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

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

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

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

a daily goal

 "Encourage one another daily..."  Hebrews 3:13

It's always right...
it's always needed.

Together we can mend hearts, teach minds and heal souls.

Together we can accomplish more.

Together we can move forward.

Father, i pray and thank You for watching over us.  Protect our children and all of us striving to meet their needs.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

new kid on the block

“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” – Hebrews 13:2

After working in the same position and school for over 23 year, i had forgotten how daunting it felt to be new.  When separation, like a summer break, ends, it's only natural to gravitate to those you already know.  Afterall, relationships are important and sharing and reconnecting is fun and good for the soul.

                           

But what about the new faces?  Behind the quiet and even smiling face, be mindful there are likely churning buckets of stress, nervousness, doubts or fear lurching.  Feeling invisible and awkward and even stupid in a new environment is natural... at any age.

May you be a warm light of encouragement to those new faces.  If you don't have time for a conversation or word, at least a smile or simple acknowledgement in the hallway is valuable in melting the ice of new beginnings and calming the heart.

"Hi! I'm so glad to see you here this year!"

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

you know my name?

 "But now thus says the Lord, He who created you, (your name), He who formed you: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are Mine." Isaiah 43:1

 "How do you know my name? Is it because you know my Nanna?"

Although her thinking was correct, it was not completely true.  I knew her name before i realized i also knew her grandmother.  Her face was planted in my heart from our interaction and relationship at school.  So, i truthful responded to her, "No, Madison, I know your name because I know you, and you are my friend too."

And she beamed with JOY.

To be known and loved just for being us, isn't that what we all want?  That is the type of relationship we possess with God.

Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands; your walls are continually before Me.

Thank You, Father...

and we beam with JOY.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

need a buddy?

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

The world is never more frightening and scarier than when you are feeling alone or abandoned in it.  This is especially true on a playground bursting with a field of happy, engaged children. Whether a new student or someone feeling left out due to conflicts or other issues, it is a painful, sad feeling and sight.

I LOVE what i've discovered at a couple of elementary schools.  Their all important, tell-all playground has a Buddy Bench on it.  When someone is having a difficult and lonely time, the Buddy Bench is a welcoming aide.  It quietly signals to all in the area, they are lonely and in need of a buddy.  There isn't a more beautiful and satisfying moment than to see someone answer that need.

I think we need Buddy Benches, not just at schools, but all over the country.... in every park, neighborhood, city and anywhere people gather or visit.

Father, we are thankful we always have a Buddy in You.  May we carry that feeling of buddyhood to the lonely souls we see around us... always.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

who hears you

"The Lord is faithful to all His promises and loving toward ALL He has made." Psalm 145:13

Who matters to God? You do! No matter who you are... small or tall, old or young, rich or poor, sick or well, good or bad... He loves you!

A person's a person, no matter what.  Thank You, Father for your faithfulness and loving us all.  May we be more like You today.

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

veneal 

just a thing or two

"'Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?'

Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' 

All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.'” Matthew 22:36-40

As a teacher, Jesus knew the simpler the lesson, the better.  He reduced His teachings to just 2 main things, making it clear what God desires and is most important for believers to know and do.

Father, i pray for us to be good students. These things of God, One and Two, may we not forget nor neglect.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal 

going home

"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9

One of the best unexpected parts of retiring from school has been the reaction of others when i  returned to school as a substitute.  The temporary "coming home" was filled with smiles, hugs and JOYful chatter. I look forward to my next gig to see if the sweet "coming home" feeling continues.  To be remembered and felt missed was a tremendous heart warmer.

Unfortunately, not all homecomings are good and comforting.  Maybe the length of time for the return was too long or even too short.  Misunderstandings, lack of communication, unexpected events and changes could all contribute to a cold return.

Jesus' return to His hometown likely involved all of the above.  His return initially stirred excitement but quickly reversed to resentment and even anger.  They missed His true mission and His blessing at home.

Father, may we keep our eyes on You and Your mission for us.  May we not be deterred by others in serving You first.  Keep our arms, heart and soul open to Your Truth.  Just because we might fail to understand Your path or ways, please help us to continue trusting and believing You.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

the secret battle

"If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come... All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation... And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation." 2 Corinthians 2:17-19    

 Over or under?

I imagine i am not the only one dealing with this battle.  Whether it's the paper towels or the toilet paper, many of us have a preference of over or under.  And if your household is like mine, it's not an unanimous choice.  It's obvious who put the roll on based on the direction it rolls... at the time.  Because those with a strong preference will change it to our liking when we can. So, whether it's a new roll or an "ongoing roll", it's easy to tell who used it last. The roll will tell, and the battle rolls on without a word.

Do you have any secret battles with family, friends, neighbors, coworkers?  How about our Father? If not, i applaud you for your adaptability and flexible understanding.  If you do, i hope it's over silly, insignificant issues of no importance.  

But if the issues are life altering/threatening, destructive, hurtful or mean spirited, i pray your secrets come to light for reconciliation.  May these battles resolve peacefully and to the benefit of all.  With secret battles there is no winner, only harm, pain and separation for both sides.  The constant struggle to prevail will strip one of strength, shift the focus from God to self and possible damage or destroy relationships with others and God.  Lean into God, our Perfect Counselor, and find true peace with your next decision.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

you're in my book

"Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you..." 3 John 1:2

Thanksgiving is a week away, but it's never too early to give thanks.  Today i'm thanking God for you, my sisters and brothers in Christ.  You constantly encourage, inspire, strengthen and delight me.  I love doing life with you!

Like these students, may we overflow with thanks to God for His goodness.  Focusing on our blessings instead of our disappointments allows more of His Peace to fill our hearts and souls.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

the monster within

"Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.... and be filled with the Spirit... Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:15-20

The scowl on her face said it all.  She did not like the teacher's suggestion, even though it was in her best interest.  Practicing math skills 20 minutes a day sounded boring and was stealing her play time.

I

It's easy to let our emotions and personal desires lead us down a dark, ugly path of anger, jealousy, conceit, selfishness, temper, hatred or meanness.  All which can leave a nasty taste in (and out of) one's mouth and bitter look on the face.  Who wants that?

Father, please help remove the monsters within me.  They have no place in serving You.  Instead fill me the sweet fruit of the Spirit... love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.  These possess the power of healing instead of fright.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

now what?

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

As students return to school toting hearts filled with unknowns, chatter among teachers on how to move forward centered on one major theme... comfort. 

Comfort is a crucial need in our life, especially in the midst of disasters at our front door like Helene. As a mother comforts her child, He comforts us. God uses a mother's love to describe His own feeling.  Caring deeply for another, we sacrifice self for their welfare. It is what God considers an essential element to our peace -- with Him and others.

Just know whatever means of  comfort you pour over your students.... listening to their experiences, hugging and hugging again, wiping away tears, cheering on a good effort, sharing a laugh, soothing the hurts, encouraging to persevere, celebrating an accomplishment, holding a hand, chasing away doubts, teaching new coping skills, stomping out fear...  it will bring healing to their soul and day.

Whether a mother-by-blood or a mother-by-heart, you are a blessing. And God is smiling at you, His good and faithful servant... His shining witness to comfort.

I've seen you in action.  It's not about the numbers, but the souls. You got this.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

can i help you?

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." Matthew 5:16

This morning the first image i saw on my computer was a spectacular sunset. At first glance it mirrored a beautiful angel with outstretched arms. What a refreshing, inspiring and uplifting reminder of what we are called to reflect in our own lives, especially now, to others.

As some of us prepare to return to school, i pray for God to direct and empower us in leading and caring for our students. Just as we know some of their story, we undoubtably do not know the depth of it all.

While the most repeated question over the past week has been “Do you have power?”, may we swap out that question for a new one... "What can i do for you?"

Father, open my eyes and stir my heart in the need of others. I am thankful for all working in my behalf to restore power and peace to my life. While I wait patiently for more normalcy at home, may I be mindful enough to serve You wholeheartedly with JOY. Guide us in reaching out to those in our presence with wide opened arms as a beacon of Your light, hope, love and peace.

Praying for a gentleness and understanding in all as we access and pour out the many blessings we possess.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

just suppose...

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

Just suppose....

• the first smile of their day came from your face
• patience to teach a new skill came from your heart
• words of encouragement came only from your lips
• guidance to complete a task came from your hands  
• compassion for their hurt came from your soul
• the only tears cried for their pain fell from your eyes

Would it really make a difference?  Absolutely! YOU are making a impact beyond your understanding.

Random acts of kindness are critical building blocks in creating a mighty fortress in our Father... and bringing others to Him.  May we keep laying that firm foundation one block at a time.

we are chosen and loved by God,

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

veneal

here's your sign

"set an example for the believers in speech, in life in love, in faith and in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12

Who rules at school?

 

I'm thankful for the many teachers, assistants, administrators, bus drivers, custodians, cafeteria workers, office staff, nurses, counselors and countless others who choose to nurture our country's most valuable resource... our children. It truly takes an army to raise, guide and protect a child on this worldly battlefield.

Stay confident in your post; you are in a needed, active position for God.  Be the leader, you would want. Praying for you, God's mighty warriors, today in your mission field at school... at home... in your neighborhood.

Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

you are loved and chosen by God,

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