Sunday, March 31, 2013

serious about you? absolutely!

"HE HAS RISEN!"  Mark 16:6

"But now in a single victorious stroke of Life, all three - sin, guilt, death - are gone! the gift of our Master, Jesus Christ. Thank God!" 1 Corinthians 15:57

Sunday
The earth shook, the cloth was folded, His work finished.
And the glory of the LORD shone all around.


Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!

have a Presence-filled day!
veneal

Saturday, March 30, 2013

not a sound

"'Take a guard,' Pilate answered (the Pharisees). 'Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how.'" Matthew 27:65

Saturday
All is quiet.  The rush and excitement of the last week at school before Spring break is over. Homework, fire drill and four Jungle Book plays done, and now the jungle sleeps.  How peaceful the silence!  But not all silence is golden.


There is silence at the cross.  Jesus is dead. His body now guarded in a tomb with a massive stone covering the opening. No one can possibly enter.  But, they forgot to consider the possibility of Someone coming out.  Oh, ye, of little faith. What a glorious day to come!  Thank You, Father!!

have a peace-filled day!
veneal

Friday, March 29, 2013

choose your side... carefully and boldly

"... there they crucified Him, along with the criminals ‑ one on His right, the other on His left.  Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.'.. One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at Him... But the other rebuked him... Then he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.'  Jesus answered him, 'I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.'" Luke 23:33‑43

Friday
Jesus, weak and nearly unrecognizable from the lashings, could not drag His cross up the rocky path. Help came from a stranger, not His disciples. The women followed in tears, the men scattered.  


The last "Jungle Book" production brought cheers, smiles and sweet relief.  It delivered everything promised and more. Jesus' last "show" on earth brought the house down, not with cheers but jeers... the people expected more.  But, hold on, because the Last Act is yet to come.  It will not only bring down the house, but will rip the temple's curtain in two from top to bottom.
Even at the very last minute, one criminal chose to acknowledge and accept Christ.  One went to paradise, the other didn't.  It was all about forgiveness.  It was what Jesus was born to do.  It is God's greatest gift and sacrifice to man. 

We, like the criminals, are either on the right or left side of Jesus.  With our speech and/or actions we prove to be denying or accepting Him.  God is willing, waiting, and wanting to receive all into His Kingdom. It's time to get off the path and stand beside Him.  Which side are you on?
  
The worse hurts in life come from the ones we love... Jesus knows all about that. Thank You, Jesus, for forgiveness. We need to be more like You.
have an Easter‑filled weekend!
veneal

Thursday, March 28, 2013

by the light of the moon

Jesus prayer -
"My prayer is not for them (the disciples) alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You." John 17:20


THURSDAY
Sweat rolling down His back and legs and tears spilling from His eyes, the dirt on His knees change to mud. The fury of the week left the disciples too exhausted to stay awake  in the Garden.  Three times Jesus wakes them... and later, three times Peter denies Him. Under the full moon, Jesus is alone on the path to the Cross.


The brilliance and beauty of the moon the past few nights is mesmerizing.  So full and bright; it is breathtaking.  How can anything so beautiful, hold so much sorrow too?

It was under that same moon, over 2,000 year ago, Jesus prepared to be betrayed and disowned by His own, and unjustly accused by others.  In the Garden after the Last Supper, He committed His final act before captured -- He prayed.  He prayed for Himself and the ability to be obedient... Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done.  He prayed for His disciples and their strengthening.  And He prayed for you and me.  His final prayer --  for us to be one in Him.

May you see the moon in a different light tonight... His eternal Light for all. The sorrow of this night will fade as His path fills with believers. Victory over darkness is guaranteed.  Thank You, Father!

have a thank-filled day!
veneal

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

SOLD OUT

And Judas said...
"'What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?' So they counted out for him thirty silver coins." Matthew 26:15

Wednesday
Jesus relentlessly pushes onward His final days -- performing miracles, praying, reaching people for God's Kingdom. The sweet perfume oil from Mary's fingers, drips from His head and puddles in the dirt. His disciples grumble over the waste. Is Jesus making a difference, or is His time almost over for good?


Our school play, "Jungle Book" sold out  in just a few days.  The money paid for costumes, props and provided funds for other "bare" necessities.  Not all sellouts are as honorable.

Judas sold-out the whereabouts of Jesus for the mere price of a slave.  Realizing Jesus' kingdom was of a spiritual nature and not of power or money, he sold Jesus' life for the immediate security of a few coins... coins offering temporary pleasure in place of eternal joy.

Are you still holding on to Jesus' Hand? Tomorrow the path we travel down is  dark, difficult and necessary.

have a truth-filled day!
veneal
 

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

it's a jungle out there

Jesus said
"... Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world." Matthew 25:34

Tuesday
He's rattled the temple, He's called the Chief Priests out, He's comforted the prostitutes.  It's fair to say Jesus kicked up dust on the path to the cross.  Are you still holding on to His Hand? It's a jungle out there, but with God, peace will fill your soul.


We are surrounded by deadlines this week at school -- the enormous, incredible student "Jungle Book" production starts today with 4 shows this week; plus Spring break begins Friday. It's time to kick into high gear and focus on getting the job done.

Jesus found Himself with such deadlines, His last week on earth.  Knowing His days were numbered, He unleashed many lessons.  To His followers He encouraged them to choose rightly and righteously.  To His critics, the religious leaders, He scolded them for misguiding His sheep.  To the unbelievers, He  gave warnings.  He told believers about being ready and watchful, as He instilled in them the hope of things to come.  Jesus holds nothing back for He has nothing to lose, and everything to gain... another believer, joining His family for eternity.  He did and will do anything to reach one more. 

have a faith-filled day!
veneal

Monday, March 25, 2013

a Mighty week

As we leave behind the glorious entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem on Sunday, the palm branches and cloaks scattered on His path are also gone. The bare dirt and pebbles along the path now squeeze between His toes.

Monday
Jesus' first stop in Jerusalem the Temple...
Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there.  He overturned the table of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves... He said, "My house will be call a house of prayer, but you are making it a den for robbers."

Later that day, He tells His disciples...
"I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt,... you can say to this mountain, 'Go throw yourself into the sea, and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."

The Army wants a few good men, but God wants all to come Home -- to His amazing, saving grace and eternal life.

have a faith-filled day!
veneal

Sunday, March 24, 2013

THE countdown is on...

"They took palm branches and went out to meet Him, shouting, 'Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the King of Israel!'" John 12:13

THE countdown is on...
I'm not referring to the countdown to Spring Break (although it is near the top of my list) nor the countdown to the finals in March Madness, but THE countdown of all countdowns. The countdown in remembering Jesus' final week on earth.  The countdown that sealed forever my future. Through His death, burial, and resurrection, Jesus paid the penalty for sin, purchasing for all who believe in Him, eternal life in Christ Jesus

I wonder how Jesus felt His last week on earth?  After His triumphant entrance into Jerusalem, life took a dramatic turn.  Did He understand what would happen? Yes.  Did His disciples?  On Sunday, the palm branches are swaying with shouts of "Hosanna", and by the end of the week shouts of "crucify Him" by the same lips. 

With joy comes tears. With thanks comes humbleness.  Let's walk down the  path in hand with Jesus this week with grateful hearts, as we remember His sacrifice and unconditional love for us. 

Hosanna, to God in the highest! Thanks be to God! 

Have a ready-filled week!
veneal

Friday, March 22, 2013

what is your true color?

"... in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord.  Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have."  1 Peter 3:15

What color is your hair?  
Most people can readily answer this question.  I honestly didn't know what to tell Kenaya when she asked.  My hair was brown, but i'm not sure anymore. Varying shades of brown now rule due to self-doctoring, along with sprouting lighter colors. Hair questions aren't the only ones that stump me.

Do i have all the answers to reading, writing, arithmetic? no
Do i have all the answers on how to motivate others? no
Do i have all the answers to behavior issues? no

BUT, i do have the answer on how to live a life full of hope, no matter what.  The answer is set firmly in my belief and faith in Jesus being my Lord and Savior.  Just color me love... He's my hope.

Let's live each day so it's evident the joy of the Lord is our hope and strength.

have a hope-filled day!
veneal

Thursday, March 21, 2013

a Mighty Word ~ nonending

"Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23


Celebrate the day! God is taking each step with us.

have a wonder-filled day!
veneal


Wednesday, March 20, 2013

clean your ears

"Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a Voice behind you saying, "'This is the way; walk in it.'" Isaiah 30:21

Three times i sounded the warning, "only 5 minutes left to check out...", then 2, and 1.  Right on time, Mrs. Fields came to get her class from library.  Jill popped up from the computer to look for a book, only to be told she'd miss the opportunity to check out.  Her class had another activity to attend, and she'd have to return later.

Missed opportunities... we all have them.  At times we become so wrapped up in our own agenda, we miss wonderful opportunities God has sprinkled around us.  If only we'd stop and listen.

Father, please pass me a Q-tip; i want to always hear You. Life is a mission field, and we are surrounded by others in need.  In need of a gentle touch, a smile, a caring voice, a helping hand. I don't want to miss the chance to make a difference in someone's life for You.

have a ear-filled day!
veneal

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

a Mighty Word ~ less

"Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife." Proverbs 17:1


In other words, a crumb with God in our life can prevent overindulging and allow for the richest blessings of all.  He gives complete satisfaction.

have a full-filled day!
veneal

Monday, March 18, 2013

i need you...

"Then you will call, and the LORD will answer; you will cry for help, and He will say: Here am I." Isaiah 58:9

He broke the silence with three words, "can you come?"  And i answered with one, "absolutely."  The move across country last summer concerned me; but as an independent 26 year old, he felt confident about the decision.  Seven months later, he learned not all that glistens is gold, and needed help on yet another move.  My hands filled with responsibilities at home, quickly shuffled the pile to go be at his side.

Did i make the right decision?  Should i have been willing to go help, just because he asked me? What would my Daddy do?

Pain, craziness, mistakes, bad decisions... it doesn't matter.  Like my Father does for me, His child, i want to do for mine.  I am grateful and relieved to know when i call out to God, He always answers me... not because i deserve it or because He should, but just because i belong to Him and He loves me unconditionally. Thank You, Father!

have a peace-filled day!
veneal

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

a Mighty Word ~ shhh

The LORD says...

"... in quietness and trust in your strength..." Isaiah 30:15

have a strong-filled day!
veneal

Monday, March 11, 2013

and then i remember...

"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased." Hebrews 3:16

Fed the dogs my leftovers...
Couldn't decide what to wear...
Jealous my car isn't a self-start...
Ill about cat hair everywhere...
                                                   and then i remember.

And just what did i remember? 

... the innocent faces depending on school for all their meals.
... the children in soiled clothes and shoes too big.
... students coming to school in a beat-up taxi.
... the girl with roaches in her book bag.

And what i remember the most... their constantly, sweet smiling faces, no matter what their hardships or difficulties. How dare i not be grateful, always

God, how come those with less sometimes have more peace?  Is to have less best, reminding us to depend on You for everything? Is this the key to peace?  Your blessings to me are meant to be shared -- to flow from You to me to others.  The Truth is, in giving we all receive more.  Thank You, Father!

have a sharing-filled day!
veneal

Friday, March 8, 2013

i don't want THAT...

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -- His good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

The crumbled money in her hand reflected her crumbled heart.  Jada skipped into Book Fair and got a flashy diary.  Seeing it, her friend, Riana, wanted one too, but she lacked enough money.  Riana's smile shrieked to a halt, her eyes cried out for something more.

Are you satisfied with what you have or want something different?  Dissatisfied feelings pop up not only with materialist goods, but godly talents/gifts.  When left on our own, all is fine.  But when around others, we start comparing -- danger grows like mold, dark and ugly.  Instead of seeing how we measure up to God's Will for us, we measure our lives based on others and on earthly values.  Is the one hug you gave a child of less value than the person who donated computers to a classroom?  I guess, it depends on who's standards you are measuring it by.

Father, above all the shouting around me, and the bells and whistles, i want to hear Your Voice, Your Direction, Your Will for my life.  It's not about how much we have or what we do, but how faithful we are to Your Calling.

have a peace-filled day!
veneal

Thursday, March 7, 2013

a Mighty Word ~ strength

"May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word." 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

Never forget where our true strength comes from... thank You, Father!

have a joy-filled day!
veneal

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

you need to leave!

Jesus said...
"If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic.  Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you." Luke 6:29-31

Something was terribly wrong -- i saw too many students and not enough floor.  Instead of two classes, four showed up for Book Fair at the same time.  One of the (correctly time-arriving) teachers immediately sensed the confusion. She quickly and quietly led her class out and rescheduled for a later visit.  A class with class, thank you, Mrs. Peace.

Teachers must juggle their schedules carefully, fitting each day together like a jigsaw puzzle. How easy it would be to detonate when a piece gets moved or taken.  But quick adjustments and flexibility is the better choice. Like Mrs. Peace exhibited with her presence and manner...  it's more important to have the right attitude than it is to be right.

Lord, the next time someone steps on my toes, i want to follow her example.  Let me offer up both feet without whining and be a light for You.

have a thought-filled day!
veneal

Tuesday, March 5, 2013

a Mighty Word ~ trust

"The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble.  He cares for those who trust in Him..." Nahum 1:7-8

trust
trust
trust
trust
trust  

trust Him, and be amazed.

have a good-filled day!
veneal 

    


Monday, March 4, 2013

a change...

"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had..." Romans 15:5

I changed jobs today.  This week i am a book store clerk, not a media assistant.  Our school Book Fair is a huge fund raiser and requires all our effort and time.  The transformation from library to book store is magical -- like sprinkling Tinkerbell's pixie dust everywhere.  I'll be ringing up more books on the cash register from the Book Fair than i normally checkout from our shelves. 

Do you embrace change with an open heart? I must admit, i prefer the comfort of routines.  I like knowing what is expected, feeling confident in my task, experiencing little uncertainty or fear.  But, there are times when change is necessary. I can't stop change, but i can change my attitude in acceptance of it.

So, here's to wonderful changes!  This week i don't have to fret over what to wear.  Our staff dresses as a team in matching shirts.  Change... i could get use to it and embrace it with a change in attitude.  A right attitude can work wonders in many situations.

have an accepting-filled day!
veneal

Friday, March 1, 2013

grab your hat, and let's go!

" we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;  perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us." Romans 5:3-5



Oh, Dr. Seuss, how did you know?
the many injustices the earth would unfold.

Thanks for your colorful, zany characters a-plenty,
a dose of truth from them have taught many.

Be kind to others, do as i say,
love one another, and forgive each day.

Being right in life shouldn't be our goal,
but a right relationship with others is worthy to hold.

And thank you also for encouraging and letting me know,
being different is okay, God has great plans for all in His show!

Hardships, questions and trials are a part of our life,
but if we follow the right One we will have more peace than strife.

So, today we celebrate you, Dr. Seuss... and oh, the places we'll go,
reading and believing with Him allows freedom, grace and love to grow.
 
have a joy-filled day!
veneal