changes...

"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

In case you haven't heard, i've changed jobs.

This week i am a bookstore 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 bookstore is magical -- like someone 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... and that's a lot of books!

Do you embrace change with an open heart? I must admit, i don't.  I prefer the comfort and familiarity of routines.  I like knowing what is expected, feeling confident in my task, while experiencing little uncertainty or fear.  But there are times when change is necessary or unavoidable. We can't end all the changes in our life, but we can change our attitude regarding them.

Father, strengthen us with all the unsettling changes we face.  Help us start by trusting You with what's ahead and embracing a change in attitude.  May it produce sweet results and bring peace to our soul.

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

let Him

We might not see it or know it, but fragile as thin ice is the soul of many surrounding us. Questions screaming in hurting hearts....

Who will possible fight for me... every time and all the time... who cares for me that much in every situation, no matter the reason for the pain?

"The LORD, your God, will fight for you." Duet. 3:22

The real question is will we let Him or keep attempting it ourselves.

Father, take the reins before i break, i surrender all to you. You are our one true safe place to fall.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

time to sing and dance

 "... no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God beside You, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him." Isaiah 64:4

work has been missed...
Book Fair is a blink away...
testing is around the corner...
the reporting period is near...
shows are scheduled... 
programs are upon us...
deadlines are within a breath...
special events are planned...

How do you feel about the days ahead?  Should we panic in despair or scream for joy? 

Let's pick JOY because we have true GUIdance (God U & i dance). 

God, who is with us, will see us through each and every twist of our day. He is reason enough to sing and dance with JOY.

Father, satisfy us in the morning with Your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.

Thank You

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

a Mighty Word ~ song

 "I know every bird in the mountains..." Psalm 50:11

Could you benefit from a cheery, uplifting drawing and thought? Unlike our Father, i am not familiar with every bird and their ways. But i am aware of a saying that identifies cardinals as spiritual messengers sent by our heavenly loved ones to watch over us.  The bulletin boards in the  hallway filled with cardinals stirred this remembrance, bringing comfort and a smile to my heart.

There's a song in the air when a cardinal appears. Love from Above... the sweetest of gifts.  He who knows all birds and other creatures, knows us and our needs too.

Thank You, Father, for this song of love in my heart.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

together is better

"Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor.."  Ecclesiastes 4:9

Up against a wall?  More opportunity in your lap than ability to handle? Hard decisions to make? Sitting in a pool of disappointments?

No matter our circumstance, good or bad, going through it with someone can help.  Whether it's family, a friend, a co-worker, a neighbor or even a stranger, support and encouragement from another can make a difference.

And remember, we continuously have the strength, guidance and comfort of One with us...God. We don't have to ask Him or even look for Him, He is already with us and aware of all our needs.

we are loved and chosen by God, 

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

new season is evolving

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:  

a time to be born and a time to die, 
a time to plant and a time to uproot,  
a time to kill and a time to heal,  
a time to tear down and a time to build,
 a time to weep and a time to laugh, 
a time to mourn and a time to dance..." Ecclesiastes 2:1-4

Due to warm days and rain, beautiful daffodils are emerging through the dirt and crumpled leaves.  A true and needed breath of fresh air. The cheery colors, sweet aromas and new growth are a welcomed change, signifying hope for a brighter tomorrow. 

Through the wintry days of heartaches and disappointments, our Father is always about His business watching, preparing and tending to our needs.  He lovingly sprinkles signs of hope in our path, reminding us a new season or new beginning is coming.   

How thankful i am for His faithfulness.  He reminds me over and over of the fact He knows how and when to change seasons... those on earth and those in us.

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

here's your sign...

"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Ephesians 4:32

Yesterday was International Kindness Day.  On the table near the office an assortment of kindness stickers were provided to cheer us on in remembering and celebrating.  Free for the taking... and making.

I took several, as yesterday was challenging. Do you see one, or more, that renew your mind and spirit?

Stick with kindness and God.  We have nothing to lose and MUCH to gain with both.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

just suppose...

 "...encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone... always try to be kind..." 1 Thessalonians 5:14,15

Just suppose....

the first smile of their day came from your face

patience to teach a new skill came from your heart

words of encouragement came only from your lips

guidance to complete a task came from your hands  

compassion for their pain came from your soul

the only tears cried for their hurt fell from your eyes

believing they are worthy is made possible because of you

Would it really make a difference?  You might not see it, but know your actions and love are making a significant impact.

Random acts of kindness build a mighty fortress for our Father. And brings others to Him.

You make my heart smile.  I am so thankful to be doing life with you.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

He rescues

 “Because he loves Me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges My name." Psalm 91:14

BOOM!!  As the kindergartener prepared to check out her library book, "Rescue Patrol",  her leg bumped the shelf, and it came crashing down.  Her teacher walking up at the precise moment the accident occurred, immediately comforted Crissy over the scare.  Instead of alligator tears, she released sighs of relief. Crissy had two Rescue Patrols by her side.

Have you had a bump in your life recently, or maybe even an explosion?  We too have always Someone with us to hold, comfort and guide us.  What a relief to know we never face anything alone.  And even if the tears do come, God reaches down and wipes them away with His tender, loving Hand.  We can rest assure our Rescue Patrol can and will handle all calls.

Sometimes we need the Rescue Patrol and sometimes we are the Rescue Patrol's assistant.  

Father, whether i'm calling out to You or You are calling out to me, give me faith enough to live in complete trust of You. As You are always available for me, help me always be mindful of Your nudging to assist and share Your Ways with others.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

a loving reminder

"I have chosen you to be my treasured possession." Deuteronomy 7:6 

Valentine's Day was difficult for some. Through death, disagreements, hardships or other factors, some loved ones are no longer part of our life. So, is there still reason to celebrate?  With a thankful heart, our answer is yes.  There is One Valentine that will never forsake, forget nor fail us. 

"I will meet all your needs."  Philippians 4:19

Thanks be to God we are never without a Valentine.  May His Love fill you with peace, comfort and joy every day.  I am grateful for my lifetime Valentine, and grateful for you, my sisters and brothers in Christ.

Nothing and no one will separate you from My love! ... neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation!"   Romans 8:35 39

we are LOVED and CHOSEN by God,

may we live, love, do and celebrate like we believe it,

veneal

I LOVE YOU

Happy Valentine's Day! You, My child, are the cherished love of My life!  I wrote this Valentine with just you in mind.

My dear sweet (your name),

Rejoice! For I have made this day for you!  (Psalm 118:24)

You have been blessed in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.  I chose you before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in My sight.  (Ephesians 1:4)

Trust in Me with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding and I will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Since I am for you, who can be against you?  (Romans 8:31)

Who or what shall separate you for My love?  Shall trouble or hardship? No, never!  (Romans 8:35)

I will tend to you like a shepherd does his flock.  I will gather you in my arms and carry you close to My heart. (Isaiah 40:11)

When you are tired and weary, come to Me, and I will give you rest.  (Matthew 11:28)

Whatever yoke you are under, I will free you from it.  I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment.  You are mine, and I am Your God.  (Exodus 6:6-7)

I will keep you from all harm and watch over your life always.  (Psalm 121:7-8)

It is My prayer that you may grasp how wide and long and high and deep My love is for you.  (Ephesians 3:17-19)

always on your side and for you,

Dad

Need more affirmations regarding His love for you? Just pull out His Book. It's a love letter written just for you. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

Happy Valentine's Day, friend! I love you too, 

veneal

Be Mine

Some things in life are worth repeating and rereading, like love letters. I've carried some around for  years and plan to never, never part from them. Today I pulled one out of my treasure chest to remember, rediscover and reflect on the greatest love of all.  No matter who you are, where you are, or what you are doing, YOU ARE GREATLY LOVED!  May we always remember Whose we are and Who loved us first.  Read and believe His blessings for you  -- His beloved Valentine.

Dear (your name),

Do you not know?  Have you not heard?   (Isaiah 40:21)

I will never take my love away from you.  (1 Chronicles 17:13)

To you, I will be compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in love.    (Psalm 103:8)

I will never leave you nor forsake you. (Joshua 1:5)

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.  (Isaiah 41:10)

Since you are precious and honored in My sight, and because I love you... do not be afraid, for I am with you.  (Isaiah 43:4 5)

I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name, you are mine.   (Isaiah 42:1)

I will quiet you with My love. I will rejoice over you with singing.   (Zephaniah 3:17)

And remember, dear Child of Mine,

My love endures forever.   (2 Chronicles 20:21)

 Dad

What a Love!  What a God!  What a Father!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

a time to love

"Love one another with brotherly/sisterly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor." Romans 12:10

You would think they hadn't seen each other for weeks.  But it wasn't true.  They were sisters who are together all the time. Yet seeing each other in the library, they hugged each other as if discovering a long-lost friend.  I witness this tender love between siblings all the time.

Father, thank You for sweet reminders to never miss an opportunity in showing brotherly/sisterly love to each other. What a wonderful and uplifting difference it makes to all.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

when small is HUGE

"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing... always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. " 1 Thessalonians 5:11, 15

Can you think of anything small that in reality is not small?  

What about a word? a gesture? a second?

"Please"... "thanks"... a smile... a helping hand... a nod of approval... any of these and countless other actions have the power to inject JOY, happiness, peace, acceptance and love into someone's life.

Acts of kindness don't have to be earth-shaking events to be meaningful. The smallest act of kindness can be soul shaking.  A constant tremor of kindness has the power to move mountains of doubt, hurt, fear and loneliness with the potential of turning a life around.

As every second counts, so does every action from us.  Never doubt even the smallest act of kindness from you... it does make a difference. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

a Mighty Word ~ trust

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding." Proverbs 3:5

How will i get through this?  Why did it happen?  When will things get better? What should i do next?  Where can i get answers?  Who will help me?

Trusting God like a baby trusts their caretaker, that's what i want to do. No worries, no fretting about the next hour, day or week, just living in the moment as they trust and expect their needs to be met as they happen.   

Father, i want to rest in the Hands of most capable Caretaker in the universe... Yours.  You are aware and prepared for every need i will ever face. Help me live life to the fullest as i trust You with my needs. No one knows or loves me better than You.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

the sweetest sound

"Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body." Proverbs 16:24

What is the sweetest sound or word to you?

According to Dale Carnegie a person’s name is the sweetest sound. Believing this, i try to call our students by their name.  Sometimes i create tips to  help me remember, such as those with a first and last name that could easily be switched —Thomas Martin or Martin Thomas. My tip here is what would i name my child.  It would be Thomas, which was true for him.  So, when Thomas checked out recently, my calculating brain searched out his name, and i cheerily said, "Thank you, Thomtin."  Thomtin???  What?? In my haste to address him, i twisted his names together.  Amused by the blunder i shared it with my co-worker.  When Thomas came to library with his class the next day,  Mrs. B. asked him a question.  And how did she address him?  You guessed it... Thomtin.

Chances are she never would have called him Thomtin, if i hadn't shared my story with her.  A small seed that planted a thought and then a response.  It's a powerful, funny and sometimes scary truth... the amount of influence our words and actions can have on another.

Father, help me to never doubt or forget the power of my words. As well as the soil or tone they are planted in to others. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love, do and speak like we believe it,

veneal

a Mighty Word ~ JOY

"The Lord is my strength and my shield; in Him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to Him." Psalm 28:11

You, LORD, put JOY in my heart!  Your love never fails.

And this gift from You, Father, keeps me smiling....

Thank You for all your heavenly gifts -- a praying friend, a smile, a helping hand, a beautiful sunrise, a songbird, a word of encouragement -- sprinkled in our lives daily.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

every part is critical

"God has given each of you some special abilities; be sure to use them to help each other, passing on to others God’s many kinds of blessings." 1 Peter 4:10 TLB

We are like puzzle pieces.  Working alone we can only complete part of His perfect picture.  But when we work together serving Him and each other, God's entire plan is fulfilled. The complete picture is glorious... and God smiles.

Never doubt how critical your part in God's plan is to Him and others.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

take a break

"For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, “In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.” Isaiah 30:15

Make time and space for quiet breaks.

Whether alone or in the presence of others, we benefit richly from peaceful, quiet times.  And nothing is better for quiet time than a good book, especially The Good Book.   

Stop.  Breathe. Say a prayer. Turn a page.  Let God's strength be yours.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

in His Arms

"The eternal God is your refuge, And underneath are the everlasting arms."   Deuteronomy 33:27

Thrashing about due to exhaustion, overstimulation, unknowns...

Some days it's nothing better than falling in the loving Arms of the One who loves us best.  Have a peace-filled day.

Thank You, Father, for always holding me.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal