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

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

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

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

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

i give up

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

Unexpected changes and future uncertainties are a rich breeding ground for worry. And i am wobbling knee-high in a pile of worry-weeds.  But the Good News is it actually assisted me in deciding what to give up for Lent.  

This year i committed to give up worry. I choose to consciously pull out the doubts of my heart and turn them over to God.  This has aided me in keeping God in the forefront in my mind and heart every hour, every minute.  

One important purpose of Lent is to give up something that causes us to depend and focus more on God.  I can honestly say by doing so, i feel an increase of His Peace.  I have no answers or solutions to my circumstances, but growing trust in God.  He has this for Lent... and for my entire life.

God hath not promised skies ever blue,

Flower-strewn pathways always for you.

God hath not promised Sun without rain,

Joy without sorrow, peace without pain;

But He hath promised strength from above,

Unfailing sympathy, undying Love.

we are love 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 

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

forward thinking

"Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." Isaiah 43:18-19

What are you doing today?

I'm thrilled to be preparing for a new chapter in my life.  Starting next week i will begin subbing at my former school.  To say i am excited to return and spend time with my some of my favorite peeps, small and tall, is a gross understatement.  With renewed energy and direction, i can't wait to return and enJOY the flexibility of a work schedule, AND to see my grands more often. God is good all the time, all the time God is good.

Father, i've spent much time thinking about the past and what i will miss... all with the realization, i can't get it back.  While reminiscing is good and a dose of sweet medicine, i can't survive or live to my fullest on it alone.  Today and tomorrow require my attention and energy... and so do You.  If i am breathing, i know You are not finished with me yet. Help me focus on the work/service You need from me now.  What's good for You is also good for me.  Thank you...

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

surrounded by Him always

 "I lift up my eyes to the mountains—  where does my help come from?

My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth...
the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Psalm 121:1-2,8

My heart was broken.  In a matter of 24 hours, i learned two friends had lost their precious daughters.  Tired and troubled i took my dog for a walk. I went outside to a beautiful, clear blue sky.  As i returned from my walk and "talk", i looked up to the heavens to see a magnificent sight. What i saw wrapped my heart in peace and assurance.  It was a sky full of crosses.  And in the center of one of the crosses was the glorious, glowing sun/Son.

Was this a sign all is well?  My heart says yes... my friends and their daughters are not alone.

I am tenderly reminded, God goes before us, with us and after us.  The days ahead can be difficult, but we will not go it alone.  God will hold, prepare and guide us through all circumstances.

If you are hurting, may you also lift your eyes to Him and feel His presence. God cares, He can, and He will be our tower of Strength through it all. There is no battle we face that He is not prepared to handle. Matter of fact, He  is already working on it in His Perfect Ways. And i believe that with every fiber of my heart and soul.  Thank You, Father.

Hymn of Heaven

Phil Wickham

How I long to breathe the air of Heaven

Where pain is gone and mercy fills the streets
To look upon the One who bled to save me
And walk with Him for all eternity

There will be a day when all will bow before Him
There will be a day when death will be no more
Standing face to face with He who died and rose again
Holy, holy is the Lord

And every prayer we prayed in desperation
The songs of faith we sang through doubt and fear
In the end, we'll see that it was worth it
When He returns to wipe away our tears

Oh, there will be a day when all will bow before Him
There will be a day when death will be no more
Standing face to face with He who died and rose again
Holy, holy is the Lord

And on that day, we join the resurrection
And stand beside the heroes of the faith
With one voice, a thousand generations
Sing, "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain"

And on that day, we join the resurrection
And stand beside the heroes of the faith
With one voice, a thousand generations
Sing, "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain"
"Forever He shall reign"

So let it be today we shout the hymn of Heaven
With angels and the saints, we raise a mighty roar
Glory to our God who gave us life beyond the grave
Holy, holy is the Lord

So let it be today we shout the hymn of Heaven
With angels and the saints, we raise a mighty roar
Glory to our God who gave us life beyond the grave
Holy, holy is the Lord

Holy, holy is the Lord
Holy, holy is the Lord

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

a drip at a time

 "... He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong." 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

A leaky faucet is normally an unwanted, and maybe expensive problem. But recently due to the below-freezing temperatures, a slow drip was purposely allowed for an outside faucet. While it kept the pipe from freezing, a 3 foot icicle formed from the drips.  Each tiny drip was a contribution to the majestic sight and reminder of the power of nature.

What's dripping in your life? Increased demands, difficult circumstances, undue stress, unanswered questions, unfair decisions, health concerns?  At times issues, large or small, can build up causing frustration, fear and hopelessness, as we face one difficulty after the other.  When the drips are continuous, remembering the immense Power and undeniable Strength of the One collecting them is our true hope.

Through prayer, His Word and encouragement from other believers, i am reminded what is overwhelming for me, is not for God.  Each drip, each tear is lovingly caught and handled by God.  As He tends to the continuous drips in my life, He is also growing my faith and dependency on Him.  When i am weak, He is Strong, He is Mighty and He is still in Control of all things.

Father, thank You for collecting the drips in my life.  May i remember than even with various, ongoing issues, when in Your Hands something good and beautiful can be created. When we are ready to give up, You are still going strong.  I am resting in Your Truths and Love.

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

ready for a break?

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not for people. Remember that the Lord will give you as a reward what He has kept for His people. For Christ is the real Master you serve." Colossians 3:23-24

As i turned off my alarm this morning for the last time as an active employee i wondered, now what.  I have preparations to finish for CHRISTmas celebrations, but then what.  And then i remembered.  I am still working for my first and #1 Boss.  While i won't be on the school clock, i will continue the lifelong heartbeat of loving and serving those who are woven in my soul, and that includes you.

Today's Bible verse is the daily lesson plan taped on my work computer for years. It set the tone for my day each morning and the tasks for the day. I plan to take it home today and tape it on my laptop.

Our Father placed on my heart 23.5 years ago, the writing and sharing of devotions.  As part of a school family, i sensed a strong need to support and encourage some of the most valuable people on earth... our teachers.  Their commitment, sacrifice and love for our children is nothing short of living like Jesus.  While my devotions evolved just for school teachers, i soon realized  we all are teachers in some respect.  We teach those around us by our thoughts and actions.  

All this to answer the question, will i keep writing... yes, i hope to always work for Him. God, our Ultimate Teacher, still has much to say and teach me. Whether through the eyes as a mother, lolli, wife, friend or other role, there are lessons to learn.  Writing might not be as regular, but i know God will continue to feed me as long as i continue to listen.

May your break be JOYful and filled with Him.  Where i am working will be different, but i know my Faithful Companion will be the same.  Thank You, Jesus.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

a quiet moment

 “Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray." Mark 1:35

Quiet moments... we all need some, whether child or adult.

Set up for students, our JOY overflowed when teachers dropped in for a quiet moment with us too.  Nestled next to a "roaring" fire and twinkling lights, they allowed the quiet peace to provide a needed moment of sweet relief and refueling.

Don't let the busyness of the season demands leave you drained and depleted.

Be like Jesus. Stop, rest, pray and be refilled with the delight of the season and God.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

i want... more!

"Be filled with the Spirit... Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:18-20

It's the question of the season... what do you want for CHRISTmas?  If you are like me, the first response is nothing; i already have all i want.  But do we??  After more careful consideration, i've come up with a list of wants. And i'm taking it to my number One Giver. It's a list i surely can request year-after-year.

Father,  i pray for an increase in my heart, as i love You and others more than last year.  I pray for an increase in boldness in serving You better.  I pray for an increase in faithfulness to You when i face the dark.  I pray for an increase in serving others consistently and not just during special seasons. I pray for an increase in thankful songs to You for Jesus and the multitude of blessings in my life. Thank You.

And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.

What are you asking for this CHRISTmas?

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

shattered

"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God... For Jesus Himself is our Peace." Ephesians 2:8,14

Last year's decorations had been quickly packed, stored and stuffed in the attic.  It was good enough for most items, but not the fragile glass CHRISTmas bell.  It was totally shattered.  Better wrapping could have saved it. 

How is your CHRISTmas season going?

Shattered bells, shattered lives ~ and CHRISTmas still comes. It's near impossible to live 365 days without changes.  Marriages, deaths, change of income, sickness, births and other things happen. Some for the better, some not - as least through our eyes.  During trials, i struggle, as my eyes shift down on me and not up on Him.

Father, there are times i am crushed by the world around me.  Life can be hard, unpredictable and mean.  And when i tackle it, without You, i shatter like glass.  Instead, i want to stay completely wrapped, protected and covered in Your Love, Wisdom and Will.  Oh, how thankful  i am for the wonderful CHRISTmas season!  During this time, no matter what has happened the past 365 days, i am reminded and drawn back to what really matters... You and Your unconditional Love.  Thank You for my most precious and unbreakable gift, Your Son, my Savior.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal