a Mighty Word ~ peace

  "And He will be their Peace."  Micah 5:5

and mine... 
                   and yours.

Just a quick morning reminder from Above.

True yesterday, today, tomorrow and always.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

what's on your mind?

"For you created my inmost being;
    you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
    your works are wonderful,
    I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
    when I was made in the secret place,
    when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed body;
    all the days ordained for me were written in your book
    before one of them came to be.
17 How precious to me are your thoughts, God!
    How vast is the sum of them!
18 Were I to count them,
    they would outnumber the grains of sand—
    when I awake, I am still with you." Psalm 139:13-18

Whether from God or on your Facebook page, this question is ever before us. And for many of us, our response changes sometimes hourly.

But this morning my heart and prayers join a family whose response has been steadfastly set on one event … the healing of their precious son from cancer; he is also one of our school’s past beloved students. And now, less than a year later, complete healing of their son might be upon them.

Father, we don’t always understand Your ways or answers. Yet we know Your ways are always perfect. Wrap the Dickerson family tightly in your Arms. May your strength, peace and love flow through them like a raging river. When we don’t understand, help us to trust You. Amen

But God said, “I’m not done yet…”

Keep praying, friends.

Love. Hugs and prayers, Heather McGee Dickerson and family.

update: Hewitt went Home this morning and is resting in Arms of Jesus now...

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

a Mighty Word ~ fixed

"Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest." Hebrews 3:1

 

Father,
Through the pain through the praise, through the tears through the thrills, through the confusion through the Truth, let my gaze be fixed on You. You are my constant, faithful Peace.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

who's hungry?

  Jesus said...

"Feed my lambs." John 21:15

Time to teach!

May our lesson plates be filled with love, understanding, compassion, patience, kindness and truth.  These seasonings, along with the meal of knowledge, are guaranteed to satisfy the souls around us and keep them coming back for more.

And don't forget to also sweeten the day!  Pass the plate around, and let them eat from the cake of love. You got this!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

in for the long haul

 "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 8:28

The walk is a little slower, the smiles not quite as wide, the arrival time a bit later.  School is back in full swing and some of the normal patterns and habits of old are beginning to appear. Are you ready for whatever is in store for you this year?

The joy of the journey ahead depends a lot on us... our attitudes, our actions and our reactions.  We can influence for a better or eternal future in another, but it takes work, patience, love and a belief we can conquer the battles ahead.  Or i should say, a belief that God will provide opportunities for victories as we obediently allow Him to work in our lives. His calling in our life is for good... through our trust in Him, His glory will shine as a witness to others.

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

handle with care

 "Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." 1 Peter 5:2-3 

The first days of school are over, and little stumbling pebbles are showing up in your perfectly planned path.  Keep the thrill and joy of the new school year in your heart by staying in touch with our Father every morning.

May these cross thoughts aid in strengthening your focus, direction and joy for a glory-filled day.

Be assured as you labor in love, you are right where God wants you and needs you.  EnJOY a peace-filled weekend!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

when will it end?

"Rejoice in the Lord always... the Lord is near... And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:4,5,19

Worry over  an outcome... tension among a group... anger over a decision... pain from an injury... lingering sickness... deafening loneliness... disappointments and heartaches... another failure...  And then on top of that, sweltering days and muggy nights.  REJOICE in the Lord, it will change.

In a sea of greenery, it looks out of place. But this premature turning maple tree in my neighborhood is always a welcomed sign. It never fails to dress out in brilliant reds and gold, while we are still in the midst of sufferable heat. And although we can't see or feel the cooler weather now, we are assured a change is coming. Rejoice! The heat we see and are experiencing today is not permanent.  My little maple tree reminds me of this... and so does God. 

Breathe in a deep breath of fresh air.  A change is on the horizon.  God had not left us to crumble up or rot.  He is stirring things up in us and around us. If you don't see or feel it now, just trust God.  The One who has provided for us in the past, will continue in this season and the ones to come.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

need a hug?

"May the God of HOPE fill you with all JOY and PEACE as you TRUST in Him so that you may overflow with HOPE by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13

First day of school worries... 

How's my hair?
Is my outfit okay?
Did i get enough supplies?
Where is my snack?
Will my classmates like me?

Am I ready for this grade?

Will my teacher like me?

And do you know what is the biggest stress reliever to your students??  Your big smile and welcoming arms.  Jitter bug hugs are best and what is needed most in these first weeks.  Yet, hugs are not just important in the first days, they are important every day.

Just how important are they?  According to scientists, here are some hugs facts:  they reduce stress, pain and fear ... they support immune and cardiovascular health... they increase happiness.  It's said we need four hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.

Is it no wonder when we speak and hug others in need, we also pray and think of them being cared for in the loving Arms of God.  Maybe an updated version of the above verse could be this:

May the God of HOPE and HUGS fill you with all JOY and PEACE as you TRUST in Him so that you may overflow with HOPE and HUGS by the power of the Holy Spirit.

I don't know about you, but i feel like i need to go hug someone.  Do you need a hug?

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

all A's...

 “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord..." Acts 3:19 

There is nothing much better than the first days of school.  Everyone  starts with a clean slate... no strikes, no demerits, no detention, no zeros.  From grades to behavior, everyone has all A's.  No wonder the halls are full of smiles and good cheer! It's a wonderful beginning for everyone, no matter the past. 

When we ask for forgiveness and approach the throne of grace, we have that same wonderful opportunity.  Our Father wipes away all the failures, shortcomings and sins in our lives and remembers them no more.  We are then able to serve Him in A+ style.  

In need of a new start and refreshment in your life?  There is no better day than today... the "A" is yours merely for the asking!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

classroom rules

"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." Psalm 32:8

As a teacher, what are some of your classroom expectations?

1.  Listen when the teacher is talking.
2.  Prepare for your lessons.
3.  Apply what you learn to your work.
4.  Follow the teacher's directions.
5.  And, if you need help, ask the teacher.

Would you agree these are building blocks for the success of the student? So, you may help them get the most out of their studies... and reap benefits now and in the future?

We also are students and under the watchful, loving eyes of the greatest Teacher of all... our Father.  When in the classroom-of-life for Christ, may we follow the same guidelines.  He has the desire and ability to equip us with wisdom, discernment and power.  May us listen to Him, read His Word, do as He instructs, and pray... in times of need and praise.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

what time is it?

"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! " Isaiah 43:18-19

If last year was filled with hardships and struggles, God has Good News to share.  What lies ahead is a new year, new opportunities, new friends, new material, new start, new growth.

The time for putting behind the past and moving forward with a renewing of mind, soul and spirit is now. Praying for Him to lead us into this new year with His Wisdom, Peace, Strength, Joy and Truth.

It's also time for a break... Happy Friday!  Despite a few hiccups, we made it through the week.  May your weekend be filled with rest and thankfulness, you deserve it.

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

don't miss the honeymoon

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11

First week with students, and the teacher's beautiful smile from last week was MIA. She was excited about her students, but frantically still trying to setup her room in perfect order.  As we talked she realized the most important detail was enJOYing her students while building a rich relationship of love with them.  She walked away 20 pounds lighter.

Where you lead, they will follow.
How you lead, they will learn.
Why you lead, they will know, grow and prosper.

Don't miss the honeymoon. It's one of the sweetest building blocks of your time ahead. Your students are excited about YOU; relish these beginning days with them. 

 

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

cup of comfort

Although we are at the beginning of an exciting, new year of school not all is well.  Pain and grief have no set schedule. I am reminded, sometimes abruptly, of the constant need for comfort in our world... whether for us or the ones around us.  In the blink of an eye life can take dramatic turns.  

The realization that so much is out of our control can be crippling.  It is then we lean heavily on the One who IS in control and can provide the comfort, peace, guidance and strength needed.  If you are hurting today, i pray His Truths and love cover you. 

Thank You, Father, for Your endless cup of comfort pour over us.

My Dearest Child,

Breathe, and let me remind you of some of My many promises and Truths to you along with My everlasting love…

At the time it happens, I am there. (Isaiah 48:16)

Remain calm; I will fight for you. (Exodus 14:14)

When you pass through the waters, I am with you. (Isaiah 46:4)

I will not leave you or forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6)

I gather you and your loved ones like lambs in My arms and carry you close to my heart, and gently lead the mothers of the lambs.  (Isaiah 40:11)

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Do not fear; I will help you. (Isaiah 41:10, 13)

I am your refuge and strength an ever-present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1)

I have captured every tear from your eye. Not a single sorrow in your heart has escaped Me. (Psalm 56:8)

My Presence will go with you wherever you go, and I will give you rest. (Exodus 33:14)

I give strength to the weary and increase the power of the weak. (Isaiah 40:29)

I am your hiding place, and I will protect you and surround you with songs of deliverance. (Psalm 32:7)

I heal the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds... I am mighty in power; My understanding has no limit." (Psalm 147:3,5)

And remember, My Son, Jesus, told you, "... but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26)

Pray and believe Me,
I AM
Your Loving, Heavenly Father

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

planting together

"For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building." 1 Corinthians 3:9

School has started...  time for a new planting and nurturing of growth.

Teachers plant and cultivate seeds of hope and knowledge; all school staff team members contribute to the growth of students by watering with love, encouragement and guidance; and God blesses our obedience to Him by developing sweet relationships with each other and Him. 

We are all a part of the Master Teacher's perfect plan. Like our students, what we don't know or can't see, we need to trust Him with it. The lessons He has in store for us might be different than the ones we're expecting, but He knows what is necessary and best.  I believe it's going to be a God-tacular year.  Don't you too?

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

know this...

"Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." Ephesians 5:1

The most important thing you can be today... 

is you.

As a Child of God, you know what needs to be done and shared with others.  (If anyone need a quick refresher course, Ephesians chapters 4 &5 is a wonderful source.)  

Relax, you've got this.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

borrowed and good

 Just a quick sharing of a reminder i saw... and wanted to pass along to you. <3

Praying you have a peace-filled Sunday.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

it's almost here...

"I will give you as a light to the nations, which my salvation may reach to the end of the earth." Isaiah 49:6

'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE SCHOOL and all thru the town,

Children were filled with delight and couldn’t settle down.

Their book bags by the door were packed with care,

Knowing a new school year was almost there.

The children were giggling and tossing in bed,

While visions of GREAT teachers danced in their heads.

Now, across the way, teachers were finally at rest,

They had busily prepared for "day one" - to their best.

Then out came the sun, shining so bright.

The teachers feared they'd overslept the night!

With a deep breath they grabbed their glasses and peered at the clock,

Alas! there was plenty of time before the school doors were unlocked.

With a final check of their room before the bell rang at a quarter to 8, 

The teachers breathed easily for their classrooms looked great.

The books and supplies were stacked neatly on shiny, clean desks,

The chairs were in perfect order… there was absolutely no mess.

Soon the bell rang, and one-by-one the children eagerly came;

What sweet music to their ears as the teacher called them by name.

Hello Ben, Hi there Emma, Louise and Jada,

Welcome to our class Anna, Tommy and MaKayla!

Come on in Craig, Rashaad and you too, Donna Sue! 

Oh, my! Look at my list, what a wonderful crew!

Now find your seats quickly, the teacher said with a grin,

And she explained classroom instructions so everyone could win.

Her knowledge was vast and she made learning a ball,  

What the teacher had to offer was her gift for all.

The children drooled over the information she shared;

Whether they learned quickly or not, they knew she truly cared.

The teacher lovingly taught all because she truly believed,

Each child deserved her best…and she wanted to meet their needs.

At the end of the day, students and teachers skipped away,

Both feeling happy and relieved it had been such a great day.

And I heard the students exclaim as they rode out of sight,

My teacher is GREAT!! this year is going to be just right!

Yes, my friends, you teachers have the power,

To serve the Lord, our Father and Teacher, each and every hour.

So to Him give your best in all that you do,

And you will make a difference in others, perhaps for an eternity too!

Shine my sisters and brothers, light up your classroom and world!

It's the beginning of a fabulous school year!  And it all starts with wonderful you!

May we trust God to provide the strength, wisdom, courage and protection needed for each day.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

you are great!

 Jesus said...

"... feed My lambs." John 21:15

Sweat is dripping, eyes are glazed, words are few and the clock is ticking.  Teachers are frantically putting their rooms together before students return on Monday.  But yesterday we took time out for our annual school district meeting.  And it was GREAT!

Focused on the theme "Going for Great", we were reminded of what true greatness is... the ability and success of bringing out greatness in others.  As we celebrated the success of fellow coworkers and schools, it was easy to see many have already established this mission in their heart and soul.  

Students will eagerly arrive Monday morning, and they will not leave disappointed. Instead, they will return home filled with excitement and joy.  But it won't be because of your cute name tags or folders, nor your creative bulletin boards,  nor your enticing centers.  It will be because of your smile, your words, your hugs, your dreams for the year, your acceptance of them, your excitement over them belonging to you. This is what they will remember because you are a GREAT teacher!

In the final hours, before the sun breaks and students return on Monday morning, don't stress over what you haven't finished, but instead feel thrilled about what is about to begin! It's going to be a GREAT year.  The most important tools are already firmly in place... your devotion, love and passion for teaching.  

So, hang up your hat with JOY, partner!  YOU are the most important element in your room.  You've got this.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

dedicated to the One i love

"Know that the Lord, He is God! It is He who made us, and we are His; we are his people, and the sheep of His pasture." Psalm 100:3

Summer where did it go?  Whether busy at home or traveling with family or friends, it evaporated like mist on a sizzling day.

I spent most of my days with my grands.  It was SO grand, i had no energy left to write or read, but i don't regret a single second of it.  One of my favorite visits was witnessing their dedication at church.  To celebrate the day i wanted a gift for them.  For  Allie it was easy, a cross necklace.  But for Stetson, i was stumped.  After days of searching i found the perfect gift, a bike helmet.

I sense your raised eyebrows, so let me explain.  At one, he's starting to enjoy ride toys, and i felt getting use to a helmet would be helpful.  Yet, to me, it represented the need for protection in two ways... protection for physical safety with ride toys and also protection for his mind from worldly forces by wearing a helmet of salvation.

For you, (as believers) are all children of light, children of the day.....  and since we belong to the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation. 

Whatever you are wearing today, be sure to include your breastplate and helmet.  Believe and know God will cover and see us through all circumstances we encounter.  Being  dedicated to the One we love, we have His peace because victory in Him is guaranteed. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

are you ready?

"I will extol the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips... I sought the LORD and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears."  Psalm 34:1, 4

Storms are on the horizon. Gusty winds of uncertainty are swirling.  Unanswered questions fill the minds of all in the path.  For me and many today is the first day of school.  How do you see the forecast?

Will the fallout from changes be manageable?  Will people heed to the guidelines set by authorities? Will leaders respond swiftly to unexpected issues?  Will the temperature set be comfortable for all? Am i ready to do what's needed?  Sometimes the answers don't surface until you are amid the storm, or even after it has passed.

Honestly, i have far more questions than answers this morning about the year ahead. But the peace in my heart is Rock solid because i have traveled unfamiliar, unwanted paths with God before.  And as painful or uncomfortable as some of the trips have been, they ended good.  Want to know why?  Because at the end of our journey, i discover Our relationship has strengthen, my faith has grown, and along the way He revealed unexpected blessings. 

So, as i prepare to walk out my door, why should i expect things to be any different?  As in the past, i have plenty of unanswered questions for what lies ahead. Yet, is God not still God? Am i not still the apple of His eye? Does He not say He will never, never leave me?  Does He not still walk with me, and at times even carry me on the thorny paths? 

I will trust God for today, tomorrow and each day that follows.  He has proven Himself faithful to me over and over again... and not because of anything i did, but solely because i belong to Him.  Would He just stop?  I don't think so.  When life is most confusing and frustrating, we need to bear in mind, He knows and cares for our complete well being. He is able to present us at any moment with a delightful surprise.

So, are you ready to walk out the door with me this morning to see what the day holds?  Come on, my friend, and may His Light shine brightly in us and through us to others.  Let's step boldly ahead holding tightly to the One who loves us best.

I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under (your oppression), I will free you from (captivity) and I will redeem you with an outstretched Arm and with mighty acts of judgment. I am the LORD your God...

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal