The Harvest Is Plentiful

"Then He said to His disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.'"

Matthew 9:37

 

I live in a farming community just on the outskirts of the capital city. It is the end of August and so it is now the start of the harvest season. As one drives along the farm roads in my area, one will see large fields of canola, hay, barley or wheat. The hay has already been cut, dried, raked and recently rolled into large bales. The harvest has begun!

The Bible says the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Do we ever consider how many people in our neighbourhood do not know God? What about the people at our work place? How many souls there are lost and searching for answers? Do we grieve over how many people in our town or city are crying out for help? The amount of people in need of a Saviour are staggering, but the number of workers in comparison are so very few.

Even our churches tend to be more inward than outward. Yes, we give to a handful of missionaries, but what about our own community? How many outreaches is our church involved in? Are the church services focused on reaching the unsaved? Or are the services primarily for our own entertainment and enjoyment? Would a newcomer even get noticed and invited to someone's house for dinner after the service? Or do we think a shake of the hand is enough? Is our focus in doing God's work really about bringing people to Christ? Or is it about keeping God's people happy?

I find that even in children's ministries, our primary focus is on the children of the Christian families that attend the church. Therefore, we are raising an upcoming generation that will also be complacent to God's greatest desire: to see every breathing soul accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour and be a part of His beautiful Kingdom. Wouldn't it be wonderful see children bringing other children to Christ in great numbers? Then see those children lead the rest of their families to God?

I believe it is the heart of God to grieve over every person we meet that does not know God and have an unquenchable desire to see each one of them come to the saving knowledge and love of Christ. If we do, the workers will increase and more lives will be saved.

Unexpected Fear

After my dad was in the hospital for some time recuperating from the accident that severely mangled his left leg, my mother thought it was time for me to visit. At first I didn't think much about it, but when it came time to actually go to the hospital, I became extremely nervous. It all of a sudden hit me that I hadn't step foot in a hospital since God healed me of perthes disease.

On the drive there, I was very quiet sitting in the back seat, trying inwardly to battle my fears, but being unsuccessful. As soon as I entered the hospital doors, I smelt that familiar smell that I thought I had forgotten. I became nauseous, fighting the desire to turn and flee. It took all my strength to continue following my family, who were unaware of my struggle. Then when I entered the room with those familiar white walls and saw my dad lying in that familiar hospital bed with those familiar white sheets, all the memories of my past came flooding back. My mind couldn't take it all at once. Everything turned black. I couldn't see anything. All I knew was that I had to get out of there! I was by the doorway, so I went out into the hallway and rolled against the walls, until I collapsed. None of my family had noticed except for my sister-in-law. The next thing I knew I was being helped up my an orderly to sit in a chair with my head between my knees. My sister-in-law was beside me talking to me. I was embarrassed. My family thought I passed out upon seeing my dad after the accident, but that wasn't the reason. I had to for the first time deal with my fear of hospitals as a result of my negative childhood experiences.

The most traumatic childhood experience of staying in the children's hospital ward was the night I lost my friend who stayed in the bed beside me. He was around my age, about six years old, and had leukemia. I was too young to know that he was dying. The boy was gentle and easy to talk to. He made staying at the hospital more pleasant, since it is a lonely and depressing place to be. Then in the middle of one night, he died. After they took my friend away, I became hysterical, screaming, "I hate hospitals! I hate doctors! I hate nurses! Get me out of here!" I was soon tranquilized, but the memory was not forgotten. That was when fear entered the heart of a young child and it was never exposed until I was sixteen years old visiting my dad in the hospital.

I praise God that one day I will meet again that precious boy who died beside me. He was not in the arms of any family member at the time of his death. I was the closest human being to him when he died. However, I know with certainty that when he died, he went into the loving arms of His Heavenly Father.

The Bible indicates quite clearly that when babies and children die they will go to Heaven.

"Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not

hinder them, for the Kingdom of Heaven

belongs to such as these."

Matthew 19:14

Once I was able to grasp the reality of this verse, I was able to overcome my fear.

Isn't it good to know that all babies and young children who die are with God in Heaven? That means all those unwanted babies who are tragically aborted are wanted and loved by God.

When I look up into the sky, I cannot help but think about Heaven. I try to imagine what it is like and who I will again get to see one day.

Don't Wait To Pray

The Lord is near to everyone who prays to Him,

to every faithful person who prays to Him."

Psalms 145:18

One day when I was sixteen years old and home after school preparing supper, the phone rang. My dad was in the hospital fighting for his life. He should have been walking through the back door of our house about then, but instead he was lying in a hospital bed. My mother was the one who answered the phone and my first response to her was, "Let's pray." My mother was in shock, but we prayed.

The day the accident occurred, my dad was walking to the bus stop after work. He always took the city bus to and from work every day. With things obviously pressing on his mind, he became unaware of his surroundings, walking mechanically the route he always took to catch the bus that should have taken him home. Without looking or paying attention, my dad walked right in front of a transit bus that was filled with people. To the horror of the female bus driver and all those people on board the bus, the bus was unable to stop in time and ran over my dad. He ended up being pinned underneath the bus with one of the wheels of that massive transport vehicle crushing his left leg. As the blood ran down the street from the open wounds of my dad's leg, he remained conscious. My dad has always been physically strong. (Mentally, however, I believe he was crippled from his experiences of war; he never was able to talk about the five years he was in the airforce.) When the paramedics came and assessed the situation, they decided that the best decision would be to amputate his leg and get him immediately to the nearest hospital to save his life. However, my dad would have none of it. This was the reason he didn't fall into unconsciousness. The power of the mind can be astounding. He knew they would amputate and he was determined to not allow them to. He could still move his foot, so he showed the paramedics and convinced them to save his leg.

Writing about this accident, I can't even slightly comprehend what my dad must have gone through: the shock, the pain, the horror and the panic. His determination, will-power and strength gives me pride. After all, he was my father.

An amazing and talented surgeon operated on my dad, saving his leg. Later my dad had to fight infection as well, but his leg was saved and usable. He did struggle with discomfort, pain and stiffness in the leg throughout the years, but he was very grateful he still had his leg. It never bothered him to wear shorts in the summer time, even in public, though his scars were horrendous.

I believe that if my mother and I didn't pray when we did, my dad would have lost his leg. The surgeon that operated on my dad's leg didn't even live in the area; he was only visiting the university at the time to train other surgeons. One of the local doctors remembered he was there and contacted him for his help. The surgery was complex and lengthy. Most doctors would have performed immediate amputation.

Here is a picture of my dad with ice-skates slung across his shoulders at a frozen lake where I grew up. This picture was taken before the accident. He loved to ice skate ever since he was a young boy growing up in Alberta where the winters are long and cold.

May your first response to tragedy or a dire circumstance be prayer. Don't wait! Sometimes if we delay, we can miss out on a miracle and it can be too late.

The Lord Is My Rock

From my early to late teenage years, I would very seldom sleep in my own bed. I would lay awake at night, waiting until everyone in the house was asleep and all was quiet. Then I would take my quilt, go downstairs to get my dog, a Sheltie, and come back upstairs again to sleep behind the dark brown couch that was positioned against one wall in the living room. I did this for many years, even after my dog died. Nobody in my family ever caught on. This was my secret and it made me feel safe and secure. I was still warm and snug in my home, but in a place where no one could find me. I also enjoyed the comfort of my dog right beside me while I slept.

My alarm clock was my dad. Every day he got up at five, prepared breakfast and ate while listening to the news on the radio. This would wake me up. When I would hear the front door close, I would get up, put my dog away and go back into my own bed. Even to this day nobody in my family knows  of this.

A dog's love is unconditional and unwavering. My dog made me feel loved. I also felt safe hiding in a small place where I couldn't be found.

As I grew in the love and knowledge of God, I began to feel safe and secure in His love and care for me. God became my Rock and my Fortress. He is now my covering of protection and safety. I am in no longer need of that couch to hide behind.

The Bible is Psalms 18:2 states:

"The Lord is my Rock, my Fortress, and my Saviour; my God is my Rock,

in Whom I find protection. He is my Shield, the power
 that saves me, and my place of safety."

Psalms 18:2

May You Understand

Have you ever loved someone, desperately hoping for their love in return, but never received love back? It could be a friend you desired to be close to, a parent whose emotional needs were too great, a sibling controlled by addictions, or a boyfriend or girlfriend who was selfish and nonempathic. The person you loved was critical, even abusive at times; took but did not give; was manipulative and controlling; couldn't ever apologize; and was self-centered. In other words, the relationship was destructive to your self-worth, but for some reason you couldn't break away. You couldn't even explain why you were  attracted to this person in the first place.

So you began to overeat or not eat at all. In my case, I stopped eating three full meals a day. Instead, my meals became only small snacks — thus, a picture of two granola bars.

I lost weight drastically and I was not overweight to begin with. I was still a teenager. People began to notice. They even became concerned. I was receiving attention from many people, but not from the person I wanted so desperately to care. I ate this little for several months. I was destroying myself. It felt good and it felt bad. I couldn't stop.

Then God started to remind me of the vastness of His love and that His love was sufficient! I didn't need to look elsewhere. As I once again studied the Scriptures and brought those precious truths to my heart, I was able to gain the strength and courage to approach the person that was hurting me so much. I knew I was taking the chance of loosing that person forever, but I was willing now to accept that. I painfully explained to the person all the hurts I had experienced in the relationship and to my grievous disappointment, the person did not respond. The person showed no emotion, said no words of healing and sat there expressionless. It was not the outcome I had hoped for, but it was expected. Again I felt good and terrible all at the same time. I stood up for my self-worth and I knew God was pleased. However, I lamented for a period of time for a lost relationship I immensely desired, but no longer needed.

I began to eat again and never again have I been tempted to fall back into that destructive mode. Why? Because I am complete in God's love! These are my favorite verses in the Bible. May the words be forever imprinted in your mind and the love of God be deeply rooted in your heart today.

"And I pray that Christ will be more and more at home in your hearts as you trust

in Him. May your roots go down deep into the soil of God's marvelous love.

And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should,

how wide, how long, how high, and how deep His love really is."

Ephesians 3:17-18

Tying Shoe Laces

My heart was won during the early days of my courtship to Brian. He had just come to my house on the weekend to take me out. I went to get my shoes and once the shoes were on my feet, Brian immediately bent down in front of me to tie my shoelaces. Most men open car doors for women, and he did that too. I just never saw or heard of a man tying a woman's shoelaces when she was quite capable of doing it herself. My first reaction was embarrassment and disbelief. "What are doing? I can do that!" Brian's response was, "I know. I just want to do it for you." Brian then got up, smiled and took my hand. This act of devotion continued throughout our dating period, during the four times I was pregnant and even today sometimes. I now view it as a very romantic and a sweet gesture.

I grew up without ever knowing a father's love. He was there, but distant. He spoke words, but they were meaningless and void of feeling. I never received a compliment from him or any words of encouragement. He gave no physical affection. It was like he was inhuman and he frightened me. He could physically hurt someone and not show any kind of remorse. Then I had several relationships with Christian boyfriends that left me feeling ever more insecure and skeptical of love. I had a hard time trusting someone. I was still learning to trust in God's love. Then one day Brian came along, knelt in front of me, tied my shoelaces and won my heart.

Jesus did the same for His beloved disciples when He knelt down and washed their feet. If they had shoes in those days instead of sandals, there would have been no need to wash their feet. Instead Jesus would have gathered each of the disciples shoes one pair at a time, knelt down before each of them, lovingly placed the shoes on their feet and tied their shoelaces. It is interesting to note that Peter's initial reaction was the same as mine when Brian first tied my shoelaces. I guess that is why I can easily relate to Peter more than any of the other disciples. Just like my heart was touched, how much more did Jesus's act of love and servanthood touch the hearts of all those disciples and ours today. When Brian first tied my shoes and continued to do so, I felt a healing in the open wounds of my heart. All the past hurt and disappointments slowly seem to vanish. How could one simple act do that much good? But it did! I believe God sent Brian to heal my heart and I believe it was God who motivated him to do this loving act. Brian responded to voice of God, a heart was healed and a wife obtained.

"I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you."

John 13:15

Jesus is our example. May we respond to the promptings of God and act like Jesus, showing humility, love and a servant's heart by doing just the simplest acts for others. It can do so much more than words ever could.

Hiding Under The Bed

This is a picture of my bed. It sits up high, so a person can easily hide under it. Oh, and um . . . that's also my cat. She wasn't suppose to be in the picture, but when I was about to take it, she jumped on the bed. Then she posed for the camera.

At one time when Matthew was a young boy and had committed a wrongdoing, he ran and hid underneath his bed. He didn't want to be caught and face the consequences of his actions. I called out to him, but there was no answer. I then looked in all the places a little boy would hide. One of the obvious places was under the dark confines of his bed. I looked, but couldn't see him. He had sandwiched himself between his quilt than hung down on the far side of his bed and the wall. Pretty smart, don't you think? That is until I asked, "Matthew, are you under there?" He responded brilliantly, "No!" His older brothers were of course all rooting for him and were shocked that he would answer. They then looked at me with their wide-eyed faces, waiting for my response. It wasn't what they expected. I burst out in laughter. I had a hard time stopping. I'm sure they thought their mother was crazy and their younger brother had taken after me. Once I was able to somewhat control myself, I didn't have the heart to punish Matthew for his actions. I don't even remember what he had done wrong, but I do remember him trying to hide from me. Raising four sons, all close in age, definitely had its hilarious moments. This was one of those times.

Just like Matthew, sometimes we as adults think we can outsmart God and hide from Him; but the Bible says:

"Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered

and laid bare before the eyes of Him to Whom we must give account."

Hebrew 4:13

I can't help but wonder if God shakes his head and has a good laugh at our silliness at times.

Nothing is hidden from God, so it is foolish to try to deceive and hide the truth from Him. The sooner we confess and deal with the consequences of our sinful actions, the better. God will then help you to make things right. Remember God will never leave you and will always forgive a repentant heart.

The Wind

Yesterday there was a strong wind storm. I love the wind! I love to feel it against my face and have it blow my hair. It is the one time I don't care if my hair gets messed up. I just put it in a pony tail and off I go traipsing in the wind.

I have loved the wind since I was a young girl. Every time there was a wind storm during the day, I would immediately be drawn outdoors. If there was a windstorm at night, I had to leave the window open so I could hear the sounds of the rustling leaves, see my curtains blow in the twilight of the night and feel the coolness of the wind's breeze.

My father loved the wind as well. He was a highly intelligent man that barred his inner world from anyone entering. My mother, my brothers and I never really knew him. You couldn't even talk to him because he was unable to identify with the feelings, thoughts and attitudes of another. I never saw my dad shed a tear or heard his laughter, just explode with anger. It was sad. I wanted to be close, but couldn't. I tried to, but it was futile. However, I do remember him telling me out of the blue one day that he loved the wind. I was surprised, for it was one of the few times he shared something of himself to me. Nothing was explained and nothing more was said. Now, especially with my father gone, when I enjoy the pleasure of the wind, I think of him, for it was something we had in common — the love of wind!

Where does the wind come from and where does it go? Even today, scientists are unable to accurately predict the answers to those questions. However, as Christians we know that the wind comes from God and He alone knows when and where it will stop.

"He causes the clouds to rise over the whole earth. He sends the lightning

with the rain and releases the wind from His storehouses."

Psalm 135:7

Stay Calm

Have you ever lost your temper and did something foolish, then greatly regretted it afterwards, wishing you had stayed calm and controlled your emotions? I know I have. I was born with auburn hair and I don't think that helped. I have a lock of hair in my childhood album to prove it.

They say a picture can speak volumes. Here is a picture of my twin brother and me as newborns. I am on the right, choking the life out of my brother. He was born first and I don't think I was too pleased about it.

The worst example I can remember of me losing my temper was when I was in Bible College. I had entered the lounge room to socialize, when the males there started teasing me that I hadn't yet kissed my boyfriend of several months. I was annoyed at first, but when the teasing continued, my annoyance turned into anger. I was being made fun of — yes, at Bible College even! I tried to pretend their teasing didn't bother me, but it did. They wouldn't let up. I should have walked away, but I didn't. I let my anger get the best of me. Disgusted and infuriated by now, I got up, looked at the guy who was teasing me the most and said, "Fine, I'll kiss you then!" And that is exactly what I did! I went up to him, put my hands on his shoulders and kissed him. Afterwards he looked at me dumbfounded and embarrassed. However, that was nothing compared to what I felt. I was horrified at what I had impulsively done. The first man I ever kissed was almost a stranger and much older than me. Most women have a special memory of their first kiss. Well, that was my memory and it wasn't special! I had lost my temper and acted foolishly.

The Bible says in Proverbs:

"Short-tempered people do foolish things."

Proverbs 14:17a

I sure wished I had read Proverbs 14 before I entered the lounge room that day. I know one thing, I will never forget what happened and the lesson I painfully learned. Feeling convicted, the man I kissed went to my boyfriend and apologized to him. With tears in his eyes, he then came to me to apologize. When my boyfriend later came to visit me, I was no longer angry, so I didn't get mad at him, even though I suspected it was him who told his friends. He was sure sheepish though. I guess Bible College students are not perfect. We were all learning.

A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted."

Proverbs 12:16

If you are feeling your temper rise, try to stay calm and walk away. Otherwise you will end up doing something as foolish as I did.

I think my mother should have named me "Anne Shirley" of "Anne of Green Gables".

I am sure glad for the Bible! Aren't you? It contains so much wisdom!

Give All Your Worries To God

"Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you."

1 Peter 5:7

When Matthew entered grade eight, we had just moved. He was initially very excited about the move. We had previously lived in a small town, but now we were living in a moderate-size city with more opportunities. However, in the small town where we used to live, he left behind his two best friends. Now, he had to make new friends and adjust to a new area. This proved to be very difficult for him because he was bullied in High School right from the start. This was the first time as a mother I experienced any of my children being bullied.

I was worried for him and every day after school we would go for long walks, so he could have a chance to talk to me privately about it. Then one day we were visiting a pet store. As I was being delightfully entertained by the cute bunnies, guinea pigs and hamsters, I noticed Matthew had disappeared. When I looked around, I saw him gazing at rats — yes, rats! Being somewhat a normal female and concerned about Matthew's new fixation, I went up to him, glanced disgustingly at the rats and told him that it was time to go. That's when it happened! He asked me if he could have a pet rat. I shook my head and emphatically said, "No!" Then he gave me that look. I felt my willpower weakening. I thought about the hard time he was having at school and gave in to his request. A few minutes later, we were walking out of the pet store with a cage, food, toys and a white and tan female rat. I felt very anxious and queasy, but Matthew was on cloud nine.

For a whole year, Matthew and that rat were inseparable. He would take the rat with us even on our walks by putting her in his pocket. The little rat's head would peak out of his pocket, seemingly enjoying the daily outing.

Matthew is also an avid reader, and when he would lay in bed at night to read, the rat would sit on his shoulder, watching the pages being flipped. It was like she was reading the words herself. To be honest that wouldn't surprise me. The rat was really smart!

Then a year later, the rat developed a cancerous tumour on one side of her head. It grew quickly, became so large that the rat was no longer able to walk. She was too unbalanced and blind in the one eye. Matthew was devastated! I felt terrible!

When the rat stopped eating, we knew that she would soon be dead. Matthew left for school forlorn and downcast.

That morning as I was sitting on the couch, I prayed to God for Matthew. I also questioned God. "Why would You let Matthew's rat die when he was struggling so hard in school?" That's when God spoke to me, "Lay hands on the rat and pray for Me to heal it." My first reaction was, "You gotta be kidding! You want me to lay hands on the rat?" As I continued to sit there for a while, I started to think more about Matthew and less of myself. I changed my attitude and decided to do it. I was thankful that nobody was around to see me. I went to the rat's cage, opened the door, laid one finger on it and prayed in a loud commanding voice, "In the Name of Jesus, be healed!" I figured that might help, since I didn't really have much faith that God would actually heal a rat! I thought maybe God was testing me or something. Anyways, nothing happened, so I took off, feeling silly and promising myself that I would never tell a living soul what I had just done.

When Matthew came home, he immediately went to see his rat. He then came out of his room with some hope to tell me that it looked to him as if the tumor had shrunk a bit. I went in to see and thought, "Yeah, maybe", but I didn't want Matthew's hopes up, so I didn't make a big deal about it. The next morning, it was evident to both of us that the tumor was indeed shrinking, for it was now half the size! Within a few days, the tumor was completely gone. The rat was now eating and playing as usual. Matthew was thrilled and so was I!

Here is a picture of Matthew at that time with the rat's cage in the background. I had pictures of the rat but lost them when my hard drive died.

If God cares enough to heal a rat, just how much more does God care for each of us! Have faith people! God does care!

Two Are Better Than One

As I was watching these two ducks swim in the neighbourhood lake, I noticed that they were inseparable. They never swam apart. They were always together.

The Bible tells us it is beneficial to have a close intimate friend that also loves God because two people helping each other is better than trying to live life alone. Then if one person falls, the other one will be there to reach out his/her hand to bring you gently back to your feet again.

"Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.

If one person falls, the other can reach out and help.

But someone who falls alone is in real trouble."

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

If you do not have a friend that you can rely on and trust, pray to God for one and He will answer your prayers, for this is the will of God. However, do not forget, it is a two-way street. You must have the desire to be a friend as well.

There is nothing sweeter and more precious than having an earthly friend. A close friend is truly a gift from God. It is one of God's ways of showing His love and friendship to you!

Escape The Devil's Trap

Just the other day, I excitedly spotted the largest spider I have ever seen on my deck. I had to have a picture taken of it. (If you want to get a closer look, click on the picture. You will actually be able to see the individual hairs on this spider.)

All spiders are predators. They mostly catch their prey by spinning sticky webs to trap them. The Bible says that Satan is like that as well. He sets traps for us and can hold us captive to do whatever he wills. Some of the common traps today are pornography, sexual immorality, drug and alcohol addictions, unforgiveness, and anger.

"Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil's trap.

For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants."

2 Timothy 2:26

Hopefully all those who have been trapped by Satan will soon come to their senses because God has provided a way of escape.

"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

Come near to God and and He will come near to you."

James 4:7-8a

If we humbly and earnestly give ourselves to God and come close to Him, God will come close to you. You will then have the strength to resist the devil and his temptations. The devil will flee from you because you are now in the almighty presence of God.

How do we come close to God? Well, first you must have the heart's desire. Secondly, you need to set aside time each day to read God's Word and pray. Thirdly, find a loving and supportive Church that believes the Bible is the true inspired Word of God, and attend regularly. Fourthly, ask God for a Christian friend that you can confide in, and have his/her encouragement and prayer support.

I praise God that there will come a time when God will finally cast Satan into the lake of fire, never to tempt another human soul and prey on them again. In the meantime, we need to submissively give our hearts to God, fervently desiring to stay close to Him.

Closer Than A Brother

Barney and Barlow are brothers, obviously not biological, but by adoption. After Barney, the Sheltie, goes for a run every morning with Tim and Matthew, I have to wash his feet and then put him in his cage until his feet dry off. We have wooden floors throughout our house. Whenever Barney is in the cage, Barlow will not leave his side for anything! Even the squeaky noise of his stuffed toy duck will not persuade him to desert his brother. Barlow will stay right by the door of Barney's cage until Barney is finally let out. Now that is an prime example of what being a brother is all about!

How many times do friends abandon us when we are sick, depressed, or grieving and no longer fun to be around — or in other words caged by the circumstances of life? Sometimes even people we considered to be our closest friends begin to avoid us. They are uncomfortable and uneasy, not sure what to say or do. The phone calls, visits, and invitations cease. When we most need the comfort and security of friends, they are not there. We feel all alone, but we're not!

God is right there beside you and He sticks closer than a brother.

"A man of too many friends comes to ruin. But there is a friend

 who sticks closer than a brother."

Proverbs 18:24

Next time when one of your friends are in need of desperate psychological comfort, don't run away. Do what Barlow does and show the love of God. Stay with them and be a friend. You don't have to say a word. You don't even have to understand. Just being there is enough!

The Finished Product

This week I decided to finally paint my dresser white to match my Victorian style bed. The dresser was originally black. I saw it in a furniture store off to the side in the clearance section. It was damaged and the price cheap. After a closer inspection, Tim and I came to the conclusion that it was repairable. In my mind I saw the finished product and bought it. Tim fixed it and now I just finished painting the fourth coat of white paint to cover up the original black color. I also went to a hardware store to buy new flowered ceramic drawer knobs. Then to give it a finishing touch I made a spray of flower arrangements to place above the mirror, matching the flowers on the knobs. I was able to create it from items I bought at the dollar store. It only cost me $10. The dresser now looks beautiful! I absolutely love it!

Here is a picture of the finished product:

It gives me such delight to make something beautiful out of something that was damaged and discarded. God is the same way. It gives Him great pleasure to work in each one of us by giving us the desire and the power to fulfill His perfect plan for each of our lives.

"For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose."

Phillippians 2:13

When we come to God, He doesn't focus on our weaknesses and faults. Instead, He sees the finished product! God can make something beautiful out of each one of us no matter how damaged or discarded we may feel.

Don't focus on past hurts and mistakes. Just give your heart and life to God and He will make something beautiful out of you!

May We Be Tentmakers

On warm summer days like today, I fondly remember my twin brother and I making tents out of old blankets, thin rope and clothes pegs. We would build the tent outside during the day, usually on our huge sun deck. Then we would sleep in it at the night. It was much cooler than sleeping in our house — and a whole lot more fun! I was never scared because I had my brother beside me and our Sheltie at our feet. Sometimes the tent would collapse on us, but in time we gained enough experience to build them with more stability.

Here is a picture of Tim and Matthew's tents that I bought one year for them when they were teenagers. When I would look out the kitchen window before bed to check on them, I would see their heads sticking out of their tents and hear them studying the constellations.

Paul was a tentmaker, even during the time he was preaching extensively the Word of God to others at home and in foreign countries.

"And because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them."

Acts 18:3

The Bible says that Paul worked hard and long hours as at tentmaker to earn enough money to support himself so that he wouldn't be a burden to others for finances. His desire was to see money given to the poor, sick and widowed.

"Surely you remember, brothers, our toil and hardship; 

we worked night and day in order not to be a burden

 to anyone while we preached

 the gospel of God to you."

1 Thessalonians 2:9

Paul was the Bible's first missionary. He was anointed of God and had a powerful ministry. He wasn't lazy, arrogant or demanding. Instead, he was hard-working, humble and selfless. I believe his ministry had such an impact on people's lives because of who he was and how he lived his life each day.

Many missionary-minded people today are using their professions to enter foreign countries. If they have an expertise that can be a benefit to the people, then they are more likely to be welcomed and their message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ be accepted.

May we all be tentmakers even in our homeland! Lets use our gifts and talents God has given us first to benefit society. Having just two able hands can do so much in witnessing for God by showing others your work ethics and integrity. Then when doors open to speak God's Word, people will listen.

The greatest pastor, evangelist or teacher is the one who gets up from a banqueting table to help clean up afterwards, shovel snow off a widow's driveway, or mow a sick neighbour's yard.

Caught In The Act

It is against the municipal by-law in the town in which I live to allow cats outdoors. However, there are times, very seldom though, that I might see a cat exploring the environment. This is one of those times. The cat sure looks guilty. This feline has been caught and I now have proof of his/her rebellion against rules. Cats certainly can be sneaky. I know. I have one and it isn't always easy to stop a cat from escaping the confines of a house, especially on warm sunny days when the sounds of nature are so enticing.

"If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth.

But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us

our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness."

1 John 1: 8-9

The truth is just like this cat we all have sinned and given into temptation at times. I know I have. I will tell you about one of those times.

In High School I was never tempted to skip a class unexcused. I am very competitive, (now you know where my sons get it from), and obtaining the highest grade point average that I can achieve has always been my goal in education. However, one time at Bible College, I gave into temptation and suffered the consequences. The goalie at the Bible College hockey team invited me to go on the teams' bus and attend one of his games. It just so happened the game took place during one of my classes. After going back and forth in my decision-making I finally decided to skip the class and go. I felt guilty the whole time. I kept thinking, "I sure hope this guy appreciates what I am doing for him." Anyways, the teacher found out, and in the next class period he announced that he will be marking for attendance. He looked right at me and said, "If anyone misses a class without excuse, that person will be dropped a letter grade." My head dropped and I became sick to my stomach. I couldn't believe it: the first time I skip a class, I get caught and punished for it.

When it came time to graduate I ended up with the second highest grade point average in my class. I was extremely close to being the highest. While the top student was giving his speech at the graduation ceremonies, the thought that dominated my mind was, "How could I have been so foolish to give into temptation?" I don't think the young goalie ever knew the sacrifice I made to please him.

The good news is that when we admit to God the sins we have committed, He will always have the heart's desire to forgive us and set us free from condemnation and guilt. God has the power to purify us and give us a greater desire for righteousness.

With Joyful Songs

Whenever any of my sons took high school biology (and they all did), I would get so excited when it came time for them to do their bug project. They had to collect a variety of insects from outdoors. My sons hated to do this, but I loved it! Insects fascinate me! I guess I am not your typical female. It was me who went outdoors every day eagerly looking for bugs to pin onto each of my sons' projects, with the unenthusiastic son dragging behind. Now you know why many of my blogs have pictures of insects.

This one is obviously a grasshopper. I thought it had an interesting pattern of colouring.

Male grasshoppers are the ones that sing by rubbing the pegs on their hind legs against their forewings or abdomen to make a musical sound. They sing to attract females. I love to hear them in the quiet of the night on summer days when the window is left open. I always wondered if they are singing to their Creator.

The Bible says, God rejoices over us with joyful songs! I believe God made the grasshoppers and crickets to sing for us on summer days as His way of showing His joy and delight in creating us!

"For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty Saviour.

He will take delight in you with gladness. With His love, He will

calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs."

Zephaniah 3:17

Next time you hear those beautiful soothing sounds of nature, remind yourself that it is God rejoicing over you!

Just God And Me

A few nights ago when I went for my evening walk, the thunder and lightning had ceased. The rains had finally stopped, so I eagerly gathered my two dogs and went out the front door with my camera in hand. It is amazing how God speaks to you through His creation. As I was half-way through my walk, pondering many things, I felt compelled to look up. I am sure glad I did for I beheld the majesty of God. There was a break in the dark clouds and the evening rays of sunshine had broken through.

"He is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, 

like the brightness after rain that brings the grass from the earth."

2 Samuel 23;4

I couldn't help but think how many times have I been so busy and my mind so cluttered with thoughts that I missed out on God wanting to reveal Himself to me. My walks now have become precious moments where I can be alone with God, so He can share His thoughts.

Take time each day to enjoy God! He wants so much to bless you with His presence!

My dog, Barney, the Sheltie, is calm and easy to take a picture of; but Barlow, the Yorkie, is a different story. He is very hyper and can't sit still long enough for a picture to be taken. As a result, the picture is only of Barney and me. I can be like Barney and sometimes I can be like Barlow. I can get so busy that if God wanted to take a picture of me, He couldn't, and other times I sit quietly at His feet and listen. I hope in the future I become less active and give more of my time to God, when I am quiet and still.

Just Barney and me. Barlow is chasing dragonflies right now.

It is God's earnest desire to have times when it is just you and Him!

The Power Of The Tongue

The Prairies have a large variety of mushrooms and some of them are huge! On my walk the other day, I took some pictures of these mushrooms that are the size of luncheon plates.

I placed my foot beside this mushroom so you could see just how large it was.

The one above actually had an intricate design on top.

The mushrooms below had a frilly edge and an angelic appearance. (Ok, maybe I am getting a little carried away here with my descriptions.)

I don't know the names for these types of mushrooms or if they are edible or poisonous. However, I do know I am not going to eat one and find out.

As most know, some mushrooms can be fatal if digested while others are edible providing large amounts of nutrients for the human body. Some believe eating the non-poisonous mushrooms regularly can help the fight against cancer because they contain so many nutritional health benefits.

The tongue is like that. The Bible says the tongue has the power to give life or death.

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue."

Proverbs 8:21

With the tongue, we can cruelly criticize, humiliate, control, manipulate, speak uncaring words, lie, and tempt others to do evil. These vile practices of the tongue can cause deep long-lasting hurt and insecurities which may eventually lead people to addictions, crime, depression, and suicide.

On the other hand, the tongue can also encourage, tell the truth, give sincere compliments, speak lovingly, offer help, show concern, and give praise to our Heavenly Father. Our words and how we say them can make a huge difference in our marriage, in our relationships, in raising children, in witnessing to others about Jesus, and in aiding the healing process of the physically and mentally ill.

Just like eating a mushroom can either cause sickness and death, or provide great nutritional health benefits, the tongue can do the same. The tongue can either tear down and destroy, or build up and give vitality.

When I was eighteen years old, a young man, in whom I was interested, came to visit me one Friday afternoon at Bible college. We stood outside of the dorms and chatted in the lightly falling rain. I was getting a bit wet, but I didn't care. I was just excited to be with him, that is until he looked at my hair and asked with unabashed confidence, "How often do you wash your hair?" Being a normal self-conscious teenager, I was completely horrified and humiliated at the young man's insinuation. Trying not to give him the satisfaction of showing my inner feelings and true reaction, I calmly spoke and replied, "I usually wash it every day, but sometimes I may skip a day if I am studying for exams. Right now my hair is wet from the rain." Nothing more was said, but inside I was angry and hurt. His comment was not easily forgotten.

When my father later came to pick me up that night to take me home for the weekend, I asked my mother if I could have my hair cut Saturday. An appointment was made and foolishly I told the hairdresser to cut my hair extremely short and sassy-looking. I was hoping this new style would ease my hurt and make my insecurity go away. Instead it made it worse. My first thought after the cut was, "I look like a boy!" and instantly regretted what I had impulsively done.

Then Sunday night came for me to head back to the college. I was so embarrassed and ashamed at what I had done. "How could I allow someone's comment make me do something I would never have initially done?" I told a few people in confidence when I arrived as to what happened, but my hair cut and the reason for it spread through the student body like wildfire, making the whole situation even worse. Then one young man changed everything. He came up to me Monday morning during my first class and genuinely told me he liked my hair cut. He told me I looked really cute. His thoughtful and sweet comment healed my hurt and gave me back my self-esteem. Oh how words can hurt and oh how words can heal.

I am sure the first young man didn't mean to be rude and purposefully hurt me. He just didn't think before he spoke like all of us at some time or another. May we all try harder to control our tongue, and use it only to give delight and be a blessing to others.

No More Death

On one of my daily walks recently, I noticed a beautiful dragonfly laying on the sidewalk in perfect condition, except for a "minor" fact: it was dead. I took a picture of it as it is very hard to take a picture of dragonflies when  they travel so fast. You hardly ever find them still, unless of course they are no longer alive. I looked on the internet and discovered that the life span of a dragonfly is only a month. I guess the month was up for this one.

The death of this dragonfly is a reminder that all living things will eventually come to an end, but the Bible says in Heaven there will be no more death.

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death, 

or sorrow, or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever."

Revelations 21:4

Once we are in Heaven, all pain and sadness will cease to exist. You will no longer experience the grief of losing a loved one or saying good-bye to those you love. Even the memory of such sorrowful things that you experienced here on earth will be gone forever. Only gladness, pleasure and peace of mind will dominate your whole being and all those around you.

"In My Father's house are many rooms: if it were not so, 

I would have told you.

 I am going there to prepare a place for you."

John 14:2

And just to think, God is excitedly preparing a place for each one of His children! He waits anxiously expecting as we wait eagerly to meet Him.

I Died For You

When I went for my walk to one of the beautiful parks in town, I came across a mother duck and her sweet babies. I had the dogs with me, so the mother duck became frightened for her children. She called to her ducklings and they followed her into the thick bulrushes to hide. Then she came out of the bulrushes and started making noises to distract the dogs from finding her precious babies. My dogs are always on the leash, so she didn't have to worry, but she obviously didn't know that. The mother duck wasn't taking any chances.

The Bible says God acts the same protective way to His children and that is what we are when we accept Jesus into our hearts. We become His precious sons and daughters.

"He will cover you with His feathers. He will shelter you with His wings.

 His faithful promises are your armour and protection."

Psalm 91:4

The mother duck has safely hidden her babies and is now swimming away from them. Just like this mother duck was willing to die for her babies, God died for us.

"But God showed His great love for us by sending Christ to die for us

 while we were still sinners."

Romans 5:8

The mother duck fears for her ducklings. Because of the sacrifice God made for us, we can now live in a place where there will be no fear of anyone being able to snatch you from His loving hands. You will be forever protected! The evil one will no longer be a threat.

"I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; 

no one will snatch them out of my hand."

John 10:29

God Has A Plan

It is Brian's 50th birthday today! I thought I would share some of my favourite pictures of him for you to see that God had and still does have a plan for his life, just as He has for yours.

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the lord, 'plans to prosper you

 and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'"

Jeremiah 29:11

Brian as a toddler on his tricycle with a toy gun in his hand. (He's a true American.)

Brian enjoying being catered to after he broke his leg playing soccer.

Brian at his grade twelve graduation. I always thought it was sweet he took his sister. Brian was nominated as valedictorian.

Brian on his wedding day with his father and mother.

Brian always tells me that the day he was born God then went to work and created me to be his future wife. Nine months later I was born. We are exactly nine months apart.

Brian holding one of our sons, Chris. All of our four sons weighed the same when they were born: eight and a half pounds.

"Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from Him."

Psalm 127:3

Brian, me and our four sons at Christmas. (From left to right: Chris, Tim, Daniel and Matthew.)

God's prosperous plans for each one of us give us hope and a future!

In Every Situation

Last night while I was washing a few dishes and cleaning the inside of a glass, the glass broke and cut the back of my hand. I know what you are thinking: "Not again! You just cut yourself last week." My husband thought the same thing and told me that he is going to have to quit his job just to take care of me. I had to pause and think about that for a moment. No, I didn't do this on purpose.

Anyways, when I examined the cut, I forlornly realized that I needed stitches. As Brian was driving me to the medical clinic, I prayed and asked God to not have me wait hours at the clinic for a doctor to see me. When I entered the waiting room, I saw approximately 15 despondent people waiting. I instantly regretted the selfishness of my prayer. I went up to the receptionist holding a towel around my hand. When she asked what the problem was, I said, "I think I need stitches." I then lifted the towel and showed her the cut. She looked at me strangely as if to say, "You think so?" Then she got up and said, "The doctor will see you right away." I stood there frozen, looking at the shocked faces of the other patients. I just couldn't go in front of all those people, so I sat down with the rest of them, pretending I didn't hear. Then the receptionist came back and firmly said, "Follow me." I obeyed. What was I supposed to do? I really wished at the moment I could just become invisible — I should have prayed that request instead. However, once the door was closed, I felt better. I didn't have to see the dismal faces of all those waiting patients.

The young doctor came in soon and stitched up my hand. He was very kind and gentle until he told the nurse to give me a tetanus shot. I did not want a tetanus shot! I had one over ten years ago when I stepped on a rusty nail with my bare foot. The reaction was far worse that the injury. All my muscles painfully ached throughout the night. I couldn't sleep at all. I tried to sweetly talk the doctor out of it. He wouldn't have any of it. I got the tetanus shot. I prayed a second prayer, "God please don't let me react to this shot." As I left the room, I saw that the waiting area now held about 30 gloomy people. I wanted to be invisible again or say something enlightening. The only thought came to my mind was, "It really was a big boo-boo." I didn't think that was going to work, so I just hung my head down and quietly walked out, making visible the large bandage on my hand.

Well, as I write this blog, I am praising God for answered prayer. No, not for the first one, the second one. I had absolutely no side effects what so ever from the tetanus shot. My hand hurts and it is hard to type, but I am very thankful to God.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition,

with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."

Phillippians 4:6

Don't be timid to ask God for things. It is not God's will for us to be anxious about anything. The Bible says that in 'every' situation present your requests to Him. God will answer!

By Their Fruit You'll Know

My apple tree has produced fruit this year! I have about two dozen apples growing. I planted the tree two years ago when I moved to this new house and landscaped the yard. Now nobody will need to ask the question, "What type of tree is that?" They will automatically know by its fruit.

"Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing,

but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them.

Do people pick grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles?"

Matthew 7:16

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness,

goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control."

Galatians 5:22

If you are in the process of choosing a pastor, a spouse, a close friend, or a business partner, but you are uneasy and undecided, look at the fruit that their lives produce. The fruit of a godly person is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Of course, we all know that no one is perfect, but if you are seeing an abundance of other kinds of fruit like criticism, insensitivity, selfishness, greed, unloyalty, control, pride, prejudice, and anger, beware. You will not go wrong in making a decision if you look at their fruit, for an ungodly person will produce ungodly fruit and the godly person will produce godly fruit.

Not too long ago, my sons and I were visiting a local church in the area. While the Pastor was preaching his sermon, a young child started to cry. My focus was immediately on the Pastor to see if he was going to react in a negative way. He didn't. In fact, he showed no irritation at all to the interruption and continued to be speak in a relaxed tone of voice. He never even looked in the direction the noise was coming from, so as to not embarrass the mother. This occurred twice in the sermon, and the Pastor responded the same way both times. I don't remember much about the sermon that was preached that day, but I do remember the lesson he taught through his actions. It is not what we say, look like, or the position we hold, but how we act that reveal the content of our heart. The Bible says we will know people by their fruit. When you need to make an important decision such as whether or not you should trust someone, pray to God for revelation of that person's fruits.

My Wedding Anniversary

Today is my wedding anniversary and I can't help but fondly reminisce the day my husband, Brian, and I first met.

I was at Bible College on a warm, sunny day in early September. I was standing outside of the entrance to the college chatting casually with Brian's sister. She was friendly and easy to talk to. Then Brian drove up in his green pickup truck to take his sister and another female student to the island with him for the weekend so they could all visit with their families. When he saw me standing by his sister, he assumed it was me that he was taking along on the trip. He excitedly got out of his truck and leaped like a gymnast into his truck's box. My first thought was, "Does he normally do that?" He then took his sister's suitcase and when he looked at me again, he realized to his disappointment that I didn't have one. I guess he didn't notice the other girl standing there with a suitcase in her hand. I then said my good-byes and left. Brian later grilled his sister with questions about me

I had just ended my relationship with my boyfriend of six months, so I wasn't interested in dating anyone at that time.

The following week, on Wednesday night, Brian came up to visit and stay for chapel. After the service in the foyer, I noticed a number of girls had surrounded him, trying to gain his affection. I soon paid no more attention and started thinking about heading back to the dorms. I was really in no mood to socialize. Then Brian's sister grabbed a hold of my arm and told me she wanted to introduce me to her brother. I shook my head and politely said, "No, I don't think so." Ignoring my reluctance, she kept hold of my arm and proceeded to lead me in Brian's direction. I was embarrassed at first until I noticed Brian's smile and fixed eyes upon me. From that moment on, Brian's focus was on me and me alone. Most of the girls had scattered, except for one determined girl. She hung around. Brian and I talked for a while, and then he invited me to go with him to McDonalds, a common place for Bible College students to go after chapel. I agreed. Who can resist McDonald's french fries when you are feeling depressed? I remember sitting across from him, both of us eating french fries and talking casually. Then that one determined girl came up and sat right next to him. Being insecure at the time and hesitant to start another relationship so soon, I said to myself, "If he pays much attention to her, I will never agree to go out with him again". To my surprise, he ignored her completely. She finally got the message and left. After that day, my heart started to heal and I began to trust Brian's loyalty and goodness. He is a man of integrity and his love is true and unwavering.

"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."

Psalm 147:3

God is good and He does heal the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

It will also be in September, the same month we met, that we will be holidaying in Prince Edward Island!

A Refuge From The Storm

Having you ever seen seagulls so far inland and wonder why they were there and not at sea? Well, I have been told they usually come inland to take shelter from a storm at sea. Then a thought came to my mind: that is what God is to us — a refuge from the storm.

Yesterday, I rolled down the window of my vehicle and asked my son, Matthew, to take this picture of a seagull in a store parking lot.

"For You have been a defense for the helpless,

a defense for the needy in his distress,

a refuge from the storm,

a shade from the heat."

Isaiah 25:4

Therefore, if there is a storm in you life, take refuge in the loving arms of your Heavenly Father. Read His treasured Word and pray, opening up your heart to Him in the quiet times of your day. Don't allow the storm to endanger you or destroy the joy in your life.

We saw even more seagulls in another parking lot. They seem so relaxed and content. They know they are safe.

When we go to God in times of trouble, we too can feel God's peace, and know we are safe in His love and His care for us.

Why Worry?

As I went for a walk yesterday, I took some pictures of beautiful flowers I saw growing, not in people's cultivated yards, but on land unowned — cared for by God Himself.

"And why worry about your clothes?

Look at the lilies and how they grow.

They do not work or make their clothing,

yet Solomon in all his glory

was not dressed as beautifully as they are.

And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers 

that are here today and gone tomorrow,

won't He surely care for you?

You have so little faith!"

Matthew 6:28-30

Have faith: as God's children, we do not need to worry because God will surely care for you as He cares for the lilies of the field. And you are so much more loved and valuable to God than flowers!

I was shocked to see a rose bush growing near a trail with natural growth of trees and plants all around.

"Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you."

1 Peter 5:7

When you gaze upon a beautiful flower this summer, particularly one in God's natural environment, be reminded of God's extravagant care for you and do not give into worrisome thinking. Anything that concerns you, concerns God. He has the desire and ability to take care of it all. Trust Him.

God's Transforming Power

"Don't copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God

 transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.

 Then you will learn to know God's will for you, 

which is good and pleasing and perfect."

Romans 12:2

The profound change in form of a caterpillar to a pupa and the pupa to an adult butterfly has fascinated mankind for centuries. It is called metamorphism, which means rebirth, conversion or transformation.

This is a picture that was taken recently of one of the Small White Butterflies that are abundant here at this time of year. There are many other different varieties as well, but this type is the most common.

Even though the different changes of a butterfly are truly amazing, the most marvelous change occurs when a person comes to know Jesus and gives his/her life to Him. I have seen this transformation so many times in people and it always brings tears to my eyes when I hear their testimonies.

May we all have a greater desire to see these changes more and to reach out and touch the lives of those who do not know God — who are lonely, depressed, hurting, angry, rebellious and longing for love that only God can fulfill.

May we not be comfortable in our own churches with little desire for the lost souls that are all around us.

I Will Give You Rest

"My Presence will go with you and I will give you rest."

Exodus 33:14

God is fulfilling this verse! My husband works long hours and needs a rest. He never takes holidays, ever! I have always taken my sons when they were younger on day trips in the summer time. Brian and I also need to spend time together, since his job takes him away from home so much. I will confess I don't find this always easy to deal with. The loneliness can be overwhelming at times.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer

and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,

will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Phillippians 4:6-7

God has answered my prayers too! I am so excited to announce that a flight has been booked to Prince Edward Island in September for a week. Brian and I will be staying in a Victorian style country inn called Kindred Spirits. It is located on six acres right beside the famed Anne of Green Gables Home. I have always wanted to do this. It is a dream come true. I have never had a desire to go to Hawaii or Mexico, or on an Alaskan cruise. I am a cabin-in-the-woods type of a gal. However, I know I will love the friendly and unhurried atmosphere, and of course the ocean scenery of PEI. And I get to see the Anne of Green Gables Home! What woman in the world doesn't love those novels?! My sons even enjoyed reading them, especially Chris. He must be a romantic at heart.

I could hardly sleep last night thinking about it all. My oldest son, Daniel, who has travelled extensively, helped me choose the best flight and pick a well-reviewed place to stay in. Kindred Spirits also offers a warm breakfast every morning, each day being different. The reviews say the food is excellent. I love breakfast. It is my favorite meal of the day. Oh, I am so excited! I have to stop writing about it or I won't sleep again tonight. Maybe I will start reading the books again and forget about sleeping. That's a better idea. Who needs sleep anyways?

God is good!

Thunder And Lightning

This summer we have had thunder and lightning storms almost every night. They seldom last long, but the thunder is fulminating and, if the lightning strikes close, the thunder will actually rattle our house. I have come to the conclusion that there are no thunder and lightning storms like those on the prairies.

The Bible compares the coming return of Jesus to earth to lightning which flashes and lights up the sky from one end to the other.

"For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west,

so will be the coming of the Son of Man."

Matthew 24:27

"For the Son of Man in His day will be like the lightning,

which flashes and lights up the sky from one end to the other."

Luke 17:24

Be assured people that that day will come and is very near. Jesus will come again to gather all His children — those that have already died and those that are still alive — to be with Him forever.

Whenever I see the lightning and hear the thunder, I am reminded of the Second Coming of Christ. I can't wait!

In the morning after a tumultuous night, the sky is usually blue and the sun shines brightly through my bedroom window. I turn my head and look out, and a peace envelopes me.

I know this is only a tiny fraction of what we will feel when we see Jesus riding gallantly on a white horse, and hear the loud commanding sound of a trumpet and His angels rejoicing in beautiful song.

Crazy Sunday Morning

Have you ever had one of those Sunday mornings when everything goes wrong? It happened yesterday to us. My sons and I were all ready to go to church when I went outside to start the vehicle. Our driveway is slanted uphill, so when I opened the driver's door, it started to close again because of the gravity of the incline. When I tried to enter the vehicle, the door was partly in my way. Unfortunately my reactions were slow that morning, so I ended up banging and slicing my cheek open on the edge of the door. As blood dripped down my cheek and I felt the sting of the cut, I looked in the rearview mirror to check the damage. At this time, two of my sons were now entering the vehicle. They took one wide-eyed look at me and didn't object when I said, "I think I better stay home."

As I was going back into the house, Chris came out. I told him he would have to drive to church. I didn't have to explain, for the reason was obvious. He just gave me a strange look and shook his head. Now this is where it gets really weird. While I was in the house with an ice-pack on my cheek to try and get the swelling down, Chris entered the house holding his hand. Frustrated, he said, "Ow! I slammed the driver's door on my finger. Yes, the same door that bruised and cut my cheek. Chris's finger was bleeding and bruised also. He was in pain — like mother, like son. Then shortly afterwards, his other brothers entered the house and one of them said, "I don't think we are supposed to go to Church this morning. Your vehicle is completely out of gas and we don't have time now to get any. I don't even think there is enough gas in the tank to get to a gas station." Then I remembered. The gas light went on yesterday while I was driving, but I had to continue to drive for half an hour before I could pull off at a gas station. When I arrived at one, all the stalls were taken. I waited and waited, but when one was finally free, a young man drove up and took my spot just as I was maneuvering my vehicle to back into it. I was so annoyed that I decided to go straight home and come back later on in the day to fill up with gas. I guess I don't have to say, "I forgot!"

As a result, we all stayed home from church. Hopefully, I will learn not to get so annoyed when someone is unthoughtful and inconsiderate. I guess I didn't have to go to church yesterday for God to teach me a valuable lesson and be reminded of this Scripture verse.

"Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves

 with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 

Make allowance for each other's faults,

and forgive anyone who offends you."

Colossians 3:12-13

I really should have been patient and forgiving, and waited until another stall opened up. Instead, I got angry and didn't care if I had gas or not.

I am glad to report though that later on in the day my vehicle did make it to get to the gas station. However, I brought this just in case I ran out and had to walk to the station to fill it.

I really don't know why my husband leaves me unattended for so long. He is really fussy about never letting the gas tank get down that low. Maybe one day I will finally learn to fill the tank sooner and not keep putting it off — another lesson I need to learn.