from out of the mouth of babes...

comes the heart and soul of adults.

"If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea." Matthew 18:6

Children come into this world with a clean slate.  Thoughts, words and actions are "picked up" from surrounding people and places.  They are like sponges, absorbing everything around them. That is why, as adults or parents, most strive to instill some basic clear boundaries.  Such as...

treat others like you want to be treated

if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all

no name calling... EVER

when someone is hurt, help them

don't brag

we share because we care

we become like those we are around, choose wisely

don't hit

Yet, sadly we seem to be losing ground with these basic acts of decency and human kindness.  The chaos, confusion and deepening division of beliefs is not changing the minds of people but stirring up hatred, meanness and pain.  The crevice is deepening and Satan is sitting back with his feet propped up, enjoying the ugliness in God's people.  

While our children learn ways, words and actions that are not of God, His Word has made is abundantly clear, a heavy price will be paid for this.  My heart is broken for our land.  Yet, God in His infinite mercy and grace, will provide a way out, if we will listen to Him and obey.

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

are you bait?

  Jesus said...

“Come, follow me, and I will send you out to fish for people.” Matthew 4:19
 "go and make disciples of all nations..." Matthew 28:19

As believers, Jesus has cast us into the world to show, inspire and help bring others to Him.  We are the bait, He is the Master Fishermen.  As a true fisherman depends on a variety of baits to entice and capture fish, God desires a multi-packed tackle box loaded with successful bait too.

Father, You created each of us uniquely, possessing different needs, talents and desires. In growing Your kingdom, each and every one of us is needed to reach others.  May we be alive in You, so You can reel in an overflowing eternal catch.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

seeing like God

 "You are ALL children of God through faith in Christ Jesus... there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Galatians 3:26,28

"So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality..." Acts 10:24

"And He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth..." Acts 17:26

"But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

It appears to me, God's view of us has nothing to do with our outward appearance... nor our power, titles, monetary worth.

What matters to God is our heart.  Period.
If you find anything different, let me know.

Meanwhile, may we celebrate and be thankful for our acceptance, unity and love as members of His family. And value each other as God   does.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

Hw protects... period

 "God reached down from on high and took hold of  ____; He drew ______ out of deep waters. He rescued ________ from  his/her powerful enemy, from his/her foes, who were too strong for _______.  They confronted ______ in the day of his/her disaster, but the Lord was his/her support.

He brought ______ out into a spacious place;   He rescued ______ because He delighted in ______."   Psalm 18:16-19  

 

Do you know of a name(s) that needs to be in the above blank?  Someone who needs to be pulled out of deep waters, despair or trouble?

When physical, emotional or mental sickness is present... there is suffering. Situations can develop due to decisions we make, decisions others make, or they might just happen. In light of the past few months, i am reminded how little control we have over many circumstances. 

Thankfully, we can TRUST the strength and support for those in need, as well as, the peace of those who love them, are in the Mighty Hands of our Father, the Great Physician.

Where we are incapable, our God IS capable.  
When we are ready to give up, our God IS going strong.

He cares, He can, He will... rest in Him.

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

forecast or fact?

 "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."  Hebrews 12:8

June 20th was the first day of Summer, but no one bothered to remind Ms. Summer of the official date.  She arrived in full blazing glory way before her premiere date pounding numerous days with relentless sweltering heat.  How long will the heat wave continue?  Since it arrived so early, can we expect it to leave early?  The professional and trained weather forecasters are called forecasters for a reason.  They watch trends and patterns, but even with all their sophisticated, hi-tech instruments, it's still an educated guess.  Is there anything can we rely on 100% of the time for accuracy?  

Thanks be to God, YES!  

On God we can. His love, grace, mercy, goodness and forgiveness start immediately when we become believers and is unending.  He is our one firm foundation, in an otherwise shaken and fallen world.  With God in our life, we can survive all trials, disappointments and heartaches. His Peace and Love soothe and heal hurting souls.  With God in our life, we can celebrate abundantly sweet surprises, accomplishments and joys.  His Peace and Love multiplies our blessings.

With God in our life, we are 100% taken care of at all times forever... that is not a forecast but a fact.  Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

who's taking care of business?

 "Look to the LORD and His strength; seek His face always." Psalm 105:4

  

Sometimes we just have to put matters in God's Hands...
                                               people
                                                situations
                                                frustrations
                                                fears
                                                doubts

                                                relationships
                                                mistakes
                                                disappointments
                                                decisions

Actually, that's not true.  We need to put everything in God's Hands... and then allow Him to work through our words and actions.  Why do we want to invite greater hardships or chaos, when we know only He can provide and sustain peace, even in the unimaginable moments?  I'm sure many of you know exactly what i mean.

Thank You, Father, for your unending love and strength!  I want to give it and leave it ALL with You. Be my Guide and my Foundation. Shake loose my fears and grow my trust.

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

His signs don't end

 No matter the difficulty, never give up.  As our journey continues, so do His signs....

U TURN     "Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it." 

                  Psa. 34:14

MERGE      "...encourage one another and build each other up..." 

                  1 Thess. 5:11

NARROW   "But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life.."

BRIDGE        Matt. 7:14 

RIGHT TURN  "The ways of the LORD are right; the righteous walk in

ONLY                  them..."  Hosea 14:9

CONSTRUCTION "... He who began a good work in you will carry it on to

AHEAD                     completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Phil. 1:6

WATCH FOR          "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is

CHILDREN                old he will not turn from it."  Prov. 22:6

No journey is too long or difficult with God.  Rest in Him.  He who is faithful will lead us home safely with His mighty signs of love.

have a peace-filled day!

veneal

watch for His signs

 As you travel this summer far or near, take note of the road signs.  They offer true guidance and direction...for the road and for our life.

STOP        "Be still, and know that I am God..." Psalm 46:10               

YIELD       "...stand firm.  Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves

                     fully to the work of the Lord..." 1 Cor. 15:58

CAUTION  "Be self-controlled and alert.  Your enemy the devil prowls

                     around like a roaring lion..."  1 Peter 5:8

GO           "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations..." Matt. 28:19

ONE WAY  "Look to the LORD and His strength; seek His face always."

                 1 Chr. 16:11

The journey is long and the signs are plentiful.  Watch for His signs on your life's journey to ensure a safe, fulfilled and comfortable trip. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

successful year?

  "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 the end of the school year.  As teachers, how do you measure the success of your year...  by scores, grades, test results?

No matter what your numbers, i pray you see the success of your year through God's eyes.  May the success of your year be counted by the hugs, smiles and thankful hearts of those called yours this year.  The love and understanding from you has produced the sweetest results of all.

you are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

what's next?

 "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

It's graduation time; and no matter the graduation level, ways to celebrate ceremonies and events have expanded.  Besides the actual ceremony and after party there are now live feeds, zoom gatherings, yard signs, billboards, banners, streaming events and more.

While there is much to celebrate, hiccups developed and some were  blindsided by unexpected changes,.  Trusting and knowing God is still in control helps us accept our current situation and adjust.  His Word also brings sweet assurance that His plans for us will not be thwarted.  We can trust His purpose for our life will be fulfilled  because of His unending love for us. With that promise alone, we have every reason to celebrate each moment and milestone in our life with confidence and joy.  

Father, thank You for loving us.  You know us by name and have a place and plan for each of us. You have engraved us on the palms of Your Hands.  Because we are Your treasured possessions and precious in Your sight, we can sing praises, dance and celebrate on special occasions even if our audience is reduced to just One... because You are enough.

Keep looking forward, our future is bright... because He says so.  Believe Him.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

this little hand of mine...

  ...you have helped it grow.

"The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor.  For we are co-workers in God’s service..." 1 Corinthians 3:8-9

It's the end of the year, and as a teacher you wonder about the impact you've made on your students. What will they take with them next year?  What did they see? What did they hear? What did they understand?

You, my friend, made a difference for a day, a year, a lifetime. You prepared them well for their next chapter. You loved, you gave, you cared, you sacrificed... and they grew.  

Smile -- you prepared them well.

And isn't it comforting to know God is preparing great wonders for our next chapter too.

"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him." 1 Corinthians 2:9

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

blooming beautiful

 "Each one should remain in the situation which he was in when God called him." 1 Corinthians 7:20

Bloom where you are planted.  God has you there for a purpose and will equip you with what's needed.  May His Light shine warmly through you helping others to grow and know His love.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

no mountain too high

 Jesus said...

"...  I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."  Matthew 17:20-21

Are you standing on the edge of a mountain-size obstacle, hardship or problem, wondering how to overcome it? Does the solution appear unobtainable?  

Focus on Jesus

May your faith rise over and go beyond any mountain before you.
With God, all things are possible.  He who made a way in the past is still mightily at work... He is Present.

Ain't no mountain high enough,
Ain't no valley low enough,
Ain't no river wide enough
To keep God from you...

Thank You, Father!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal 

to-do list

 “… What does the Lord require of you?

To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8

May we tend to God's to-do list, more than our to-do list.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

the morning after

 "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

It's the day after Easter, and it's still a good day!  Don't let those doubts and fears seep back into your victorious soul.

                                         

Father, i am reminded you are among the living, not the dead.  May our lives reflect we believe that. You are reason enough for every day to be called Good.  Thank You for saving me.

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

HOLY WEEK... spectacular Sunday

    "HE HAS RISEN!"  Mark 16:6

"But now in a single victorious stroke of Life, all three - sin, guilt, death - are gone! the gift of our Master, Jesus Christ. Thank God!" 1 Corinthians 15:57

It's Easter Sunday

The earth shook, the cloth was folded, His work finished.

And the glory of the LORD shone all around.

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!

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

veneal

HOLY WEEK... silent Saturday

   "'Take a guard,' Pilate answered (the Pharisees). 'Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how.'" Matthew 27:65

It's Saturday

All is quiet.  The rush and excitement of the past week is on hold.  You can call it the silence before the storm.  Come Monday the chains will be broken and our freedom guaranteed.  How eerie and dark is the silence.  But not for long!

All silence is not golden, some is torturous. There is silence at the tomb.  Jesus, the Son of God, the King of kings, is dead. His body now guarded in a tomb with a massive stone covering the opening. No one can possibly enter.  But, they forgot to consider the possibility of Someone coming out. Oh, ye, of little faith. There will be an awakening! What a glorious day to come!  Thank You, Father!

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

veneal

HOLY WEEK... Friday's forgiveness

    "... there they crucified Him, along with the criminals ‑ one on His right, the other on His left. Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.'.. One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at Him... But the other rebuked Him... Then he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' Jesus answered him, 'I tell you the truth, today you will be with Me in paradise.'" Luke 23:33‑43

It's Friday

Jesus, weak and unrecognizable from the lashings, could not drag His cross up the rocky path. Help came from a stranger, not His followers nor His disciples. The women followed in tears; the men scattered in fear.
  
Jesus' last walk on earth shook the ground with raw emotions, not with cheers but jeers... the people expected more. But hold on!  The Last Act is yet to come. It will not only bring down the house but will rip the temple's curtain in two from top to bottom!

Even at the very last minute on the cross, one criminal chose to acknowledge and accept Christ. One went to paradise, the other didn't. It's all about forgiveness. It's what Jesus was born to do. It's God's greatest gift and sacrifice to man.

We, like the criminals, are either on the right or left side of Jesus. With our speech and/or actions we are denying or accepting Him.  Do we just believe in Him or do we BELIEVE Him? 

Jesus humbly gave His all, so we may live. God is willing, waiting, and wanting to receive all into His Kingdom.  May we remember and honor His love for us by loving Him and others. Jesus knows life on earth is not fair, challenging and violent; He lived it too. Yet, it didn't stop Him from fulfilling His mission.

To be with Jesus in paradise, is that not the ultimate desire of our hearts?

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

HOLY WEEK... tearful Thursday

Jesus prayed -
"My prayer is not for them (the disciples) alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You." John 17:20

It's THURSDAY

Early in the day, Jesus washed the disciple's feet. He continues to model to His disciples genuine leadership starts in humbleness and in serving others.

Later they head to the Garden of Gethsemane. In pray with sweat rolling down His back and legs and tears spilling from His eyes, the dirt on His knees change to mud. The fury of the week left the disciples too exhausted to stay awake in the Garden. Three times Jesus wakes them... and later, three times Peter denies Him. Under the full moon, Jesus is alone on the path to the Cross.

The brilliance and beauty of a full moon is mesmerizing. So full and bright, it is breathtaking. How can anything so beautiful, hold so much sorrow too?

It was under that same moon, over 2,000 year ago, Jesus prepared to be betrayed and disowned by His own, and unjustly accused by others. In the Garden after the Last Supper, He committed His final act before captured -- He prayed.

He prayed for Himself and the ability to be obedient...Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done. He prayed for His disciples and their strengthening. And He prayed for you and me. His final prayer -- for us to be one in Him.

Look to the heavens tonight. May you see the moon in a different light, as His eternal Light for all. The sorrow of this night will fade as His path fills with believers. Victory over darkness is guaranteed. Thank You, Father!

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

HOLY WEEK... willful Wednesday

And Judas said...

"'What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?' So they counted out for him thirty silver coins." Matthew 26:15

SOLD OUT

It's Wednesday

Jesus relentlessly pushes onward His final days -- performing miracles, praying, reaching people for God's Kingdom. The sweet perfume oil from Mary's fingers, drips from His head and puddles in the dirt. His disciples grumble over the waste.

Is Jesus making a difference, just what is His real mission, is His time almost over for good?

Judas sold out the whereabouts of Jesus for the mere price of a slave. Realizing Jesus' kingdom was purely a spiritual nature and not of earthly power or money, he sold Jesus' life for the immediate short-term security of a few coins... coins offering temporary pleasure in place of eternal joy.

We read and shake our heads at Judas, his lack of faith, his weakness, his frustrations, his personal desires/gains ... yet, truth be told, there is some Judas in all of us.

Are you still holding Jesus' Hand? Tomorrow the path we travel down is dark, difficult and necessary. And one He chose, so we could have eternal life. Despite our shortcomings and disappointments in following Him and His ways, Jesus would do it all over again for us. What did we do to deserve such an immense, unconditional love? Nothing......

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