finger pointing

"But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with His finger. When they kept on questioning Him, He straightened up and said to them,

'If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone...'"

Father, we are living in turbulent, fragile, uncertain times. So many lies, garbage stones and anger are filling our streets, lives and souls. It's difficult to decipher the truth from lies. And in a hot, bothered moment, it's easy to get pulled into the wrath. May we remember Your finger writing and reduce our finger pointing, so healing in our land can occur. Our trust and obedience to You needs to override and rule in our thoughts, words and actions. Ultimately, the Truth will rise and prevail, as Your Word never lies nor deceives. Help us stay anchored to you as peacemakers and doers, especially now. The innocent need to see and feel Your Presence through us, Your children, more than the stone receivers who are receiving our finger pointing.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

shine on

 "And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4: 30-32

Every October, i am reminded of the tale comparing a Christian to a jack-o-lantern.  God personally picks and prepares each of us to do His work.  Through continuous love and discipline, He diligently removes the yuck from us.  He rids us of the harmful seeds of hate, jealousy, anger, doubt, revenge, fear. Once in the loving Arms of Jesus, His Light shines from within us to draw others to Him.

Don't you agree, that's a beautiful tale of Truth?  God's Hands tenderly and continuously on us removing the junk and making more room for His Light to shine brighter!

 
Smile, give thanks and let His Light shine for all to see! With so many dark and painful corners, our world desperately needs more of Him.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

growing smaller

 "... clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." 1 Peter 5:5

Truth can be like an oxymoron.

When is smaller taller?

We are bigger in His eyes, when we are smaller in our own.

I hope you have an awfully awesome weekend!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

roots matters

 "And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:17-19

How are you doing?

If we are anything alike, current issues have unexpectedly thrown you around creating some painful bruises... each producing a greater awareness/need of love, patience, compassion, possibly correction or other lesson. 

Keeping our roots in His Living Waters builds and strengthens our faith, especially during turbulent times. Rocks and difficulties in life are not there to deter our growth, but to lead us into a deeper relationship with God.  And because of His mighty love we will not perish but produce. His glorious Sonshine streaming through us is meant for others to see, so they may witness and believe Him too.  

Father, many days i'm unsure what direction i'm moving and even why i'm moving.  But as long as my roots rest in You, i am confident of Your love for me and trust You will provide the strength and direction needed for each moment.  How grateful i am that no matter what's going on in my life i am not alone, You are with me.  I'm digging my toes deep in Your unshakeable, unconditional foundation of Love as You grow my faith and strengthen my heart and mind in 

serving You where i am planted.  Thank You.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

reign on

 "But let all who take refuge in You be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread Your protection over them, that those who love Your name may rejoice in You." Psalm 5:11

The weather is wet, gray and messy. Whether it's showers, torrential downpours, storms, floods, gusty winds, thunder and lightening, shelter is required from the elements.  As a child of God, no matter what our day holds, we are under the umbrella of God's love and assurance of His complete protection.  With Him, we have nothing to fear.

Father, through it all, we are just going to hold tightly onto You.  In Your perfect time and ways, i know our hearts will bloom with joy and peace. 

Singing in the rain is possible, thanks to God. He reigns, so we can sing.

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

important reminder

 "...encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone... always try to be kind." 1 Thessalonians 5:14, 15

Every day in many ways, hearts are beating with joy thanks to your encouragement, help, patience, and kindness. YOU matter to me and others.  Thank you for by making life better.  God is smiling.

Keep tossing kindness everywhere... even outside the lines of your comfort zone. Because wherever it lands, it's good and needed.

we are loved and chosen  by God,

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

veneal

why am i here?

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."  Ephesians 2:10

Wondering if you are in the right place?

God has a perfect plan, and we are a part of it.  He created each of us individually for this precise time and task. 

Trust Him. You are right where He needs you.

Smile, and happy Friday.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

heart issues

 "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

Have you ever had a heart problem? I have. It's been turned this way and that way, squeezed, cut, harden, punched, slapped, pulled, stomped, torn, and broken.  Recently, i added to my list an irregular heart beat.  Of all the issues, i consider the last one a good and healthy hiccup.  In fact, i think an irregular heart beat is what i'm after.

Father, i don't want to beat to the same rhythm of this world... where priority is on self worth and desires.  The continuous pounding for more power, more happiness, more prestige, more titles, more money, more stuff is unending and unsatisfying. We live in a broken world in need of a different beat... a beat that considers the needs of others as more important than self.

I want a permanent irregular beating heart in my life, beating first for You, and then for others... in love, understanding, giving, patience, kindness and gentleness.  Strength in obedience to You is the healing i need to truly possess an aMAZing heart.  Thank You.

 ...be wise, and keep your heart on the right path." Proverbs 23:19

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,

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

thanks for your prayers

"I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:3-6

SYATP (See You At The Pole) is today.  

Thank you for joining the millions today praying for our schools. Can you imagine the loud rumbling of prayers for all our students, teachers, administrators, support staff, parents and volunteers pounding on the gates of heaven? Glory hallelujah!!  Rest assure not a whisper, song, plea, praise or smile will escape our Father's ears. May our prayers be unending, because it's never too late to pray.

Thank You, Father, for the gift of incredible sisters and brothers in Christ.  I am humbly honored and blessed to be serving with them in a mission field filled with precious gems... our children.

May we remember, it's never too late to pray.  Now is always the right time.

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

be in AWE... SYATP tomorrow!

"Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in AWE of your deeds, Lord.  Repeat them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy." Habakkuk 3:2

“AWE” is the theme for See You at the Pole™ 2025, which is all about students praying at their schools. All around the world in every time zone, students will be praying for their school, friends, families, churches, and communities. This is the 35th year for See You at the Pole™, a student-initiated and student-led event.

STATP has grown to God-sized proportions, spreading around the world. God used the obedience of a small group of teens to start an international movement of prayer among young people. Today, more than two million students from all 50 states and more than 20 other countries participate in SYATP. God has used students at SYATP to impact lives and affirm His power to answer those who cry out to Him in humble dependence.  

Isn't it amazing what obedience to our Father does!  One can witness the results of prayers for our schools every day.  God is so faithful, even when we are not. What an honor to join millions of others in prayer for our schools. 

So, mark your calendar. Tomorrow is the day for See You At the Pole. 

I can't wait to meet with you in the morning and pray around the school flagpole.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

it's official

 "Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever;  wisdom and power are His.  He changes times and seasons..." Daniel 2:20-21 

Although it might not feel like it, with temps still in the hot and muggy 80's, Fall is officially here.  The sign below brings a smile to my face, as it reminds me to keep looking ahead, a change is surely coming.

Many welcoming and invigorating Fall thoughts of what's coming soon are stirring in my head --

cool weather

pumpkin spice latte

crisp fall leaves

sweatshirts

hats and scarves

fresh apple cake
Fall festivals

colorful mountains
boots

crackling fireplace

jack-o-lanterns

candy apples

State Fair

What changes are you looking forward to?

If the pressure of the moment has overheated your heart, may a calming, cool reflection of what's to come lower your stress.

Thank You, Father, for ah-ha moments. Thank You for revolving times and seasons of refreshment and relief in our life.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

life lines

 "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it." Proverbs 22:6

With tubing and string, the tender, impressionable sapling received strong guidance on how to become a fine shade tree.  In due time, the restraints and guides will all be removed.  And hopefully when it reaches maturity, the bending and shaping from its younger days will result into a strong, magnificent tree.

Our schools are filled with young students stretching and yearning to grow. Many have a wonderful, solid support system at home.  Some are weathering difficult hardships with little to no home support.  As we prepare for today's opportunities, may we remember our instructions and guidance might provide the needed life line for some... connecting and anchoring them to a future with hope and peace.

Father,  Help me to shepherd the hearts around me with Your love and gentleness. 

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

need a hug?

 "He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart..." Isaiah 40:11

Teachers are known for teaching, correcting and putting out fires; but i think one of their most admirable and effective qualities is hugging with words and arms.

Fill their need for a hug with you.

A sure cure for jitter bug days and hard days.

When we love like God, we hug like God.

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

feel forgotten?

 "...I will not forget you! See I have engraved you on the palms of My hands; your walls are ever before Me." Isaiah 49:15-16

Ever felt invisible?  Ever felt like the lack of your presence wouldn't be noticed, much less missed?  As a child (and even an adult), it hurts to go unnoticed by others, especially by those we know. Whether an oversight or intentionally, nothing knocks the air out of our gut much more than the feeling of being forgotten.  

While friends, coworkers or family may forget us, we can rest assured, our "Daddy" never, never will... nor will He forget our needs, wants and desires.  He holds our heart next to His, and we are merely a beat away from Him always.  May our value in His eyes be our sustaining power of Truth in trying time.

Thank You, God.

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

who is that?

 "... from the beginning God chose you ... May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word." 2 Thessalonians 2:13, 16-17

Looking at the self-portraits on the wall, one fact was clearly evident.  How we see ourselves is not exactly accurate. And it's likely not how others see us.   

God, the Master Artist, sees us for who and what we truly are... His Child. He knows us inside out and could identify us with His eyes closed.  No matter our flaws or shortcomings, He loves us completely and unconditionally. If God had a  refrigerator, your picture would be on it with a frame saying, "My Beloved Child". 

                                                
Father, more than anything, i want my portrait to need constant updating.  As each day passes may i bear a greater resemblance to You.  Less of me and more of You is the reflection i want to see in the mirror.  Erase the worries and doubts and keep me known as Yours... with a big smile and a peaceful heart.

Thank You.

we are love 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 down deep where you are in 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

be alert and prayerful

  "And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people." Ephesians 6:18

Flashback... do you remember your school days as a student?  Did you have fire drills?  Earthquake drills? Tornado drills? How about evacuation drills?  Perimeter lockdown drills?  Active intruder lockdown drills? I only remember fire, tornado and earthquake drills.  

As unnerving as it is to experience these additional drills now, i am thankful our schools recognize and practice them all.  I pray the implementation of these drills for actual events doesn't occur, but i am grateful to know procedures and plans are in place if ever needed.

BE aware, BE alert, BE prepared, BE wise, Be ready... and most of all, BE prayerful.

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

you belong to Him

 "But now, this is what the Lord says— He who created you, (your name), He who formed you, (your name); 

'Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine.'" Isaiah 43:1

Doubting how special you are? Take a moment to remember how incredible God feels when He thinks of your name...

You are a treasure to God. He knows our name, and each one of us holds a special, unique place in His heart that no one else can fill.

Have a blessed weekend knowing who you belong to forever.

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

remembering 9/11

  "...This is what the LORD, the God of your father, David, says: I  have heard your prayer and seen your tears, I will heal you." 2 Kings 20:5 

When the world around you crumbles, nationally or personally, what do you do?  First, we are usually overcome with shock, unable to move. Next, fear and/or anger fill our shattered hearts. Then what? Next, many of us turn to God and others for comfort, compassion and strength.

  

As we pick up the pieces, we realize life is not and never will be the same.  But as believers, we rely on the fact God is still in control.  He can restore trust, love, forgiveness, laughter, caring joy and peace.  With Him, we learn how to live again.  We don't forget, but we can move on with Him.

As we remember 9/11 today, may we thank God for His faithfulness to us... for sustaining, strengthening, comforting and healing us through storms.

God, You are our Peace in all times. Thank You for what You have done, for what you are doing and for what You will do.

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

created in love, by love, for love

 "For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise You because I, (your name), am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:13-14

God doesn't make junk. You, my friend, are a priceless treasure created by Him for His glory.  

Don't let a rough patch or a little dirt under your fingers get you down. Remember God uses it all for His glory and our good.  Keep going in the confidence God is lovingly working His Hands and Heart in you.

 

By your ways, others will see and know our Father.

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

what do you want to be?

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32

Of all the things we can be, may kind be first.

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

what to do, what to do

 Jesus said...

"So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." Matthew 7:12

It's easy doing what's right if the ones around you do too. When people are making good, pleasing decisions, we feel energized.  It's easy to be kinder, work harder and longer, and even go beyond expectations.

But when we stumble on people making unfavorable or careless decisions or ignoring the golden rule, the temptation to mimic their behavior can be a natural human reaction . It's hard to do right when others don't. Why should we bother?  

Because God says so. It's the better and right choice, no matter what.

When we face irresponsible or selfish people, we discover greater peace by choosing the higher road and treating everyone right and respectful... no matter what.  Being less of what God has created us to be builds frustration, inner conflict and a hardness in the soul. 

Father, give us the strength to dig deeper in challenging times.  Our greatest desire is being covered in Your Peace.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

you've got this!

  "An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheer him up." Proverbs 12:25"

For decades people have searched for a magical, effective weight loss solution, and here it is!  A dose of kindness... it's free, plentiful and easy to dispense.

Let's spread good cheer to others and lighten up the heavy hearts of those around us.

Below are 50 ways to cheer up and encourage a child -- of any age:

You are amazing!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

going in circles?

 "Bless is the person who trusts in the LORD, who confidence is in Him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream." Jeremiah 17:7-8

Life a bit crazy? Feel like you're spinning around in circles?

May you find some comfort in knowing you are not alone.  But may you find the greatest comfort in knowing while spinning around, God still has us securely in His grasp.

Father, some days i'm unsure what direction i'm moving in... and sometimes even why i'm moving.  But, as long as my roots rest in You, the strength and direction needed for the day, i am confident You will provide.  Thank You.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

after the honeymoon

 "Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me."  Psalm 51:12

There's nothing like a wedding and the sweet honeymoon that follows.  The excitement, joy and happiness are incredible. Everyone and everything is magical. Then, BAM! reality strikes, and the true work begins.  The start of a new school year is similar. It was a beautiful "wedding and honeymoon", but now it's time to roll up the sleeves and for the real work and growth to begin.  

As we plod forward through the highs and the lows of the year, let us always remember to keep our face turned towards our Father.  There our joy and peace can be constant because of His unending love for us.  Through Him and by Him, we are able to have the right spirit and heart to serve others in His Holy Name.  

Yes, the honeymoon is over, but the joy and rewards of building wonderful, everlasting relationships in the classroom is just beginning.  Give thanks, and celebrate with gladness!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

pour it on!

 The LORD says...

"I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint." Jeremiah 31:25

You would think that after only two weeks of classes, teachers and school staff members would still be going strong.  Yet, the first couple of weeks are grueling and hectic and exhausting.  The train is up and running, but it sure took a lot of steam to get it moving in the right direction. A long weekend is just what is needed for rest, refreshment and refueling.

I am thankful for an opportunity to have a long weekend to count my blessings and to catch my breath.  May we come back stronger in Him, as He equips us for the days ahead.  Never doubt the tremendous impact you are making on others.  You might be the only face of Jesus another sees.

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

are you happy?

We are familiar with the humble blessings from the Beatitudes, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven..." 

But have  you ever read it with the realization of how happy you should be for being a child of God?  If not, let me introduce you to another version of Matthew 5:1-12, the Good News Translation.

"Jesus saw the crowds and went up a hill, where He sat down. His disciples gathered around him, and He began to teach them:

“Happy are those who know they are spiritually poor;
    the Kingdom of heaven belongs to them!
 “Happy are those who mourn;
    God will comfort them!
 “Happy are those who are humble;
    they will receive what God has promised!
 “Happy are those whose greatest desire is to do what God requires;
    God will satisfy them fully!
 “Happy are those who are merciful to others;
    God will be merciful to them!
 “Happy are the pure in heart;
    they will see God!
 “Happy are those who work for peace;
    God will call them his children!
 “Happy are those who are persecuted because they do what God requires;
    the Kingdom of heaven belongs to them!

 “Happy are you when people insult you and persecute you and tell all kinds of evil lies against you because you are My followers.  Be happy and glad, for a great reward is kept for you in heaven. This is how the prophets who lived before you were persecuted."

In a time where many wonder if happiness is possible, The Good News Translation tells us the answer is an unequivocally yes.  It has enhanced my understanding of true happiness, with a refreshing perspective of hope and truth. 

There is fleeting happiness like from eating a double cone of your favorite ice cream, and then there is continuous, unending happiness from belonging to God.  I am so thankful for the Good News, thankful for Jesus. May we never doubt/forget we have an Everlasting Reason to be happy.

Praying peace, comfort and happiness into your day .

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

makeup matters

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10

Makeup can make a difference.... good, better, worse or even gosh awful. What products are used, the amount and the talent of the applier all can affect the outcome. It can be a delicate balance of mindful decisions, patience and an objective eye.  And i'm not just talking about makeup on the face. 

The same guidelines can be applied to the makeup of a class or any group.  It's a fine balance of a lot of moving parts possessing different temperaments, characteristics and abilities blended by a leader/teacher for a successful outcome. Some areas (or people) need more attention than others. It takes a mindful artist and maybe special techniques to blend a face or group making all the features shine their best.

And if we ever need a helping hand, God, our Masterful Artist, is always available.  Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

proper care

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

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

As you labor in love, you are right where God wants you and needs you.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

you are needed

 "...Jesus said, 'Feed my lambs.'"  John 21:15

It's what we all have been called to do.

May we feed all the children/students in our path with love, understanding, compassion, patience, kindness and truth.  And with God by our side, we can.  Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal