it's in the mail!

"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people..." Galatians 6:10

Another day closer to Thanksgiving and another day of thanks.  Today my heart's moved by a child's drawing and a comment read.  While many of us are blessed to live close to loved ones, some are not.

(I am thankful for the Army)

For teachers interested in stirring up compassion, here's an idea.  Have students write holiday cards to soldiers recovering in military hospitals, service members stationed throughout the States or abroad, veterans and their families.  The Red Cross and Pitney Bowes sponsor a special program, "Holiday Mail for Heroes", and distribute the holiday cards.  Cards should be addressed to:
Holiday Mail for Heroes
PO Box 5456
Capitol Heights, MD
20791-5456

Thank you, for giving and for serving.

we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal 

it's not too early...

"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 encourage, inspire, strengthen and delight me.  I love doing life with you!

we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

no where to hide

"The Lord watches over you— the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night." Psalm 121:5-6

Did you see it?  As promised by all reports, the supermoon was full, big and beautiful.  Not a tree or cloud could hide it long from our eyes.  I know of something else unable to hide... you and me.

God sees our every move. But, unlike the moon it isn't because of our size we are unable to hide. God sees us because of the size of His heart and His enormous love for us.  No matter where we go, what we do, His loving, watchful eyes follow. 
 
Thank You, Father, for your unfailing, unconditional love.  Because of Your watch, i smile today and rejoice in hope for tomorrow.

we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ everyday

"Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail.  They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23

Whether we see it or not, each season has its own beauty.  If you don't like the one you're in, hold on.  A different one is around the corner.

The One who is faithful has you covered with His love in all seasons.

we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

with this step....

"He will not let your foot slip -- He who watches over you will not slumber... The LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore."  Psalm 121:3, 8

We might get bruised, scrapped or hurt, but we will be fine.  Because no matter what direction we are headed or with whom, God is with us.

we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

as freedom rings

"The Lord your God Himself will fight for you." Deuteronomy 3:22

It's one of my favorite programs at school... the Veteran's Day Program. The respect, honor and dedication exhibited on this day is moving. From the youngest to the oldest, a sense of gratefulness fills the air as we reflect on the continuous courage, strength and sacrifice displayed to maintain our freedom.

As we salute the veterans and soldiers who serve, i also extend my hands in thanks to their families... spouse, children, parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins. Having now personally experienced military life through my daughter's marriage, i have a new understanding and appreciation for the entire family. The soldier's family serves an important role of support. Together, they exemplify a unit of love and strength amid ongoing changes and trials. To conquer battles in the field and at home, loyalty, dedication, encouragement, trust, sacrifice and integrity are necessary elements for the soldier, as well as, his/her family.

As believers, we are all military family members. On the heavenly battlefield, our Father and Mighty Defender, sealed our freedom in Christ. ALL our sins were forgiven through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. And as a member of His family, we should celebrate this victory daily by living for Him boldly in Truth, love and peace.

"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." Romans 15:5-6

Thank you, Veterans, those currently serving in our Armed Forces and all your family members. May God bless all your days.

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ united

"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. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." Philippians 2:1-4

We've seen and heard a lot the past 24 hours... and thankfully a lot centers around healing. I was encouraged by the parties' post-election speeches. And i like the step taken by the Clinton's to wear purple, a mixture of blue-red, signifying unity.  YET, better than that, purple is the color of royalty, reminding me Jesus is our True, One King. He needs to precede everything and everyone. 

We have an amazing God who can accomplish anything through willing servants.

United we stand, divided we fall,

But without God we have no hope at all.

we are loved and chosen by God, 
veneal