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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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