Happy Thanksgiving

"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.

Here are a just a few reminders -- Jesus, family, friends, health, a warm home, delicious food, clean water, beautiful music, laughter, travel, safety, freedom, peace, helping hands, your next breath...  

Thanks be to God from whom all blessings flow.  

Happy Thanksgiving, friend.

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

every time

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

Praying you have a safe and peaceful Thanksgiving season.  And, thankful to be your sister/brother-in-Christ. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

thankful... through it all

 "I remain confident of this: I believe I will see [yet again] the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” Psalm 27:13

As we prepare for Thanksgiving, even in the face of an unsettling year, may we remember the challenges, heartaches and hardships of the pilgrims. Their first Thanksgiving was memorable despite their difficulties. We too still have reason to safely celebrate as we thank God for His faithfulness to us, and for better days to come.

What God knows; God can handle. And he knows it all. Resting in Him.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

broken? you’re covered

 "Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed... 

Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised." Romans 4:18, 20-21

Shattered dreams, we've all had them. And no matter how we finagle or struggle to fit the pieces back together like we want, it usually doesn't happen. Broken dreams come in many shapes and sizes, sometimes they occur rarely and sometimes in clusters, sometimes we sense it and sometimes we are blindsided. However it happens, it still hurts and can feel more like a feverish nightmare than just a broken dream. Are you facing any brokenness today?

job uncertainty
financial turbulence
torn relationships
challenging children
aging parents
insensitive spouse
demanding leader
false accusations
physical limitations
sickness
emotional stress
death 
worldly pressure

Whatever is going on... we can still be thankful. In faith, we can trust God will see us through each hardship and trial. We only have to look back and see God's continuous fingerprints on our lives to remember what He has already done for us. Our strength and peace will be restored knowing He will continue to sustain us.  

As God picks up all the pieces of our broken dreams and rearranges them, let's keep believing and knowing He has the power and desire to bring goodness into our lives.

God works all things to the good to those who love Him.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

taking the heat

 "And be thankful." Colossians 3:15

I've taken a lot of heat this week, but i wouldn't change it for anything.  The sweat on my back has been worth every steamy minute of my job. Kindergarteners eagerly splashed, cut and feathered colorful turkey placemats to use for their Thanksgiving feast. The laminator in the work/sweat room rolled and cooked turkeys by the tens for a total of over 100 plump birds.

This is a sweet tradition i eagerly anticipate each year.  It's all in the spirit of celebrating their family, friends, teachers, neighbors, pets, Jesus and more.  Lucky me for having the honor of putting the shiny, finishing touch to their heARTfelt turkey work.

There's nothing like a colorful, kind turkey to warm and fill a heart with gratitude.  They are rich in love and low in calories.

Thank You, Father, for our blessings... may we never forget the first one came from You.

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

you're in my book

"Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you..." 3 John 1:2

Thanksgiving is a week away, but it's never too early to give thanks.  Today i'm thanking God for you, my sisters and brothers in Christ.  You constantly encourage, inspire, strengthen and delight me.  I love doing life with you!

Like these students, may we overflow with thanks to God for His goodness.  Focusing on our blessings instead of our disappointments allows more of His Peace to fill our hearts and souls.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

just breathe

"The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8

Tired? Worried?  Not sleeping well? Feathers ruffled?  Not sure what tomorrow holds, much less the future? You are not alone.

May we find comfort in knowing and trusting God with each minute, hour and day of our life. His Hand is always on us and with us. What seems hopeless, impossible or insurmountable to face is possible with Him.  He has a plan, and it is good.  Just breathe... and let His Spirit fill us.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

i quit

"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

It's a favorite book in the library, "The Day the Crayons Quit".  They're fed up with neglect and misuse... at least according to their story.  The colors grumble and  revolt for a better life... a different job, a new meaning, more usage.  They fail to see their current worth and value in their job. 

What's their owner/ boss to do?  Is it possible for him to help them understand and appreciate the importance of their color usage, or expected job, instead of their own self-interests?  Truly it takes a variety of colors and souls to paint genuine beauty in a picture or in a workplace.

Father, when we feel like only one color is required to draw ourselves... red (anger), green (jealousy) or blue (sad), i pray we realize how awful our life would be with only that one color. You provided us with a palette of emotions.  Help us find a healthy balance as we serve You.

May we color our world today with love, JOY and peace.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

what are you doing?

"...but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior." 1 Peter 1:15

She tiptoed quietly in the kitchen at 7am.   While hugging her Papa, she asked him what i thought was a ridiculous question.  Papa, are you eating chocowate?"

He hesitated, and then answered, "Yes, but how did you know?  Did you see it in my mouth?"

"No, I smelled it."

Ah-ha!  He was caught in the act of the do-nots through her nose... do not eat candy before breakfast.

Nothing crushes the power of telling more than the doing.  Our actions can undo whatever directions we expect others to follow.  It reminds me of a little rule i heard years ago... Say what to do, and do what you say.

Father, i am so thankful for You and Jesus.  Not a Word have You given us that You do not stand by.  No matter the circumstances, You don't hide or twist any guidance You've given. You stand by Your Word and in Your Word always. With an unshakeable faith, we can depend on You and what You say.  Never will we catch You doing wrong, but holy in all you do.  In times of weakness or temptation, please help us be holy while being a person of our word.  

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

are you my friend?

Jesus said, "You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you." John 15:14-15

After playing a game together, Millie decided she wanted to go color.  Annie was not ready for an activity change.  She was mad and hurt and let Millie know it in no uncertain terms by crossing her arms and loudly proclaiming, "You are not my friend." 

Millie sadly kept walking away.

I chuckled to myself, knowing how Annie momentarily felt... abandoned and miffed, as well as Millie... abandoned and hurt.  Afterall, don't we all like for people to do what we want and to have things go our way? Yet, in our imperfect world, that is not the norm.  Some flexibility, patience and communication can aid in reducing pain and increasing understanding while restoring a relationship.

Many times, the bottom line in how we handle the brokenness is driven by who or what is most important to us.  Who is helped? Who is hurt?  What really matters?

Father, our selfish human nature can cause unkind words and actions to flood from our hearts and mouths.  Sometimes what we want is for the good of others and sometimes primarily for self.  With Your Spirit may we discern and conclude what is best.  Thank You for Your faithful, fair and righteous friendship to us, one that is unwavering, clear and true. EVERYTHING from you is good and for the good. To be a friend more like You is my daily prayer.

Can we be friends... always?

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

you are being called

  Jesus stopped and said, "Call him."

So they called to the blind man, "Cheer up! On your feet! He's calling you."
Throwing his clock aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus.
"What do you want Me to do for you?" Jesus asked him.
The blind man said, "Rabbi, I want to see."
"Go," said Jesus, "your faith has healed you."
Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.  Mark 10:49-52

Could you benefit from a revision of the above verses?  Something like this?

Jesus stopped and said, "Call, (your name)."
So they called to me, "Cheer up! On your feet! He's calling you."
Throwing my (troubles, worries, doubts, fears) aside, I jumped to my feet and went to Jesus.
"What do you want Me to do for you?" Jesus asked.
Trembling, i answered, "Jesus, I want (my need)."
"Go," said Jesus, "your faith has healed you."
Immediately my need was met, and I will follow Jesus for the rest of my days.

He calls, He cares, He can.
Go to Him, and see what He will do for you today.

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

let me tell you my story...

"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

Thirteen years ago, i was diagnosed with a brain tumor. As i reflect on this event, i recount the faithfulness of a God, we sometimes dismiss as distant, uncaring or even slack in answering our needs.  Yet, He has saved me not just once (on the cross) but numerous times.  

For those who don't know my story, it's summarized below.

As God would have it, while walking my dogs, i took a nasty, hard fall that literally knocked me out.  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 hands of the doctor-on call, who just so happened was Dr. Vandergrift, a truly 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 13 years ago, but i do remember many other significant factors.  Things like, the unending comfort and support of loved ones by my side.  The unexpected visit of a cousin and friend's son, which triggered an acute 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 those 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, FOR ME.  It's a personal, godly peace that can only be contributed to a relationship, dependency and faith in God.  It is a peace i will fully rely on and trust for the rest of my life.
   

It's a busy week of remembering for me; but what a perfect prelude for the 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?  Share it; someone needs to hear it.  Spread the Good News! And celebrate the moments, because actually that is all we have... and that is okay.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

beast and the beauty

"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

Hurricane Helene was a true beast, wreaking havoc, ugliness and destruction to many.... from life to personal properties.  Yet, important life lessons evolved from this hardship.  Ms. Eagle asked students to collect and bring leaves from their yard to school.  They were then given guidance on creating something beautiful out of a messy situation.

This is a lesson all can benefit from whether the beast is a hurricane, illness, abandonment, death, heartbreaking news or other tragedy.  Our Teacher Above will guide, direct and bring new meaning and life to our circumstances too.  We need just sit and listen and follow His instructions.  He has a plan for us, and it's a good one.

Father, i pray we have patience with and obedience to You.  I know if we follow Your plan we will experience the full beauty in our life You desire. You possess the power to strengthen and lead us in transforming and overcoming the beasts we face.  Thank You.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

thank you for your service

Jesus said...
"Greater love has no one that this, that he lay down his life for his friends." John 15:12-13

Not all sayings are true, but i know two that are... many hands make light the work, and it takes an army to keep our country safe.  Today, Veteran's Day, we stop to remember and give thanks to the many fine soldiers who have sacrificed their time, and some even their life to protect us and our country.

What a joy to be one of many schools recognizing the importance of our Veterans.  A sense of gratefulness fills the air as we reflect through song, dance and verse on the continuous courage, strength and sacrifice by veterans to maintain our freedom.  What wonderful mentors for each and every one of us they are.

Father, Thank You for our soldiers. We humbly give thanks for having these special warriors in our schools today, whether in spirit or body. They represent true citizenship, commitment, unity and love for one another at its best. May Your grace and goodness always be with them.  Bless them and their families... as they have and continue to bless and sustain us and our freedom. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

is it possible?

 "DO  some  most  part  half  your portion  what you want  what's fair EVERYTHING without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life..." Philippians 2:14-15

When climbing the mountains in our life feel insurmountable, and the pain intensifies, tempers flare, reason escapes, fear escalates and the desperate changes we seek feel too distant, remember---

Life is...
not about fairness, but righteousness
not about our way, but God's way
not about conquering, but surrendering to God
not about independence, but dependence on God
not about our glory, but His.

Father, help us keep our eyes on You.  You are our One true Hope, our Way, our Savior, our Protector, our Healer. Because of Your love for us, we will trust and follow You.  Give us strength to keep standing and believing. We desperately need Your Light shining through us in dark, troubling days to help bring healing to our hurting lands.

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

now what?

"For the Lord Almighty has purposed, and who can thwart him?  His hand is stretched out, and who can turn it back?" Isaiah 14:27

What now?

“I know that You can do all things; no purpose of Yours can be thwarted." Job 42:2

God's Will will be done.

This election is basically over. Now what?

Regardless of all uncertainty i have concerning our elected leaders, there is one issue i am completely confident in with our country's elections.  God can and will use whoever is elected for His Will.  We only need to consult His Word to remember He used the godly, the ugly, the enemy, the strong, the weak, the coward, the arrogant, the ignorant and various others to accomplish His plan.  The type of character used might change His method in accomplishing His Will, but when all is said and done, His plan will prevail. There might be a crumbling before a rebuilding. God uses terrible circumstances (or people), as well as, good ones to move His plans forward.  

Friends, God is still in control, and His Will will be done... no matter who we vote into office. And in that, may we find peace and rest. For me, in difficult seasons like now, i am forced to print on my forehead and heart in permanent ink... "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."  In that Truth it boils down to just one question... do we love God enough to believe Him?

Prayers for our country and for our leaders.  Let us trust God and His perfect plan.   We are still inHis capable, loving Hands.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

i know who the True Winner is... do you?

 "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.

It has been a grueling, bitter battle. Houses, families, friends, coworkers hotly divided on issues and candidates.  Who is right? In reading and listening to the many 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 for the same person.  Yet, i'm at peace; because in the grand scheme of things, i trust 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 a leader with a teachable, listening heart and spirit that honors 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, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

the day after

"Even a child is known by his actions..." Proverbs 20:11

It's the day after Halloween - it will be easy to detect which children had too much candy.

As a child of God, i want to be known by my actions too...

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped." Psalm 28:7

I know exactly what i need to survive today and everyday.

JUST GIVE ME JESUS...

If you find yourself coming unraveled at the edges, go to the One who can and will mend you back together.  Just a few minutes alone with God can soothe the soul and restore peace.  Now, that's something to really scream about!!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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