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

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

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

lead with love

"Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." 1 Peter 5:2-3

As a teacher, how comfortable are you with the standards, the guidelines, grade requirements and expectations of your position?  As a long-term sub in a new place, i'm not at all.  My head and brain are spinning. WHAT HAVE I DONE? Just what do i know??  Then i hear a small Voice.

Teach by example and with a servant's heart, and the flock will be properly led, empowered and prepared.  Remember the passion that ignited your fire to teach/serve so you may inspire others to discover their dreams.

Sometimes the most important aspect of teaching if not what we know, but how we relate and led those trusted to our care.

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

i wonder...

“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” – Psalm 24:1

I wonder, why did God create the sloth and the porcupine?  The sloth moves painfully too slow and burns up my patience.  And the porcupine, well he just sticks me in the wrong ways.  I know people like them.  Do you?

God created all critters for a reason... and humans too.  We don't have to like them or what they represent, BUT maybe there is something we can gleam from them, grow, mature and even become more Christlike.  Don't you possibly expect that's true?  God uses all... the good, the bad and the ugly. The longer I live, the more i believe it's true.

“For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him.”

Father, You have a plan, and it is good.  Grow my trust and faith in You. May i not ignore, misuse or neglect the work you have for me.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

i see You

 "DO  some  most  part  half  your portion  what you want  what's fair EVERYTHING without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the Word of Life..." Philippians 2:14-15

When we live knowing and accepting  

life is...
not about fairness, but righteousness
not about our way, but God's way 
not about conquering, but surrendering to God
not about independence, but dependence on God
not about our glory, but His...

His Peace becomes ours, shining for others to see where to find Hope.  

Father, direct my ways.  I want others to see and know You through my words and actions.  

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe 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

do you like bread?

"Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.... I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever."  John 6:35,51 

It's that time of year when people want to shed some winter pounds.  From the old tried 'n true diets to new ones, people are dieting. Many are eagerly sharing tips and recipes on how to do it better.  

While details vary, many of the diets share a common thread of reduced carbs.  For us bread lovers, getting our fill of delicious, mouth‑watering bread is a thing of the past.  Or, is it??

Here's the Good News.  I know one Perfect Bread available with zero carbs. PLUS, it's 100% filling and totally satisfying.  Eat all you desire, stay healthy, and even be guaranteed to live forever!  Now, that's a Bread worth devouring without any guilt... just total pleasure.  His Bread of Life is the best tip we can share with anyone.  Do tell, and be filled with Jesus!

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

where are you going?

"Be still and know I am God." Psalm 46:10

Sometimes when life is confusing or overwhelming, i just want to fly far, far away.

But no, don't let that be.  Father, clip my wings and let me stay underneath Yours, because i KNOW the only place for true peace is with You.

For You have been my help, and in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy." 

amen, amen.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

come sit

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

I do not know of a more glorious occasion to celebrate than CHRISTmas.  While the birth of Jesus is an event worthy of our daily celebration and praises, most of our celebration culminates during a few days in December.  And with that being said, this time of year we can find ourselves totally exhausted and in desperate need of rest.

As you continue to enJOY time with family and friends, may you also find some quiet moments/hours to reflect and rest in the One who made it all possible.  

I think that is what He really wants.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

all wrapped up?

 "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6 

The days are closing in on CHRISTmas.  Are you ready?  Are you all wrapped up?  And if so, what are you wrapped up in?  CHRISTmas can be a season of mixed emotions.   It can be a time to get easily wrapped up in emotions of anger, resentment, pain, regret, hurt, loneliness, fear, envy, bitterness, jealousy, exhaustion or pity.  But don't despair, you don't have to stay there.  

God wants to free you whatever is tightly wrapped up in your heart causing you pain, hurt or separation from Him.  He wants to unwrapped those harmful, destructive emotions and wrap you up in His Love, Hope and Peace instead. Through the birth of Jesus we have been given the greatest gift of all times... a gift that lasts for eternity.  A gift that by itself is reason alone to still have joy during CHRISTmas. 

Is your wrapping a bit tight and uncomfortable?  Do you need a change in your life right now?  Our Father has the perfect wrap picked out, and it starts with His unending love for you.  

What's that?  Yes, i think i see a smile starting to stretch across your face.  Thank You, Father, 'tis Your Season.

we are love 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 quit

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." Colossians 3:23-24

It's a favorite book in the library, "The Day the Crayons Quit".  They're fed up with neglect and misuse... at least according to their story.  The colors grumble and  revolt for a better life... a different job, a new meaning, more usage.  They fail to see their current worth and value in their job. 

What's their owner/ boss to do?  Is it possible for him to help them understand and appreciate the importance of their color usage, or expected job, instead of their own self-interests?  Truly it takes a variety of colors and souls to paint genuine beauty in a picture or in a workplace.

Father, when we feel like only one color is required to draw ourselves... red (anger), green (jealousy) or blue (sad), i pray we realize how awful our life would be with only that one color. You provided us with a palette of emotions.  Help us find a healthy balance as we serve You.

May we color our world today with love, JOY and peace.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

what are you doing?

"...but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior." 1 Peter 1:15

She tiptoed quietly in the kitchen at 7am.   While hugging her Papa, she asked him what i thought was a ridiculous question.  Papa, are you eating chocowate?"

He hesitated, and then answered, "Yes, but how did you know?  Did you see it in my mouth?"

"No, I smelled it."

Ah-ha!  He was caught in the act of the do-nots through her nose... do not eat candy before breakfast.

Nothing crushes the power of telling more than the doing.  Our actions can undo whatever directions we expect others to follow.  It reminds me of a little rule i heard years ago... Say what to do, and do what you say.

Father, i am so thankful for You and Jesus.  Not a Word have You given us that You do not stand by.  No matter the circumstances, You don't hide or twist any guidance You've given. You stand by Your Word and in Your Word always. With an unshakeable faith, we can depend on You and what You say.  Never will we catch You doing wrong, but holy in all you do.  In times of weakness or temptation, please help us be holy while being a person of our word.  

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

beast and the beauty

"And we know that in ALL things God works for the GOOD of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28

Hurricane Helene was a true beast, wreaking havoc, ugliness and destruction to many.... from life to personal properties.  Yet, important life lessons evolved from this hardship.  Ms. Eagle asked students to collect and bring leaves from their yard to school.  They were then given guidance on creating something beautiful out of a messy situation.

This is a lesson all can benefit from whether the beast is a hurricane, illness, abandonment, death, heartbreaking news or other tragedy.  Our Teacher Above will guide, direct and bring new meaning and life to our circumstances too.  We need just sit and listen and follow His instructions.  He has a plan for us, and it's a good one.

Father, i pray we have patience with and obedience to You.  I know if we follow Your plan we will experience the full beauty in our life You desire. You possess the power to strengthen and lead us in transforming and overcoming the beasts we face.  Thank You.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

holding hands

"The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalm 37:23-24

What a beautiful picture of love and comfort.

It always makes me smile... seeing siblings walk in school holding hands. I can just imagine how safe and happy the younger child feels being led by their big sister or brother, as well as the confidence the older child possesses in completing the task.

Do you need someone holding your hand today?

We are reminded in God's Word we continuously have such unfathomable comfort and love extended to us.  Thank You, Father for holding my heart and my hand in all circumstances.  Where You lead, i will follow.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

no time to rest?

"He leads me besides still waters, He restores my  soul..." Psalm 23:2,3

How are you? Have current situations and demands left you exhausted and depleted of self?  How and when can we rest when so much needs to be done?

REST and then be RESTored.

  

The order of the words and actions are complete truth.  May we follow God to still waters and be filled with His strength.  He is not only a Life giver but a Lifesaver.

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

a shakin' and a makin'

"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers/sisters." Romans 8:28-29

Is there any value in chaos?

In the storm and now in its aftermath, there is a question still pounding in my heart... what strongholds is God shaking out of us in making us more like Him?

success

power

materialism

conceit

comfort

Our Father uses ANY thing and EVERY thing, including chaos, to move us in a closer relationship with Him and others.

Father, thank You for shaking more of Your sense in my life.  I can only be more like You, if there is less of me.  May I praise You, and not complain in any discomfort when faced with opportunities to transform and aid me in better reflecting Your Son.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

the power of telling

"How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, 'Your God reigns.'” Isaiah 52:7

For years our school participated in SYATP (See You At The Pole).   Our gatherings were sweet but small.  Being a student-led function, i attributed our small gathering due to the fact we were an elementary school.  But, i underestimated the power of God and of telling.

We had not openly promoted SYATP for a few years due to Covid.  But this year one of our parent/leaders took on the role of telling. At yesterday's event, i witnessed a jaw-dropping difference in our group size.  My expectations were blown away by a large praying, God glorifying group.

Father, thank you for the goosebump moments of remembering the power of telling.  Oh, what our faithfulness to You can accomplish.  May we continue to grow and believe in what is possible for You and with You.  The proof is in the pudding... or in this case, the proof is in the pictures.

Thank you, J.V., for believing God for more.

Now imagine all these beautiful faces telling others what they experienced.  May His light keep shining fiercely in all we do and say.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal