And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?

Esther 4:14 (NIV)

My oldest granddaughter, Kate, headed off to her first winter camp as a junior higher this past weekend.  We are big proponents of Christian camping, whether it is Forest Home, Mt. Hermon or Hume Lake. I accepted Christ as my Savior as a nine-year-old at Forest Home so it always warms my heart when I know one of my girlies is headed to camp.

I had to laugh as her mother related the conversation in the car as they headed to the church.

“Are you nervous?” asked Mom.

“No, I’m fine,” said Kate.

“Did you bring your Kindle or a book?”

“No, my book was too big and heavy and we can’t bring any electronic devices. If I want something to read, I’ll just read my Bible. There are lots of good stories in it,” Kate replied.

For such a time as this. I don’t know what the future holds for my sweet Kate, but I do know the world is a whole lot different from my growing up years, even that of my children. Today’s young people will encounter a world that, as grandparents, we could not even imagine:

• A cell phone that fits in your pocket rather than attached to your car or the size of a standard phone.
• Transistor radios followed by Walkmans and now iPods.
• Computers that filled a whole room, scaled down to fit on your desk. Now it fills your palm.

The digital age has changed everything. What will it look like in ten years? Yet, these young ladies and young men will be challenged to wear the mantle of leadership and responsibility for their generation. The issues they face require determination and a heart dedicated to God’s plan for their lives.

Esther was a young girl when she was plucked out of society to begin her journey. God knew that she had the courage to stand up for her people. It was a decision fraught with peril and she finally accepted her calling with, “If I perish, I perish.”

We must be praying for the future of our next generation. God is preparing them, even now, for the important role they will play in society.

We can make our plans, 

      but the LORD determines our steps.

Proverbs 16:9 (NLT)

Mark is always telling me how weird I am, which I vehemently deny. I have very ordinary and typical interests and hobbies. I like to cook and bake, go shopping, read a variety of genres, and watch murder and mayhem on TV and movies—you know…typical girl stuff. But don’t ask me anything about automobiles. I’m more interested in the trunk space than what’s under the hood.

But, I’m, also, curious and interested in learning new things. This brings up the topic of weird. Saturday, I turned on the radio, listening for a few minutes before crawling out of bed. It was the auto care program. I learned about brake pads and rotors and something with numbers that I think was the model number for a Ford truck. The service manager made a point regarding a call from a listener wanting to know how to take off some kind of locking screw on the steering column. He emphasized the importance of making that call and having a plan BEFORE you started the project if you wanted to avoid big problems.

I think that is good advice for most of life’s activities. Yes, it is easy to forge ahead without bothering to read instruction manuals and figure out the basic operation. The iPhone is a perfect example of being able to use a cell phone without much difficulty but missing the many options available to make life easier with all the shortcuts and apps.

God has so much more for us each day if we take time to get our instructions. So many times I barrel through my agenda and fall into bed that night without one thought about what God might have intended for me that day. What did I miss along the way? How might it have been a little easier?

This year I’ve committed to taking the first few minutes of the day and spending it with Him. You might think that would be a cinch, however, I must to choose to not read my email. This habit has become so ingrained I don’t even think about it and before I know it, an hour has slipped by and it’s time to get ready for the day.

I read that it takes 21 days to break a habit. I am happy to report that my email has been given second place about 80% of the time for the month of January. But the best part is that I can hardly wait to open my Bible and Jesus Calling to see what God has to say to me.

Sitting still and listening to His voice as I pray and meditate on His words has been both a challenge and a blessing. His voice is quiet and gentle, so be patient. Listen. Pray. Sing. This special time allows Him to change my plan to His, making those appointments on my calendar much more productive and satisfying. He reassures me of His presence in every aspect of my life.

I challenge you to set aside time each morning to be still with Him. Let me know how it’s going.

As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.

Proverbs 27:17 (NLT)

I received an expected gift last summer — a prayer partner. Over the years, I have heard various friends talk about their prayer partners and I found myself either rather curious or kinda jealous. I had been a Mentor Mom with MOPS for six years but how did this differ?

Our local community church began Accountability Groups last year. I listened to others talk about their experience but was on the outside looking in. Did I want to be part of one?

A friend, who lives down the street, led a Bible study last August and asked me to come. We know and respect each other but our circles didn’t overlap and we only ran into each other occasionally. Yet, at the close of the study, I felt drawn to ask her if she was in one of those groups and was she interested in starting one. It knew it was a risk but God had already smoothed the path and she readily accepted my invitation.

At our first meeting, we both realized we didn’t need a group but someone to love, listen, and pray for the needs that we experienced each week. The trial meetings quickly turned into a must-do. As we shared, cried, and laughed together, God knitted out hearts and listened to His girls. Not only did we have each other’s back in those crisis points of life, we also encouraged each other to live out our faith and keep on track with the goals God has given to each of us.

I’m so glad that God hasn’t left us stranded on a deserted island all by ourselves. The give-and-take of friendship is a gift beyond measure.

Consider taking the risk to find a girlfriend to share the deep recesses of your heart before God. Count on His blessings and bask in the love He will bring in your hearts.

Next time I’ll share how we are learning to be “still”.

Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.” Luke 2:10 (NKJV)

We are in the last countdown with a couple of days before we head off to California for Christmas. Yesterday, the final performance of “Follow the Star” ended a week of rehearsals and performance. The message of the music, spoken words, and choreography encouraged and uplifted over 1100 people turning our hearts toward the true meaning of Christmas.

I’ve spent a little time reflecting on 2011. We had some starts and stops in our home, our neighborhood, our church, our country, and our world. Wars, shootings, illness, or death bring terror and I can choose to be afraid of what is coming next or I can put my hand in the hand of Jesus and hang on tight. However, I know the blessings of family and friends overshadowed all the “stops” we encountered over the months.

Fear overrides when we assume we have everything under control and then realize we don’t…not even a little bit. We are a fearful people and the Bible repeats the phrase, “Fear not” again and again for our reassurance.

The shepherds, on that long ago hill, knew all about taking care and protecting their sheep. Yet, the appearance of an angel startled them out of their reverie into heart-stopping alert.

You would think the angel’s announcement would go to the local magistrate or city councilman since the baby was the King of Kings. Maybe, the king. Today, it would be broadcast on the Internet and the whole world would instantly watch.

Yet, even as he reassured them to not be afraid, the promise of the birth of the Messiah was fulfilled that starry night and the news given to lowly shepherd boys. Jesus had a specific mission:

And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. Matthew 1:21 (NLT)

He didn’t come take over as King this time. He came to bring us life and that life frees us from fear. It’s good news for all of us!

We’ve been preparing all month for His birthday party. Enjoy family and friends. Celebrate with great joy. Look forward to a new day as 2012 approaches. “Don’t be afraid.”

Tags: Christmas

And the star they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! Matthew 2:9-10 (NLT)

Last night, our neighborhood dinner club had their annual Christmas dinner party and I wore a favorite Christmas tree pin. I have several, but this one sparkles with the Swarovski crystals in the shape of stars. A friend complimented me on it and I told her that “stars” are my thing.  

Moving to Tucson, I discovered that the whole area has a low light ordinance because of the spectacular panoply of stars overhead. They dance across the sky creating a breathtaking night sky.

However, this star collection began with my involvement in politics. The Stars and Stripes always bring tears to my eyes and over the years, I have collected many keepsakes. My mother made me a wonderful needlepoint picture of various colored stars that sits above my computer in the den. I love looking at it because it reminds me of her.

Yet, the star that means the most to me is the Nativity star God set in the heavens that wondrous night to signal the birth of Jesus. It drew the shepherds and the wise men to Bethlehem to worship a special baby, even as it draws us today.

For to us a child is born,

   to us a son is given,

   and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called

   Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

   Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)

I’m having some girlfriends over for Christmas Tea this week and spent the last two days baking. Of course, I made shortbread stars. Christmas is all about love and joy. What better way to celebrate than with those we love?

A little word of encouragement for you in the middle of all the hustle and bustle of the season: check out the stars!

Prepare the way of the LORD in the wilderness;

make a straight highway for our God in the desert.

Isaiah 40:3 (NLT)

I spent the Friday after Thanksgiving putting away the Fall decorations and then pulling all the boxes of Christmas decorations into the kitchen. Christmas is my favorite holiday if we were judging by the number of boxes stored in the garage.

For years I collected Christmas trees from all over the world. I also have several nativity sets. This year, in an effort to simplify, I decided to use only the nativity sets and various angels that have worked their way into those boxes. (It’s funny how Mark always disappears into the casita when transition time begins.)

I purchased a 7 ½’ artificial tree the first year after we moved to Tucson. I put it up that first year but it has stayed in its bag since. This year, Mel called and we managed to get it transported up to the Bay area for them to enjoy. Fortunately, the lights twinkled brightly when she plugged it into the wall.

But I decided to get a little tree that I could manage. I missed seeing some of my favorite ornaments dangling from the branches and the special light that a tree brings to a room.

The house is now “dressed” in its holiday finery—ready for the big day. I’m prepared. But for what? A promise of something wonderful to come.

The children of Israel must have wondered what God had in mind as they wandered in the desert all those years. Was he going to rescue them? Isaiah promised them a future Messiah that would protect, restore, and love them. They trusted his word and the prediction was fulfilled in the birth of Jesus.

Today, we celebrated the first Sunday of Advent during the worship service with the lighting of the candle of Preparation. Take a few moments and read Isaiah 40:3-11. Spend time this week reflecting on the promise made to you, too. Are you trusting Him? Are you ready?

So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you. Deuteronomy 31:6 (NLT)

As I was getting ready for church, I had the TV on in the background listening with one ear to FOXNews. A couple of words caught my attention and I scurried into the bedroom to catch the segment on “Flat Daddies.”

Have you had the privilege of continuing the journey of “Flat Stanley?” If not, you might not have found the name ear-catching. I’ve received that big envelop a couple of times and enjoyed sending it on. According to their website:

The basic principle of The Flat Stanley Project is to connect your child with others by sending out “flat” visitors, created by the child, through the mail. Kids then talk about, track, and write about their flat character’s journey and adventures.

It’s a fun project for all. When I heard “Flat Daddies,” I was intrigued.

Their website reads: Flat Daddies and Flat Mommies are life-size photos of deployed service members provided to help children better cope with the separation they experience when a parent is away from home for long periods of time. 

One of the mothers interviewed had Flat Daddy right beside her when she delivered her second child. It was especially meaningful because he lost his life on the battlefield never knowing he was going to have another child. Each child now has his own Flat Daddy in his bedroom and she mentioned that she hears her older son talking to him, on occasion.

Just like Flat Stanley, we are on a journey and at times, we may feel flat and deflated. I may not have a cardboard cutout of Him but I found myself talking a lot to my heavenly Daddy this week and reading His words back to me. I know He listens to me in the midst of my pain and panic. I particularly loved the part in today’s verse where it says that He will personally go ahead of me and never abandon me. What an encouragement!

Each day brings its challenges. As you head out the door, remember, “Be strong and courageous.” He’s right there with you.

Then he lay down and slept under the broom tree. But as he was sleeping, an angel touched him and told him, “Get up and eat!” He looked around and there beside his head was some bread baked on hot stones and a jar of water! So he ate and drank and lay down again. I Kings 19:5-6 (NLT)

In our various roles as wives and mothers, our schedules reflect times when life is crazy-busy and we go for weeks on end with no breaks. The big project has an end date but there is so much to do before we get there. Clutter spreads itself around the house, quick, on-the-go meals are standard fare, homework help is sandwiched between phone calls and computer work, tempers snap, and guilt weighs us down. Will we make it?

Then the day comes when it’s all over. DONE. Yes, there is a sense of relief but there is also a feeling of let-down. Even with the craziness, there was a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Now what do I do?

In the story of Elijah, a wonderful and challenging victory left the prophet feeling depressed and useless. Instead of God saying, “Hurray, Elijah. Let’s go do it again,” He carefully tucked him under a juniper tree and told him to take a nap. He didn’t criticize him or tell him to suck it up. No, He let him sleep, woke him with a home-cooked picnic, and then told him to take another nap. Finally, after he’d rested, eaten his fill, and regained some perspective, God gave him his next assignment.

So, what is the prescription for that adrenalin letdown? Take care of yourself. Your body is tired mentally, physically, and spiritually. Pushing yourself to the next challenge, without taking time to replenish and refill your body and soul, is a dangerous plan. The enemy is waiting to strike at your weak points and take you down the wrong path. Depression may be lurking, too.

We live in a world of options but that means you must choose. Stopping the rat race and resting is not glamorous after all the attention you have just received. With family around, it may seem impossible. However, we must if we hope to regain our footing and avoid depression or worse.

God promises to speak to us in a still, small voice. Hopefully, we are spending time with Him so we can hear it. But if life is out of control, He is not above using a giant two-by-four to get our attention. How many times do we find ourselves with a bad cold, strep, or flu after we stop pushing ourselves to get to the finish line? He will put the brakes on one way or another.

God was not done with Elijah and gave him a gift of time to get some much-needed rest and sustenance. We must do the same:

Take a nap.

Make a favorite sandwich and sit at the table to eat it.

Drink water.

Take another nap.

Spend quiet time in the Word with your Father.

Learn to say “no”.

Talk to a friend just because you want to.

Get a Starbucks and drink it in the cafe.

Take a walk noticing the change of colors.

I’ve found it doesn’t take long to get back to “normal” but it’s a must-do. Elijah obeyed God, accepted the gift of time, and was soon ready for the next adventure.

Time for a nap?

Jesus replied, “Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” John 4:13-14 (NLT)

The doorbell rang about 9 PM last night. Parker started barking and Mark looked at me with a “who could that be?” look. I knew I was not dressed for company so Mark checked it out. When he opened the door, I heard a neighbor from up the street talking to Mark with a very stressed out voice.

I didn’t get it all but I did hear that water was pouring out under our garage doors into the street. I ran to the door into the garage and when I opened it, water was everywhere, about two inches deep. The canister for our water filtration system split and water was pouring out.

While Mark turned it off at the main valve, I called the plumber. No answer. Next, I left an email explaining our problem. A few minutes later, an email reply hit the mailbox with a promise to fix it in the morning.

There is nothing quite like “no water.” It affects everything, and suddenly the only thing you want is water. Water to wash your face, brush your teeth, take a shower, flush the toilet, quench your thirst, fill the dog bowl, rinse the dishes, water the garden, fill the fountains, or wash the clothes.

While showering at my gym, I was amazed that lack of water had again sent me out to find a substitute shower. I have had this happen off and on for the last 25 years.

For many years, I lived in a house that required a water pump because of elevation differences. I still recall the feeling of despair when I turned on the water and got…nothing. The pump was down — again. I’d trudge up to the neighbors and “borrow’ their shower and then call the plumber.

When I moved into a new house in Tucson, I was sure my days of “no water” was over. Unfortunately, this crisis has occurred twice. I mentioned to the plumber that I hoped this would be the last time we met over this particular problem (faulty manufacturing) as he finished up.

So why do I share my water story?

How many times do we do everything we can think of to quench the longings of our soul? More activity, less time, more addictions, less trust, more money, less satisfaction.

The woman at the well had an unexpected house call from Jesus and He offered a fix that would satisfy the longings of her heart permanently. She knew she had tried all the wrong ways but her willingness to drink of the living water changed not only her but bubbled up and changed her entire neighborhood.

I’d like to be able to say that this water issue will never happen again but I can’t. I can say that my heart is filled with the living water of life and I am satisfied.

“If you are thirsty, come to me and drink! Have faith in me, and you will have life-giving water flowing from deep inside you, just as the Scriptures say.” John 7:37-38 (CEV)

Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning. Psalm 30:5 (NLT)

I’ve never been in a choir that sang at so many funerals—another one last Sunday. September has been a long month of loss and sadness yet followed by assurance that heaven is a much better home. I didn’t personally know the man we celebrated on Sunday but that doesn’t mean a few tears didn’t drip down my cheeks. I think of my dad and Mark’s mom who live each day expecting to see Jesus soon and when that time of memorial might be for my family.

Loss rears its head in many ways. I often think of the Kubler-Ross, Five Stages of Grief, when talking with someone in the midst of great pain. No one follows the stages exactly but it gives some structure to a world that has been turned upside down. Acceptance, the final stage, is a journey that meanders, meets road blocks, seems impossible at times, but eventually smoothes out to a steady path.

While reading a couple of my favorite online devotions this week, both emphasized the concept of compassion. Listen to Alan Redpath: “You can never lighten the load unless you have first felt the pressure in your own soul.” I realized that my tears echoed my willingness to feel their pain as if it was my own. Due to the twists in turns in my life, God, in His faithfulness ,has softened the hard-charging girl I once was and given me a heart of compassion.

I’m not sure how God wants me to live out compassion but I’m trying to listen to His still small voice. I stopped by and gave my friend a hug. I have a couple of phone calls to make. Any ideas?