Author: Paula

This Little Light of Mine

Posted on by Paula
This Little Light of Mine
This Little Light of Mine

My life has been a blur lately. I ran out of energy really early one night and decided to lie down. It was just me and God, so the house was really quiet.

I really needed to spend time at His feet. It was one of those rare occasions when I didn’t have a lot of words to say other than, “I can’t figure this out. I need your help.”

I sat aside my to do list. I just needed to bask in His love and let Him breathe life into my tired body and mind. I longed for Him to speak to my heart.

I was lying there waiting for a profound message from the One who has all the answers, when out of nowhere, I heard the little song playing through my mind. “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine. This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine. Let it shine. Let it shine all the time.” The simple song continues with the phrases, “Hide it under a bushel. No! I’m gonna let it shine…. Won’t let Satan blow it out. I’m gonna let it shine…. Let it shine ‘til Jesus comes… I’m gonna let it shine…. Let it shine all the time.”

To be reminded of this song from my childhood seemed a bit strange, but as the week wore on, I realized this simple childhood song was a pretty profound message. It didn’t simplify my long to do list, but it did help me remember there is something more important than marking off the tasks or even making sure I finish the entire list.

The way I respond under the pressures and difficulties I face is what really matters. Do I let the light of Jesus shine through me “all the time?”

I’m sad to say that my light does some flickering at times. I become tired or get too focused on getting through that to do list and I lose sight of what really matters. I get defensive, I snap, I complain, I become self-centered. There are even times that I have thought of throwing in the towel when the task before me seems impossible. I don’t always have the same attitude, response or love that Jesus has. I forget my purpose in Jesus.

God created me for His glory. My purpose is to shine so that the world can see how awesome God is. He is a God of power, transformation, hope and peace. His light expels the darkness of the world and is meant to shine as a beacon that guides us to our eternal home.

In Matthew 5:13-16, Jesus tells his followers that they are salt and light. Like salt being used to flavor and preserve, we are to help the world around us taste and see that the Lord is good. We are to preserve the things Jesus taught us and proclaim the message of the Gospel.

As the Gospel transforms us to be more like Jesus, His light burns brighter in us. The power of the Gospel is able to set us free from anger, addiction, hopelessness, despair and self-centeredness. With Jesus we have victory over the worst sin we can imagine. We cannot save ourselves, but what is impossible with men is possible with God!

As we submit our lives to the Lord, the Holy Spirit enables us to love with the unconditional love of Jesus. He equips us to share God’s message of love, salvation and hope not just through words but also through our actions.

As we let God have His way in our lives and are obedient to him in even the tiny day-to day things, others will notice. They will see God work in us and through us in amazing ways and will see things happen that only God could do.

We shine our lights not to bring attention to ourselves but to bring attention to Jesus, the Light of the world. The more we surrender to Him, the brighter our lights shine so that the world can see our good works and give glory to our Father who is in heaven.

So, whatever is on your to do list and no matter what you encounter, let your light shine. Don’t hide it under a bushel. Don’t let Satan blow it out. Let it shine ‘til Jesus comes! Be the salt and light that Jesus calls you to be and let your light shine and bring glory to God.

“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” ~Jesus, Matthew 5:13-16

Under the Shadow of His Wings

Under the Shadow of His Wings

Posted on by Paula

 

Under the Shadow of His Wings
Under the Shadow of His Wings

My mind is more cluttered than usual right now, and I’m tired. I had tried to write my Monday morning blog this week, but I had too many thoughts to untangle to be able to focus on one subject. I came home to an empty house last night and had the perfect opportunity to focus and write, but my mind was overloaded and my body was tired.

I rested on my bed and stared at the ceiling; it was dirty but the least messy place to look at. I thought about and prayed for the people I know who are hurting. I thought about my busy life and prayed again for answers on how to find better balance. The only answer impressed upon my heart was that I needed to let it all go and rest. As I prayed, I let myself go back to a place I found years ago. Once again, I found myself under the shadow of His wings.

It was July 4, 2007. I was very upset that night. The tears flowed, and I earnestly prayed for God to show me something beautiful.

The vision I saw was so real I could feel it. I found myself standing with a wall of clear, glittery water to my left and another on my right. It was as if God was parting a sea for me. There was at my feet and seashells scattered around me. He even laid a starfish down in my little haven. Rose-like flowers in hues ranging from carnation pink to red-violet carpeted the ground both ahead of me and behind me. They seemed to clear a path for me as I moved. The sky directly above me was the most perfect bright blue summer sky dotted with fluffy white clouds, but there were also sparkly stars mixed in. Behind me, was a night sky with thousands of twinkling stars. Ahead me, was a beautiful sunset (or maybe a sunrise) with pinks, purples, orange and a tinge of yellow. Coming up over both walls of water, He sheltered me with His soft, white wings.

I could feel an unexplainable peace, the most wonderful peace I have ever known as I stood sheltered under the shadow of His wings. To this day, I can still remember how that peace felt and can feel it even now as I think about it.

God knows me intimately; the picture He gave me in my mind was the most perfect place for me. That moment in prayer was one of the most precious moments in my entire life. It was just God and me as He hid me under the shadow of His wings.

I wanted so badly to draw or paint that picture, but it wasn’t until June of 2009 that I tried. For the first time ever, I attempted to paint with watercolor pencils. I had no clue what I was doing. But, as I sat on a balcony overlooking the ocean at Daytona Beach, listened to my praise & worship music, I found painting with God to be very therapeutic.

I remember talking with God about the conch shell. I had no idea how to paint one and didn’t have one to look at. So, I asked God to take my hand & help me paint it. I was pleased with the way it turned out and also pleased with the sky. I had no idea how to paint, night, day and dusk or dawn all in the same picture, but it turned out great! My only disappointment was that His wings did not turn out white like I had pictured them; I just didn’t know how to use those pencils.

My first attempt at painting where I stood "Under the Shadow of His Wings."
My first attempt at painting where I stood “Under the Shadow of His Wings” (Watercolor Pencils on Paper)

Over a year later, on November 22, 2010. I decided to paint “Under the Shadow of His Wings” on canvas with acrylics. I need to sort some things out with God. So, I sat in my little sanctuary on my sunporch and prayed, asking Him to cleanse me and purify me and help me surrender all to Him and live a life that glorifies Him.

As I prayed, I was led to first paint words that named all the things that were troubling me. I didn’t realize how much was on my heart until the Holy Spirit opened my eyes to it all. I filled the entire canvas. I recorded all of those troubles in my journal while the paint was drying. I wanted to go back later to see all the things that God took care of.

Next, it was time to bury all of those problems under the shadow of His wings. Worship music played in the background as again, I asked God to take my hand and help me paint the beautiful picture He had given me. I found my time with God to be a time of healing as I painted the beautiful picture over my troubles I had listed.

Before I even finished the painting, God started working on some of the areas that I had written down, and today as I read over those 34 struggles I recorded, I am wowed. After giving those things to God, He has been working on every single one of them. In fact, He has totally taken care of most of those problems. For the few areas of trouble that linger, He continues to walk beside me and teach me how to persevere. He is an amazing God!

Under the Shadow of His Wings
My 2nd painting of “Under the Shadow of His Wings” (Acrylic on Canvas)

On July 8, 2013 I was walking and praying along the ocean shore again. I was going through a very difficult season of life with new challenges and struggles. It was a beautiful day, and I had never seen the water so clear. It was so clear that in the distance that from the shore, I could see a sand dollar 2 ½- 3 feet down below the surface.

The waves were huge, and as I was marveling about how tall they were, I noticed I could see inside the waves. The way the late afternoon sun shined through the waves was absolutely beautiful! I stood there mesmerized for the longest time.

Then it hit me; the glittery waves and their transparency looked like what I saw in the picture God gave me on July 4, six years earlier. It was like I had stepped back and could see myself again in that beautiful place. The waves in front of me were not as tall as me, whereas in the picture they tower way above me. But the beautiful, transparent color was so familiar, so peaceful like the place He gave me “Under the Shadow of His Wings.”

The glittery waves and their transparency looked like what I saw in the picture God gave me on July 4, six years earlier as I stood under the shadow of His wings.
The glittery waves and their transparency looked like what I saw in the picture God gave me on July 4, six years earlier as I stood under the shadow of His wings.

I woke up this morning, and my thoughts are still cluttered. There are still problems to be solved. However, I am at peace after resting in His presence.

I am thankful for a loving God who has all the answers and knows exactly when and how to take care of everything that clutters my mind. I am grateful for His patience, His mercy and His grace. I am overwhelmed by the peace that He gives me when He hides me under the shadow of His wings.

Everybody Loves a Good Story

Posted on by Paula
Everybody loves a good story. These were some of my childhood favorites.
Everybody loves a good story. These were some of my childhood favorites.

Everybody loves a good story, and I have heard many over my lifetime. My mom started reading to me before I could even talk. She started me out on the Little Golden Books and Dr. Seuss. Later she read me chapter books such as “The Little House on the Prairie” series. I loved snuggling next to her and listening as she brought each story to life.

Her mom told me stories as well, although she rarely read to me from books. Instead, Grandma made up fictitious stories which always included my sister and me. We thought that was great!

When I was old enough to sit still, Mom and Dad sent me to Sunday school. I loved the way my teachers shared stories by sticking shepherds and fluffy sheep on flannelgraph boards.

My teachers also read stories to give us a break from our hard work in grade school. Our minds would take us on big adventures while we listened over milk and cookies.

When I got a little older, I was invited to slumber parties where friends told ghost stories that caused us to “sleep” with the lights on. I preferred the “Dumb Ronda” stories my friend’s older sister, Ronda, would tell us when she came home from her dates. She was funny.

Yes.  I’ve heard so many good stories  over the years told in many different ways, but the greatest story I’ve ever heard is God’s story. The story began thousands of years ago, but it never gets old. In fact, the story grows more fascinating and more meaningful each time I read it. It’s a true, action-packed love story about God’s pursuit for lost and hurting people.

The story begins with God simply speaking all of creation into existence with His words, “Let there be….” He created a man and a woman and placed them in a beautiful garden where they had everything they could ever desire. He even walked with them and talked with them! But then, they disobeyed the one rule He gave them, and their eyes were opened to their nakedness and sin. God punished them by banishing them from the garden. Yet He extended his grace by covering their nakedness with animal skins.

After that, the battle with sin raged on. The trouble with sin is that it separates us from God, our Creator who is holy and perfect.

Over and over in God’s story, His people would turn away from Him to worship idols and to indulge in self-gratification. They’d forget their need for God and try doing things their own way. Eventually, they would become miserable and cry out for God to save them. They’d vow to obey Him, and things would go well when they did, but then they’d go astray again.

The cycle of obedience with blessing and disobedience with punishment kept repeating. No one could fully obey God’s rules. So, God promised salvation through a Messiah. He vowed to give His people a new heart and to put His Spirit inside them so that they could follow His ways.

More than 700 years after that prophecy, a young virgin named Mary gave birth to Jesus, the promised Messiah. The Bible records story after story about Jesus’ wisdom, compassion and love. He healed the sick and gave sight to the blind. He fed 5000 people by blessing and dividing just five loaves of bread and two fish. He ate with the sinners and offered living water to those who were thirsty. “Follow me,” He said over and over again.

While Jesus lived here on earth, He was tempted with sin just as we are, but He never gave in to those temptations. He kept all the rules that we could never keep. And then, because we are sinners and because the penalty for sin is death and eternal separation from God and because God loves us, Jesus took our punishment for us.

Jesus was wrongly accused, ridiculed, mocked, spat upon, beaten and finally put to death on a cross. He deserved none of it, but, “God wants no one to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).  “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

God’s story doesn’t end with Jesus’ death on the cross. After three days, Jesus came back to life. He conquered sin, He conquered death, He made a way for us to have eternal life in heaven.

After His resurrection, Jesus instructed His followers, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you…” (Matthew 28:19-20). Then He returned to heaven to be with God the Father, and sent the Holy Spirit to live in those who believe.

The followers did as Jesus commanded, and thousands more believed and followed. They risked their lives when the religious leaders who didn’t believe tried to stop them. Some died because they refused to stop following and refused to stop sharing the truth.

The last story in the Bible is a vision about the future when Jesus will return and put an end to evil. Those who have believed and followed Him will find eternal life in heaven where there will be no more tears, pain or suffering. Those who have not chosen to believe and follow will suffer eternal torment and separation from God.

The Bible is a true story about God’s love for us, but the story doesn’t stop there. God continues to write his amazing love story today through you, me and all of the believers.

When Jesus touches us in a deep and personal way, we just can’t keep from sharing it with others. We want everyone to know how awesome He is and to find the salvation, comfort, healing, joy and peace that we have in Him. We understand the urgency of telling others about His story because we know that He could return at any moment.

Everybody loves a good story, and God’s story is the greatest of all. Don’t be afraid to share it. It’s the most important story you can tell.

The Why Behind the Routine

Posted on by Paula
I had a beautiful image in my mind, but when I observed my artwork, it didn’t meet my expectations. The lines were too sloppy.
Remembering “the why behind the routine” is important, especially when things don’t go as planned.

I recently had a day that I counted as a waste until I remembered “the why behind the routine.” Remembering “the why” is important, especially when things don’t go as planned.

I had a really busy weekend ahead, but I didn’t want to give up my Friday morning routine of doodling on my porch. Besides, my new watercolor pencils had arrived, and I was anxious to try them out.

I planned to redo a design that I had done with regular colored pencils several months ago. I was sure the colors would be much more vibrant using the watercolors and expected that the finished work would be a perfect addition to my Etsy shop. However, after three different tries, all I ended up with was a disappointing mess.

My watercolor idea ended up a total mess.
My watercolor idea ended up a total mess.

I pulled out my markers and moved on to a different verse that I wanted to redo. I had a beautiful image in my mind, but when I observed my artwork, it didn’t meet my expectations. The lines were too sloppy.

I tried again… and again… and again…. I felt at peace as I listened to worship music and let my mind focus on God, but still, none of my creations were good enough. There was always something wrong no matter what I tried. I just wasn’t satisfied.

I had a beautiful image in my mind, but when I observed my artwork, it didn’t meet my expectations. The lines were too sloppy.
I had a beautiful image in my mind, but when I observed my artwork, it didn’t meet my expectations. The lines were too sloppy.

The next morning, as I got ready to face another busy day, I thought about all of my doodle attempts the day before. I was frustrated that none of those attempts were good enough to reproduce for my Etsy shop. Why had I wasted several hours of my time when I had so many other things I needed to do?

My mind went back to the doodle I had created almost effortlessly the week before. Fear had gotten ahold of me. So, I searched God’s word for help. That’s when the words of Isaiah 41:10 spoke peace into my heart. “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” I meditated on the words, pictured what they meant to me and doodled them out as I worshiped, sang and cried in His presence. I loved the way the doodle turned out. Even more important, I was ready to face my fear; God was with me.

That’s when I realized the difference. I remembered “the why behind the routine.” My Etsy shop isn’t my why!

I began doodling out Bible verses long before my Etsy shop. I was in the habit of writing Bible verses down on index cards when I came across one that I wanted to remember. Sometimes a verse would become so real to me that I could visualize it. So, I would grab some markers and doodle it out.

I posted my doodles on Facebook thinking maybe they would catch someone’s eye, and God’s word would speak to that person’s heart as well. Sometimes my doodle was pretty goofy, but I posted it anyway.

One of my goofy doodles of the past. All that mattered then was getting the Word out.
One of my goofy doodles of the past. All that mattered then was getting the Word out.

I had fun doodling these verses, and I also found it to be a great way to unclutter my head and untangle my heart, particularly if I had experienced a tough week. Meditating on His word always brought (and continues to bring) me healing and peace.

Eventually, I began setting aside Friday mornings to doodle and sort things out with God. I always look forward to this time of sitting at His feet and shutting everything else out for just a little while.

I would never have done anything more with my doodles, but my son suggested that I should turn some of them into greeting cards and sell them on Etsy. A couple of months later, a friend asked me if I would frame some to sell in her boutique. Thus “Every Season Creations” was born.

After that, I found myself getting pickier about my doodles. The lettering needed to be centered. The design had to be neat and arranged just so.

It was this pickiness, that kept me from being satisfied on that particular Friday. Though my time spent with God was still sweet, I got really frustrated because I was unable to create something to add to my shop. I lost sight of the “why behind the routine.”

I set aside my Friday mornings for doodling simply because I want to spend time with God and point others to Him. I need His word to transform my life, and I want others to know the power of His word in their lives as well. That is “the why behind the routine,” and “the why behind the routine” is all for Him.

Conquering My Fears

Posted on by Paula
Conquering My Fears in the Atlantic Ocean
I tried to smile as I tried conquering my fears. Jessica is did a better job than I.

Although the ocean is my favorite place, I never venture out very far into the water and I definitely don’t swim in it. So, when my husband, Sam, planned a snorkeling excursion for our family this summer, I was not even close to being as enthusiastic as everyone else.

First of all, I do not go out in public without my makeup. Second, I am not a good swimmer. Third, I know the sharks are out there. I would be facing a lot of fears.

Sure, I know that God is with me wherever I go. Yes, I believe that if I die, God will take me to heaven. However, drowning or getting killed by a shark is not the way that I want to get there.

I didn’t like the looks of the catamaran that we boarded. I listened intently to the crewman who explained snorkeling to us while we sailed out seven miles from shore (much too far out for my comfort level). The boat violently rocked back and forth over huge waves, and I battled to keep my balance as I moved to a spot where I could better see the crewman demonstrate exactly how the gear was to be used.

As the crewman gave instructions, I realized that this would be even worse than I had imagined. I had pictured walking around in calm, waist deep water and sticking my face in the water if I wanted to see anything. Instead, I was horrified to learn that the ship would anchor in water far too deep to touch bottom.

The crewman further explained that the water was unusually rough that day, and we WOULD get water into our snorkels due to high waves. I feared we would choke.

Then, there was the life jacket problem. There were not enough regular life jackets; some people would have to use inflatable vests. I did not feel safe when I was given the inflatable vest. I blew it up as full as I could, but I was scared that I would bump the tube and deflate it.

Furthermore, the snorkels we used were just sitting in a trough of “sanitizer” which really looked, smelled and tasted like regular water. This was another horror for a person who can’t even share her straw with her husband.

When the boat was anchored, we were given a choice of jumping off the side or walking down stairs that were dropped into the water. It took me a long time to get the courage to start down the stairs.

The rough water made going up or down the stairs difficult.
The rough water made going up or down the stairs difficult.

My anxiety heightened with my first step into the water. Even though Sam promised to stay by my side, I began to panic as we swam away from the boat. Flashbacks from the movie “Titanic” raced through my mind. “Jack!”

The waves were high above my head at times, and I couldn’t see the ocean floor. We were in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean! What in the world were we thinking?!

My panic progressed to hysterical crying. Sam asked if I wanted to go back to the boat, but I had to conquer my fear.

Everyone seemed to be doing better than I
Everyone seemed to be doing better than I

My kids tried to calm me. They kept telling me to look down but I was so scared that I couldn’t.

“Mom, there’s a huge conch shell. Look at it!” I finally got brave enough to put my face down for just a couple of seconds.

The picture isn't that clear, but the conch shell looked as huge as a dinner plate.
The picture isn’t that clear, but the conch shell looked as huge as a dinner plate.

The waves continued, and fear had not loosed its tight grip. My daughter, Jessica, kept telling me to look down again. “Mom. You have to look down! There’s a beautiful rainbow fish!”

I had to see it. I mustered up the courage to go facedown again. As I watched it swimming right below me, it turned from its upright position and started swimming sideways to display its beautiful colors. It seemed like it was maneuvering itself to show off just for me.

I'm glad I could see the vibrant pink, purple, blue and yellow rainbow fish. The photo doesn't do it justice, but my memory does.
I’m glad I could see the vibrant pink, purple, blue and yellow rainbow fish. The photo doesn’t do it justice, but my memory does.

I also saw a school of electric blue fish and a school of black fish, but just when I started getting brave, we were called back to the boat. We later heard talk that a shark had been circling our group.

The strong waves made it nearly impossible to climb back up the rocking steps, but I made it back safely with some help.  I felt victorious! I had conquered my fears and had seen some marvelous things that I never would have seen had I not been brave enough to get off the boat.

God had blessed me and taken care of my fears. My family and I excitedly discussed our exhilarating experience and admired God’s beautiful sunset over the ocean as we traveled the seven miles back to the shore.

As I think back on that day, I also think about the time that Jesus sent the disciples on a boat ahead of him while he went to pray alone. Later that night, Jesus saw the disciples straining at the oars and fighting the wind.

Jesus started walking across the water to them, and when they saw Him, they were terrified.

Jesus said to them, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

“Lord, if it is you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

“Come,” he said.

So, Peter got out of the boat and began walking on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he began to sink. He called out to Jesus to save him, and immediately, Jesus reached out his hand and caught him.

Sure, the disciples were scared as the wind and waves raged. They were scared when they saw Jesus on the water. Even Peter who was brave enough to walk on the water started sinking because he got frightened by the wind.

However, if Peter hadn’t mustered up the courage to step out of the boat, he would have never walked on the water with Jesus. He wouldn’t have experienced Jesus reaching out His hand to save him. He would have missed out on a blessing.

We all have fears, whether it is a spider, snake, storm, heights, small spaces, failure, darkness, loneliness, sickness, disease, death…. Whatever fears we must face this week, we must remember that Jesus is with us. We mustn’t let our fears hold us back from experiencing God’s blessings. We are overcomers through Jesus. Whatever our fears, may we say the same as David, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you, Lord” (Psalm 56:3).

Marveling in our exhilarating experience
Marveling in our exhilarating experience
Sam and me watching God's beautiful sunset over the ocean
Sam and me watching God’s beautiful sunset over the ocean
The peaceful sunset after the battle in the water
The peaceful sunset after the battle in the water

It Is A Big Deal

Posted on by Paula
It is a big deal! The scarf my friend made for me is like a big hug that makes me feel special and loved.
It is a big deal! The scarf my friend made for me is like a big hug that makes me feel special and loved.

“Oh, but it is a big deal!” I replied. I had recently found out that my friend was moving out of state. A few days later, she handed me a gift bag while volunteering with me at church. “This is your Christmas gift from me. You can open it now or you can wait until Christmas.” Though it was only August, I chose to open it while my friend was still here.

Inside was a colorful, handmade scarf. “It’s beautiful! You’re going to make me cry! Thank you so much!” I exclaimed.

“It’s no big deal,” she replied.

“Oh, but it is a big deal!” I responded as she walked away.

What my friend didn’t know is that I didn’t feel well that morning but had made myself leave the house. She had no idea of the struggles I had before walking out the door. She had no clue that I really love when someone gives me a scarf or blanket.

When I wrap myself up in a scarf or blanket I’ve been given, I think of the person who gave it to me and I feel like I am wrapped up in a big hug from them. It makes me feel special, it makes me feel loved, and it is a big deal to me.

It’s also a big deal to me that someone took the time to choose the perfect colors and to crochet so many stitches…for me! This particular scarf is made of many different colors, meaning my friend purchased multiple skeins of yarn. Then she used one color for many, many stitches before switching colors several more times to create a beautiful and colorful pattern.

It’s not a big deal? Maybe crocheting is easy for my friend, but I am unable to crochet (except for the one giant granny square I made into a blanket but no longer remember how). Maybe my friend enjoys crocheting and passing the time creating scarves and blankets. Still, she used that time for me.

There is no doubt in my mind that this scarf was created with love. The gift was an act of kindness. I didn’t do anything to deserve it; I was totally surprised, and it is a big deal to me.

We do not always know the impact that our seemingly small acts of kindness may truly have on the recipient, but God has a way of working through His people to bless others. When we help someone with a flat tire, explain how to work an algebraic equation, take someone a meal, make a gift, send a card, listen over the phone… it may seem like a small offering to us. It may even seem to us like, “It’s no big deal,” but sometimes for the recipient, “It is a big deal.”

We can never be totally aware of everything that is happening in a person’s life. We may not know all of their struggles. But God knows, and God can take our seemingly small offerings to show others they are loved. Sometimes, He even uses those offerings as a way to show someone that He hears them, He sees them and He loves them.

So, keep extending kindness. Reach out a helping hand. Continue letting God pour His love through you. Somebody needs to know you care. Somebody needs to know He cares. And to somebody, “It is a big deal.”

When Things Are Out of Control, Look Up

Posted on by Paula

I texted my son, Joshua, and daughter-in-law, Abby, to let them know we were on our way. Joshua called right away. He said that Abby’s grandma who left an hour before us, was stuck on the exit ramp. Apparently, there was a big air show that weekend, and traffic was crazy.

There are really only two possible routes to my son’s apartment. I asked if we should take the alternate route, but he told me he was actually stuck in traffic on that end of town as well. His GPS estimated that it would take him 29 minutes to travel just 1.6 miles to his apartment.

An hour later, we reached our exit. Traffic on the long ramp was backed up all the way back to the interstate. The vehicles on the highway at the end of the ramp were at a standstill.

I jokingly texted Joshua and Abby, “Please tell me that Debbie made it to your apartment.” I was shocked and a bit panicked when they replied that she hadn’t. She was still stuck in traffic.

I was doomed. The apartment was less than two miles away from the exit ramp, but Debbie still hadn’t reached it after an hour. Why had I drunk so much coffee, and why didn’t I ask to stop to use the bathroom before nearing Terre Haute?!

After about 10 minutes of sitting in the same spot, a vehicle from behind passed by us and drove off-road to get back onto the interstate. Others followed shortly after. I suggested to my husband, Sam, that we should do the same, but he replied that it was illegal and dangerous. I knew he was right, but I was desperate.

While waiting, we could see the planes in the distance. Sam was impressed with the loop de loops. The only thing that would impress me at that moment was if my reference point, the big blue and white RV on the highway, would move. I watched it for at least 20 minutes before it even moved a foot.

I have been in a lot of traffic jams, but never have I been stuck in this bad of a mess. After about a half an hour, we made it to the highway below where traffic continued to move slower than a snail’s pace.

At this point, we both needed to use the restroom. We were finally passing restaurants and gas stations, but we didn’t pull off the highway for fear of not being able to get back on.

Meanwhile, the planes flew in close and swooped down over our van at times. Sam was delighted about the “FREE SHOW,” but I was getting pretty cranky about being stuck on the road.

Every so often, he would get so excited that he would slap my arm. “Did you see that?! That was an F-22!” he exclaimed. He was a very happy camper despite being stuck in traffic with a full bladder.

My focus was on not on the brilliant air show; my focus was on not wetting my pants. Every sudden outburst from my overly enthusiastic husband did nothing for me but break my focus. I was not amused.

An hour and a half after exiting the interstate, we finally traveled those last 2 miles. Looking back, I thought about the situation. There was nothing we could have done to change our situation. It was out of our control. Yet I sat in my seat, irritated and freaking out because I needed to use the bathroom, while my husband, despite his discomfort, was happily distracted as he enjoyed watching the planes soar through the sky.

Now this predicament that my husband and I were in was really not that bad. I have been in much worse situations and am sure that I will be in worse ones again.

So, I ask myself, when the real trials and tribulations occur, how do I react? Do I get anxious about the “what ifs”? Do I dwell on my pain and discomfort? Do I get irritable with the people around me? Do I focus on the problem? Or……. Do I look up?

Focusing on my problem when the situation is out of my control does no good whatsoever. However, when I shift my eyes to God, I see how good He is despite my current plight. When I focus on God, I find inner peace no matter how much pain I must endure. When I look up, I am reminded that this life here on earth is temporary and so short compared to eternity. Looking up gives me hope that someday, I will reach my final destination and find relief from every trouble imaginable.

Preparing for This Moment

Posted on by Paula

I had been preparing for this moment over the past year, but especially over the past couple of months. I didn’t want to cry. Another son’s wedding date was drawing near, and I had been getting a bit emotional.

I always get excited for my kids as they gain their independence. I love hearing about their exciting plans, and by the grace of God, every single one of them has turned out to be a wonderful individual who I am proud of. So, I’m not quite sure why I get weepy as my kids leave home. I don’t want them to live at home forever, but for some reason I still get sad when they move out.

I am happy that Joshua has found a sweet and godly woman who loves him as much as he loves her. I am proud of the loving, caring and godly man that he has become. He has made wise and responsible decisions and has proven himself ready to take care of himself and his new wife. So, these teary-eyed moments that I was experiencing just didn’t seem to make sense.

My husband and I had done our part to the best of our ability. We had taught him to take care of himself. We had instructed him in what is right and wrong. We had encouraged him to follow his heart’s desire and to use the gifts and passions that God gave him. We had advised him to seek God first and let God take care of the rest. As parents, there was nothing left for us to do except to pray and entrust him to God.

Those of us who raised Joshua and Abby stole a moment before the ceremony to take them aside one at a time and pray over each of them. We released them to Him and to each other. They were never really ours to keep anyway. God had simply put arranged for us to be the ones to love them, to care for them, to teach them what it means to follow Him and to prepare them for this day and the days to come. We shed a few tears as we prayed and then pulled ourselves together.

After praying, we left our children and waited at the back of a crowded room. This was it. The time had come. The music began playing. The grandparents wiped their tears and were ushered to their places. It was our turn to enter. My lips started to quiver, but I was determined not to cry during the ceremony. I especially didn’t want to cry during the mother and son dance.

Joshua walked me to my seat, hugged me, embraced his dad and left us so that he could stand before God and begin a new life with Abby. I watched his face as he waited for his bride to walk down the staircase. His eyes still sparkled like they did the day he was born. For a brief moment, I saw that little boy in his striped engineer hat and red bandana. Wasn’t it just yesterday that I saw him standing at his train table connecting all the boxcars to the engines and maneuvering them around their wooden track? How did the years fly by so fast?

I quickly brought my mind back to the present and saw him as the man he is. I saw his excitement and the overwhelming emotion on his face as his bride appeared and walked toward him. Abby’s grandma gave her away, and Abby joined hands with Joshua. They exchanged their vows and committed to love each other through whatever the future holds as long as they live. They gave each other rings to symbolize their never-ending love for each other. They assembled a unity cross symbolizing the two of them becoming one in the body of Christ. They kissed, and they happily exited the room as Mr. and Mrs. Joshua and Abigail McCammon.

Joshua and I had a sweet conversation later as we danced. Although, for a while it was a bit too sweet, and I asked him if he was trying to make me cry. “Do you want me to?” he asked. My eyes welled up, but I fought the tears and simply enjoyed the moment. I listened to his excitement about his plans with his new wife and told him how happy I am for him as well as how proud of him I am.

Our family and friends continued to celebrate with the new couple until they were ready to leave. Then I watched Joshua open the car door for Abby as he had done so many times. This time, however, they did not wave as they pulled away. They were ready for their new life together.

“Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh” (Genesis 3:24).

They were doing exactly what they were supposed to do. They were ready for their new life together. They were happy, and I was happy for them. No need to cry.

How Long, O LORD… Yet I Will Rejoice

Posted on by Paula

“How long, O LORD, must I call for help? But you do not listen. ‘Violence is everywhere!’ I cry, but you do not come to save” (Habakkuk 1:2 NLT).

Habakkuk saw destruction, violence and evil all around. Yet God seemed silent.

God replied to Habakkuk’s complaint, “Look around at the nations; look and be amazed! For I am doing something in your own day, something you wouldn’t believe even if someone told you about it.” He went on to explain that he was raising up the Babylonians to punish the evildoers.

Habakkuk acknowledged that God is Holy and eternal and had faith that God would not destroy all of his people. Yet, he didn’t understand why God would punish his people through a nation, that was in his eyes, even more evil than them.

God again answered Habakkuk, “This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed. Look at the proud! They trust in themselves, and their lives are crooked. But the righteous will live by their faithfulness to God” (Habakkuk 2:3-4). He went on to explain that a time of judgment would come for Babylon as well.

Habakkuk responds with a beautiful prayer of praise. He asks for God’s mercy as he waits for what lies ahead. He knows that even though things were going to get worse before they got better, God is in control and that God is his salvation. He ends with these words, “I trembled inside when I heard this; my lips quivered with fear. My legs gave way beneath me, and I shook in terror. I will wait quietly for the coming day when disaster will strike the people who invade us. Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the LORD! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign LORD is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread up on the heights” (Habakkuk 3:16-19 NLT).

Reading Habakkuk’s opening words, “How long, O LORD, must I cry for help, but you do not listen?” and ending words, “Even though… yet I will rejoice in the LORD!” brought such comfort and hope to my heart. I thought about all of the Christians I know personally who are going through suffering and difficulties. They battle cancer, chronic disease and severe health issues that don’t have any answers. They beg God to bring back their wayward children or plead for God to save their marriage. They are exhausted from fighting each day with depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. They agonize as they watch their loved ones who are trapped in addiction slip further and further away. They suffer verbal, physical and sexual abuse. They struggle to pay the bills and put food on the table. They ask God, “How long, O LORD?” They wait for him to save the day, yet sometimes there seems to be no answer. It’s difficult to understand why these people who love the Lord must suffer. It seems unfair. Yet, I see them looking to God through it all, praising him and trusting Him to help them endure to the end… even though.

I think of friend with relatives in Syria. I read her stories about the life-threatening situations the Syrians face and how difficult it is to escape. I receive emails from “Voice of the Martyrs” which tell of Christians around the world being persecuted and killed because of their faith. They ask God, “How long, O LORD?” They wait for him to save the day, yet sometimes there seems to be no answer. It doesn’t seem right in our eyes that God would allow this to happen to those who have decided to follow Jesus. Yet these brothers and sisters in Christ continue to praise God and trust Him to help them endure to the end… even though.

So, I think on this book of Habakkuk and my own prayers asking God, “How long, O LORD?” and I wait for him to save the day. And I pray that I will always continue to have the strength and the faith to be able to say as Habakkuk and my brothers and sisters in Christ, “Even though… yet I will rejoice in the LORD!” For without Him I have no hope, but in Him, I have everything.

What about you? Whatever you face today, are you able to say, “Even though… yet I will rejoice in the LORD”? If you are in going through a difficult season, remember that God loves you, He is with you and that He is in control. Wait patiently. He will save. He may not handle things the way we think He should take care of them, but He sees the big picture and knows what is best. Even his own Son suffered in order to work out God’s perfect plan so that we could be made right with Him and have eternal life if we “believe in Him” (John 3:16) and “live by their faithfulness to God” (Habakkuk 2:4).

How long, O LORD? Yet I will rejoice.

Many Parts, but One Body

Posted on by Paula
Noah is just one of many members, and his tenors are just one of many instruments.
Noah and His Tenors

My youngest son, Noah, is a percussionist and is playing the tenor drums in the high school marching band this year. He had a week of percussion camp in June and two weeks of band camp in July to prepare for this year’s show. Though he has played various types of drums over the years, this is his first year on the tenors. I couldn’t wait to watch him perform on parent preview night. I thought he did a wonderful job and was pretty impressed with his performance.

Although I love watching and listening to Noah, he plays just one part of the rhythm. There are also snare drums and bass drums. There are also instruments that play the melody. My niece plays the mellophone, and still others play the saxophone, clarinet, flute, trumpet, trombone, tuba and other instruments. While every instrument has a part to play, not every instrument plays constantly through each song. They simply play their part at the right time.

In addition to the marchers with instruments, there are also other band members as well. There are drum majors, the color guard and the band director. These members do not play instruments but each of them has an important role as well.

Each band member has talent, and each has a specific role. They all work together to play the music and to march to the choreography for the show the director has chosen. The musical composition cannot sound they way the composer intended if certain instruments are missing. The field formation cannot look the way the choreographer envisioned if there is not a marcher for every spot. If all of the drums or all of the trumpets decided not to perform, the music wouldn’t sound right, and the formation wouldn’t look right. Even just one missing person could make a difference.

The director chooses the drum majors, the marchers, the music and choreography. He arranges the members in the best formation for the show. He explains their roles, provides their uniforms, equips them with their gear and leads them to work together in unity for the common cause.

And so it is with the Church body. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 12:14-20: “For the body does not consist of one member but of many. If the foot should say, ‘Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,’ that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, ‘Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,’ that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. If all were a single member, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.”

Each member of the body has an important role. God chooses us and arranges each member as He sees best. He clothes us in the full armor of God, equips us with gifts and talents and leads us to work together in unity for the common cause of Christ. We need each other to accomplish the work God gives us, and when each person listens to His commands and does what He says, His beautiful plan falls into place with ease.