Bittersweet Monday Musings

Today I join with the Rufibach and Schink family in grieving at the loss of one of my first cousins, Marian Rufibach.  When I was a very young and little girl, Marian--then a vivacious and energetic teenager was someone I looked up to.  I remember my Aunt Esther coming to visit.  Marian would be with her and would spend time entertaining me. 

I did not know how much these times meant to her.  I knew they were very fond and happy memories for me.  (You never forget people who are good to you when you're in your formative years).  :)  But, just recently when my younger sister, June O'Dell stopped and visited with Marian--on their way home to Oregon--Marian reminisced and spoke of those memories.  She was in the hospital and had just received her cancer diagnosis.  She had also just finished reading my book, Generations.  Her positive comments to June, later relayed to me, I will hold in my heart.

My thoughts are bittersweet today as I think of the loss of this family member--a kind and loving wife to Earl, mother to her children, and grandmother to her grandchildren, as well as loving her extended family and friends.  I say bittersweet, because our loss is her gain.  She's changed her address from Arizona to Heaven's Golden Avenue.  Our grief is not having her to visit with or hold in our arms.  Our joy is the assurance that we will see her again some day.  Her joy is that she has run her race, finished her course and is now in the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

So, my musings today are about my dear cousin, Marian.  Gone from us to a much higher plain where the troubles, sorrows, and pain of this life have no effect.  I love the Scripture in Hebrews 12:1

"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which does so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us."

In my mind's eye I see a picture of Heaven's grandstand with a vast number of our friends and loved ones as well as the prophets and saints of ages past--cheering us on as witnesses to the race we are running.  They know the finish line is well worth the effort and they would tell us, keep running, carry on, don't give up--if you fall, pick yourself up and get back in the race. 

Take heart then, the Finish Line is almost in sight.  The promises of God are true and real.  Keep your eyes on the prize and run with patience, "looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith". 

Reviewing "Finding Beth"

The word "captivating" comes to mind when I think of Linnette R. Mullin's book Finding Beth.  Tomorrow is the magic date of its official release.  However you can also order a copy today through Crossrivermedia.com   or Amazon.com.  My recommendation is get one right away.

Finding Beth drew me in from the very first chapter--actually the first few sentences.  Beth's story is one that I would recommend to young ladies to read.  It gives insight into the trap of abuse so many fall prey to.  Kyle--her abusive fiancée holds her captive in a relationship that will eventually destroy her if she cannot find a way out.

I further recommend it to anyone and everyone who enjoys reading a story that will keep them turning the pages in anticipation of the next page.  Although it is fiction, it is a story all too relevant to the world we live in-- that replays over and over as women endure silently  horrific lives of abuse.

An all-too-perfect new friend appears in Beth's life when she runs from the aggressive Kyle.  The lingering question--"is Adam for real" causes her to wonder.  After all, Beth thinks maybe she is to blame for Kyle's domineering behavior and constant critical comments.  She is wary of Adam's chivalry and kindness.

Beth's father blames her for her brother's tragic death--making her vulnerable to the hovering Kyle who has swooped into her life like a vulture.  The author takes us on Beth's journey in an artful way, making the reader feel Beth's anguish.  As Mullin creates this "masterpiece" of fiction--she weaves life lessons through the pages making it impossible to put the book down. 

The value of this story goes beyond being a good read.  It gives a valuable message of warning against abuse in a relationship.  I give it a 5+ star rating.  Make it your next book to read!  :)

For more information about the author and how to purchase, check out my blog from Tuesday where you will find the author's bio and her guest blog.

Finding Beth, A Powerful story

Today I am thrilled to host a blog for fellow author and friend, Linnette R. Mulllin.  December 20, 2013 her book, Finding Beth, will be officially released.

From the back cover of the book:

"Three years ago, Beth Gallagher lost her brother, Josh, in a tragic accident.  Grief-stricken and estranged from her father, she turned to the one man her brother warned her about--Kyle Heinrich.  Now she's discovered his dark side.

"She flies to the Smoky Mountains to clear her mind and seek God's will about her impending marriage.  With the help of a new friend, she finds the answers she needs, but will she have the resolve to follow through?  And, if so, what will it cost her?"

Linnette R. Mullin is an author of life-changing romance.  She has been married to Johnathan for over twenty years, and they have been blessed with four amazing sons.  Some of her writing credits include Charles Stanley's "In Touch" magazine, "101 Facets of Faith", Guideposts "Extraordinary Answers to Prayer", and  "Public Health Alert".  She is the founder and coordinator of Palmetto Christian Writer's Network in Lexington, S.C. and she runs the "We are Writers" group on Facebook.  Her favorite things in life are her family, her church, reading and writing and her Savior most of all.

 

LINNETTE R. MULLIN

 

HER GUEST BLOG

 

“Finding Beth” from Conception to Publication

 

If there’s one thing I’ve learned on my writing journey, it’s that there is no such thing as a typical writer’s journey. There certainly wasn’t anything typical about mine. I won’t inundate you with my whole history, however - just the path to publishing “Finding Beth”.

 

Beth’s story started out as a means of writing accountability for me in January, 2008. My husband was being laid off and I needed to go to work for the first time in our marriage. I didn’t want to stop writing altogether. I needed something that would help me continue to hone my skills. The HACWN writer’s conference I attended in the Fall of ‘07 encouraged writers to start building a platform through blogging. So, I started my blog, “An Odyssey in Prose”, and “Finding Beth” was born.

 

I published a chapter once or twice a month, limiting myself on my word count. My goal was to always start with a hook and end with a hook that would bring the readers back for more. My precious readers encouraged me to keep writing. They wanted to know how the story would end. After a year and a half, I realized that Beth’s story was anything but a short serial story. It was a full blown novel. I stopped publishing on-line so I could focus on finishing the book and on October 31, 2010, I finally typed “the end”.

 

I spent the next few years editing, rewriting, peddling Beth to agents and publishers, and investigating the possibility of self-publishing. During that time, I visited home for Christmas in 2011. Author Mark Littleton advised me to contact Pamela Sonnenmoser about her publisher: CrossRiver Media Goup. I sent off a very unprofessional query letter to Pamela. After all, she was a friend through HACWN. I had no idea at the time that she was the acquisitions editor. She eventually got back with me and asked for a few more details. I sent what she asked for and then continued investigating the self-publishing route, not realizing I’d sent her a very unconventional book proposal.

 

Weeks and months went by and I nearly forgot about Pamela’s publisher. I’m not sure I even knew the publisher’s name at that time. It wasn’t really that important to me as the more I investigated self-publishing, the more convinced I became that it was the route for me. In July, however, Tamara Clymer contacted me, asking for a full proposal. I submitted it reluctantly, I admit. After all, I had just made the decision to self-publish, I had lined up a cover artist, and I was at peace about the decision I’d made. So, instead of getting excited, I found myself saying, “Okay, Lord, what are you doing?”

 

Once CrossRiver received the proposal, it didn’t take long for Tamara to ask for the full manuscript. Tamara was very gracious to let me put off sending the full manuscript until I “finished editing”. I finally had to call it quits, however, or I’d never get anywhere. I sent her the manuscript and before long she let me know that CrossRiver liked it. They offered me a contract and, on December 5, 2012, we signed!

 

Here I am one year later with my book in my hand, waiting for the UPS man to show up on my doorstep with my first 100 copies. My readers will keep me busy signing books and packaging them to send off just as soon as those books arrive. God is good!

 

If you’re a writer, let me encourage you with these words. Your writing journey is your own. Don’t compare yourself to other writers. Your journey is your own just as mine is my own. Trust God with it. Do your homework. Seek publication. Investigate different avenues. Through it all, God will teach you and strengthen you and guide you down the best path for you

 

                                                                  *****************

 

I have previewed Finding Beth.  It is a captivating story.  Watch for my complete review on my blog on Thursday!  :)    Preorders are now available at www.LinnetteRMullin.com

 

Here are some links for more information on this talented author and her book:  Finding Beth

 

www.LinnetteR.Mullin.com

www.Facebook.com/LinnetteRMullin

Twitter:@LinnetteRMullin

 

Purchase Links:

www.LinnetteRMullin.com--Finding Beth tab

www.Crossrivermedia.com

www.Amazon.com--http://www.amazon.com/Finding-Beth-Linnette-R-Mullin/dp/193650118X/ref=sr

 

 

My Monday Musings

Seeking Whom He May Devour

My husband and I made A quick trip to Children's Mercy Hospital after church Sunday to pray for a sweet little girl.  On the way home, traveling north on Interstate Hwy. 29--I glanced up from my reading and saw a huge hawk perched high atop a tree.  His head was turned toward the highway, looking down.

I nudged my husband and said:  "There's a hawk eyeing the road.  He's looking for roadkill.  I'm sure he feasts often on the remnants of animals that unwittingly try to cross the busy road."  (Do I really talk that way--well no--I've edited for publishing on BlogSpot).

I then said:  "Hey, there's a sermon in that--or at least a  blog."

What the Hawk reminded me of was the roaring lion who roams about seeking whom he may devour; I Peter 5:8.  He watches from the sidelines, waiting for us to open the door to him with a foolish move, like darting into the "traffic lane" of peer pressure or seeing grass that is greener on the other side of the road.

We then get splatted onto the roadway of life, hopelessly waiting for the hungry enemy of our soul to scrape us up, clawing and pecking at what is left of our life.

Of course, with us--unlike the flattened road kill--we have hope and a wonderful Savior who takes our broken vessel, reshapes, remolds, restores, and makes new when we look to him for rescue from taking the wrong road.

Now, let me say, the road was clear as we drove home.  There was no visible road kill.  The hawk was just lying in wait--hoping against hope that he would feast on a vulnerable and careless possum, deer, or even a skunk.  He wouldn't be particular--just hungry to devour! 

That's why Peter gives the warning for all of us:

"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a

roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour."

All that glitters...

If it sparkles, I love it.  Jewelry, Christmas lights, sequins, glitter.  I was making snowflakes for our Christmas program at school and sent someone to Hobby Lobby to buy glitter.  They called back asking how much they should buy.  Our principal made the comment:  "If it has anything to do with Pastor  Sharon--get a 5 gallon container."

Well, that was an exaggeration, but I must confess there is now silver glitter spread from one end of the main learning center to another.  Yes, I do love glitter.

It's amazing how just a little of it can transform a piece of plain white poster board into a shimmering snowflake.  Even more amazing is what happens to that piece of cardboard when it is draped over the shoulders of a group of Kindergarten through fourth graders.  Have them stand on a platform and dance around singing, "Let It Snow, let it snow, let it snow." 

Suddenly you have proud parents and grandparents thrilled as their little one performs a 3 minute segment of a school Christmas program.  All the effort of those directing, preparing costumes, practicing songs, and the diligence of the students--is all worth it when we see the enthusiasm of the students in their performances.  When the kids erupt in jubilant song, ending with adoration to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords--the glitter fades in comparison to the Glory of Christ and the Joy that we feel watching our children sing His praises. 

Their energy and excitement about Christmas is contagious.  I realize there's a lot of criticism of the commercialization of this sacred holiday.  Many people won't observe it because there is some history of it being a pagan celebration.  I'm not going to take time to argue any of those points.  But I will say with verve and vigor--that I love celebrating the birth of Christ, my Lord and Savior.

There's no doubt in my mind that he was not born on December 25.  He was born, perhaps, as late as March.    However, the fact that the world takes pause to celebrate His birth is an awesome thing--regardless the day.  Oh, yes, this Holiday--or Holy Day has been commercialized, with greed and selfishness raising its ugly head long before Sleigh Bells Ring.  Santa takes center stage in most stores and in the minds of children everywhere.

But the truth remains, and cannot be denied that God so loved the World that He gave His only begotten Son to be the supreme sacrifice for my  sin and yours.  Even the most devoted "Christmas haters" cannot erase "Christ" from "Christmas".

So, forgive me if I shake glitter on everything I can, put up my tree as early as I dare, and string lights in every nook and cranny.  Jesus is Lord of my life and I love celebrating His birth and I don't think I'm too far amiss to think Heaven will smile as our little snowflakes sing on stage, dancing some of the glitter off--that I so painstakingly applied.

Shine glittery snowflakes and celebrate the birth of the Christ Child!

That Thankful feeling

Being thankful goes along with being content.  The person who is always yearning for something more in life misses the enjoyment of even the mundane moments.  Granted, its important to have a dream and a vision that carries you to adventure and drives you to improve your life and the lives of others.  That's not what I'm talking about. 

The simplest things such as a bed to sleep on at night.  Sometimes when I lay down at the end of a particularly tiring day--a thankful feeling sweeps over me and I'm so very thankful for my bed, my home and the warmth of my blankets.  Of course, I'm thankful too for my family, my health, a wonderful husband who puts up with me, and for so many of the most important things in my life

. 

But that "thankful feeling" that brings a contented sigh for little things is a part of what makes me happy.  I have not been taking a daily count of the things I'm thankful for as so many friends on facebook have done.  However, this time of year does bring into focus the many blessings that I often take for granted.

The Apostle, Paul reminds us that "Godliness with contentment is great gain."  He backs me up in my belief that when someone is truly thankful--they are content; and when they are content they are truly thankful.  These two feelings are glued together and determine our outlook on life.

My son gave a sermon once and talked about Happiness versus Joy.  Happiness, he said, is determined by our circumstance.  Joy can be ours despite our circumstance. So, perhaps Joy is another sister to thankfulness and contentment. 

So, Happy Thanksgiving one and all.  Be thankful, be content with what you have, and rejoice in the blessings of your life.  That "Thankful Feeling" will be yours on a regular basis and I promise it's a good feeling--one that gives you real Joy!

Thank you, Lord for your blessings on me!

Hugs

Today I was jarred into realizing how little time I spend trying to make someone else's day pleasant.  Oh, sure I work hard doing what is right and performing ministry good deeds and fulfilling the call God has placed on my life.  I give of my time and what little talent I have to teach and train young people spiritually and academically.  I prepare sermons, studying and asking for a Holy anointing so that people's hearts will be stirred and lives will be changed.

I feel that I seek and strive to do God's will and His bidding.  I'm elated that He has called me and given me opportunities that I never dreamed possible.  The publishing of my book, Generations is one example of that. 

But how often do I just pause and say or do something purposely beyond the scope of my duties and plans to make someone smile and feel good about themselves?  I mentioned being jarred into the realization that doing that would probably make me feel even better about the wonderful life God has given me.

Today we went to a fast food restaurant after church.  Our grandson, Bradley, (Bo) offered to buy our lunch.  His words, "I'll buy your lunch at a fast food place if I can go home with you--I've got $19."  What a sweetheart he is.  He's always generous and is a wonderful blessing to us.  Well we told him we'd get our own--but his thoughtfulness blessed me.

But that wasn't the jarring incident.  Bo is always giving hugs and expressing his love for us.  :)

We sat near some long-time acquaintances--actually friends, but we don't see each other often--they are busy in ministry and our paths don't cross a lot.  They were eating with some of their family.  We exchanged pleasant conversation. They got up to leave and spoke to us again as they passed our table. 

A short time after they left the restaurant--their daughter came back in and over to our table.  She put her arm around me, hugged me and said:  "You know, I've always liked you."  I'm sure my expression was surprise and delight.

Don't we all want to be liked?  I still remember Sallie Fields acceptance speech when she received an Academy Award (Oscar).  "They like me, they really like me."  She exclaimed with wonder and delight.  She was mocked and ridiculed a little for her blatant honest and transparent remark.  But, seriously--don't we all want to be liked.  And most of the time we aren't sure if we are or not. 

It was just so heart-warming to have someone tell me they'd always "liked" me.  I guess because she took the time to come back and say it--after she had already gone through the polite and expected ritual of greeting and pleasantries.  It made me feel good!  I'll never forget it.

So, with the Lord's help, I want to pay it forward and take time to express (not phony), but true feelings of love and respect to others. 

Hope you "liked" my blog and it will speak to you--as Robin's comments spoke volumes to me.

The Sentinel

The Sentinel must be alert as they stand and watch for any sign of the enemy.  Theirs is a life and death position and responsibility.  To fall asleep or get distracted might mean loss of life, injury or an invasion that could cripple an entire army--possibly even lose a hard fought war.

Of the many "hats" I wear; pastor, teacher, mother, grandmother, author, counselor, and more--I thought I should add "Sentinel" to the list.  But, as I contemplated this, I realize that "Sentinel" is a part of each job I endeavor to do.

I base this on Hebrews 13:17; "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account.  Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you."

It has always been with "fear and trembling" that I pastor the church and teach at the Christian school.  I know I've failed many times at being the best mother and grandmother--but constantly take those jobs seriously.  Knowing I've been handed a grave responsibility that weighs heavy on my heart and mind.  Is it more than I can handle?  This is a question I ask almost daily.  Because I do feel inadequate for each of my responsibilities--never mind all of them! 

When I'm feeling overwhelmed that's when I cry out--"Lord help!"  I guess He chose me as a Sentinel because I am so weak, helpless, and inept--because He promises that His strength is made perfect in our weakness.

So, here I am another day He has given me--crying out for a Holy Ghost anointing to see me through as I Watch and pray for the young lives placed in my care and keeping.  Putting one foot in front of the other I make my way to the top of the "hill" and take my station as a Sentinel, asking for wisdom and the power of the Cross to overshadow my inadequacies.  Watching for the souls of precious individuals.  "I need you today, Jesus--more than ever before--because the enemy is on the prowl--seeking whom he may devour."

 

The Sower

My father and Billy Graham both share a birthday.  My Dad is celebrating in Heaven--and has for the past 23 years.  Billy will turn 95 on Thursday, the 7th of November.  Both of these men impacted my life.  My father, David Garlock, of course, more than Billy Graham--although I have always held Rev. Graham in the highest regard.  Both were sowers of the seed of God's Word.  Obviously Billy Graham had a much larger "field" in which he sowed--but David Garlock was faithful in sowing the seed of Biblical truth in his children, as he pioneered churches, in the hearts of his congregations as he pastored, and in the children who passed through the doors of South Park Christian Academy.

I am not the judge of either man--but I think I can confidently say that they were and have been faithful in the planting of good seed throughout their lives. 

When my father passed away on May 8, 1989 it was devastating in many ways.  He was not only my dad, but also my employer and my pastor.  The huge void left in my life and the lives of many others was traumatic--but the seeds of faith he instilled within me made it possible to go on--not just personally, but with ministry as well.  There is not a day that passes that I do not reflect on or draw on the words of wisdom and the example he was to me.  I penned the following poem that was read at his funeral.  As his birthday approaches--I share it:

THE SOWER

The sower in yearning for harvest,
Plods on through the heat of the day.
Not faltering though Satan buffets;
He'll toil despite trials and not sway.

The harvest will bring joy and gladness
'Tis worth every hardship he'll know--
To gather in sheaves for the Kingdom;
This vision of heart spurs his soul.

So, forward he pushes, still sowing,
Not caring for self or for gain.
Just thinking of harvest time coming;
And praying each day for the "rain".

The "rain" of God's Spirit will water,
And cause all his planting to grow;
To flourish, spring up, and blossom--
Ripened sheaves as white as the snow.

His heart is content with the planting,
He knows God's increase will come.
Though the reaping may go to another,
All that matters is the Master's, "Well-done".

This sower looks not for men's praises.
Intent on his labor so long;
For the tears he has shed in the sowing,
Will bring joy in the reaper's song.

Oh, hard-fighting soldier of Jesus,
Your labor will not be in vain;
For the Lord of the harvest will gather
In His garners great bundles of grain.

Now rest from your labors dear Pilgrim,
For the lost, your "All" has been sown
Henceforth, treasure awaits you in Glory!
Where your cross you'll exchange for a crown.

My father faced many trials, difficulties and discouragements as he faithfully served God.  He remained humble and worked harder than most men--both physically and spiritually.  He is now reaping the reward of his labor of love--and the seed he sowed continues to bring forth fruit.

Isaiah 59:21  "As for Me, this is my covenant with them, " says the Lord:  "My Spirit which is upon you, and My words which I have put in your  mouth shall not depart from your mouth, nor from the mouth of your offspring, nor from the mouth of your offspring's offspring,"  says the Lord, "from now and forever."

And that word plants seed that will bring forth results.  Isaiah 55:11

 "...My Word which goes forth from My mouth; it will not return to Me empty, without accomplishing what I desire, and without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it."

Proud Humility????

I've always had difficulty accepting compliments.  Now that Generations is about to be released and is actually available.  (Many people have already purchased and read it).  I'm receiving numerous reviews and comments that are complimentary.  It thrills me to think that anyone gets enjoyment or is blessed by the words I have written. 

Both of my parents were very humble people.  They always gave glory to God.  Whenever my mother was lauded or honored--her response was, "Praise God for His goodness and give Him the glory."  She would also add:  "Don't give me too many "flowers" here--I want some when I get to Heaven.

My grandparents, about whom the book is written, were also very humble.  They never received any acclaim--even in the church world.  Their commitment and faith to God was completely sincere, with no thought of honor for themselves.

From their examples and teachings--I cannot accept any credit for anything I do.  I am well aware that it is only the gifts and calling of God that enables me to do what I do.  Today I had the privilege of recording some spots for a radio program that covers a large audience on the East Coast.  Again I am very much cognizant of the fact that any doors that open for me to promote Generations are all part of God's doing and His plan for this book.  My desire continues to be to show His strength and power to this generation.  While I will do my best and work my hardest to get opportunities such as this, I lean on Him and trust Him that He will lead and direct in every aspect of the marketing, selling, and ministering.

H, B, Garlock, who you will read about in Generations--as well as in a book he wrote:  Before We Kill And Eat You, said this to me once when I was telling him what a blessing he was to my life:
"Sharon, any good that I have ever done or said--was only because God put it in my mind to say or do it.  All glory goes to Him alone."  I knew him well enough to know he meant every word.

I will say that my parents, other relatives--myself included are "proud" of the godly heritage left to us by my grandparents.  But it is not a pride for the Garlocks--it is a "pride", (if that is even the right word) for the work God did in Grandpa Garlock's life--that has given us the faith to trust God.

So, as I continue to push forward promoting Generations--I feel I am simply following Psalm 145:4  "One generation shall praise your works to another and shall  declare your mighty acts."(NASB)

And further I continue to pray Psalm 71:18  "And even when I am old and gray, O God, do not forsake me, until I declare your strength to this generation, your power to all who are to come." (NASB)

As Generations is sold and read my prayer is that everyone who comes across it will know that it is published by God's design and any blessing it is comes straight from Him.  All glory be to Jesus, our Lord and our Redeemer!  He is the author and finisher of our faith.

Walking by Faith

Faith:  We're told that a small amount of faith (the size of a mustard seed--Matthew 17:20) will enable us to speak to mountains and remove them from the landscape.  Where does that kind of faith come from?  The Bible also states that we all have a measure of faith.  (Romans 12:3) Have you ever wondered how large God's measuring tool is?

Sometimes my faith seems weak and ineffective--but yet I hold on, knowing God is all-powerful and can do the impossible.   Even then, I can't take credit for having faith, for it is the Faith of the Lord Jesus Christ!  Galatians 2:20  "...I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."

My grandfather, Ed Garlock talked about that faith and lived it.  He daily quoted II Corinthians 5:7--"We walk by faith, not by sight."  It was not just a memory verse to him--he trusted God to do what He said he would do, according to His Word.  He looked to Him for healing, provision, direction, everything.

You see, God had performed the miraculous in Edward's life when he took him out of the miserable state he had sunk to.  A dying, hopeless, drunk, addicted to drugs and a destructive lifestyle--God reached down and lifted him to the rank of Child of God, and heir and joint-heir with Christ.

Suddenly a filthy wretch felt clean.  An addict was free!  A dying man received new life.  It should not be a surprise that he then began asking God to heal the sick, raise the dead, and bring salvation to the lost.  He simply took God at His Word and then waited for the answer.  The miraculous never became mundane--but it was almost a daily occurrence. 

When I was born, thirty-two years after my grandfather's redemption, "walking by faith" was just a way of life--not only for my grandparents, but for my parents as well.  My father, David Garlock was the youngest of Edward and Jessie Garlock's twelve children.  He personally experienced Christ's healing hand over and over again as he grew up in their home.  A compound fracture of his leg--where the bone punctured through the skin in a criss-cross manner was healed without a physician other than the GREAT PHYSICIAN in attendance.  Other miracles of healing and provision marked his life.  As he and my mother worked pioneering full Gospel churches they saw God open doors and bring things to pass that could only be explained as miraculous. 

They then followed with the same tenacity in faith that my grandparents had.  Seeking God, they held on, with a pit-bull-type of grip--walking in faith--and not sight when there was a need.  It was natural to believe that God was a God of the impossible, growing up where this was taught.

So where does the faith comes from to see the miraculous occur?  It comes from God.  It's a gift from God.  It's the faith of the Lord Jesus Christ (another of my grandfather's famous by-words).  But what we do with the faith is up to us.  Do we live in it, walk in it, operate our lives in it.  This simply means, putting your trust and confidence in God to do what He has promised He will do--and then letting that trust take you to the point that you give everything to Him,

resting in the knowledge He will work all for your good.

So do you have to be raised in a home where faith is fed to you for breakfast, lunch, supper and a snack before you go to bed?  Of course not.  We all have a measure of faith--put a little spiritual yeast in it and let it rise!

Read about faith in action in Generations--to be released Friday, October 17, 2013. 

Heavenly Places??????

I've had the privilege of traveling more than the average person.  Many of those places have left me in awe:  Niagara Falls, Red Square in Moscow, the Colorado Rockies, the Vatican in Rome, the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor, and changing of the guard at Arlington Cemetery--to name just a few.

Standing in the Maritime prison where Paul spent the last months and years of his life, however, is the only place that left me weeping openly. The low ceiling would not allow a person six feet tall to stand upright.  There was a rough hewn rock ledge where I could picture Paul standing to write much of the New Testament--while the sewer of Rome ran at his feet.

It was a small, dark, dismal place, with little light--yet I felt a surge of glory as I imagined the Apostle writing about sitting with Christ in Heavenly places.  His circumstances did not dictate his joy.  Was he happy to live in the stench of Rome, wondering when his head would be taken off his shoulders?  I'm sure he would have liked better accommodations. 

On the all-too-brief tour I had of Rome--the Vatican was very impressive.  The gold and fine mosaic art work was breathtaking.  Our tour guide took us to a spot in the massive structure where he assuredly told us the bones of Peter were kept enshrined.  Who am I to question if they were the actual bones of the disciple.   We saw the bodies of former popes, encrusted in gold laid out under glass.  The splendor of it all was indeed overwhelming.  And while impressed with the overpowering gold and costly artifacts...I was not moved emotionally.

But when I entered the cavernous underground prison where Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit wrote the words that comfort and strengthen us today--I wept.  I wanted to kneel and pray--not to Paul, or because of his memory; but to the only one who can give comfort and grace through every trial and trouble that life throws our way.  Paul's state--(and he tells us to be content in whatever state we find ourselves)--was much more troubling than anything we may face.  Yet, all that came from his pen were words of encouragement and admonition to "stand fast", to "Hold on to our faith".

Yes, I felt like worshiping my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.  My desire is to have the kind of fellowship and communion with Him that Paul had, so I can say with him--" whether I live, or I die, I am the Lord's."  It was from that dungeon in Rome that Paul was taken and beheaded, for the sake of the Gospel.  The same Jesus who appeared to him on the road to Damascus was still a reality to him when they laid his head on the cutting stone--and he was able to face death knowing he would be in the presence of his Lord.  That is truly "sitting with Christ in Heavenly places!"

You can see the ledge here where I picture Paul writing Ephesians and other books of the New Testament. The light above the ledge is electric--Paul had no such light.  Possibly a candle by the kindness of a guard.  It is reported that they would let guards down through a hole in the ceiling to keep guard over Paul--that upon spending time with him and seeing his faith--they would accept Christ as Lord of their life.  They would then be pulled up and fed to the lions in the Colosseum.  Another guard would be lowered, and so it would be repeated over and over again.

Interview with Angela D. Meyer

It's my privilege in today's blog to interview Crossriver author, Angela D. Meyer about her newly released book:  "Where Hope Starts".

This book opens with a couple living in New York City in the midst of marital crisis.  It seems they've lost every hope of happiness.  As despair, disgust and disappointment threaten their marriage there seems to be no hope.  Angela unfolds this riveting story that takes them to the brink of no return.  A theme of a desperate need for forgiveness emerges--but is it possible.

I relate to this story on a very personal level as we all can--for without forgiveness, where would any of us be?  It also reminds me of the absolute redemption that comes through Christ and His death on Calvary.  "Generations", my soon to be released book about the power of divine intervention in the life of a degenerate soul--rests completely on forgiveness.

Angela Meyer brings the reader to a heightened climax where a decision to forgive or not forgive is reached.




Angela lives in Omaha, NE with her husband of 22 years.  They have two children whom they homeschool--recently graduating their son.  She has taught Bible class for over 35 years and is on the leadership team of her local Christian writers group.  She loves God, her family, the ocean, good stories, connecting with friends, taking pictures, quiet evenings and a good laugh.  Someday she wants to ride in a hot air balloon and vacation by the sea.



In a city full of dreams...Karen Marino's life is a nightmare.  The New York City restaurant manager is a professional success, but her marriage is in shambles.  When her husband, Barry shows up drunk at her restaurant, she loses both.  She flees The Big Apple and returns to her Midwestern home to sort through her options.  But instead of answers, she finds an old boyfriend ready to rekindle romance, a family full of secrets and an angry brother bent on revenge.

Still in New York, Barry fights his own demons.  He knows he messed up, but is powerless to stop his rage and addictions.  A fistfight on the streets of the city lands him in jail and forces him to face the possibility of a future behind bars.

Karen knows holding onto her bitterness won't repair her marriage.  But how do you forgive someone when you don't feel like it?  As she searches for the answer, she uncovers the family secret that threatens to tear them all apart.  Can she find her way back to the place Where Hope Starts?

Watch trailer:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yVLQ4KlbLs

Q & A

1.  Tell us a little about your background and how you became interested in writing.

I've kept a journal since eighth grade, my thoughts expressed mostly through poetry.  After I got married I began writing children's stories, joined a critique group and began fine tuning my writing.  When one of my critique buddies asked for more information than my children's stories provided I asked myself "why not?"  and delved into my first novel.   Where Hope Starts is the second novel I have written and the first to be published.

2.  What lead you to write Where Hope Starts?

I actually started the book on the way home from my father's funeral.  With all of my siblings around, I began to contemplate how our responses to life growing up determined who we are today more than any one thing that may have happened to us.  I also realized how necessary forgiveness is in the process of healing and becoming all that God created us to be.

3.  Tell us about getting your mind in a creative mode?  How do you begin your writing process?

Some things that help set the stage include peace and quiet.  (It is really hard to write when the kids are clamoring for attention), taking a show (Maybe it's because no one bothers me) and morning time with God.

I also keep something to write on with me at all times, because I never know when an idea will strike, the perfect flow of dialogue that I've had a hard time with will present itself or that elusive quality to make one of my characters real will become apparent.

4.  Many writers utilize a writing group.  Where do you get constructive critiques and feedback?

I am part of Wordsowers Christian Writers Group in Omaha as well as a critique group that operates under their umbrella.  They gave me the encouragement, accountability and honest feedback I needed to improve my craft.

5.  What is Where Hope Starts about?

Karen Marino's life is a nightmare.  The New York City restaurant manager is a professional success, but her marriage is in shambles.  When her husband, Barry shows up drunk at her restaurant, she loses both.  She flees The Big Apple and returns to her Midwestern home to sort through her options.  But instead of answers, she finds an old boyfriend ready to rekindle romance, a family full of secrets and an angry brother bent on revenge.

Still in New York, Barry fights his own demons.  He knows he messed up, but is powerless to stop his rage and addictions.  A fistfight on the streets of the city lands him in jail on possible murder charges and forces him to face a future behind bars.

Karen knows holding onto her bitterness won't repair her marriage.  But how do you forgive someone when you don't feel like it?  As she searches for the answer, she uncovers the family secret that threatens to tear them all apart.  Can she find her way back to the place Where Hope Starts?

6.  What was the hardest thing about writing the book?

The number of times necessary to go through the manuscript to make sure it was the best it could be.  No matter how many times I went through it, there was always something that could have been better.  After a while, you just have to be willing to let it go and hit the submit button.

7.  Now that Where HOpe Starts is out in bookstores, do you have any projects you're currently working on?

High on my list is finishing up the second book and submit that to my publisher.

8.  When you're not writing, what do you enjoy doing?

Reading, handing out with my family and friends and when the weather isn't too extreme in either direction, I enjoy being outside.

9.  Where can readers find your book?

CrossRiver Media (http://www.crossrivermedia.com/Where Hope Starts.html)

Purchase Where Hope Starts at www.crossrivermedia.com

Connect with Angela D. Meyer at
www.facebook.com/AuthorAngelaDMeyer
www.angeldmeyer.com

Read the first chapter:  http://www.angeldmeyer.com/p/in-city-full-of-dreams-karen-marinos.html

Visit Angela's website to enter the Where Hope Starts Giveaway during her blog tour.

Celebrating

There are very special days we keep track of so we can celebrate--remembering the time lapsed and look forward to days ahead.  Our birthday, wedding day, first date, our children's and grandchildren's birthdays--and the special days of those we love.  One thing I like about facebook is the reminders of our friends' birthdays--which would come and go without a greeting from us--without the reminders.

Today marks 53 years since a very special event in my life.  It was a Sunday night--I was fifteen-years-old.  We lived in Perth Amboy, New Jersey where my dad pastored Glad Tidings Assembly of God.  We were in revival with A. N. and Blanche Trotter--(my aunt and uncle). 

That night--a group of our relatives from North Jersey came down to the service and to visit with the Trotters afterward.  My grandparents, Edward and Jessie May Garlock lived in a small apartment above our family's quarters in the church parsonage--next door to the church.

When the altar call was given by Brother Trotter, I was one of the first to find my way there.  It was my custom to pray and "seek" Holy Spirit Baptism.  I had done this since age seven.  I was hungry for the experience, but very shy and guess I was waiting for God to hit me in the head with a lightening bolt and force me to speak in tongues.

I stayed on my knees, determined that I would receive that night.  Slowly people got up from prayer and drifted out of the building, heading home.  Eventually even my mother and grandparents, as well as my Aunt Blanche, left and went to the parsonage next door.  My Uncles Eddie and Vic, Aunt Alice and some of my cousins wanted to visit with them before heading home.  My cousin Eunice was the only one of that group that remained at the altar.

Even though I wasn't paying attention to who was around--as everyone filtered out, I felt no distractions.  I was alone with God as His presence overshadowed me.  The three still with me, even seemed to step back, allowing me this private time with Christ.  (But, again, I was waiting for the aforesaid lightening bolt experience to hit. 

And suddenly--as in Acts 2:2--He came "suddenly"--I was ushered into a realm beyond myself.  I was fully conscious--I don't mean I had an out-of-the-body experience.  No lightening bolt--but definitely a jolt of Holy Spirit awakening.  Then, as promised in Isaiah, with "stammering lips" and "another tongue"--I spoke. 

In this overpowering presence, I couldn't speak English if I wanted to.  The stammering was indication that my human tongue was still holding back, and then finally I gave up and surrendered.

Surrendering to the will and power of God is something required on this Christian path if we are to be an effective witness.  The Pentecostal experience, is poured out on those who hungrily seek to receive--and total surrender is necessary.  Why it took me eight years to experience this--I don't know.  I think I was looking for an earthly experience, something I could control, waiting for the Spirit of God to take away my control.  Instead, He was waiting for me to surrender--that is when He can take control, and only then.

If you are reading my blog, thanks for taking the time to share this glorious experience with me on my 53rd year celebration.  The power of the Holy Spirit is the same today as fifty-three years ago, and the same as He was on the Day of Pentecost, 50 days after Christ's death and resurrection.

"And you shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you, and you shall be witnesses..."  Acts 1:8

 

God's Timing

Our limited thinking causes us to balk at waiting for anything--even waiting on God--who knows the beginning from the ending--to work things out in the best possible way.  We perceive things in a temporal, let me see the results NOW, way.  Our fast moving culture has gotten us used to getting what we want, when we want it, in our scheduled time frame.

Whether it's the food we've ordered at our favorite restaurant, or the new phone that we want one day delivery on, or the solving of a crisis in our life.  We want the solution to be not only observable immediately--but perfect and done our way.  And trust me, usually our way and perfect are not simpatico.  

While we may quote or sing the words of Isaiah:  "They that WAIT upon the Lord will renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles...they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint..."  We really don't mean the ending of the chorus taken from that verse:  "Teach me Lord to Wait."  Because we don't like to wait!

I'm waiting right now for the release of the book I've written:  "Generations". As I look back at the beginning of this journey or process...the almost two years it has taken since the publisher,  Crossriver   Media accepted it as worthy of publishing...hasn't been that long.

I actually began writing it more than 16 years ago.  Since then I've written two other books and started yet another.  I never really anticipated having any of them published.  "Generations" was written for my children and grandchildren.  I made copies for them.  Some 16 years later, somehow a paper copy got into the hands of someone that I do not know, who spoke to another author--who then gave it to Crossriver for review.  They agreed to publish it and that process began--and now I'm waiting--not always patiently--to have the finished book in my hands.

What really got my attention the other day regarding God's plan and His time frame for "Generations" was when I was reading through some old papers my dad had written about the time of my grandfather's death.  In those papers he told how my grandfather just before his death said:  "Maybe the Lord will raise me up..."  And then he quoted Psalm 71:18  "Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not, until I have showed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come." 

What amazed me was this:  I have been claiming that Scripture for myself for several years--as I've gotten older.  Then I felt strongly that the publishing of my book, "Generations"--which is a testimony of God's marvelous redeeming power through deliverance from addiction and abusive behavior in my grandfather's life, was part of the answer to my prayer of this verse.

But when I read how my grandfather claimed the same Scripture which is coming to fruition by my telling his testimony--I realized God was working a plan all along--and I'm just privileged to be a part of it.  Grandpa died in 1960; 53 years ago.  God hasn't been nervous about getting his testimony out to future generations.  He had a plan all along.  Now I'm "Nellie Nervous" about having the book in my hands. 
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It's been 100 years this year since my grandfather's deliverance, healing and salvation experience.  God's still in the healing, redeeming, and delivering business.  He's working in my life, in your life as we allow Him to--and He'll do things on His time schedule--which is always the best.

So, today--teach me Lord, to wait.  Because I know your calendar is organized for the best results!

What do you reflect???

Reflect:  Webster's definition:  1.  To bend or cast back, as light, heat, or sound.  2.  To give back a likeness or image of, as a mirror does.

Fellow Crossriver author, Merrie Hansen's Scripture post today got me thinking.  We are made in the image of God and should, therefore, reflect, or be a reflection of who He is.  I Corinthians 3:16 

"Do you not know that you are a temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?  If any man destroys the temple of God , God will destroy him, for the temple of God is holy, and that is what you are."

We are also told that we are to be light in darkness.  Christ is the light, we are to reflect His great light--just as the moon has no light of its own and reflects the light of the sun--we have no light of our own and are to be conformed to the image of Christ and reflect His light.

"You are the light of the world...let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in Heaven."   Matthew 5:14-16

This should give us all pause to consider how we are presenting Christ to those around us.  Are we reflecting His image or are we marring and polluting His creation, giving a warped view of who He is? 

The best way to judge ourselves is to look into the mirror of God's Word.  It is a discerner of our heart and a lamp for our feet.  Going around all day with egg on your face is embarrassing to discover at day's end.  I remember meeting a minister at  a funeral.  He was new in town--his family had not arrived yet.  He had toothpaste smeared on his upper lip.  He had come to the funeral to meet the family and others--his first impression, unfortunately left something to be desired.  (Poor guy--without his wife on hand to inspect him before he left the house--he presented his first impression to everyone with toothpaste on his face).

Just as we don't want food on our face, or our hair standing on end--our clothes in-side-out, or a run in our stocking--we should be cautious as well how we reflect our Lord.   Our speech, manners, (or lack of them), the way we dress, the things we do--will impact the light we shed to those hungry for light in the middle of darkness.  Oh, it's true--people shouldn't JUDGE on our outward appearance--but the way we present ourselves may cause people to Judge our Lord.  We are to be a reflection of Him!

We have been created in God's image--He is the potter, we are the clay.  He desires to take our imperfections and transform us completely into His image.  When we take on the things that mar His creation--we are interfering with the Master's Art.  Would we dare to add to Michael Angelo's paintings, or Beethoven's symphonies?  How much greater is the work Christ does in us through the power of His Holy Spirit.  My prayer, Lord help me to reflect your light, your love, your truth to everyone around me.

Romans 12:2  "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."

 Remember, He is the potter.  Are you allowing Him to shape and mold you?

The worse kind of pain

The worse kind of pain is the hurt that overwhelms when you are hurting for someone else.  I'm sure this is true--I've experienced it.  If I am offended, maligned, talked about, even betrayed by someone I love--it hurts and the agony of that hurt is horrendous.  I hate it and it takes time, and help from God to overcome it.

But the pain that cuts deeper than any other is when I know someone I love is hurting.  That brings a sadness that sweeps over me, shutting out all other thought, making it almost impossible to function at times.

Why do we feel so deeply for others?  It has to be because we are made in the image of Christ--who feels every hurt, every sadness, every pain--physical, mental, emotional.  If we didn't have this ability to sorrow with the hurting--we would never grow into individuals that He calls us to be.  I'm not claiming that I am minutely close to having the compassion and love that Christ has toward us.  He's done nothing to ever hurt us, on the contrary--He offers the remedy to all of life's ills and transgressions.  And, yet, He hurts when we hurt.  He took the pain and shame of the cross and took on everything for us.  And still, He hurts when we hurt--even though He's the remedy and never the cause for that hurt.  We, on the other hand, hurt one another all the time.

My prayer is, Lord help me to be more like you, help me to show your love and compassion.  Give me wisdom and direction so I will never hurt others--because I cannot the bear the pain of knowing someone else is hurting because of me, because of my actions, words, or deeds.  I know, I have been guilty in the past of causing others hurt because of foolishness, selfishness, or just plain stupidity. 

And, thank you, Jesus, for carrying the burdens that are more than I can carry.  Heal the hurting as only your can!  If you are hurting, or have caused others to hurt--look unto Jesus--He feels all the pain and He is a healer of every hurt!

"Surely, He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; ...He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities;..."  Isaiah 53:4-5

"Brainwashing" children

Guess today is my Monday.  Somehow Monday, (the day I like to blog), came and went and no profound or interesting thoughts transferred from brain to fingers, to BlogSpot.  I had promised more musings on the importance of being raised and trained in the ways of God. 

The foundation of who you and I are is sealed in the fiber of our being by parents, mentors, teachers, pastors, and friends.  Psychologists tell us that personality is formed by age six.  Core values that result in the shaping of our character are a vital part of the mix of the mortar used for the foundation of our life.  These character traits are also framed and set at an early age.


Being taught the ways of God, according to Scripture is the rebar that strengthens that foundation.  The "forms" used to determine the depth of the "slab" is vital.  Christian parents and schools are accused of "brainwashing" children.  Let's face it--the mind and heart of a child is an open page that will be filled with all sorts of information--depending on what they are exposed to.  So, what will you stir into the mix of the mortar of your child's foundation?  Truth and life sustaining Spiritual food, or emptiness and the ways of a corrupt world--the choices seem clear! 

I'm not a builder and don't know a lot about construction--but I do know that the foundation is the most important part of a structure.  If it is not laid right--the building will crumble and fall.  Luke 6:46-49 Jesus gives a great example of how to build. Building on a rock brings a lasting structure, while building on sand results in collapse.   It makes sense--but then Jesus always did!

If a physical building must have a proper foundation to stand--how much more important is it for us, for our children to have a solid foundation.  If it is sure, even if something goes wrong with  rest of the building--all is not lost.  Repairs and restoration are possible when there is a rock-solid base.  Restoring a house is only worthwhile if the foundation is strong.

So, "train up a child in the way they should go...."  Will they always make the right decisions, shun what is wrong and destructive?  Will they fall into harmful relationships?  If they don't continue to follow the guidance and direction of the Holy Spirit--they may.  The good news is, if you have, according to God's Word:  (Deuteronomy, chapter 6), trained them in the ways of God--they will return and rebuild their life--because their foundation is right!

Then, there is a wonderful truth:  The mercy of God comes into play in the life of anyone who seeks Him.  Those with a good foundation can return if they stray--because of God's mercy.  But, also those who have no solid base, can turn to Him and find forgiveness, mercy, and power to live a worthwhile life.

So, should we take careful purpose in training children in the ways of God?  Absolutely!  It's promised to be effective in God's Word.    I treasure the way I was taught by my parents, grandparents and others who had a part in directing me on a path of serving God.  Have I always been true to their teachings and examples?  No, but because of their prayers and the foundation they laid in me, from the time of my birth, I'm able to follow God's path for my life.

I'll admit, I'm hung up on God's promises to families and the fact that God is very "family oriented".  His Word bears this out.  I live, breathe and rely on His promises:

"'As for me,' says the Lord, 'this is my covenant with them (you), My Spirit who is upon you, and my words which I have put in your mouth, shall not depart from your mouth, nor from the mouth of your descendants, nor from the mouth of your descendants' descendants', says the Lord, 'from this time and forevermore.'"  Isaiah 59:21

Genesis 1:2

I didn't intend to blog until Monday.  Blogging helps chase the "Monday blues" away.  But I couldn't control my fingers as they took me to BlogSpot and they began to type!

Woke up this morning with a heavy heart.  Feeling the weight of evil everywhere, pulling good, God-fearing people toward destruction really brings me to my knees...which is a good thing :).  (Going to my knees that is).

A young person, (disillusioned by life), made a statement that sent a spiritual electric shock through me.  They said:  "It's better not to be raised 'Christian'."  The betrayal they've witnessed by "Christians" is what, I'm sure, brings them to this decision.  But I couldn't shake off the cloak of grief enveloping me as those words--reverberating through my mind-- pierced me to the heart.

I began to pray for that young lady, and so many of my youthful acquaintances that suffer doubt and wonder about the purpose of serving God.  This morning--the burden was overwhelming as I called their names before Christ;  He stopped me cold with:  Pray for a Holy Ghost revival to sweep through your family, your church, your nation--just as it did at the turn of the century.  Just as He (the Holy Spirit) moved upon the face of the waters in Genesis 1:2--changing what was dark, void and without form into the beauty and wonders of creation!  Only He can bring change to the darkness that envelops our present-day world.

Communion with Jesus, always brings comfort, answers, and power.  As I prayed--the irrefutable answer to the statement thrown at me--became crystal clear.   "Train up a child in the way they should go, and when they are old, they'll not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6  That is the Word of God and it is true and undeniable.  When the foundation is laid, according to God's Word, even if a person strays from what is right--they have a core foundation to return to for truth, redemption, forgiveness, mercy, and restoration to be set on the right path. 

The core of my ministry was attacked--I've devoted my life to educating young people for life and training them in the ways of God with eternity in view.  The enemy took an ill-thought-out statement to try to shatter my resolve--but thank God the foundation is solid;  built on Christ and His Word, we stand and will continue to do so. 

I have many more thoughts racing through my mind about the foundation we build for our children and grandchildren.  Stay tuned in.  Monday is my regular blog day.  I heard the whispers of God today as I prayed; I'll attempt to share them Monday.  He is so faithful!

God's Thoughts of You

Here it is Monday morning.  As I reflect on the weekend and the busy stretch of last week--I realize I forgot something very important--my niece, Rachel's birthday.  It was yesterday and the day came and went without sending her a greeting, or calling her to remind her that I love her and pray for her--that she is of value to me.

It brought to mind the fact that our Heavenly Father not only knows what day we were born--He was aware of us well before the momentous occasion.  David relates in Psalm 139 that He was not only aware of us while we were being "fashioned" in our mother's womb--but He actually began a book detailing everything about us.  This is a powerful thought.

When my niece, aforementioned, Rachel was born--her mother's labor was difficult.  In the course of her delivery, one of her arms was injured.  This resulted in no use of the appendage.  It hung limp at her side.  She was healthy and happy otherwise and developed into a bubbly, toddler.  Her parents and grandparents continued to pray about this condition and as they months passed--they saw no improvement.  It was obvious, and documented by physicians that she would have no use of the arm.

One day, after special prayer--Rachel was observed using the lifeless limb.  It was a documented miracle.  Once again, the hand of God overruled the impossible! 

Not only did I forget Rachel's birthday yesterday--I hadn't thought about this miracle in her body for a long time.  Jeremiah 29:11 tells us that God has a plan for us, that His thoughts are for us, for good, and not for evil.  I don't know why Rachel was healed and some people aren't.  But I do know God has a plan for each one.  He has his hand on Rachel, and He has His hand on each of us.  The difficult part is accepting that He knows what's best for us.

His love and thoughts toward us are always for good.  Our will gets in the way a lot of times, sending us through things we wouldn't have to encounter if we'd only wise up--that the one who even knows how many hairs are on our head--has a better plan than we do.  (That brings up another point--have you ever wondered why the great God of Creation takes time to number the hair on our head?)  Really, I don't think He sits in the Heavens counting them all day and night.  He just knows without counting--because He's God.

  Who we are and His plan for us is close to His heart.  "How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God; how great is the sum of them.  If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand:  when I awake, I am still with thee."  Psalm 139:17-18.

I still feel bad that I forgot Rachel's birthday yesterday.  But hope she realizes that someone who loves her more than anyone in her earthly family--didn't forget.  She is, and always will be very important to Him. 

HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY RACHEL.  I REALLY DO LOVE YOU,

YOUR FORGETFUL AUNT SHARON

So many thoughts churning in my head this morning.  It's Monday, the beginning of a new week.  Lots of things to do; classes to teach, laundry, cleaning, planning for activities when "Generations" is released, family activities, its all there in my mind.

I don't feel organized, in fact I seem to be stagnant, unable to focus on any one task, (although I do have a load of laundry ready for the dryer).  Sleeping late didn't help my frame of mind--it never does.  Where's my motivation?  I'm usually on overload with that--at least--even if there's not much productivity.

So, what to do...take a deep breath, spend some time communicating with Christ--my strength, comfort, supplier of all I need--and opening His Word.  And guess what, He never fails me.  Oh, I still have a lot of busy stuff in my mind, and I'm not sure how much I'll accomplish today--but whatever I do--it will be with the knowledge that God is with me, for me, and working for my good!

I realize that I was feeling dry in my spirit.  I've had so many wonderful blessings recently.  Then yesterday was a bit discouraging.  Guess I'm just one of God's spoiled brats.  I think every moment of every day I should be showered with an abundance of God's attention.  Because yesterday didn't work perfectly for me--I was feeling down. 

But when I went to God's Word I found the antidote for my problem:  "I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground; I will pour my Spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring."  Isaiah 44:3 

What promises, powerful!  Reminded me of King David in Psalm 73 when he was disheartened because of the wicked prospering and increasing in wealth while he suffered.  He wrote that his

 thoughts regarding this were too painful:  "Until I went into the sanctuary of God..."  Psalm 73:17. 

Drawing close to God, communicating with Him through prayer and reading His Word, brings peace, comfort and strength.  It's the only cure for discouragement. 

So I'll see what I can accomplish today, with His help, and wait for the refreshing "rain" of Heaven as I rest in His promises.

"It Is Well With My Soul"

So, I'm a year older, 68 years old to be exact.  One of the things I realized quite some time ago is that the soul never ages.  It was created, by God, afterall--to live forever.  I will always exist--as will you.  Of course, I was taught this in church--but it hit me one day that the "me" inside, my Spirit & Soul do not really age. 

Oh, hopefully we grow closer to God, (His intention for us), and mature in that respect--but I feel inside no different than I did when I was 12 years old.  Ageless, immortal.  Unfortunately this body that houses my soul does add wrinkles, aches, pains, limitations, etc.  And, will do so until this corruptible puts on incorruption and this mortal puts on immortality.

I had a wonderful birthday yesterday--68; and I vividly remember my 12th birthday--even the gifts:  a book from my Grandmother Garlock, (Unwanted Legacy was the title), money from my Angell Grandparents in Rhode Island, a cute tennis outfit--pink checkered from my parents and also a little gray transistor radio.  I would listen to Frankie Avalon, the Everly Brothers, Annette Funacello, (singing "Tall Paul, He's my All").  I actually liked a boy named Paul Magyar.  We would walk to and from school together.  

Now I am married to my wonderful husband, Roger Spiegel.  Our lives took some twists and turns, taking me from the East Coast and him from a farm in Iowa to meet in Springfield, Missouri.  We have fourteen grandchildren and a very busy life in ministry and things are getting even busier as I have a book, "Generations" about to be released.  But my soul remains ageless.  With Christ at the "controls" of my life, I'm happy to say:  "It Is Well With My Soul"

 

 The younger Sharon--same soul.                                  The older Sharon today--same soul.

Guided by His Eye

Wanted to share a wonderful story of God's direction in my Uncle Henry's life.  (Missionary H. B. Garlock)  As told by him:

"In June 1949 I checked out a Piper Cub from the factory and filed a flight plan which called for a landing at the airport in Steubenville, Ohio, just across the Ohio River from Pennsylvania.  The weather was reported to be good, and I was scheduled to reach Steubenville well before dark.

"However, as I flew over Three Rivers Stadium, home of the Pittsburg Pirates baseball club (where the Monongahela and Allegheny Rivers converge to form the Ohio), I was confronted by a thunderstorm and violent winds.  The western sky became dark and streaked with forked lightening.  I could see there was no way of outflanking the storm and decided I better land as soon as possible.

"I was over mountainous country--a stretch known in those days as 'The Pilot's Graveyard'.  What was I to do?  It became so dark cars traveling below me were switching on their lights.  I must land, but could not find on my map any airport I could hope to reach in time.

"I began to quote my lifelong Scripture, Psalm 32:8:  'I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go; I will guide thee with mine eye. 

"I was desperate, I prayed, 'Lord, I am on an errand for You.  This is a Speed-the-Light plane to be used in Your service in Africa.  There is no place to land in this heavily wooded, mountainous country, Please guide me.

"Almost instantly an inner voice said:  'Make a 45-degree turn to the left.'  I did so immediately.  By now darkness was really upon me.  I was 25 miles north of Wheeling, West Virginia.  Claps of thunder and terrific downdrafts shook the little plane.

"Quite suddently I saw amid the threatening expanse of trees below me a bare, cone-shaped mountain peak.  A spot free of trees!  But could a plane land on such steep terrain?  I circled once, cut the throttle, pulled back on the stick, and set the Cub down on the steep, bare upslope, managing to stop its roll just before it could top the summit and plunge down the other side.   After catching my breathe, I stopped to thank the Lord for being guided by His eye."

While today's blog is not specifically about my grandparents...it is indirectly.  If you read yesterday's blog you'll remember that I made a reference to my grandmother, Jessie May Garlock who stood upon and claimed Scripture as her own--and then saw results because of that.

Because of her testimony, I have done the same. 

It is with rejoicing that I report, after yesterday's blog, that today I saw an exciting result of Isaiah 59:21, which I claim for my children, grandchildren, and generations to come.

Twelve of the 22 young people we took to camp were in charge of today's service at church.  Of those twelve, seven of them were my grandchildren.  Their anointed worship and words of testimony were powerful.  They led us into a time of praise, ushering us into the presence of the Lord. 

Seeing what I believe is only the beginning of the fulfillment of that promise in Isaiah, blessed me beyond measure.  It was humbling and very moving to know that the great God of Heaven, Almighty in Power--takes pause to hear and answer the cry of our heart. 

The exciting thing is, it's not just for me and my children and grandchildren--but for any and all who will take God at His Word! 

Here is my precious crew that I pray for and claim Isaiah 59:21 for.  I have their pictures pasted in my Bible--not that I could forget them. 

 

Let the power continue to flow!

Yesterday's blog focused on my grandmother, Jessie May Garlock's daily habit of reading, claiming, and standing on God's Word.  She taught me well in this regard.

Because of her example--I have seen the hand of God move on behalf of intersessory prayer as I have claimed the Word of God as my own.

When my father was very ill and unable to effectively pastor--the church suffered financially and we were going to lose the property where both church and school set.  One day in my personal Bible reading I came across Isaiah 65:22-23: 

"They shall not build and another inhabit; they shall not plant and another eat; For as the days of a tree, so shall be the days of my people, and my elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands.  They shall not labor in vain, nor bring forth for trouble, for they shall be the descendants of the blessed of the Lord, and their offspring with them."

WOW!  That Scripture jumped out at me.  I took God at His Word and stood on that.  Despite the fact that circumstances didn't seem to change--we were told, in fact, that a "For Sale" sign would be put on the property.  That day, it seemed the Spirit of God whispered to me:  "It'll never happen." 

Guess what, it never did.  That was over 24 years ago--and we are still on the property, operating the church and school, to the Glory of God.

My blog would be too long if I told of many other times trusting in the power of God's Word worked for me.  I now stand on another of the Holy Spirit inspired writings of Isaiah.

Isaiah 59:21  "As for me, says the Lord, this is my covenant with them; My Spirit who is upon you, and my words which I have put in your mouth, shall not depart from your mouth, nor from the mouth of your descendants, nor from the mouth of your descendants descendants",  says the Lord,  "from this time and forevermore."

Do I take the Word of God personally?  Yes!  Am I a "fanatic" like my grandparents?  Possibly.  If that's what it takes to see miracles like they saw--(like you will read about in "Generations")--then so be it!  Feel free to call me whatever you wish.

Here's a picture of my children and most of my grandchildren.  I cover them with prayer every day, and stand upon Isaiah 59:21 for each and everyone of them.  God's Word is powerful and true.  The same power that raised Christ from the dead, the same power that redeemed, delivered, and healed my Grandfather, Edward, that caused him to be labeled a fanatic--I pray that same Holy Spirit Power will continue to flow in generations to come--according to Isaiah 59:21!