you more about God and how to get to know Him. God will place His Holy Spirit inside you to help you understand His ways and to receive the power to obey Him and live the way He knows is best for you.
Then I invite you to come along with me and step through the doorway to journey with Jesus along the roadway of Abundant Living!
CONTEST: Next week, you will have the opportunity to participate in a contest to receive a free copy of my novel, "The Rose Journal." The contest will begin as I present the first of 10 Keys to Abundant Living. Each of the 10 keys begins with a letter that will be used to spell out a phrase. Take notice and remember the first letter of the first word of each key. As the weeks go on, you can begin to put them together to form a sentence.
The first person who emails me the correct phrase, spelled correctly, will win the book!
*Family will not qualify for the the contest.
See you next week!
Have you signed up yet to receive your free e-book, "Joshua's Story," that I told you about last week?
Today I'll talk about how to gain entrance into the Land of Abundant Life through its imposing doorway.
A multitude of keys are available to unlock doors to explore once we have gotten inside. I have selected 10 keys that I believe are crucial and plan to share these keys with you.
But first of all, we need to get through the entrance door!
*Please understand that if, after my explanation, you realize you have already entered this door, you are also invited come along with me in following weeks as together we discover ways to make the most of our journey through the Land of Abundant Life.
Now, let's continue on our way!
Our entrance is made possible. . . only by asking the One who stands at the door, Jesus Christ, for permission. Jesus says in the book God wrote for us, the Bible, "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved. . . " John 10:9a. Jesus also says, ". . . no one comes to the Father, but through Me." John 14:6b. You see, the God who made us is perfect and holy and wants to have a relationship with me. . . and you. But since the time of Adam and Eve, all human beings have been born with self-centered tendencies which are called "sin." To sin means to want to live life our way instead of God's way. So since we are born with sin, we are not capable of having a relationship with a perfect God on our own power. But God loves us so much and wants each one of us to know Him personally that He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, into this world. Jesus was the only person who could live a life without sin because, you see, He was also God. Jesus was sent to take our sins upon His own body and die a horrible death on a Roman execution cross to pay the penalty for the sins that we committed. Three days later, He proved His power over death by rising from the dead! And He is alive today!
I have asked God to forgive my sins and accepted Jesus' costly payment when He died in my place, taking my punishment upon Himself. In taking that step, I have found true peace and purpose. . . in other words. . . the abundant life!
I invite you to make this your prayer also, that God will forgive you for your sins against Him and accept Jesus' death in your place. There is nothing we can do to earn our way to heaven; all we can do is accept this precious gift from a God who loves each one of us immensely, with a perfect love that we can not even begin to comprehend.
It's simple. Just talk to Him. And find a Bible, which tells you more about God and how to get to know Him. God will place His Holy Spirit inside you to help you understand His ways and to receive the power to obey Him and live the way He knows is best for you.
Then I invite you to come along with me and step through the doorway to journey with Jesus along the roadway of Abundant Living!
CONTEST: Next week, you will have the opportunity to participate in a contest to receive a free copy of my novel, "The Rose Journal." The contest will begin as I present the first of 10 Keys to Abundant Living. Each of the 10 keys begins with a letter that will be used to spell out a phrase. Take notice and remember the first letter of the first word of each key. As the weeks go on, you can begin to put them together to form a sentence.
The first person who emails me the correct phrase, spelled correctly, will win the book!
*Family will not qualify for the the contest.
See you next week!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
WELCOME
We only get one life. And I want to make the most of the one I have! Don't you?
I am a wife, mother, grandmother and author who has discovered the joy and satisfaction life can give in spite of. . . maybe even because of. . . disappointments and hardships since I've turned the controls over to God and let Jesus Christ capture my heart and invade my spirit.
I'd like to invite you to join me on Wednesdays as together we examine ideas and concepts on how to truly Live and experience all this life has to offer.
Dedication and FREE book offer: I'd like to dedicate my first Abundant Living blog to approximately 50 million Unborn Children who have been killed by abortion in my country, the USA, since abortion was legalized on January 22, 1973. My husband and I recently took a trip to northern Minnesota and on the way home stopped at the small city of Royalton, MN, to visit a memorial set in a graveyard there by a local chapter of the Knights of Columbus to honor all unborn children. If any of you know of other memorials for the unborn, I would be pleased to hear from you.
My passion is to share the abundant life God offers us with others, and to value and protect life for others. Many of my writings share this theme. I have a personal interest because my youngest son, Joshua, is a miraculous gift from God! I tell the pro-life tale of his birth in my book, Joshua's Story, which I am offering free today online to the first two hundred persons who sign up to receive a copy.
In weeks to come, I'll share excerpts from my books, along with bits and pieces of memories growing up as an only child in a farming community in west central Minnesota, everyday encounters recalled from raising my children, fresh experiences with my grandsons, and insightful moments of sharing life with my husband of 28 years on our quiet hobby farm in the countryside by a beautiful pond that is home to a vast assortment of birds and creatures during the gentler seasons of the year.
I look forward to getting to know you as together we explore and chart new territory in this journey called Life. I will share 10 Keys to the Abundant Life with you that will unlock doors for us to explore in order to obtain success on our journey.
Picture in your imagination a magnificent doorway poised at the entrance to the unknown world of your future. . . in the Land of Abundant Life. . . a land filled with intrigue and adventure. Beyond the doorway, your world expands to infinity. Also, behind this doorway are a multitude of additional closed doors, some of which we will investigate to find assistance and encouragement on our journey.
But first of all, we need to gain entrance through the doorway. Maybe you have already taken that first step. You can find out next week! If you have, you are also invited to come along and discover with me additional ways to grow and make the most of your life experiences.
Please join me again next Wednesday when I will explain how to take the first and most important step on the roadway called "Abundant Living." The following week, I'll give you the first of the 10 Keys that will unlock additional doors. I'm sure the number of keys available to us is limitless, so I have selected 10 that I believe are crucial. Be prepared to unlock the first of many doors and find practical ways to aid and inspire us on our journey.
*Please note that the title of my blog does not say "life without limits," but rather, "life beyond limits." Some boundaries are necessary for our protection and security. But when we walk with God, we discover that He often takes us beyond our natural limitations to carry out His grand purposes and goals for our lives.
That is what makes life so exciting!
Next Wednesday, I'll also share how you can enter a contest to win a copy of my novel, "The Rose Journal."
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Looking forward to seeing you again!
I am a wife, mother, grandmother and author who has discovered the joy and satisfaction life can give in spite of. . . maybe even because of. . . disappointments and hardships since I've turned the controls over to God and let Jesus Christ capture my heart and invade my spirit.
I'd like to invite you to join me on Wednesdays as together we examine ideas and concepts on how to truly Live and experience all this life has to offer.
Dedication and FREE book offer: I'd like to dedicate my first Abundant Living blog to approximately 50 million Unborn Children who have been killed by abortion in my country, the USA, since abortion was legalized on January 22, 1973. My husband and I recently took a trip to northern Minnesota and on the way home stopped at the small city of Royalton, MN, to visit a memorial set in a graveyard there by a local chapter of the Knights of Columbus to honor all unborn children. If any of you know of other memorials for the unborn, I would be pleased to hear from you.
My passion is to share the abundant life God offers us with others, and to value and protect life for others. Many of my writings share this theme. I have a personal interest because my youngest son, Joshua, is a miraculous gift from God! I tell the pro-life tale of his birth in my book, Joshua's Story, which I am offering free today online to the first two hundred persons who sign up to receive a copy.
In weeks to come, I'll share excerpts from my books, along with bits and pieces of memories growing up as an only child in a farming community in west central Minnesota, everyday encounters recalled from raising my children, fresh experiences with my grandsons, and insightful moments of sharing life with my husband of 28 years on our quiet hobby farm in the countryside by a beautiful pond that is home to a vast assortment of birds and creatures during the gentler seasons of the year.
I look forward to getting to know you as together we explore and chart new territory in this journey called Life. I will share 10 Keys to the Abundant Life with you that will unlock doors for us to explore in order to obtain success on our journey.
Picture in your imagination a magnificent doorway poised at the entrance to the unknown world of your future. . . in the Land of Abundant Life. . . a land filled with intrigue and adventure. Beyond the doorway, your world expands to infinity. Also, behind this doorway are a multitude of additional closed doors, some of which we will investigate to find assistance and encouragement on our journey.
But first of all, we need to gain entrance through the doorway. Maybe you have already taken that first step. You can find out next week! If you have, you are also invited to come along and discover with me additional ways to grow and make the most of your life experiences.
Please join me again next Wednesday when I will explain how to take the first and most important step on the roadway called "Abundant Living." The following week, I'll give you the first of the 10 Keys that will unlock additional doors. I'm sure the number of keys available to us is limitless, so I have selected 10 that I believe are crucial. Be prepared to unlock the first of many doors and find practical ways to aid and inspire us on our journey.
*Please note that the title of my blog does not say "life without limits," but rather, "life beyond limits." Some boundaries are necessary for our protection and security. But when we walk with God, we discover that He often takes us beyond our natural limitations to carry out His grand purposes and goals for our lives.
That is what makes life so exciting!
Next Wednesday, I'll also share how you can enter a contest to win a copy of my novel, "The Rose Journal."
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Looking forward to seeing you again!
Monday, May 5, 2008
Endorsements
Endorsements For The Rose Journal
"What a book! Linda's real-life love for God and people jump from the pages of this amazing tale. With an artist's skill, Linda paints an exquisite canvass of characters who are both colorful and believable. She creatively addresses the issues of our day in a way that has left a mark on my life."
-Pastor Ivan Veldhuizen, EDINBROOK CHURCH
"The Rose Journal is a compelling story that captures your heart and soul. This novel will inspire your faith as well as give you hope."
-Susan Germanson, AUTHOR OF OUCH! LIFE CAN HURT, BUT HEALING IS YOUR CHOICE
"The Rose Journal will be a great source of hope and encouragement to anyone who is suffering. Cassandra's story demonstrates how God can work through all circumstances, even mind-numbing tragedies, to fulfill His purposes and give us hope. Pro-Life issues are also woven into the intriguing story line. Linda's compassionate viewpoint extends God's love and hope to women who have experienced an abortion."
-Jeanette Vought Ph.D., L.P., LICSW, LMFT, FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF CHRISTIAN RECOVERY CENTER
"Praise for Linda Stai! Her book is riveting! I found myself putting other things aside so that I could read "just one more chapter." And of course, that led to having to "just finish the book!" The characters jump right off the page and live in your heart and mind long after you have finished."
-Rebecca Carter, THE PATH DRAMA MINISTRY
"Characters and settings come alive as Linda vividly chronicles the journey of one young girl through womanhood, along the way finding faith and strength beyond her own. The reader is drawn into experiences so human, with hardships and tragedies so heartbreaking, yet imbued with hope and triumphs."
-Patricia M. Hoeft, MD, RICE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
"With Linda's strong and convincing character development, you'll have to remind yourself that you're reading fiction. She has woven contemporary issues so delicately into her story you will not only enjoy this book yourself, but will be eager to pass it on to believers and unbelievers alike."
-Lonnie West, LIBRARY STAFF AND FORMER CHRISTIAN BOOKSTORE EMPLOYEE
"As the pastor Linda has known since she took her first step on the bus to the country school house, I found special delight in reading her novel. As you come to the final chapters, you will find that there can be victory in suffering. Her scrupulous details all point to a purpose that shows God's leading all along."
-Reverend Palmer E. Sevig, RETIRED AND LIVING IN WILLMAR, MINNESOTA
Endorsements For Speaking Engagements
"Our ladies' retreat was such a blessing with Linda Stai as our speaker. She has a gentle spirit and the ladies found it easy to relate to her. God is indeed using her to minister to women."
-Cris Finstrom, pastor's wife at Maranatha Free Lutheran Church at Glyndon, MINNESOTA
"I had the privilege to accompany Linda as she spoke to a group of women at Renville, Minnesota. Not only did I enjoy her talk but, during her original dramatization of Job's wife, I had the opportunity to observe the women present. I found them all intensely listening as she spoke of things near and dear to all women's hearts. Linda would be a wonderful addition to any women's gathering, as she speaks on a variety of subjects that are pertinent to the women of today."
-Vicki Keating, Administrative Assistant at Edinbrook Church, Brooklyn Park, MN.
"Our church women hosted a ladies night out with Linda as our speaker. She painted a clear word picture of the Lord's grace and mercy toward us. Her portrayal of Job's wife gave us much food for thought."
-Rose Finstrom, president of Women's Missionary Federation, Ny Stavanger Free Lutheran Church, Buxton, NORTH DAKOTA
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