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

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

time to rest

 Jesus said...

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

Many need to read this and then read it again and do it.

When we rest at His feet, He restores us.

No one or nothing else can fill His shoes.

Thank You, Father.

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

are you my friend?

Jesus said, "You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you." John 15:14-15

After playing a game together, Millie decided she wanted to go color.  Annie was not ready for an activity change.  She was mad and hurt and let Millie know it in no uncertain terms by crossing her arms and loudly proclaiming, "You are not my friend." 

Millie sadly kept walking away.

I chuckled to myself, knowing how Annie momentarily felt... abandoned and miffed, as well as Millie... abandoned and hurt.  Afterall, don't we all like for people to do what we want and to have things go our way? Yet, in our imperfect world, that is not the norm.  Some flexibility, patience and communication can aid in reducing pain and increasing understanding while restoring a relationship.

Many times, the bottom line in how we handle the brokenness is driven by who or what is most important to us.  Who is helped? Who is hurt?  What really matters?

Father, our selfish human nature can cause unkind words and actions to flood from our hearts and mouths.  Sometimes what we want is for the good of others and sometimes primarily for self.  With Your Spirit may we discern and conclude what is best.  Thank You for Your faithful, fair and righteous friendship to us, one that is unwavering, clear and true. EVERYTHING from you is good and for the good. To be a friend more like You is my daily prayer.

Can we be friends... always?

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

beware, obstacles ahead

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." James 1:2-4

How do obstacles affect you? They normally churn panic, irritability and frustration in me.  I prefer smooth, clear paths and no surprises.  But lately, i've had to adjust my attitude and way of thinking while sharpening my coping skills. 

Helene left a wide path of destruction everywhere.  Some of the most notable now is road debris, which demands complete attention when driving.  The roads are bumpy with down lines and heavily littered with not just branches but massive tree trunks. Just one distracted moment could quickly end in a crash.  

I'm realizing not all is negative in obstacles. Sometimes they are essential in our wellbeing.  It's easy to become complacent or lazy when life is running smoothly... our mind and actions can wander down the wrong paths, focus on important issues may wane, cockiness or confidence may soar to unhealthy levels.  Obstacles also possess the positive power to keep us alert, focus on what matters and grow a heart of gratitude and thankfulness.  

When the root of our thinking stems from God, it's easier to count it all JOY and to glorify Him.

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

proceed with care and...

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.  Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging." Psalm 46:1-3

Beware, of flash floods and dangerous winds today. Thanks to an uninvited guest, Helene, the weather promises to stay turbulent and unpredictable.  The safest place is staying home alert and mindful of the conditions.

Whatever circumstances are causing the color to drain from your knuckles: 

answers not available
problems not resolved
hearts not mended
bodies not healed
feelings not consoled

No matter the demands, conflicts, heartaches, when God is our Anchor... 
HE HOLDS.
The ride might be wild, but He will safely see us through the storm and into the still waters of peace.  

A furious storm came up on the lake... But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples woke Him saying, "Lord, save us! We're going to drown!" He replied, "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?" Then He got up and rebuked the winds and waves, and it was completely calm.

If Jesus can sleep on the boat in a storm, shouldn't we? Oh, for a bucket more of faith instead of fear to calm the nerves. Rest, friends; praying for us to be Jesus with skin on.

Proceed with care and God, today and everyday.

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

lizard on the loose

"But He said,  'Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!'" Luke 11:28

 "You need to shut the door completely, or a snake or lizard will get in the house." 

"Well, i do shut the door, but when making several trips to the car, i don't bother making sure it shuts completely until my last load.  A little crack for a few seconds is fine."

And then it happened. Going to the bathroom, i saw it in the corner of my eye... a lizard, laid up against the door.  There was no denying it, since i am basically the only one who uses the kitchen door... the guilt of his presence was all mine. 

I heard his word, and halfheartedly obeyed ...bad mistake. Now there is a lizard loose in my house. Unfortunately for my peace of mind, the lizard was not caught.  He found a little crack in the air vent to go who knows where.  All i know now is he will never find a cracked door to exit. 

God gives us clear directions on how to live.  Yet, at times i find myself compromising or questioning His Word.   It is true? Does it really matter? Will this time be ok?  Was it meant for me?   Who will know?  Is it that important?

I obviously don't have all the questions, but this much i do know.  God's Word is true and alive, it is for us and it is for our good.  For the One who loved us enough to give up His Son for our salvation, gives us true guidance and direction on living in peace, joy and harmony... if we listen, trust and obey wholeheartedly. 

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

don't miss the honeymoon

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

First week with students, and the teacher's beautiful smile from last week was MIA. She was excited about her students, but frantically still trying to setup her room in perfect order.  As we talked she realized the most important detail was enJOYing her students while building a rich relationship of love with them.  She walked away 20 pounds lighter.

Where you lead, they will follow.
How you lead, they will learn.
Why you lead, they will know, grow and prosper.

Don't miss the honeymoon. It's one of the sweetest building blocks of your time ahead. Your students are excited about YOU; relish these beginning days with them. 

 

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

successful year?

 "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 3:23-2

My past few days have been inked in numerous errors and frustrations.  And this morning is already starting out as no exception.  Preparing today's devotion had me pouring sweat and almost tears, as i can't resolve some never-before-had technical issues...  So, please excuse this mess. 

The end of the school year is close.  How do you measure the success of your year...  by scores, grades, test results? The quality of your work?

No matter what your numbers or results, i pray you see the fullness of your impact through God's eyes.  May the success of your year be counted by the hugs, smiles and thankful hearts of those called yours this year.  The love and understanding from you has produced the sweetest results of all.

The end is not the full, true picture of who we are.  Just ask God.

you are loved and chosen by God,

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

keep your staff close

“And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding." Jeremiah 3:15

As a teacher and a leader, every day matters to those put in your care.  The flock knows their shepherd, and it is you.  While we are not perfect, as long as our staff is the cross, we can trust our pure devotion will help guide our flock in where and how they did to go.  

Just love them, as you lead them...  that is the most important gift you share.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

checkup woes

"For everything there is a season,

a time for every activity under heaven.

A time to be born and a time to die.

A time to plant and a time to harvest.

A time to kill and a time to heal.

A time to tear down and a time to build up.

A time to cry and a time to laugh.

A time to grieve and a time to dance.

A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.

A time to embrace and a time to turn away.

A time to search and a time to quit searching.

A time to keep and a time to throw away.

A time to tear and a time to mend.

A time to be quiet and a time to speak.

A time to love and a time to hate.

A time for war and a time for peace." Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

For the past 6 months, i've been frustrated with my health checkups.  With weight gain on each visit, i was determined to stop it by changing my diet.  Feeling healthier, i was excited about my doctor's visit.  But it was not what I expected.

With a 3-pound increase, i was NOT pleased.  The nurse tried to assure me it was fine...

"You know, when you wear pants, it adds about 3 pounds."

"Well, I wear pants every time i come here."

"And exercising causes you to firm up and muscle weight is heavier."

"I am not exercising."

"Our scales are about 3-4 pounds more than most."

"I only weigh here... on your scales."

I kinda felt sorry for her; she struggled to find an answer for me, but the scales didn't lie. There was no hiding it, and i had one choice.  Accept the growing change, forget trying to reduce my weight and go grab an ice cream sundae afterwards to embrace my newfound freedom in eating.  Evidently, i was destined to gain weight no matter what i ate.

Many changes in life do not come easily or with smiles.  As the Bible reminds us, there is a season for all things... sometimes the change comes with JOY and sometimes with woe, sometimes with a sweet surprise and sometimes with a heavy heart.  Whatever the case, may we find peace in the fact, we are right where, and how, we should be.

Here's to a triple scoop of ice cream and a shout out to God for loving and guiding us in all seasons.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

disasters... who will help?

" But now, this is what the Lord says... 

'Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
    I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
2 When you pass through the waters,
    I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
    they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
    you will not be burned;
    the flames will not set you ablaze.
3 For I am the Lord your God,
    the Holy One of Israel, your Savior...
4 Since you are precious and honored in my sight,
    and because I love you,
I will give people in exchange for you,
    nations in exchange for your life.
5 Do not be afraid, for I am with you...'" Isaiah 43:1-5

It was a violent day at school.  We were blasted by not one, but multiple natural disasters...  a wildfire, tornado, hurricane, earthquake, volcano and flood.  I am thankful to say all teachers and students survived.

While these actual events didn't occur, they were part of an explosive study by our third graders. They had a blast living through these natural disasters.  Our local chief meteorologist, Christy Henderson, kicked off the morning sharing her knowledge and experiences to a very excited audience. 

As the day progressed students, experienced the disasters in classrooms and later learned precautionary measures if ever faced with real disasters from our own RO, Officer Lester.

While it is highly improbable we will ever battle all events at once, we can feel attacked and whipped in rapid succession by more common battles...

beaten by high winds of defeat 

drowning in pools of depression or doubt

life suck out of our soul from accusations

scorched by fires of meanness

burnt by spewing anger in words and actions 

All these internal disasters and more have the ability to unlevel the foundation of our faith by shaking and crumbling it from doubt and despair.

I know of only ONE who can rescue and save us in any and all catastrophes... and you know Him too.  Yet, why are we at times so reluctant to reach out or call to Him?  Are we embarrassed? Are we too proud and self-sufficient?  Do we not TRUST His way is best? Do we fear we have used up all our "free" cards of grace and mercy from Him?  Do we interpret His silence as a disregard to our need instead of His answer to wait?

God did not and never has promised we will not have troubles and even disasters, INSTEAD HE PROMISED WHEN WE DO, WE WILL NOT BE ALONE, HE WILL BE WITH US.

Can you live with that promise?  I certainly can't live without it.  Praying for your belief in our undeniable, faithful, ever-present HERO.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

i will not cry

Jesus said...

"My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9

Pack'em up and move'em out!

How sweet those words as we closed the Book Fair carts and pushed them out. Like the books, the past week delivered a wide range of emotions.  We witnessed all types of genres in the carts and in our hearts -- drama, suspense, celebration, mystery, comedy, crime, heartbreak, magic, horror, and human survival.   

Every day was an action‑packed, page turner from start to finish. It was a sweet beginning and a bittersweet farewell. Like our survival cart i am feeling heavily viewed, used and picked over.  We completed our sale (of well over 4,000 items) and have now moved into a massive reorder mode consisting of over 15 notebook pages filled with sold items. So good bye, BF! We are determined to survive your Wildest Ride yet!

Book Fair came and Book Fair went,
at times we about lost all our sense.

But thanks to great help, here and Above,
we survived a busy week filled with gifts and love.

Believe and know God's Words are faithful and true,
With Him all things are possible, because He loves me and you.

Lord, thank you for hearing my prayers and getting us through last week.  I trust You will see us through the entire process of getting every book sold also delivered.

Because You are with me, i have the strength to survive.  Thank You.

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

veneal 

sticky fingers

"YET, the LORD longs to be gracious to you; He rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him!" Isaiah 30:18

It happens, and it breaks my heart.

Covered in the syrup of desire, sticky fingers stuck to and took items they wanted from the Book Fair. Some books contain trinkets, creating an unbearable urge to possess them greater than the desire to be honest. Temptation comes in all sizes, and the pain of falling into it hurts to the core for all affected. 

Is there anything you are moving forward with in life without God?  Anxious to take matters in your own hands?  Tired of waiting for God to answer?  Unhappy or bitter with current circumstances? Mad with the lack of or delay of God's actions? May our desires and wishes not propel us forward without God. 

Father, it happens. I want it, i get it, and it breaks Your heart.  Grow in me the wisdom to seek You in all areas of my life and to patiently wait for Your guidance.  How often have i missed the treasures You have for me because i refused to wait for You?  I want to trade in my pitiful temporary fix for Your sweet divine blessings. Trip me up, slow me down, break my leg; just don't let me miss any blessings You have for me.

What God has in store for us far exceeds our expectations... every time.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

just wait

 "Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." Psalm 27:14

Many times this is easier said than done.  Wouldn't you agree?  How often have you said this to a student, only to see them roll their eyes and stomp off in frustration?  And to be honest, i don't like to hear that response either.

There are periods in our life we don't know what to do, where to go, how to act, what to say, how to feel. Our heart cries out for answers and solutions now. Yet, His Word reminds us that being still and waiting for God is the right response.

 

While waiting is not easy nor what we want, trusting Him is a must.  What we don't know is overcome by what we do know.  God is faithful and just.  He will answer, calm, strengthen and guide us as He deems best in His perfect timing.

Thank You, Father.

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

my lips are sealed

"One hand full of rest is better than two fists full of labor and striving after wind." Ecclesiastes 4:6

Typing, reading, checking-in books and thinking.... multi-tasking is a common way of life.  But yesterday i exceeded the number of tasks i could manage effectively by also applying chapstick to my lips.  The width of the cylinder or the extra effort to remove the top should have been my clue, but it wasn't.  Not until "Elmer" made a lasting impression to my lips, did i realize i made a mistake.

This episode did not just provide one lesson but 2:

1. Know your limits. Do not overextend the number of tasks you can manage successfully. 

2. Know when to keep your lips sealed.  Sometimes silence is the best answer.

I have nothing else to say, and this task is done for today.  Be blessed.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal