Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Serving and Showing

Tomorrow is the last day of 2014. I cannot believe how quickly this year has zipped by! I've said that in years past, but I honestly feel this particular year has seemed to go by even more quickly.
Overall 2014 was a very good year for my family and myself, and I'm very, very thankful. Even though there were some times of illness for different family members (myself included) we've always managed to bounce back with the Lord's help.
Now as I'm looking to a brand-new year, I'm thinking about new opportunities to serve the Lord. Sometimes it's easy for us to become comfortable in our regular routines, and we overlook ways we can help others and show the love of Christ. Even little things---making a phone call, sending a card, helping out a neighbor---small acts that can really help a person and show that someone cares.
So as we prepare to finish one year and begin a new one, my prayer is that we will always remember the One who gave us each day, and we'll live each day showing His love to others.


     Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.
                                                                   Philippians 2:4-5

Thursday, December 4, 2014

Frustrated or Faithful ?

As if to emphasize a previous blog post I wrote about the time going too quickly, over a month has passed since I've written one of my Corners. Actually, I did attempt to post a blog in November - - all written out, with a Scripture at the end - - and for some reason it would NOT post. Aaaugh!  Not a big deal, but I was a bit aggravated *wink*. So I will try again, and hopefully my computer will cooperate. :)
Now that the Christmas season is upon us, lots of people are busily rushing around, shopping, decorating, preparing for parties, and as a result are feeling frazzled and frustrated. Numerous articles have been written on "how to avoid stress at the holidays" and advice on ways to enjoy the season more. Yet year after year so many folks end up the same way: tired and frustrated. As we all know, Christmas should be a joyous time of celebrating the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, and NOT a time to complain. So even though I'm not nearly as busy as I was when my children were younger, there's still a good bit I need and want to accomplish. And this year I am determined to keep the True Reason for Christmas at the center of my heart and mind. The Lord has always been faithful to me, so shouldn't I be faithful to Him? Instead of feeling frustrated at all the busyness around me and what I'm not getting accomplished, I will be faithful in praising Him each day and truly celebrate His birth with joy!
     And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.  Luke 2:10

Thursday, October 23, 2014

Book Review: WHEN MERCY RAINS

Author Kim Vogel Sawyer has written yet another exceptional book that I highly recommend. When Mercy Rains tells the story of a woman who was sent away as an unmarried, pregnant teen, then summoned almost twenty years later to return home and care for her ailing mother. She takes her daughter with her, and their homecoming at the family farm is met with some challenges. Throughout the story, secrets are revealed and past hurts are exposed. Yet lives are changed in a way that only the Lord could orchestrate.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading When Mercy Rains, and highly recommend this sweet, satisfying story.
Just another reminder of why Kim Vogel Sawyer remains at the top of my "Favorite Author" list!!

Friday, October 3, 2014

Please Slow Down!

Please slow down! That's what many folks are saying about this year - - it seems to be passing way too quickly.
When I was a little girl, my sweet Mama often said: The older a person gets, the faster time goes. Of course I'd laugh then, because for a child it seems to take FOREVER for Christmas to arrive!
But as I've grown older, I have realized the wisdom in my mother's words. Especially in the world we live in today---with all the technology and distractions constantly surrounding us---it seems time moves at a rapid pace.
Since none of us is capable of actually "slowing down" the clock and calendar, we need to make the very best use of our time each day. I am reminded of a saying I read several years ago, and it has stayed with me.
            One life to live, it will soon be past.
            What's done for Jesus, is all that will last.


Wow! What a powerful reminder for us all. As we go about our day-to-day lives, busy with various activities and often rushing here and there, we need to really think about how we are spending our time.
For me personally, I want to try harder to serve Jesus in ALL that I do. A big challenge for many of us, but one I want to strive for. After all, He deserves my BEST!
        So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.    Psalm 90:12

Sunday, August 31, 2014

August Adventure

It's hard to believe that today is the last day of August---this summer seemed to zip by for me and lots of other folks!
This August included something VERY special for me, and something I've been wanting to do for a while.
My 4 very best friends (from way back in high school!) and I took a little beach vacation together, and it was wonderful. We were blessed with lots of sunshine-bright days, delicious food, and gorgeous sunsets each evening. We all agreed the trip was perfect, and we're hoping to take future trips together.
But perhaps what we all enjoyed the most was being together--talking, laughing, and viewing "old" photos. When I arrived home from the trip, my daughter thought I was sick because my voice was SO hoarse!
I've always treasured my friends, but being able to enjoy a vacation with my best friends was a reminder of how very precious they are to me. I thank God for each of them, and feel soooo very blessed.


     I thank my God upon every remembrance of you. ~ Philippians 1:3

Sunday, July 20, 2014

Bad News - - GOOD NEWS!

Recently there's been an overwhelming amount of bad news---on television, in the newspapers, in internet articles, the radio---it seems everywhere we turn, we're being bombarded by reports of crime, war, poverty, and the list goes on. It has been heart-wrenching to read about the fighting in parts of the Middle East, with countless innocent lives being affected. Other parts of the world also have unrest, poverty, and tragic events unfolding.
As a Christian, my heart is so very burdened for the people in these situations--especially the innocent children. So I pray for them---and then pray some more.
At times the "bad news" just gets to be too much. We need to be aware of what's going on in our world--here at home in our country and in other areas too. But I honestly don't believe we are supposed to constantly dwell on the horrible events after we earnestly pray for the people and the situations. We must balance our lives, and for me that means having some GOOD NEWS.
I certainly don't claim to have the answers for the world's problems, but my Bible does. In fact, the Bible is THE guide for life. Now this doesn't mean that opening up my Bible suddenly makes all my problems (or anyone's problems) go away. But reading, studying, and searching through my Bible guides me, comforts me, and instructs me. Best of all, my Bible proclaims the most glorious GOOD NEWS of all: Jesus Christ died for our sins, so for Christians, this means no matter how awful things seem to be here on earth, one day we will LIVE FOREVER with our Savior!! In Heaven where there is NO war, poverty, sickness----NO problems at all! I believe this with all of my heart, because my Bible tells me. In this world of so much bad news, I'm so very thankful that I have GOOD NEWS to remind me of the blessed hope I have in Jesus.
     In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began.   Titus 1:2

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Suspense on Sale

My wonderfully talented friend, Author Sandra Orchard, has written a delightful suspense book, Blind Trust. Even though I don't usually read suspense stories, I do enjoy all of Sandra Orchard's books!
This story begins with a young woman (Kate) helping out her elderly neighbor by picking up groceries for her. When Kate hands  the clerk the money her elderly neighbor had given her, the bills are counterfeit. With this event, Kate ends up in the middle of an investigation--and more adventure.
The first evening I began reading Blind Trust, I stayed up way too late because I just couldn't stop reading. So I highly recommend this book to readers--even in they're not usually suspense readers.
As of today (July 15) the E-book version of Blind Trust is on sale for under $3 at all online retailers (including Amazon and CBD.com).
This would also make a great gift for a friend who enjoys reading.
A wonderful book at a wonderful, low price!

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Blessings at the Beach

Recently my family and I had a brief vacation at lovely Amelia Island, Florida. We were able to rent a house located right on the beach, so the ocean was always in sight.
Besides sightseeing, eating delicious food, and spending time on the beach, one of my greatest blessings on the trip came from sitting on the deck of the house, admiring God's creation. As I gazed out at the vast Atlantic Ocean, I was reminded that that huge body of water didn't "just happen" but was created by the Lord. The white, fluffy clouds in the bright blue sky, the seagulls swooping down to catch a fish, and the tall sea oats growing along the sand dunes were all created by God.
That same God created you and me, and He loves us more than we could ever imagine.
As I thought about all that the Lord has created, and how much He loves me, I was again reminded of how very blessed I am.
I'm so thankful we had a family vacation at the beach, and so very thankful I was reminded of how much the Lord has blessed me.
     Blessed is that man that maketh the Lord his trust.  Psalm 40:4

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

No Matter What

As a Christian, one thing I've learned and know to be true is that no matter what I'm going through, or how I'm feeling, Jesus is there.
Whether it's a health crisis, loss of a loved one, frustration from broken appliances, or a happy time such as the birth of a child or a celebration, HE is always right beside me.
Last week I was reminded of this truth as my week included deep sadness over the sudden death of a sweet friend. So unexpected and so tragic---except for KNOWING she is in Heaven now, so that's a comfort.
Then the next day I experienced frustration---as we had some major plumbing issues, that resulted in spending almost $1000 and leaving holes in our bathroom walls. Ugh! Certainly not a catastrophe, but just an aggravation.
A few days later I felt excitement and happiness, as our family celebrated 2 birthdays and we welcomed home relatives who'd been living in Hawaii! How wonderful it was having my family together in my home on Sunday---celebrating with good food and laughter.
Throughout that range of emotions and happenings last week, one thing was constant: Jesus was with me through it all. And the wonderful thing is, He ALWAYS will be, no matter what.
     But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.    Philippians 4:19

Saturday, May 24, 2014

I Love My Country

As we prepare to celebrate Memorial Day here in the USA, it's been concerning me to see how companies are using this special day (and weekend) to sell their products. Rather than placing  the emphasis on remembering and honoring the fallen Military heroes who have served our great country, it seems that too many people have focused more on having fun - - and companies have focused on drawing in more buyers for their products. I'm not trying to be critical or say we shouldn't have Memorial Day gatherings or cook-outs. But I do think we need to keep the focus on honoring and remembering our defenders. Those many men and women who have bravely served and defended our great country so we may continue to live freely. After all, America is a truly great country - - thanks to those who have gone before us. As I proudly display my American flag in front of my house, I'm also proclaiming in my heart: I LOVE MY COUNTRY!!

Thursday, April 17, 2014

No Greater Love

As we approach Easter weekend, I've been reading about and reflecting on the days leading up to the Crucifixion of Jesus. Since tomorrow is Good Friday--the day symbolizing when the actual Crucifixion took place--I've been really thinking a lot about the horrific torture done to an undeserving Man. Thinking of the perfect innocence of Jesus, and knowing that He endured that most painful death moves me to tears. He paid the ultimate price for you and for me---although we are far from perfect. But He did that, because He LOVES us so very much.
Our human minds cannot fully comprehend a love of that magnitude---but we can be certain that no greater love was ever shown.
This makes me stop and think: Am I showing Jesus each day how much I love Him? Am I striving to be the best person I can be? Oh, that I would live each day showing Jesus how much I love Him!


  Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.  John 15:13

Monday, April 7, 2014

Through the Deep Waters

Christian author Kim Vogel Sawyer has written yet another book that I absolutely LOVED and highly recommend. Through the Deep Waters is set in 1883 Kansas, and the story follows Dinah Hubley and Amos Ackerman.
Beginning with a heart-wrenching situation, the author weaves an amazing tale of healing, forgiveness, and love. My heart ached for Dinah, raised in a brothel and feeling unloved. Amos, a gentle Christian man who was a chicken farmer, made the perfect hero for this story.
As I followed Dinah's journey as she pursues a new life, and Amos's determination to show Christ's love to her, I read with tears in my eyes at times.
Through the Deep Waters is a story that clearly shows  no matter how broken a person feels, or how painful a past, the Lord can heal and restore life and joy.
Even though I have genuinely enjoyed ALL of Kim Vogel Sawyer's books, this one just might be her very best one yet.

Thursday, April 3, 2014

Amazing April

The month of April is one of my favorites, and I'm sure lots of folks would agree. Here in Georgia the spring season is evident---buds, blooms, and beauty around us. Some of the cherry trees are at their peak right now and are breathtaking!
It really is amazing how a matter of days earlier many of these same trees were barren, yet now are filled with beautiful color.
But it's not just the beauty of springtime that makes April such an amazing time. For Christians, we'll celebrate Easter later this month, and that's the MOST amazing event of all. To think that Jesus came to earth so many years ago, then died for OUR sins, and then ROSE from the grave is more amazing than we could ever put into words!!  Jesus Christ conquered death!! And He did that for you - - and for me. To think that He loves us so very much is BEYOND amazing!!!


He is not here: for He is risen, as He said.   Matthew 28:6

Sunday, March 16, 2014

MARCHing into Spring

As I type this in the middle of March, birds are chirping outside my window---a sound I truly love. Even though most of the trees in my area are still bare, I know the Spring season is on the way! And while each season is special and has its own beauty, Spring is one of my two favorites.
There's something wonderful about buds and blooms appearing after a long winter with bare branches and not much color. So during these last official days of winter, I will keep glancing out my window now and then, knowing that the trees I'm viewing will soon be covered with lush greenery and blooms. The air will be warmer, and those birds that have been serenading me will continue their songs. And I'll be reminded yet again of the One who created the seasons, and how He made each one exactly long enough!
The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth His handiwork.  Psalm 19:1

Friday, February 28, 2014

February Fun, Flu, and Felines

It just so happens that the main topics in this blog post all begin with the letter "f" - - which also is the beginning letter of this month of February---a month that has flown by!  I could've also added frustration, because this is my 3rd or 4th attempt at posting a blog this month (for some reason after I've written the blog each time, then my computer "froze"---YIKES! Another word beginning with f!).
So, I am trying yet again and hope this time the blog goes through. ~
As a child, I always loved the month of February---mainly due to Valentine's Day, of course. If my Daddy had lived, today would've been his birthday, and birthdays have always been special, fun times in my family.
A fun time I had earlier this month was when my oldest daughter and I spent a weekend at our coast. Our hotel room overlooked a river, and the view was beautiful! An added bonus that weekend was being blessed with lovely, sunny weather our entire trip, Thank the Lord.
And then came a not-so-fun time: I became very sick with an infection and the flu. Thankfully I'm much better now, but was feeling very rough for a while.
Earlier today I glanced at my February calendar, thinking about how quickly this month zipped by, and it occurred to me that tomorrow is the birthday for 3 of my felines! A sweet stray Calico cat (now part of our family) gave birth to kittens on February 29, 2008 (Leap Day) on my front porch. Since this is not a Leap Year, tomorrow (March 1) will be their 6th birthday. I'll give them some special treats, but am thinking that I might enjoy celebrating with some ice-cream. Sounds like a fun way for one month to end and a new month to begin!
No matter if we go through fun times, frustrating times, or times of illness, we can be sure that the Lord is with us through it all. And that thought gives me peace and comfort that nothing else can---not even ice-cream.
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.  Colossians 3:15
                                                                

Monday, January 27, 2014

JOY in January

We're approaching the end of January, and as I think back over the weather we've had so far in this new year---it's been very unpredictable. Today was almost spring-like in my area, yet tomorrow we're supposed to receive SNOW! We've had some extremely cold, windy days with lots of sunshine. Other days have been dismal and dreary, with gray skies and no sunshine.
But even on those days of bleak-looking weather, we can rest assured that the spring season will arrive before too long, and brighter days will be plentiful.
So often in life we might go through bleak times, and our mood might feel dismal--but we can rest assured that even in those times, our Lord is in control. For a Christian believer, we have the assurance that no matter what our circumstances, we are never alone---the Lord is always with us. Most importantly for Christians, we know that we will live forever with our Lord, and that thought alone should give us JOY that can brighten even the darkest of days. No matter what we're going through or might encounter in this new year, we know the Lord loves us and is with us. What a JOYful thought!!


...weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.
                                                                       Psalm 30:5