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

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

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

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

it's the week... end

 "The LORD gives strength to His people; the LORD blesses His people with peace." Psalm 29:11

Lord,

I am rejoicing not because it's the end of the school week, but because it is the beginning of the weekend and time for refreshment and renewal in You.  It's been an exciting first week of school... FULL of fun, activity, chaos and movement. There have been some unexpected changes, hiccups, and confusion; yet because i rest in You, i can still experience peace. Help me set aside some needed quiet time this weekend with You, so i may return Monday with renewed strength.  With You, all things are possible.

Thank you, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

bless you

 "When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider; God has one as well as the other."  Ecclesiastes 7:14

Spring is finally here.  I am not a fan of dull gray skies, bare trees and frigid temperatures. But spring does not blossom without its shortcomings too.  Pollen wreaks havoc with all ages, and rain boots are a constant companion for the feet.  

But even with its drawbacks, spring provides us with much to celebrate. After all, we can't have the beauty of new life, lush green trees and brilliant flowers without some misery... like a rise of allergies and illnesses due to an increase of pollen, possible destruction caused by high winds or tornados, and disease-ridden insects affecting fruits and veggies.

Happy is the heart that can still rejoice in the midst of tough times... because God is still good. He has the power to bring excellence even out of hard, trying times. 

Love where you are because God is there -- no matter the season.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

open wide

 "I am the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt/(out of your bondage).  Open wide your mouth and I will fill it." Psalm 81:10

Trusting the One who has the power and desire to free us from everything that attempts to choke the life out of us.  There is nothing more satisfying or sweeter to our lips than Him and His Word.

Thank You, Father.

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

lean on...

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and  he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

Lean on God...

When we lean on God, He holds us up through all our rumblings and shaky ups and downs.  He is our One Firm Foundation.  We don't have to understand how, just BELIEVE and TRUST Him.

As believers, we possess a leaning tower of Power with God.

Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

time to rest

 Jesus said...

"Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Many need to read this and then read it again and do it.

When we rest at His feet, He restores us.

No one or nothing else can fill His shoes.

Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

just hand it to Him

"Even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me." Psalm 139:10

Got worries, troubles, concerns, problems?  Hand it over to God.

He's got the whole world, including us and all our issues in His Hands.

Even with all we are facing today, peace is possible because of the One who loves us best.  Let the day begin.

Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

do tell

"His love endures forever." Psalm 136:1

This news is too good to keep under your hat.

God loves you!

When life is stressful, disappointing, painful, confusing or just completely unfair, remember His love for us endures forever and through all things.

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

veneal 

beware: high, dangerous winds

"Then he got into the boat and his disciples followed him.  Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!”

He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm." Matthew 8:24-26

With dangerous, high winds expected, many schools opted for school closure today. I don't think anyone would disagree safety is and should always be a top priority. No matter what actually happens, i am thankful to be safe at home. 

Perhaps being at home won't be any safer than elsewhere, but that's not where my greatest peace is derived.  Like the disciples, fear and panic can surface no matter where we are, what we are doing and even who we are with.  

Mistakenly when we live with Jesus in our heart, we don't expect a nasty, gusty storm or situations to rip through our lives, shredding our foundation, confidence, livelihood, health and faith.  In truth, as we read over and over in the Bible and witness in lives of believers, God doesn't stop the storm and chaos from coming but He does see us through the disruption and restores His peace... in His perfect time and Way.

You of little faith, why are you so afraid?

Whatever the day holds, may our faith in God and knowledge of His immense love for us, carry us boldly through any and all storms for all sources. He has not forgotten or forsaken us. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

a breath of fresh air

"Satisfy us in the morning with Your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days." Psalm 90:14

The sunshine, warmth and blooming daffodils are a beautiful reminder that nothing stays the same...
 

frigid days melt away to sunny ones

sadness is replaced with hugs

loneliness is erased by laughter

bad news is followed by hope

fear is deleted with available options

pain is eased by caring hands
 
hurt is healed by kindness

silence is broken with sweet singing
 
darkness is overcome by Light
 

Thank You, Father for bringing nights to an end and joy in the morning.  We need Your Light more than ever in an everchanging, volatile world.  On You, my faith lies.

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

do you feel loved?

It's Valentine's week and for some it's produces more pain than love. Through death, disagreements, hardships or other factors, some loved ones are no longer part of our life. So, is there still reason to celebrate?  With a thankful heart, our answer is yes.  There is One Valentine that will never forsake us. 

Let's reread, rediscover and reflect on the greatest love of all, poured out freely to each of us from Above. Here's one of many love letters written especially to you...

   

Be Mine

Happy Valentine's Day, (your name), my Child!

Do you not know?  Have you not heard?   (Isaiah 40:21)

I will never take my love away from you.  (1 Chronicles 17:13)

To you, I will be compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in love.    (Psalm 103:8)

I will never leave you nor forsake you. (Joshua 1:5)

"I will meet all your needs."  (Philippians 4:19)

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.  (Isaiah 41:10)

Since you are precious and honored in My sight, and because I love you... do not be afraid, for I am with you.  (Isaiah 43:4 5)

I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name, you are mine.   (Isaiah 42:1)

I will quiet you with My love. I will rejoice over you with singing.   (Zephaniah 3:17)

And remember, dear Child of Mine,

My love endures forever.   (2 Chronicles 20:21)

Dad

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

and never doubt or forget it,

veneal

where you lead

"It is the Lord your God you must follow, and Him you must revere. Keep His commands and obey Him; serve Him and hold fast to Him." Deuteronomy 13:4

Where you lead, i will follow...

Oh, to have the faith and trust of a child, Father, that is exactly what we must have with You.

I love You, Father, with all my heart, mind and soul;

Let me be filled with Your peace, so i can be usable and whole. 

With each step i make, take my hand and my heart,

From Your side, do not ever, ever let me depart.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

and another thing...

"You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance." Psalm 32:7

When my grands came to visit, Allie insisted on visiting the library.  She wanted to see the students, and she wanted Stetson to see them.  It was a fun visit, but she wouldn't leave until she saw a specific person... Officer L.  She had met him once, but he made a lasting impression on her. Was it his smile, his uniform, his calm voice, or the fact she knew he was there to keep students safe??  Whatever her reason, we couldn't leave until she introduced Stetson to him.

Just a quick, happy fact to leave with you this weekend.  We are never too young to feel, need or understand feeling safe and secure. 

Be safe and rest in the Arms who loved you best.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

do you feel safe?

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Once upon a time we didn't worry about being safe at school or church.  It was a given. Now they, like other establishments, must address and implement safety measures.  For schools my favorite safety change is the addition of a resource officer (RO).  Just their mere presence on campus emits a feeling of calmness, safety and peace.  The students at PSS love seeing Officer L in the hallway, giving high fives and big smiles.

One resource officer is great, but would more be better?  When i visited recently, I was surprisingly greeted by SEVERAL Officer Ls.  Everywhere i turned, he seemed to be there.  Only one was real, but the cardboard images also provided a magical comfort throughout the school.

Do you feel safe?  While we don't have the benefit of having an Officer L around us wherever we go, we do have One who never leaves us.  

God, our #1 Protector is always with us.  He never leaves our side and is aware of all our fears, issues and needs.  May we trust He is with us and turn to Him at any time. 

Do you feel you need to see His face for assurance?  Just look around... He is there in the face of a friend, the gentle breeze, the singing bird, the warm sunshine on your back, the Bible verse on your desk.  You are not alone... never.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

how are you?

but, God said...

"I will be with you... I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians (or whatever chokes you)." Exodus 3:12, 6:6

If your heart is broken, i pray God gently weaves His love in your tattered, tired heart.  It's normal to wonder how is it possible to serve others when we feel empty? The answer surfaces from the widow of Zarephath lesson (1 Kings 17:7-16).  It reminds us in hard times where the ability to continue comes.

What yoke are you struggling under?  Sickness, loss of a loved one, termination of a career, a new beginning, an unplanned circumstance, financial distress, abandonment, abuse, relocation?

Life will not always be fine. Some seasons uncover events and situations that drain us, causing us to feel incapable of serving or functioning. Whether at home, work, school or even church... with family, friends, coworkers or students... life can take a harsh toil. So, how can we continue when we feel we can't?

I know of only one way... with God. When we are spent out, God comes and infuses His blessings in us exponentially through His Spirit, His Word and earthly angels.  Because of God we are able to go and continue serving.  

Father, alone we are unable to adequately prepare for all our ongoing changes. However, You know and prepare the way for our upcoming needs. Things will not always be fine, but because You are with us, we will be fine.  As we stop and recall Your continuous blessings, may we be renewed and refueled to commit ourselves to loving You and others in this hurting world. 

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