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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

i got you

 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10

The days leading up to and the first week of school were harrowing... what to do, how to do it, where to go, who to seek. But over and over and from everyone in my path, 2 phrases were religiously repeated...

1. we got you

2. give yourself some grace

While doubts rumbled in my head, the truth of the phrases prevailed.  When the students arrived, i was not left alone.  Continuously, i have been checked on and assisted and questions quickly answered, while i allowed grace to flow freely without embarrassment or shame.

If only i had believed and trusted my new peers earlier, I would have saved myself from much anxiety and fear.

Father, may i expand this earthly lesson to the heavens. Truly there is peace in the fact You've got me and i'm not perfect.  I only need to trust and believe it.  Thank You, Father, for having my back.

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

classroom rules

  "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." Psalm 32:8

As a teacher, what do you expect from your class?

1.  Pay attention; listen when the teacher is talking.
2.  Be prepared; read your lessons and do your homework daily.
3.  Apply what you learn to your work.
4.  Follow the teacher's directions.
5.  And, if you need help, ask the teacher.

Would you agree that those expectations are building blocks for the success of the student? To help them get the most out of their studies? And, to reap benefits now and in the future?

We, also, are students and are under the watchful, loving eyes of the greatest Teacher of all... our Father.  Since we are in the classroom-of-life for Christ, may we follow the same guidelines.  He has the desire and ability to equip us with wisdom, discernment, power and peace.  Let us listen to Him, read His Word, do as He instructs, and pray... in times of need and praise.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

fragile days

 "The Lord heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds... Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit." Psalm 147:3,5

It's been 7 years since Daddy went "home".  At times it feels like it happened yesterday and then at other times, it feels like it's been forever.  If you have loss a loved one, you know exactly what i mean.  Oh how precious are the memories... they help soothe the hurting heart.

One of my favorite memories is taking Daddy Christmas shopping. He did his shopping and secretly bought a special mug for me. He had a talent for making me and others feel special. Unexpectedly, my precious gift cracked, but my memory of the event will never change and will forever be a smile moment in my heart.

Thank You, Father, for holding me together when all i want to do is fall apart.  
I am reminded, no matter how strong our faith, there are times when the hardy-faithful's heart shatters due to pain like a fragile-novice's heart.  Our frail humanity is never more exposed than when we are grieving.  You scoop us up and continue to bind up our wounds... Your understanding has no limit... You question not our recovery time or process. You understand.  You cover, repair and strengthen all the ugly cracks that show up in our life.  You, Father, can restore beauty even out of the worst of times.  I am thankful for memories, but i am most thankful for You.

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

essential life notes

"... a teacher of children, having in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth— you then who teach others, do you not teach yourself?" Romans 2:20-21

Needing more flexibility in my personal life, yet loving my job in the library, i made a change.  After CHRISTmas (and 23.5 years), i retired from my position as a school media assistant and embarked on a new journey.  Serving as a substitute teacher felt like the perfect solution.  And it has been, although i have faced a learning curve in this new adventure. 

In my initial plan, i limited my availability to where and what levels i would work.  It was then i discovered my 2025 word from church was spot-on... expand. 

For I quickly realized, i needed to open my mind and heart to other opportunities if i truly wanted to serve. While i wasn't interested in working outside my comfort zone, expanding my territory has shone to be a blessing.  Not only has it increased my world of friends, it has demonstrated an old dog can truly learn new tricks. I might not learn as fast as others, but i can learn to adapt to new situations. And the most important part?  I have a feeling of peace, JOY and belonging where i am.  

Are you facing an unplanned, unwanted, uncertain change?  Take it from me, have an open mind and heart and give it a try.  God plants rainbows and Sonshine in some of the most unlikely or unexpected places.  Where He leads you, it is good and serves a purpose.  I pray you find yourself willing to go and grow, as you trust Him in all things. When we limited the gifts God gives us, we limit our ability to serve Him wholeheartedly.

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.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

just keep swimming

 “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him.  They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream.  It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green." Jeremiah 17:7-8

Keeping our roots in His Living Waters builds and strengthens our faith, especially during turbulent, stressful times.  Because of God's love for us, we will not perish, but produce.

And when we thrive bearing the Fruit of the Spirit, others taste and see how good God is.  You, my friend, are a blooming beauty feeding and witnessing all in your path.

Father, how grateful i am that no matter what's going on, You are with me.  I'm digging my toes deep in Your unshakeable, unconditional rich foundation of Love, Mercy and Grace.  Rocks, droughts and difficulties along the way aren't meant to deter our growth, but to push us into a deeper relationship with You.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

remember this

"They remembered that God was their Rock, that God Most High was their Redeemer." Psalm 78:35

Rough day, hard decision, tough love, dark hours, unfair treatment, chaotic schedule, endless demands. Just remember...

Who you are and Whose you are. God is our Rock and Savior through it all.  He has not forgotten nor abandoned us... NEVER.

Thank You, Father.

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