Friday, November 27, 2009

IN THE STILLNESS...YOU ARE THERE!

It's the day after Thanksgiving here in Chicago. Yesterday our day was filled with lots of family, lots of food, and lots of fun. We cooked, we laughed, we ate, we watched old family slides and we spent time together. The house was full of people laughing, dogs barking and many people talking. There was noise...and it was good.

Today...it is quiet. Family members have went home, children are still sleeping, dogs are on a walk...it is quiet...and it is good.

I am reminded in these moments that in the stillness...God is there.

Stillness is peaceful...stillness is needed...and today...stillness is temporary. In a few moments...dogs will return...children will awake...but I can still have stillness.

Throughout a busy and loud day, we can still find stillness with God. He never moves, and He never becomes too busy.

Take a little time today and let Him say to you "Be still and know that I am God".

Gotta go...the dogs just returned.

Sunday, November 22, 2009

THE REAL KING

Last night was a memorable night for Alex. An avid sports fan, he had the chance to be a part of the Cavs game last night. He was chosen to go on the court and make a tunnel for the players. I wasn't able to go, but I can visualize how this went down.

The children form a tunnel anticipating the arrival of some of sports greatest athletes...Lebron James and Shaquille O'Neal. Music is playing and fans are cheering as the athletes run through the tunnel "high fiving" young boys with a dream of being on the same court someday. I can't imagain the view from where the boys were. Standing no more then five feet tall...and seeing uniformed players run past you standing almost two feet above their shoulders. They are focused on the game ahead and probably not on the young boys with dreams in their eyes. They "high five" each star strucked young boy and prepare to battle with the opposing team.

Alex then told me how they were allowed to sit on the side of the court for a short time. He said Lebron sat on the bench and they caught his attention when they pretended to "bow down" to him. Lebron laughed and for a short moment...there was a bond.

Can I just stop and say that I am happy that Alex had this experience. I do not know much about Lebron...but I do know that he loves kids. I know that he also has a job to do...win the game. Am I upset that Alex and his buddies were "bowing down" to Lebron? No! I know Alex's heart...I know they were not truly worshipping Lebron.
It was all in fun and jest. Thanks Lebron for making this evening special for a young boy who loves the game.

Now my real point....

Lebron is sometimes known as "KING JAMES" here in Cleveland. Let's compare the king to the king.

Alex was thrilled to be able to touch the hand of Lebron last night. Honestly...I would love to shake his hand as well and meet the talented man...but...I yearn to touch the hands of Jesus more. I am reminded of what power came to people in the scriptures when they were able to just touch the "cloak" of Jesus. I also know the power that comes when Jesus "touches me" with His love...His mercy...His grace.

Bowing down....there will be a day when we will all bend out knee to Jesus. I realize that I need to "bow" before Him now...and everyday.

So...who is your King...mine is off the court.

Monday, November 16, 2009

SIXTEEN THINGS I LOVE ABOUT ALLY!


In honor of Ally's birthday here are 16 things that I love about her:

1) Love that you love fashion and watching Project Runway with me..."Carry on"
2) Love that you are creative
3) Love that you have a Sensitive spirit
4) Love that you are 16 and have still saved that first kiss
5) Love that you have a childlike spirit
6) Love that you gave your heart to Jesus at a young age
7) Love that on your Christmas list last year was a bible
8) Love that I can trust you when you shop that you will always pick out modest clothing
9) Love that you still play the violin
10)Love that you will ask my opinion on whether or not an outfit is appropriate
11)Love that you will hang out with us on a friday or saturday night
12)Love that you enjoy spending time with your older sister
13)Love your decorating advice
14)Love that you sometimes still call me mommy
15)Love that you smile often
16)Just love you for who you are!!

Happy Sweet Sixteen!!!

Sunday, November 15, 2009

HIS WORD IS LIKE WATER!!!

This morning is a time when I truly needed to hear from God. I needed Him to take away pain...I needed Him to be the mighty comforter...I needed Him to be the Abba father, the one who is sufficient.

I went to grab my Bible and it wasn't where it usually is...so I grabbed my son's.

I asked God to reveal himself to me and guide me through His word. He led me to Isaiah 55. I do not cry easily...but I cried as I read His promises.

They are:

"Is anyone thirsty?...come and drink

"Come to me...listen and you will find life.

"I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David"

Why? Because I have made you glorious"

He reminded me that"
His thoughts are not my thoughts...His ways are HIGHER than the earth.

Thank you God!


Comfort us today!