it's a wrap

"Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from Him." Psalm 62:5

Play week... pray week.  It has been a spectacular week of weeks. As usual, the routine at school has been anything but routine.  While all are looking forward to a weekend, i along with others in my area are also preparing for a needed Spring Break.

Wherever your Friday and break takes you, may playing and praying continue with a fresh meaning while providing rest, refreshment and restoration, as it also refuels the hope and thanks we have in our Father and Jesus Christ.

Happy Friday and Happy Holy Week!  We have an abundance to celebrate today and in the days to come!

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

ready to fly a kite?

"Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind." Philippians 2:1-2

Kite flying ... sometimes we suggest it in fun, and sometimes in frustration.  It's all in how we say it.

"Let's go fly a kite"  -- is about sustaining a relationship

"Go fly a kite" --  is about departing from a relationship

Father, when the winds of turmoil blow through, as they will do, i'm praying extra hard for You to keep the strings of my life from tangling up and breaking.  Whether a gentle breeze, a constant wind or tropical-force gusts, keep my mind, my mouth and my heart focused on You.  When my heart is ripped, mend it and guide me to You, so Your strength and power may overcome my weaknesses, doubts and fears. 

For when i am weak, You, Father, are the powerful wind at my back, lifting my heart, spirit and faith.

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

forgotten lines

"'You are not one of His disciples, are you?'

Peter denied it, saying, 'I am not.'" John 18:25

Practice, practice, practice.  It does not always produce perfection.  During play practice, lines may flow as smooth as honey. But for some with the combination of the actual moment, the lights and the audience, stage fright may consume and mask what's known during show time. Easy to understand, don't you think?

Such a time existed for Peter too.  Time after time, he confessed to know Jesus, even claiming he would die for Him. Then the unthinkable happened.  Jesus dragged, flogged and cursed from the garden, and on through town and Pilate's court, produced stage fright for the cast of disciples.  When asked if he knew Him, Peter who had practiced and proclaimed his love and devotion for Jesus, suddenly went silent.  Not once, but three times. I understand.

Father, i too, have experienced such silence and denial for You.  Please forgive me. When faced with difficult challenges, i pray for Your strength to stand by Your Truth.  Help me believe as i live and live as i believe.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

it's show time!

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." Colossians 3:23-24

Riddle: It's the week before Spring Break, and the school is performing the play Moana 4 times this week... with about half of the student body participating.  What's a teacher to do?

Answer:  go with the flow, praise God for blessings and SURVIVE... minute-by-minute

Seriously, as chaotic as it sounds, even after 23 years of witnessing similar play weeks, i am astonished at the end result and how smoothly such a massive production comes together.  Granted, it does not occur without a tremendous amount of HOURS in planning, preparation, hard work, practice and rehearsals, dedicated volunteers, parents and staff members, FLEXIBLITY, patience, sacrifice, teamwork, donations, blood and sweat, etc.  However, it makes the week of Spring Break even sweeter and more rewarding.

My sincere thanks to our many Play team members.  I can't wait to be bedazzled by the fruits of your hard work and dedication.  So, pull back the curtains and let the shows commence today!  It's going to be phenomenal!!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

no perfect season

"When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider; God has one as well as the other."  Ecclesiastes 7:14

Like many, i am thrilled spring is here. Dull gray skies, bare trees and frigid temperatures are not for me. But spring does not blossom without its shortcomings too.  Pollen wreaks havoc on all ages, and rain boots are a fixed foot fashion.

  

But even with its drawbacks, spring provides us with much to celebrate. After all, we can't have the beauty of new life, lush green trees and brilliant flowers without some misery... like a rise of allergies and illnesses due to an increase of pollen, possible destruction caused by high winds or tornados, and disease-ridden insects destroying fruits and veggies.

Happy is the heart that can still rejoice in the midst of tough times... because God is still good. He has the power to bring excellence even out of hard, trying times. 

Love where you are because God is there -- in any and all seasons. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

seriously

 "Show proper respect to everyone..." 1 Peter 2:17

Seriously, whether we say it, sing it, think it or do it, showing respect is important to everyone... everyone.

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

do you know the way?

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14

The kindergarten maps were impressive!  They were complete with roads, landmarks, stores and neighborhoods. However, following their maps would not get you to any of the places shown.  Accuracy of locations was not their priority.  Clearly, they, like me, would like to be surrounded by their favorite places.

While unable to use their road map for precise directions, they do exhibit knowledge  we can follow in caring, loving and forgiving others. 

Who are you following?  May we know who, why and what we are following... and ask God for guidance and direction when in doubt.  There are times we all need help in finding the Way.

we are loved and chosen by  God,

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

veneal  

sweet surprise

"But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of Him everywhere." 2 Corinthians 2:14

Focused on starting my morning at school, my eyes failed to see what my nose found... a heavenly fragrance at my desk.  It caused me to stop and savor my surroundings.  My eyes landed on a gathering of beautiful flowers with an even sweeter note from a student.  Her mere presence always brightens my day, but her desire to gift me with flowers caused me to pause and remember how continually blessed i am thanks to her... others and God.

Sometimes we get so busy with our preparations we miss the beauty and kindness God brings into our life, and He has to remind us about our blessings in a different way.  I was thankful i had not lost all my senses and could  enJOY a refreshing, sweet moment from Lilly.

Father, help us to stop and smell the roses You place around us.  May our acts of kindness and love to others remind them of our many blessings from You.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it

veneal

not forgotten

"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You." Isaiah 26:3

Sometimes we are aware of the obvious, and sometimes it completely escapes us. 

As much as i've yearned for a new season, i totally missed the fact yesterday was the first official day of Spring. It was plainly written on my calendar, it occurs every year at this time, but due to the icy weather, it never connected with my brain. I felt it was weeks away. Only when i heard someone say it, did i realize it.

Like the first day of Spring, we may not see or feel what we yearn and pray for in life. However, let us believe and know God hears our every plea and answers perfectly, whether we see or feel it at the moment.

Father, create in me a renewed heart filled with hope, joy, beauty and restoration. As i trust You are leading me out of a cold weariness and into the warmth of Your love and grace, may i respond with the JOY of believing it today.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

how much longer?

 When will winter be over?

coldness of a angry heart
bitter winds of misunderstanding
harsh, cutting  words
dark, blustery meanness
silent, icy looks
repeated, dismal disappointments
chilly, drafty doubts
intensifying, howling hurts

Have you had enough of the bitter, frosty winter?

Clearly, the season is not over. But there are bright, hopeful signs around too, like beautiful, red cardinals.  May we find  comfort in knowing not everything about the current season is cold.  God and His angels are watching over us.  He can and does  provide blessings through all seasons... we just need to keep our eyes and heart open to His goodness.  He doesn't change, but the season will.  

Thank You, Father.

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

lucky charms

 "...the Lord has chosen you to be His treasured possession." Deuteronomy 14:2

Do you know what makes students feel lucky??  It's not the luck of the Irish or possessions, but the luck (and needed) love from their teacher...
       


 Yes, it's you!!

Not only are you God's special treasure, but also a special treasure to others.

Smile, and enJOY your day. You, my friend, are a lucky and loved charm to those around you.

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

He holds

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.  Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging." Psalm 46:1-3

Have you seen the forecast? Bitter temperatures, high winds, buckets of precipitation.  When will it end? How much more before a season of calmness comes?  In turbulent sea(son)s, it's not unusual to feel our soul will splinter like frayed sticks if we encounter just one more painful hit.

Whatever circumstances are causing the color to drain from your knuckles: 

answers not available
problems not resolved
hearts not mended
bodies not healed
feelings not consoled

No matter the demands, conflicts, heartaches, when God is our Anchor... 
HE HOLDS.
The ride might feel uncontrollable and fierce, but He will safely see us through the storm and into the still waters of His peace.  

A furious storm came up on the lake... But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples woke Him saying, "Lord, save us! We're going to drown!" He replied, "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?" Then He got up and rebuked the winds and waves, and it was completely calm.

If Jesus can sleep on the boat in a storm, shouldn't we? Oh, for a bucket more of faith instead of fear to calm the nerves. Rest, friends; praying for us to be Jesus with skin on... believing our Father for the best each day.

Thank You, Father for guiding us gingerly through life.  Although like the weather, to us our life circumstances tomorrow is at best a prediction. Help our hearts to TRUST You know and have prepared perfectly for each day we face.

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

who's your hero?

"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak... those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength." Isaiah 40:28-29, 31

At times we look in the wrong direction for "heroes". Due to personal situations or worldly circumstances an influence to follow or believe a "hero" has a significant pull on our behavior and thinking. Bear in mind when our decisions are based on possible untruths or incomplete information, the result can be less than favorable.

There is One True Hero and Savior who has the power, understanding and means to provide us with all we need to accomplish great things in His name. When we BElieve and practice obedience to Him, we can still see mountains move. However, due to our human hearts, they may not move as quick or in the direction we desire. In cloudy hours we need boulder-size faith... as we struggle to rely and trust God's will.

Father, may we remember... you work ALL things to the good for those who love You. Thank You for your faithfulness to us, even when we wrestle with our faith in You. May Your blanket of love cover unsettled minds and bring peace to weary hearts.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

judging

"... The LORD doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

It was a classic mistake… judging a book by its cover. Pulling books in the library to display for spring, i search for refreshing and attractive spring-like covers, some with water or whimsical scenes and interesting characters.  Curious to know more about one of the fun-looking books i chose and wasn't familiar with, i read the inside cover. The story wasn't what i expected and not the type i was looking to feature... the cover was completely misleading. 

Taking the time to learn about the guts/inside of a book is wise for other situation too.  What we see in a person can be completely misleading.  Whether we view a cover of joy, action, terror, mischief, meekness, there is more to their story.  And that story can clear the lens on how we see and treat others.  

Father, help me to slow down.  Quick picks and quick decisions can be dangerous. The more we know, the more we can care... and the world will be a step closer to healing with Truth and better understanding.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

can you do this?

"Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body." 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

The Media Center at our school is anything but "just a library".  On any given day, it also serves as an auditorium for the school or grade level hosting a special event such as International Day, Yankee Doodle Day, the spelling bee contest or special speakers, as well as teacher meetings, neighborhood meetings, etc.

On days when i feel like i work more for a moving company, due to rearranging for specials events, it's important i commit to memory "it's not just about us".  As the Media Center, we must not lose sight of the fact we do not belong to just ourselves, our books and our work needs, but to the needs of a bigger body.  Thanks to our extended duties at school, we get to experience many special moments that we would otherwise miss.

So it is with us personally too.  As believers, God intends for us to take care of our needs... yet to remember, the larger picture of our life is being about His business of caring for the needs of others.  And when we do, we get to experience and become part of a wonderous picture, bringing more glory and JOY to Him and others.

Father, more for You and less for me, let that my goal in life be.

Help me to honor You more with not just my body, but my mind and soul.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

let's do it

 Jesus said...

"Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Is this phrase pounding in your head, "WHAT A WEEK!"?

When we rest at His feet, He restores us.

No one or nothing else can fill His shoes, and do for us what He can.

I'm going to take Him up on His offer this weekend, how about you?

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

Feeling sick?

"PRAISE BE TO THE GOD AND FATHER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST! the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in ALL our troubles..." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Sometimes, no matter how cautious we are, we get sick.  And as with the stomach bug, sometimes there is nothing you can do except stop, rest and wait for it to run its course. 

 Sickness raises its ugly head in many forms, degrees and lengths... 

loss of job
health issues 
loss of a loved one
ugly disputes
unfair treatment
split relationships
alienation
unstable home life
cruel remarks
rejection 
discrimination

physical, mental or emotional pain

and healing from it comes in different forms...

Yet, there is ONE common denominator in any and ALL healing... God, our Healer and Physician. He comes to us with perfect purpose and healing.  He never flinches or wavers in His mission, covering us with the soothing balm of His unconditional, faithful love.  

Father, often we endure more than we want and more than we feel capable of handling.  But you remind us over and over again, we aren't expected to handle it. When we hurt and feel we can't go on, it's ok.  You come to us and sit with us comforting, tending and counseling until we are healed and can walk again along beside You. On my knees, Father, i can thank You now because i remember and know Your Almighty Power.  In You, i trust. 

On Him we have set our hope that He will continue to deliver us...
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!

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

veneal
veneal

What are you passing to others?

"But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere." James 3:17

The nasty stomach bug zapped the life out of her.  Who would the next victim be? So with disinfectant in hand, we went from room to room spraying and wiping to kill the virus and stop the spread. Isolating her from others was necessary too. With symptoms still present, she was contagious, and the danger of catching the nasty bug lurked for all in her path.
 

What are you passing on to others?  Is it good or bad?  Discouragement, encouragement... rumors, truths... threats, understanding... hate, love... hurt, compassion. 

If it's the wisdom or love from God, keep passing!  We all need Him.  But if it's Satan-infested germs, pray and be sprayed with the Holy Spirit for a thorough cleansing from our Father.  Don't let germs zap the life out of you and others.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

please wait

"YET, the LORD longs to be gracious to you; He rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him!" Isaiah 30:18

It happens, and it breaks my heart.

Unable to control their wants and desires, a student "took" what they wanted from the Book Fair.  For a day they reveled in their treasures, but soon the ugly truth caught up with them.  Items wrongly taken were confiscated, and they lost the privilege to return to the Fair.  And still to come is the saddest truth of all.  On the last day of the Book Fair, students in need are treated to a free book. Their impatience cost them a wonderful blessing to come.

Is there anything you are moving forward with in life without God's direction?  Anxious to take matters in your own hands?  Tired of waiting for God to answer?  May our desires and wishes not propel us forward without God. 

Father, it happens. I want it, i get it and it breaks Your heart.  Grow in me the wisdom to seek You in all areas of my life and to patiently wait for Your guidance.  How often have i missed the treasures You have for me because i refused to wait for You?  I want to trade in my pitiful temporary fix for Your sweet divine blessings. Trip me up, slow me down, break my leg; just don't let me miss any blessings You have for me.

What God has in store for us far exceeds our expectations... every time.

have a patient-filled day!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

no disclaimer needed

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." Galatians 5:22-23

Excited about his purchase from Book Fair, Danny pulled out his new pen to do his classwork. When walking around to check their progress, Ms. Kindly asked Danny about his work.  He remarked he was finished.  

Baffled and staring at the blank paper, she questioned him further.  He explained he used the only pen he had... the one from Book Fair, which just happened to be an invisible ink pen.  Besides, he remarked, he didn't want anyone copying his work.  Looks like we will have to put a disclaimer on these pens... not for use in any schoolwork.

As believers, ALL gifts we receive from God are good for everywhere and anywhere we are.  Love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control have a permanent place in all our actions.  It's made for sharing with all in our path. No disclaimer ever needed.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

my heroes

"Be kind and compassionate to one another..." Ephesians 4:32 

Even though Book Fair produces a hectic, cRaZy work week, it's also full of refreshment for the soul.  Awesome volunteers, delicious donated snacks and coffee, helpful administration and custodial staff, flexible teachers and supportive parents are all magnificent reasons to keep smiling.

But i must say, students truly steal my heart for best inspiration.  Watching them freely donate part of their own money to our "books4all" box really makes my soul sing. Besides helping other students get books, they also love buying books for their teachers. Every day, excited students chatter about how Book Fair week is their most favorite week at school!

How can i not love what i do?  When kindness sprinkles into your days like this, hope fills your heart for today and for the future.

Kindness wins and covers exhaustion, stress, fear, anger, anxiety, doubt, uncertainties and more.  Be the blanket someone needs today.  Then, snuggle up with the Good Book, and thank God for our blessings.

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