once upon a pumpkin

"When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12

There are many who think Halloween is dark. I rather focus on the light it radiates as rendered by a favorite Halloween tale, how believers are like pumpkins...

First, God picks you from the "pumpkin patch". All the outside influences/dirt of our former life must be removed. Old ways are washed away, and all things become new.

Then, He carefully removes all the “yucky stuff” (sin) from the inside.  He changes us from the inside out by the Power of His Word. Seeds of doubt, hate, greed, and fear are removed and replaced with the seeds of faith, hope and love. After Jesus is invited inside, you begin to experience the changing power of God’s love in your life.

Next, He carves a new smiling face.  With Jesus, who is called the Son of Light, lives inside of us, He shines through our life for all to see. Our countenance is changed by the power of His presence in our life, and it's evident to all.

Let your light so shine before men that they may be able to see your good works and glorify your Father, who is in heaven.

Shine on my friends and have a de-LIGHT-filled Halloween.  The world desperately needs to see God by His light in us.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

feeling rattled?

"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name.  Great is our Lord and mighty in power, His understanding has no limit." Psalm 147:4-5

He who numbered the stars, has also numbered each bone and created each cell in our body.  We may get rattled and even knocked down, but because of Him, we are not destroyed!

Thank You, Father, for keeping me together through all the bumps and shakes in life.  No one understands or loves us better than You.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal 

the monster within

"Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.... and be filled with the Spirit... Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:15-20

The scowl on her face said it all.  She did not like the teacher's suggestion, even though it was in her best interest.  Practicing math skills 20 minutes a day sounded boring and was stealing her play time.

I

It's easy to let our emotions and personal desires lead us down a dark, ugly path of anger, jealousy, conceit, selfishness, temper, hatred or meanness.  All which can leave a nasty taste in (and out of) one's mouth and bitter look on the face.  Who wants that?

Father, please help remove the monsters within me.  They have no place in serving You.  Instead fill me the sweet fruit of the Spirit... love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.  These possess the power of healing instead of fright.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

who am i?

"Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God." Colossians 3:12-17

"Who am i?" or "Who are you?"  

These are routine questions asked this time of year.  Yet, they are imperative year round.

Whatever the answer... daughter, sister, mother, cousin, wife, friend, employee, teacher, aunt, grandmother, neighbor...  all are important and meaningful.

However, whatever we are is elevated to incredible JOY,  LOVE and FULLNESS when we remember FIRST we are a Child of God and belong to Him. It makes all other things possible and even better.

With Him, we are more.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

did you do it?

"Did you do it? We've been talking about it and we think you did it."

"Do what?"

"Put Jesus in the bathroom."

As much as i wished i had, i had not.  Yet, someone mysteriously sat a tiny Jesus on the shelf in the bathroom.  I SAW IT, AND LOVED IT!  A quiet reminder Jesus is always with us.  

While others didn't see Jesus in there because of me, i pray they see Him IN me by my words and actions.  We can't scatter millions of tiny Jesuses everywhere, but we can be the hands and feet and heart of Jesus where we are.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

holding hands

"The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalm 37:23-24

What a beautiful picture of love and comfort.

It always makes me smile... seeing siblings walk in school holding hands. I can just imagine how safe and happy the younger child feels being led by their big sister or brother, as well as the confidence the older child possesses in completing the task.

Do you need someone holding your hand today?

We are reminded in God's Word we continuously have such unfathomable comfort and love extended to us.  Thank You, Father for holding my heart and my hand in all circumstances.  Where You lead, i will follow.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

as we move forward

 Why did this happen?? How could this happen? Where were you, God?

These are questions we all have at some time in our life. Questions, no person can answer. Answers, no reasonable person can fathom.  So, where can we turn for sanity and peace? Consolation and comfort can only come from our Father. Just listen to His Words...

"Jesus wept." John 11:35
The Lord says..."at the time it happens, I am there." Isaiah  48:16
"Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord." 2 Corinthians 5:6

In other words, Jesus cries with us.  He knows and understands all our sufferings.  We are never alone... not for a day, not for an hour, not for a second.  And one day, in the blink of an eye, we will see and be with Him.

Jesus said... "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33
"There will be terrible times in the last days.  People will be... boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, without love,without self-control..." 2 Timothy 3:1-4 
"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." 1 John 4:4

In other words, Satan is active in our world. He knows his days are numbered and is furiously working to snuff out God; but God's victory is guaranteed.

"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
Jesus said... "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creations. " Mark 16:14
"God our Savior, wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2:3

In other words, God can and will use everything, good and bad, to fulfill His purpose - growing His Kingdom.  He desires for all to spend eternity with Him and not in the darkness of hell. Death is a fact, the only question is the destination.

"The Spirit helps us in our weakness.  We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." Romans 8:26
"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, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

In other words, God who comforts us, helps us comfort others.

"And the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:10-11

In other words, because of Jesus' birth, death and resurrection, we have the gift of eternal life.  And in the face of tragedy and pain, this grace and mercy of our God restores hope and peace to broken lives. 

Thank You, Father, for the only gift i truly need... Jesus, my Savior.  He has the power to heal the heart, restore the spirit and comfort the soul.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

certain power

"Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to His voice, and hold fast to Him.  For the LORD is your life..." Deuteronomy 30:19‑20

I don't know or understand everything, BUT the God Truths below i am certain possess the power to carry me through each day.  May it be true for you too.

I am certain of the faithfulness of our Father.

I am certain of His goodness, mercy, grace, and unconditional love.

I am certain His promises to us are true... all of them.

I am certain He is aware and cares about every minute detail in our life.

I am certain His will and purpose will be accomplished.

I am certain Jesus died for all my sins... those in the past, now, and the ones to come.

I am certain prayer is answer by God... in His perfect way and perfect time.

I am certain i am a child of God... and not of the deceiver.

I am certain He works in our lives through others.... you, are proof of that.

I am certain that the "Son" is still present even on cloudy days... though covered, He is never gone.

And, i am certain my Mother is home with God, and i will see her again.  

Thank you, Mother, for sharing your faith, love and beliefs with me... not by telling, but by showing. For 15 years, i have missed your sweet presence and face, but i carry you in my heart every second.  Thank you for choosing life in Him, so i may live too. 

The earthly loss of my mother was excruciating. But as God's children we can move forward with a grateful heart. God, our Anchor and Rock and Savior, leads us from the darkness of distress into His glorious Light, while instilling in us the ability and willpower to continue life in joy and in hope.  For the rest of my days i choose to live a life in honor of my mother's gentle, giving spirit and in thanks for God's faithfulness and promises of eternal life to all who claim Him.

Is it easy? No, but with God it is possible... and for those of you who understand, an extra big hug to you.  

They will have no fear of bad news; their heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

He stands

"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 54:10

The past few weeks we have witnessed enormous, unthinkable loss and destruction in our beloved Western North Carolina. Yet, the beautiful people in this area exhibit unfathomable strength, resilience, unimaginable peace.... and faith.

How? How can they do it?  How do they keep moving forward and not crumble? I can think of only one way... only God and their Faith in Him -- only by the grace and mercy and trust and belief in God. Their power of faith fueled by the Power and Love of God is what i want to be filled with too.  

Thank You, God for visible signs when we feel doubtful or scared.  May we never, never forget or question Your unshakable Presence in our life.  You stand firm and hold us through all circumstances.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

after the fall

 "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.  Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall... 

but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength." Isaiah 40:28-31

Do you ever wonder what happened after the fall of Humpty Dumpty?  We're told all the king's horses and all the king's men could not put him back together again.   But if i were a betting person, i'd bet my last penny God could and did.

After such a traumatic fall and then landing in the healing, gentle Hands of the Master Maker, don't you imagine, in time, Humpty soared higher and further than before by knowing and trusting God for his future?   

We too are vulnerable to crack and break under stressful conditions or a mishap.  When we set our own goals based on human limitations, we risk missing the blessings God has in store for us.  What if instead of sitting on a wall or broken in the valley, He intended for us fly on His wings?  

Father, praying Your Will for my life and for others.  Help my faith soar to new heights.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

beware, obstacles ahead

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." James 1:2-4

How do obstacles affect you? They normally churn panic, irritability and frustration in me.  I prefer smooth, clear paths and no surprises.  But lately, i've had to adjust my attitude and way of thinking while sharpening my coping skills. 

Helene left a wide path of destruction everywhere.  Some of the most notable now is road debris, which demands complete attention when driving.  The roads are bumpy with down lines and heavily littered with not just branches but massive tree trunks. Just one distracted moment could quickly end in a crash.  

I'm realizing not all is negative in obstacles. Sometimes they are essential in our wellbeing.  It's easy to become complacent or lazy when life is running smoothly... our mind and actions can wander down the wrong paths, focus on important issues may wane, cockiness or confidence may soar to unhealthy levels.  Obstacles also possess the positive power to keep us alert, focus on what matters and grow a heart of gratitude and thankfulness.  

When the root of our thinking stems from God, it's easier to count it all JOY and to glorify Him.

we are loved and chosen by God, 

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

veneal

no time to rest?

"He leads me besides still waters, He restores my  soul..." Psalm 23:2,3

How are you? Have current situations and demands left you exhausted and depleted of self?  How and when can we rest when so much needs to be done?

REST and then be RESTored.

  

The order of the words and actions are complete truth.  May we follow God to still waters and be filled with His strength.  He is not only a Life giver but a Lifesaver.

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

our survival kit

"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

The scrap on her finger was bleeding, and she needed a band aid. When i opened our first-aid kit, i  found it fully stocked with everything desirable except band aids, the most requested and essential item in the kit. Fortunately, a trip to the nurse's office quickly replenished our supply, and her finger got covered.

Where do you turn for help when hurting, suffering, broken or dismayed?  While friends and family and other solutions aid in our healing, they likely are not all we need for a permanent fix. With thanks and JOY, we can rest assured the most crucial component in our survival kit is always in supply.  We never need to fear running out of the love, protection and care of God, our true Healer and Comforter.

Thank you, Father, for Your endless presence in our lives.  Whenever we turn to You, You, You are there and You cover us... and healing happens.

we are loved and  chosen by God,

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

veneal

peace... where is it?

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

  

and mine... 
                   and yours.

Just a quick morning reminder from Above.

Whether through the stillness or chaos, no matter what the day holds, hold on to this Truth.  Keep looking up.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

a shakin' and a makin'

"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers/sisters." Romans 8:28-29

Is there any value in chaos?

In the storm and now in its aftermath, there is a question still pounding in my heart... what strongholds is God shaking out of us in making us more like Him?

success

power

materialism

conceit

comfort

Our Father uses ANY thing and EVERY thing, including chaos, to move us in a closer relationship with Him and others.

Father, thank You for shaking more of Your sense in my life.  I can only be more like You, if there is less of me.  May I praise You, and not complain in any discomfort when faced with opportunities to transform and aid me in better reflecting Your Son.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

not all lost

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer." Romans 12:12

When students returned to school after being out for over a week, one fact was abundantly clear, not all was lost.  The library was overwhelmed with students turning in books for new ones.  By 8:09am our LARGE return bin was overflowing and the line to check out new books snaked across the room.  The heavy flow of students continued allll day. I had to take several deep breaths to keep my sanity. Truly not all was lost during Helene, some things continued with no issues.  

The students clearly reminded me not all was lost or negative due to Helene's wreckage.  The love of reading continued and even books previously lost were found, board games were pulled out and family time gained.   

So, when we stop to think about it, much was lost, but not all was lost.  I pray your time out brought some unexpected blessings to you too. Like --

Gathering with neighbors... we never have time for during our regular schedule

Meeting and helping a stranger

Connecting with an organization in need

Creating special family time

Talking in real conversations instead of texting

Spending time with our Father

However you utilized your time, i trust it unearth blessings.  God works in all things.  Nothing is lost with Him or in Him.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

do.not.move.

 "... stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:58

Feel like you are standing in a mess?

No matter the rocks, the dirt, the heat, the trash, the mud, the bugs there is a reason you are planted where you are.  God will feed, water, weed and nourish your soul for His purpose.  He can work around any obstacle, creating opportunities for His Light and Love to reach others through you.

Do.not.move.

Squeeze your toes deep into the dirt, and allow Him to work around you and in you. Wait and watch... God's wonders are meant for you too, His beloved child.

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

now what?

"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, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

As students return to school toting hearts filled with unknowns, chatter among teachers on how to move forward centered on one major theme... comfort. 

Comfort is a crucial need in our life, especially in the midst of disasters at our front door like Helene. As a mother comforts her child, He comforts us. God uses a mother's love to describe His own feeling.  Caring deeply for another, we sacrifice self for their welfare. It is what God considers an essential element to our peace -- with Him and others.

Just know whatever means of  comfort you pour over your students.... listening to their experiences, hugging and hugging again, wiping away tears, cheering on a good effort, sharing a laugh, soothing the hurts, encouraging to persevere, celebrating an accomplishment, holding a hand, chasing away doubts, teaching new coping skills, stomping out fear...  it will bring healing to their soul and day.

Whether a mother-by-blood or a mother-by-heart, you are a blessing. And God is smiling at you, His good and faithful servant... His shining witness to comfort.

I've seen you in action.  It's not about the numbers, but the souls. You got this.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

can i help you?

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." Matthew 5:16

This morning the first image i saw on my computer was a spectacular sunset. At first glance it mirrored a beautiful angel with outstretched arms. What a refreshing, inspiring and uplifting reminder of what we are called to reflect in our own lives, especially now, to others.

As some of us prepare to return to school, i pray for God to direct and empower us in leading and caring for our students. Just as we know some of their story, we undoubtably do not know the depth of it all.

While the most repeated question over the past week has been “Do you have power?”, may we swap out that question for a new one... "What can i do for you?"

Father, open my eyes and stir my heart in the need of others. I am thankful for all working in my behalf to restore power and peace to my life. While I wait patiently for more normalcy at home, may I be mindful enough to serve You wholeheartedly with JOY. Guide us in reaching out to those in our presence with wide opened arms as a beacon of Your light, hope, love and peace.

Praying for a gentleness and understanding in all as we access and pour out the many blessings we possess.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal