ready to celebrate?

Jesus said...
"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Seeing me in my CHRISTmas shirt, Sue asked, "You ready to start celebrating CHRISTmas?"

"Start? I never stopped." And it's true.

The manger scene at my front door and baby Jesus in the den are permanent fixtures.  I use to chunk them in the attic after December, but not anymore.  I need their presence and reminder year round, and especially this year.  Through the loss of my Daddy and other loved ones, family members moving a greater distance away, family job shake ups and health issues, i find the visual reminders of our hope as believers a needed touch of comfort and peace  

No matter the circumstances of the day, refocusing on the immense love and promises of God, I am strengthen. CHRISTmas can be and is a daily celebration for the hope in our faith. Because of Jesus we have the promise of eternal life.

Are you celebrating yet?

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ regardless

"You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to You." Psalm 86:5

Regardless of...

the outcome
what is said
how you feel
what you do
decisions made
how you act
repeated failures...

GOD IS STILL IN CONTROL AND LOVES US!

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live and breathe and look like we believe it,
veneal

bittersweet days

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:38

Some people revel in change, but not me. The fact i haven't changed my furniture in over 20 years supports that truth.  So when people around me change jobs and leave, i find it bittersweet.  As in the case this week, the sadness over a person leaving is soften knowing they have a wonderful opportunity waiting for them... 

and in some cases, even a sweet good bye celebration can lessen the sadness too.

Facing a difficult moment or situation?  Be on the lookout for God to sweeten your life in His special way. Sometimes we see immediate benefits from a change, sometimes the blessing appears later and then there are times we do not get to personally witness the joy of it on this side of heaven.  But on this we can always depend... God's plan for us is a work in progress... and it is for the good.

Now, how sweet is that?

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ blessings

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ." Ephesians 1:3

More plentiful and beautiful than the feathers on a turkey are God's blessings to us.

Just to name a few -- Jesus, family, friends, health, school, a warm home, delicious food, clean water, beautiful music, laughter, travel, safety, freedom, peace, helping hands, you...  

Thanks be to God from whom all blessings flow.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal 

we are loved and 💓

we are


wwe 

lessons from a turkey

"I thank my God every time I remember you." Philippians 1:3

This year i cooked a recorded breaking 117 turkeys for Thanksgiving...not nice, plump turkeys, but one dimensional ones.  It's a kindergarten traditions, painting thankful turkeys and laminating them for place-mats during the holidays.  

The best part of cooking these school-yard turkeys is having the opportunity to read the sweet messages and thoughts from the students.  Plus, they are low in calories and rich in love.

Even though Thanksgiving Day is over, i am still remembering people i am thankful for... like you.  I am so grateful to teachers for stirring the pot and serving up the most important life lessons... love and thanks. Through art, music, dance, drama, essays and other venues, you share our Father's heart and love with students. They see Him through your words, action and teaching. You inspire them to see, know and remember what matters.  I might be late, but i want to say, i am very thankful for you.   

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

the empty chair...

"...give thanks in all circumstances..." 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Father, 
Today is Thanksgiving, and my emotions are mixed. I am so thankful for Your many blessings to me, but beautiful memories of past Thanksgivings are tugging at my heart.  While much food, laughter, hugs, play and talk will be shared today among family and friends in some home, it will not be so in all homes. Life has delivered changes. The past memories bring sadness... BUT, i'll take the sadness and still be thankful because of the JOY of having had them.

As we gather around our table today, the empty chairs will not go unnoticed.  Due to their choice, another's choice, Your choice or situations, loved ones are missing.  Some will be feasting elsewhere and some will be feasting at Your heavenly table.  Please help me maintain a  grateful heart... whatever the circumstances.  

Father, because of You and Your love, i am still thankful.  You are enough today and everyday.  Thank You.

Happy Thanksgiving! because...
we are loved and chosen by God,
may we know it and live like we believe it,
in His love,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ thankful

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever." Psalm 107:1

In a time where change is a constant in....
jobs
standards
styles
relationships
technology
rules
tastes

...it is with a most thankful heart to know our Father Above is The Constant of no change in...  
who He loves
what He desires
how He feels

He loves us unconditionally forever and forever... no matter what. And He wants nothing more than for us to abide with Him for eternity.

Give thanks to our Father, for He is good... yesterday, today and tomorrow. On that we can hope and depend.  

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

was that a grumble?

"Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name." Psalm 100:4

Are you ready for a fabulous Thanksgiving? 

With questioning circumstances and facing some precious empty chairs around the table this year, i am digging deep to find a heart of gratitude.  Like the turkey, i needed an attitude adjustment and a shift of focus.

Thankfully for me, working in a school provides an abundance of opportunities to help refocus and remember what is important.  Reading some letters on a bulletin board was certainly good medicine for me. I felt sharing a couple of them, might offer assistance for someone else needing to restore a thankful spirit for this season.













Father, thank You for providing us with reminders of our many continuous blessings from You.  We want to replace our grumbles with a rumble of thanks to You.

we are loved and chosen by God, 
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

on a ledge?

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

How are things looking for you?  As i looked at the turkeys on the ledge in the hallway, i had to smile.  I might have some struggling and uncertain days ahead, but many turkeys next week will be facing tougher, final days.  And unlike them, i have a full-time Protector.

Father, thank You for Your presence, laughter and needed breaks from tense times.  You are so faithful in answering all our needs.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ different

"There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work." 1 Corinthians 12:4-6

May we never doubt, neglect or dismiss the gifts God has equipped us with in life.

 

We are different for a reason -- He doesn't make mistakes.

God has a need, and a plan and a purpose for each of us... you're perfect, just as He designed.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

all in...

"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations..." Matthew 28:19

The statewide school competition to win tickets to the Big Game, Clemson-USC, stirred much interest.  Registration was easy, with just reading and recording the books.  It was our goal to make sure students were ALL IN  and eligible for the contest. With much encouragement, direction and followup, it happened. Now to cross our fingers and wait for the drawing of just 2 winners.

Father, Your Word tells us You too desire an ALL IN... All IN to your kingdom.  You call us to encourage and share with everyone Your Good News by how we live, so others witness and claim the hope we have because of You.  We need only accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior to be declared winners, all of us... recipients of eternal life with You.  Now, that is an ALL IN win.  Thank You, for Your grace, mercy and unconditional love.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ nourishment

"The lips of the righteous nourish many..." Proverbs 10:21 

Thank you for feeding the children with love, patience and goodness.  There's is nothing more satisfying  than a good meal. 
I can see the love on you face and hear it in your voice.

we are loved and chosen by God,
and may we do likewise to others,
veneal

as freedom rings...

"The Lord your God Himself will fight for you." Deuteronomy 3:22

It's one of my favorite programs at school... the Veteran's Day Program. The respect, honor and dedication exhibited on this day is moving. From the youngest to the oldest, a sense of gratefulness fills the air as we reflect on the continuous courage, strength and sacrifice displayed to maintain our freedom. 

As we salute the veterans and soldiers who serve, i also extend my hands in thanks to their families... spouse, children, parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins. Having now personally experienced military life through my daughter's marriage, i have a new understanding and appreciation for the entire family. The soldier's family serves an important role of support. Together, they exemplify a unit of love and strength amid ongoing changes and trials. To conquer battles in the field and at home, loyalty, dedication, encouragement, trust, sacrifice and integrity are necessary elements for the soldier, as well as, his/her family.  

As believers, we are all military family members. On the heavenly battlefield, our Father and Mighty Defender, sealed our freedom in Christ. ALL our sins were forgiven through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. And as a member of His family, we should celebrate this victory daily by living for Him boldly in Truth, love and peace.

"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." Romans 15:5-6

Thank you, Veterans, those currently serving in our Armed Forces and all your family members. May God bless all your days.

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ everyday

"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

Whether we see it or not, each season has its own beauty.  If you don't like the one you're in, hold on.  A different one is around the corner.

The One who is faithful has you covered with His love in all seasons.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

i've a story to tell

"He will cover you with His pinions, And under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark." Psalm 91:4

With so much happening, an important anniversary nearly slipped by unnoticed.  Seven years ago yesterday, i was diagnosed with a brain tumor. As God would have it, a friend reminded me of the impact my ordeal had on her. I cried as i remembered, recounting the faithfulness of a God, we sometimes dismiss as distant, uncaring or slack in answering our needs.  I cried knowing He has saved me not just once (on the cross) but numerous times.  I cried realizing God's ability to use all things to the good, whether for us, for friends and family, for complete strangers or for His glory.  Of all the people i want to honor, God is most deserving for the top spot in my heart.

For those who don't know my story, i want to share it with you now.

As God would have it, while walking my dogs, i took a nasty, hard fall.  A trip to the emergency room confirmed i had a concussion, but also revealed i had a rare brain tumor.  As God would have it, the physicians at both local hospitals admitted they were not the best choice for treatment. As God would have it, the local neurosurgeon spoke of a neurosurgeon in our state, Dr. William Vandergrift, as best qualified for cases like mine. As God would have it, i was whisked to MUSC in Charleston for emergency surgery, where God placed me in the talented hands of  Dr. Vandergrift, a godly, humble man. Dr. V. led a talented team through 3 critical surgeries on me during the next two weeks. As God would have it, one of my nurses happened to be a former member of my home church, providing additional peace of mind and comfort. As God would have it, i returned home just in time to celebrate Thanksgiving and in time healed enough to return to work. As God would have it, i have not suffered from any long-term side effects, and i am truly a living miracle. My story could have ended differently and that would have been okay.  But as God would have it, He is not finished with me yet... i have a story of wonder and thankfulness, a story to share, a story to remind others His faithfulness is up-close and personal to all!

I don't remember all the details from 7 years ago, but i do remember some significant points.  Things like, the unending comfort and support of loved ones by my side.  The unexpected visit of a cousin and friend's son, triggering an awareness i might actually die. A surgeon discussing in length the seriousness and risk of my condition and surgery. But what i recall most vividly is the complete inner peace. "Peace at a time like that?" you might ask.  Yes -- very strange because i love and cherish my family and friends tremendously.  During these days of questionable health, i couldn't grasp how i felt so peaceful. Having no panic or fear of my outcome, i was prepared to accept whatever fate God deemed right.  There can only be one answer for such indescribable peace... i was witnessing and living God's love, mercy and grace, up close and personal.  It's a peace that can only be contributed to a relationship, dependence and faith in God.
   

So, it's a busy week of remembering for me; and oh! what a perfect prelude for our Thanksgiving season. As God would have it, we all have an abundance to be thankful for daily. Thank You, God, for miracles everyday... large and small.

What's your story?  Someone needs to hear it.  Spread the Good News! And celebrate the moments, because actually that is all we have... and that is okay.

friend, we are love and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
Thank Him today,
veneal

talk to me

"The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit." Proverbs 15:4





"What's wrong with you?!"

"What's going on with you?"

Not getting a needed response from a situation?  Sometimes getting a person to open up can be as simple as changing a word or how we say it.

Father, guide my heart and my lips with all i interact with today.  May i be an encourager in sharing truth, and not a discourager.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ trust

"The Lord reigns forever;
    He has established His throne for judgment^.
  He rules the world in righteousness
    and judges the peoples with equity. 
The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed,
    a stronghold in times of trouble.
Those who know Your name trust in You,
     for You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek You." Psalm 9:7-10

 Pray, vote and trust God.

Whatever the outcome, keep looking to God.  Even if  "the system" is not reliable, our God is.

The One on the Almighty throne can't not be shaken.  Our Savior and King survives any turmoil and disaster and saves all who comes to Him.

He/She will have no fear of bad news; his/her heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD. 

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding...

And He will be your Peace. 

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

election eve...

"...if My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."2 Chronicles 7:14

Election Eve... finally.

The campaign battles have been tense, loud and grueling. Houses, families, friends, coworkers hotly divided on issues and candidates.  Who is right? In reading and listening to comments and remarks, one thing is clear, people are passionate about their beliefs.  Our individual fabric is woven and colored by the events and emotions we have personally experienced.  And naturally we side with those whose viewpoints most match and affect us... that's just human nature.   

Tomorrow we will not all vote the same way.  Yet, i'm at peace; because in the grand scheme of things, i know God has the final Word. One way or the other, with blessings or discipline, we will witness His Hand on our land.  It's important for us to stay united as we pray to God for truth, obedience and discernment as we pursue His wisdom and guidance. We also need to pray for our leaders to seek God and not to be like a god. Our choices are imperfect people; but may our prayers deliver us teachable leaders, with listening hearts and spirits that honor God.

Pray with all your heart, and vote. Whatever happens on Tuesday (or any day), keep looking up. Let's remember Who is still holding the world firmly in His Grip and give thanks.  God's Will will be done.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

sweet promises

"but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:31

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you." Isaiah 53:10

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

Recently, while working and chomping down on some delectable chocolates, i slowed down just long enough to notice something new. Inside the candy wrapper was an inspiring message... "A smile is the quickest way to brighten a room!" I quickly opened another one eager to see what it said... "Every moment matters, including this one!" I was so excited and couldn't wait to share this new discovery.  Moments later my excitement melted into embarrassment, as my co-worker gently explained messages had always been inside the wrapper.  So for years, because of being multi-minded and not taking time to just enjoy the chocolates, i had missed the sweetest part of the treat... promises from the maker.




Father, i pray not to be so wrapped up or distracted with life, that i miss or forget what truly matters most... Your wondrous promises to us.  When we open Your Word, it overflows with promises that can carry us through any and all valleys and mountains in our path, give us needed strength, and restore hope.  Thank You for providing what we need... the Living Word, promises from our Maker, You.  I want to read and digest them all.


we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ kind

"...encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone." 1 Thessalonians 5:14

Acts of kindness reap strong results in glory for God.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal