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| Photo: Make it A Night of Great Joy |
Christmas is less than seven weeks away. Can you believe it?
Before the little ones become enraptured with twinkling lights and toy displays, snuggle them in for a story. The picture book, A Night of Great Joy, written and illustrated by Mary Engelbreit, would be a delightful choice. Allow me to share with you a little about the book, and how you can possibly win it.
This beautifully illustrated book is sure to captivate young children's attention. Engelbreit chose to tell the nativity story through a children’s Christmas pageant. Children of all ethnicities, clad in colorful costumes, tell the story of Christ’s birth, on a stage using handmade props.
The story unfolds with one to three free verse sentences per page. The message is sweet and simple.
The illustrations are precious. Two children tug over a stuffed lamb. Another child seemingly wants to draw attention to herself. And one is an eager participant in the beginning, but later loses interest.
How fitting for Christmas to illustrate our sinful nature and our need for Christ.
Who wants to win this book?
All you have to do to get your name in the drawing is share something you’ve done, or plan to do, to help children focus on the Reason for the season.
I’ll announce the winner of the book on Saturday, Nov. 12. Leave a comment and get your name in the drawing!
**(Make sure you visit the blog on Veterans Day! I have a wonderful guest blogging for me that day and she has an AWESOME giveaway planned.)
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| Jesus Today |
Our eleven-year-old son enjoys reading from this book for his morning devotion. However, my husband and I receive refreshing encouragement from this adaptation of Sarah Young’s ECPA 2013 Christian Book of the Year, Jesus Today.
The 368-page book contains 150 devotions. Each devotion, approximately 200 words in length, is presented on a left page followed by three or four corresponding scriptures on the right page.
I love the way Young writes—as if Jesus is talking to the reader. I have to give credit to Tama Fortner who adapted the book for younger readers. She does a great job presenting the devotions in a simple and easy to understand manner. Yet, the devotions are not watered down. They remain quite meaty.
An example of this is in the following excerpt from devotion #141, Leave Room for Mystery.
“… My ways are often a mystery to you—like why bad things happen to good people, or good things happen to bad people. You wish you could always know what I’m thinking, but your knowledge only goes so far.”
“… When there is something you can’t make sense of, trust Me—and trust that there are some things too wonderful for you to know.”
This devotion is followed by 1 Timothy 3:16, Job 1:20-22, and Job 42:3. These are wonderful things to ponder and discuss, right?
Read more »
by Sally Matheny
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| The Best Gift for Baby's First Christmas |
If God has blessed you with a precious, new life this year, I’m sure Christmas morning will be extra sweet! Your little one already may have a cute stocking hung and brightly wrapped gifts under the tree. Or, perhaps due to his adventurous spirit, all the gifts are well out of reach!
No matter what gifts you’ve chosen, I hope you've considered one spectacular gift you can give your baby, especially for his first Christmas.
You have the power to give your baby the best gift and the positive effects of this gift will last a lifetime. The only thing it will cost you is wisdom and courage.
Besides love, the best gift a parent can give a baby for his first Christmas is the truth. Godly parents want to teach their children about the importance of honesty. Teaching by example is always best.
We want our children to know they can always come to us and can trust us. We build a relationship of trust on a foundation of consistent and reliable truth.
We learned the hard way that it’s much easier to begin with your baby’s first Christmas than when she’s older.
As young Christian parents, my husband and I knew we didn’t want to play up the whole Santa Claus thing. We never said, “You better be good, Santa is watching you.” We even tried to make subtle hints by saying, “Santa is a fun thing people do at Christmas.” We emphasized the birth of Jesus through our speech and actions. Yet, we still took our little one to see Santa, we put milk and cookies out for him, and there were always gifts under the tree with tags signed by Santa. We thought we could have a nice blend of Jesus and Santa, with the heavier emphasis on Jesus.
Read more »
by Sally Matheny
Did you know Thursday, October 8, 2015 is “Bring Your Bible to School Day”?
Legally, your child can take his Bible to school any day—you may not have known that either.
Students have the freedom to take and read their Bibles, talk about their religious beliefs, pray, and ask others if they’d like to join them as long as the actions are voluntary, student-initiated, not disruptive, and take place during non-instructional time.
Focus on the Family initiated the first “Bring Your Bible to School Day” in October 2014. Approximately 8,000 students participated in the event. This year that number is expected to increase.
So, how can parents help their children prepare for this special day?
Read more »
by Sally Matheny
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| Ghost Boy by Martin Pistorius |
At age twelve, Martin Pistorius slowly slipped from perfect health into an unknown illness. His body weakened and his memories faded. After his parents exhausted all medical avenues for an answer, they painfully watched their boy become a mute, quadriplegic.
For four years, Martin was in a waking coma state in an unresponsive shell, unseeing and unknowing of his surroundings.
Then, his mind slowly woke up. But, his body did not.
For ten years, his mind was completely aware—aware that he was trapped inside an unresponsive body and unable to communicate with others. Martin wasn't paralyzed, but no matter how hard he tried, he had no control of his spastic muscles, his curled fingers, or the voice that disappeared with his childhood.
Most of us can’t begin to grasp what it’s like to have no physical control of our bodies. Nor can we fully comprehend the horror and painful realities someone, with a fully intact mind, experiences encased in one of these silent shells.
For someone who went fourteen years unable to express his emotions, Martin Pistorius pushes full throttle, and exquisitely conveys them all in his book.
Tension builds in Martin’s tedious days. Sorrow snatches the tiniest glimmers of joy. Hence, a courage develops, as does hope.
Martin inserts a great sense of humor in spots. I was thankful for them, especially after reading the difficult passages.
I cringed at what Martin had to endure at times. I believe a note for reader discretion is needed for the chapter titled, “Lurking in Plain Sight.” I hated reading it—and rightly so. And yet, had Martin not been so painfully transparent about his darkest days of torture, his story would be incomplete. Nor would I have fully appreciated his joy when he survived and overcame.
This is not an overtly Christian book. There are two or three points of faith shared—but they are profoundly powerful.
The most amazing one to me is the one where Martin shares his knowledge of God’s presence with him. He never had church worship experiences or even Christian training prior to his illness. Nevertheless, when his mind awoke inside the shell of his unresponsive body, he knew God was there with him. Martin sharing that realization is one of my favorite parts of the entire book.
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| Martin Pistorius as a young teen |
The story unfolds of Martin’s amazing journey from being like a “potted plant” to living a full and productive life. All because of one person noticing a flicker of life in him and opening a door of opportunity. Martin expresses appreciation to many but he is certain of who he owes the most gratitude.
In a May 2015 interview with Christianity Today, Martin said,
“Without the Lord, I would not be here today. I have no doubt that it was only his intervention that saved me. It is only through God that I have found my voice.”
In the book, Martin shares the joys and fears of learning how to communicate once again. His life changed. He got a job, a college degree, started his own business, and married the love of his life.
This book inspires me to take time to look more intentionally at people—especially those who seemingly fly under the radar. You don’t have to have a health condition to feel invisible.
Time after time, Martin shares the power one tiny act of kindness, one caring word spoken, or one consideration of the man’s heart rather than his body, all had a huge affect on his life.
I recommend this book. Martin Pistorius’ story will take you into the uncomfortable pit of darkness and encourage you to grasp hold of life-giving faith, hope, and love.
If you’d like to hear Martin Pistorius speak briefly about forgiveness and compassion listen to this interview with Glen Beck on YouTube.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
by Sally Matheny
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| What is Sabotaging Our Goals> |
January’s enthusiasm of a fresh start is fading. Goals are melting into a puddle of best intentions.
What were you aiming to have accomplished by now?
Healthier Eating & More Exercise
Completing a Project
More Quality Time with Family
Better Organization
A Deeper Commitment to Bible Study & Prayer
Disheartened? It’s easy to become discouraged when we fall short.
“But I need something more! For if I know the law but still can’t keep it, and if the power of sin within me keeps sabotaging my best intentions, I obviously need help! I realize that I don’t have what it takes. I can will it, but I can’t do it. I decide to do good, but I don’t really do it; I decide not to do bad, but then I do it anyway. My decisions, such as they are, don’t result in actions. Something has gone wrong deep within me and gets the better of me every time.” Romans 7:17-20 (MSG)
Sabotaging sin—it often glides smoothly beneath our radars, cleverly disguised as righteous justifications.
Read more »
by Sally Matheny
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| Celebrating the Top 2014 Blog Posts |
First, I pray you all have a joyful and blessed new year.
Have you spent time pondering on this past year?
It helps me to reflect on blog posts of the past year. I check out the stats to see what topics readers connected with the most.
Here is a countdown of the ten most popular blog posts written in 2014:
Read more »
by Sally Matheny
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| God's greatest act of kindness was sending Jesus |
Last week, I shared with you an
activity for surprising others with acts of kindness. Below is a copy of the card to leave behind for the recepient. Feel free to copy and use it as you wish.
Thanks to all of you who are sending me messages of how this activity has blessed you while you were blessing others!
You’re
B.A.C.K.!
(Blessed by an Act of Christian Kindness)
You've been blessed by an act of Christian kindness.
You’ve heard of people doing
random acts of kindness, right?
Good news!
The best acts of kindness
are from God.
But his deeds are never random.
Because he loves us so much,
he intentionally sent his only Son,
Jesus Christ to save us.
Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
When life ends here on earth,
whoever believes in him
will live forever
in heaven.
We hope you enjoy God’s blessings.
by Sally Matheny
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| A Twist of Faith on Random Acts of Kindness |
Kindness. Its’ one thing universally understood. One act of kindness can turn someone’s day around. Sometimes, just one thoughtful deed has the potential to open up a whole, new life for someone.
There are many articles about random acts of kindness. Cute tags are available on-line to attach to surprise treats. One recent variation of the tag states: “You’ve been RACK’d.” It means someone received a Random Act of Christmas Kindness.
One family recently waited until a neighbor went to work. Then they secretly placed a festive welcome mat at her front door. The children especially liked giving in secret; much like that St. Nicholas fellow did long ago. Not expecting anything in return, not even recognition, keeps the giver humble and focused on the giving.
Doing kind deeds for others is a great idea to help us focus less on ourselves. Children, who are constantly adding to their wish lists this time of year, are prime candidates for this type of family project.
Inspired, my family decided to do some secret giving. However, I wanted to create a different kind of tag to leave behind. I desired a twist of faith—something that told about the ultimate act of kindness—that of Jesus Christ. The result is a card that begins: “You’re B.A.C.K.! (Blessed by an Act of Christian Kindness). The card ends by sharing about God's greatest act of kindness and how it isn't random at all, but intentional.
Perhaps your family would like to bless someone secretly this time of year. I’m providing a free download of the “Blessed by an Act of Christian Kindness” cards. The selection of wording allows year-round use of the card, not just for Christmas.
I purchased an inexpensive, bulk pack of foam angels. After printing out the card, I trimmed it to fit, and glued it on the angel. You may want to leave yours as it is and print it on card stock or decorative copy paper. Children can add drawings or stickers.
Decide who will receive the blessings. How will your family bless them? Some ideas work better with people you know well. While other suggestions work well for use with strangers.
What will your blessing be? If you know the person, consider things they need or enjoy.
Is it a new mom? Consider leaving a bag of paper products for fast and easy cleanup.
Is it a single parent? Perhaps baked Christmas cookies and the ingredients for homemade icing would be fun for the parent to do with the kids later.
The college kid? Surprise them with a small, artificial tree with ornaments sitting outside their dorm room or pre-pay for a pizza and have it delivered to them.
The waiter? Double the tip
The cashier or grocery bagger? Warm gloves or give a gift certificate.
Someone who recently had surgery? Craft supplies, movies, music, books
Here are a few more ideas:
Concert or movie tickets Coffee mug with a sampler pack of coffee
A roll of quarters
A devotion book
Gift certificates
Something hand-made
Rake their leaves while they’re at work
Hang a wreath on their front door
Leave flowers or a potted plant, candy or a gift basket
Mail a sheet of Christmas stamps
If you own a business, consider leaving gift certificates under the windshield wipers on various cars in a parking lot. With the Christian Kindness card, you can include a note to bring the card to your business for a free _______. (a cupcake from the bakery, a sandwich from the deli, a car wash, a haircut, etc.)
You can tell the recipient the gift was pre-purchased by someone who wishes to remain anonymous.
My family is excited about secretly blessing others in the weeks ahead. If you decide to do this, I’d love to hear how this project affected the hearts in your family.
by Sally Matheny
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| Norman Rockwell's Freedom from Want |
Searching for fun ideas that will bring the family together this Thanksgiving? Me, too. My family doesn’t know it yet, but I plan to go vintage this year.
I love traditions, especially during holidays. However, our current technology is threatening to exterminate one of our most cherished traditions—family time. This post is not a ranting against technology. I’m actually thankful for it. It actually keeps me connected to family and friends.
However, when we are able to come together in the same place, I want face-to-face, heart-to-heart, talking, laughing, and everyone-fully-engaged-time.
So, we’re going vintage—the pre-cell phone, pre-computer, pre-iPod, pre-satellite dish, pre-electronic gaming system era.
True vintage items must be at least fifty years old. Some may say we’re going prehistoric!
No need to panic. You may be surprised how long many of your favorite things have been around!
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| Family Time? |
Want to go vintage with us? Challenge your friends and family to turn off the distractions for at least three hours this Thanksgiving. Focus your full attention on the people that are gathered in your presence and enjoy the blessings.
The idea is to find something all ages can do together. Conversations are always nice, but games, crafts, and other activities are fun, too. Older folks can teach the younger ones, and vice versa!
Here are some vintage ideas to get you started:
Vintage Board Games:
Scrabble, Candyland, Chutes & Ladders, Clue, Monopoly, Rick, Life, Operation, checkers, Stratego, Aggravation, and Pick Up Sticks, Bingo, and Twister.
Vintage Card Games:
Rook, Gin Rummy, Old Maid, Go Fish, War, Hearts, Snap
Vintage Crafts:
Children still enjoy weaving those potholders we made back in the sixties! You can find those plastic looms at Target and craft stores.
Check out this links for more ideas.
Thanksgiving Word Activities: Yes, Mad Libs are vintage! (1953) Here are links to some Thanksgiving themed activities.
Other Vintage Games:
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| Vintage Football |
Red Rover, Tag, Basketball, Softball, Frisbee, Marbles, Hopscotch, Charades, and Musical Chairs (played with vintage music of course)
Of course, football has been around since the late 1800’s. A reward, foreveryone staying tuned in to the people at your gathering, could be an opportunity to view football on television later. Televised football is true vintage. According to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, NBC was the first to televise a pro football game on October 22, 1939.
If not everyone is a football fan, there are other viewing ideas.
Vintage Family Movies:
Jungle Book (1942); Dumbo (1941); The Wizard of Oz (1939); Mary Poppins (1964); The Jungle Book (1967); A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965); 101 Dalmatians (1961); Alice in Wonderland (1951); Peter Pan (1953); and How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966).
However, try to save the vintage viewing for later. Savor the moments of talking and playing with visiting family members and friends. Interact without any electronic distractions. Dig below the formalities and chitchat. What’s that person across the table thinking and feeling?
Every year, things change. Time seems to go by a little faster. Carve out some time for family fun. Be fully engaged with those who are with you at this moment—that never goes out of style.
by Sally Matheny
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| Surely they served with our children in mind. |
Those who have served in our Armed Forces, during times of peace and times of war, have surely done so with our children in mind.
From the Revolutionary War to the latest war on terrorism, our service members have fought to protect our freedom and way of life.
Many hoped that what they were doing would provide a better life for the next generation.
Not only do I want to express my appreciation, but also I want to remind veterans why our children still need you.
*****************
We recently attended our first Veterans Day Parade. A chilly breeze blew the little, American flags we brought as we eagerly waited for the parade to begin. Alternating the hand in the coat pocket with the hand holding the flag, we tried to stay warm.
When the parade began I quickly realized I did not come prepared.
The cold air wasn't what jolted me. It was the row upon row of fresh-faced students of the JROTC represented by various branches of the armed services. I’ve never seen so many at one time. The image reminded me this could be the next generation to defend our country and the freedom of our children.
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| This could be our next generation of freedom fighters. |
Then, I noticed the mentors marching beside their students. They are retired veterans of the military.
Thank you, mentors, for investing your time and skills into the next generation. Our teens need veterans who serve and teach with honor and integrity.
After the JROTC, came an even bigger surprise. It wasn’t the awesome cars or the cool motorcycles the veterans were driving.
The faces of the veterans amazed us.
Their eyes gleamed with pride—not a pride in themselves—but in their country. Some of the veterans’ grins reminded me of how a dad grins the first time he watches his child ride a bike. Eyes glistened watching their fellow Americans lining the streets, waving flags.
Their expressions seemed to convey this thought: They get it. They love their country and freedom as much as we do. They get it.
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| The veterans were shouting, "Thank you for coming!" |
Then, the veterans went beyond their call of duty.
With outstretched hands, they shouted to the crowd.
Thank you for coming!
Thank you! Thank you!
My throat tightened. They were thanking us. We, who quite often take our freedoms for granted and who can’t possibly have a full understanding of the sacrifices many have endured on our behalf.
I could not let them pass by without shouting a thank you to them, but all I could manage was a mouthing of the words. I looked at my husband. His words were trapped as well. He was nodding his appreciation towards the veterans.
Eventually, our voices made it over the lumps in our throats and we were shouting our thank yous as we held our flags high.
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Some veterans seem uncomfortable with all the
hoop-lah. |
Some veterans seemed uncomfortable with all the hoop-lah. Nonetheless, they answered the call. Perhaps, only to represent those veterans who gave everything for their country.
One soldier, wearing a huge smile, stood up to salute to anyone who saluted him. His face messaged You’re saluting me. I want to salute you for coming.
I wish I knew the proper way to salute. Next time, I’ll be ready. Until then, all I can say is I get it. I’ll never fully grasp what you sacrificed, what you endured, what you had to do for me and my children. But I get it.
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| The veteran at the back returned the salute to those saluting him. |
The parade had a good turn-out of folks and yet, if we really knew what some of the veterans have endured and still suffer from today, I think the streets would flood with well-wishers.
I heard a veteran say once, “I wasn’t trying to be brave. I was trying to survive.”
I hear what you’re saying but I still think all those who answered the call to military duty were brave.
In wartime or peacetime, you had to be brave to go into the unknown, understanding that everything could change in an instant.
I’m blessed to know several veterans. The ones I know are humble and quiet about their service in the Armed Forces.
Veterans, people needed you at the time you served. We still need you. Our children need you.
Let me tell you why.
To a young student, history may be a bunch of facts and dates memorized for a test and nothing more.
You make history come alive. You evoke thoughts of faces and lives from the past. You show them that the names in their history books (and so many, many more not recognized in a book) are not just names. They were real people—someone’s son, husband, or dad.
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| Some endured frightening situations so our children wouldn't have to. |
When you speak to a class or volunteer at an event, our children see people serving others.
They hear about men and women, not desiring to, but willing to die for a just cause. They learn of service members sacrificing the comforts of home so America’s children can enjoy those comforts.
They listen to how some endured frightening situations so our children would not have to.
When you share your knowledge, you present an opportunity for youth to understand how the military strives to bring peace in the midst of chaos.
Veterans who volunteer for reenactments also make history come alive. It’s no longer a bunch of dates and information. Youth learn the reasons behind those battles and their expense. Perhaps the wisdom our youth gain from you will promote more peaceful negotiations in the future.
Honorable veterans, you set an example of respect for your country, a love for life and a passion for liberty.
Our children need you.
We all need you.
Thank you for what you did then and what you do today.
by Sally Matheny
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| Dreams of the ultimate mother-load of candy |
It’s that time of year when kids’ eyes dilate and their palms sweat. Dreams of the ultimate, mother-load of candy swirl in their minds until they’re dizzy with excitement. What possibly can be better than that? Parents, stay with me here. Halloween is a golden time for you to shine. Do you remember what it was like when you were a kid?
Although, things were different back then. I don’t remember ever buying a costume at the store. On occasion, we did buy some of those cheap plastic masks you attach to your head with a rubber band. They made your face sweat from the carbon dioxide circulating underneath. If you didn’t pass out from the carbon dioxide, the rubber band eventually snapped in two sometime during the night. The masks made brief appearances to elicit candy and then they were usually tossed aside.
My costumes were always homemade. The costumes my sister and I wore in the late sixties and early seventies would be taboo now, but they sure were popular back then. We dressed as hobos, gypsies, and fat people. It wasn’t that we were trying to be offensive—we just had to use what we had on hand—bandanas, old clothes, cheap jewelry, and pillows. Occasionally, if there wasn’t much time to prepare, an old sheet was thrown over our heads and two eye holes were cut out. That’s about as oogie-boogie as it got. We weren’t into zombies, vampires, and witches.
If the stores sold the horror masks back then, as they do now, I sure didn’t see it. (Thanks, Mom)
As I grew older, I became more aware of the dark side of Halloween and that did scare me. I respect people’s opinions about not doing anything on Halloween, not to acknowledge it in any form or fashion.
However, for our family, we consider Halloween a great time to shine the Light of Christ into the darkness.
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| Halloween is a great time to shine the Light of Christ |
A few ways we do that:
We carve angels, crosses and the name of Jesus on our pumpkins.
We attach Bible verses to the candy we give children. Sometimes we’ve given witness tracts or New Testaments with the candy.
Our children never dress up in costumes that would scare another child or offend our Lord and Savior. Same thing goes for any decorations.
We help with fall festivals at church each year. Our church’s fall event is called Hallow Him. Many people, who never enter our church on Sunday, come to this event.
For the Trunk-or-Treat event (cars’ trunks are decorated and are filled with candy to give children), we decorate our vehicle in a way that tells something about the love of God.
It may seem challenging but there are tons of cool ideas you can get from the Bible. Once, I saw a van decorated as a whale. The trunk was opened like the mouth of the whale and inside sat a man dressed like Noah. Think of the opportunities given to present the gospel when children asked “Noah” what he was doing inside that whale!
Even if you don't dress or decorate with a Biblical theme, you can still present something wholesome and light-hearted in contrast to the dark themes of evil.
Christians, I challenge you. If you participate in events during the end of October, search for ways to be a Light.
People are going to be out searching for free goodies. Many of those search for treasure in all the wrong places. Time after time, they are left dissatisfied. The world offers tempting avenues to fulfillment—but just like candy—nothing lasts.
Halloween is a golden time for you to shine a Light into the darkness. Guide people to something that will last forever. Give them the hope and truth of Jesus Christ.
Your thoughts?
Thanks to all of you who sent in photos via email, facebook, and other venues. I loved seeing all the smiling faces in those trees! Some of you perched low and some perched a little higher. Some were even hanging upside down!
The number of entrants grows every year! We put all the names in a drawing and the winning names drawn were:
(drum roll)
Child: Sarah of Caroleen, N.C. (you'll receive your cool, outdoor toy very soon!)
and
Adult: Donna of Concord, NC ( You should receive your $5.00 Starbucks gift card in time to tackle Monday morning with it.)
Thanks everybody for participating. We'll do it again next year.
Until then, keep climbing.
by Sally Matheny
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| Put Out the Welcome Mat |
One arm of our sofa is flat and dingy-looking because it’s our kids’ favorite spot to dangle. While the laminate hardwood floors don’t show spots like the former carpet did, we have yet to see it shine as it did in the store display. In addition, a mysterious stain still clings to the ceiling.
I think about these things when there is a possibility of guests. I would love to put out the welcome mat; it’s just that it’s clabbered with dog hair.
Aside from the home appearance factor, showing hospitality takes time and effort. Sometimes, we determine the work is worthy because it’s for the family and friends we love. But what about strangers? In this day and age, is it necessary to welcome strangers into our home?
According to God’s Holy Word, the answer is yes.
“The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.”
1 Peter 4:7-11 (NIV)
To “love one another deeply” is a sacrificial love. It will cost us something. And we are to host with grace, not grumbles.
We need not install a revolving door in our homes or post a blinking neon sign out front stating our home is open 24/7. The Bible says to be alert and sober-minded so that we can pray.
Seeking God’s will and trusting Him to provide must be our first priority. What will God provide?
“Whatever gift you have received to serve others”
We recently met an innkeeper who uses his forte to attend to others. Whitestone Inn is a AAA, four-diamond resort. Innkeeper, Paul Cowell and his wife enjoy providing a luxurious stay for their customers—especially those who are full-time pastors and missionaries, who receive fifty-percent off the normal rate. They also run promotions for cancer patients and those serving in the military. Cowell demonstrates his love for Christ in other ways. He asks all his guests to join him as he prays over each evening meal. Wholesome books line the shelves of the inn’s library. Marriage enrichment guides and a special hiking trail are provided for couples who wish to participate. The Cowells are using the gifts they have received to serve others.
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| Whitestone Inn in Kingston, Tennessee |
“God’s grace in various forms”
Janet Albury’s husband and teenage daughter died in an airplane crash. In the process of grieving, she met a missionary family whose daughter also died in the same accident. God’s grace sustained these families and it gave Janet a vision for service. She built a house for missionaries and pastors, to get away with their families, for rest and rejuvenation.
In addition to staying in this beautiful place (C. Grace at Work), free of charge, the guests are also welcomed on the first night’s stay with a delicious, home cooked meal.
Janet Albury exemplifies God’s grace.
“Strength for the task”
Physical limitations and fear are some of the greatest obstacles to opening our homes. This is where prayer and faith play out.
A family in South Africa took in a man recently paroled from prison. Despite his years of incarceration on a murder charge, this family has made their home a welcoming haven for him. This demonstration of God’s love made a huge impact on him and broke ground for a new life.
God gave this family courage and strength for the task.
“In all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ”
You may not be an innkeeper or have the ability to build a special place of retreat. God may not be calling you to host former inmates in your home. However, be careful of disregarding your call to hospitality.
“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 (NIV)
I’d rather the angels not see the stains in my home, but somehow I don’t think they’d even notice. Besides, hospitality is not really about the location as much as it is the act of kindness.
There are as many different ways to show hospitality as there are dust bunnies in my house.
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| There are many ways to show hospitality. |
Want some ideas? Check out a blog post by Aleisha Caldwell that features 40+ ideas for practicing hospitality at Feathers In Our Nest.
Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Romans 12:13 (NIV)
Hospitality presents us with opportunities to show God’s love. Give your best. Be intentional. Be creative. Look past the stains in your home, the stains of your past sins, and the stains in other people’s lives. Pray, and be ready to put out the welcome mat—pet hair and all.
Share with us! Tell a time when someone's hospitality made a difference in your life.
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| Memorial Day-Teach the Next Generation |
by Sally Matheny Memorial Day—it’s more than a day off from work, more than grilling delicious food, and more than sashaying in the days of summer. Originally, the holiday commemorated those soldiers who died during the Civil War. Over time, it has developed into a day of remembering every person who has served in the military and given the ultimate sacrifice.
Memorial Day is also an excellent opportunity to teach the next generation about:
courage, and respect, hard work and perseverance,preserving peace when possible and fighting for what is right, when necessary. |
Preserving peace when possible--
fighting for what is right when necessary. |
One way to appreciate these men and women is to hear their stories through books, lectures, letters, and films.
Another approach is talking with the veterans who did survive; gleaning wisdom from them while we still can.
One thing is for certain—we must pass on to our children our sense of gratitude to those who fought and died to protect our way of life.
We can’t rightly do that to those who are no longer with us. But, we can teach our children to appreciate those currently serving in the military and our retired veterans.
Teach the next generation to honor them with:
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| Say Thank You |
a firm handshake of gratitude,
attentive eye contact,
whether the person is standing, or in a wheelchair,
and somehow, either in word or deed,
say thank you.
By God’s sovereignty, what our military has done, and continues to do, is one reason we are able to
enjoy that day off,
grill delicious food,
and sashay in the days of summer.
God bless our military, our veterans, and especially the families of those whose loved ones gave their all.
by Sally Matheny |
| It Was Awesome and You Missed It! |
“You missed it!”
Don’t you hate hearing those words? Perhaps you went for a hotdog and missed the best play ever made at home plate—by your child—the one who hasn’t scored a run in three years. You could hardly believe how everyone thought it was awesome. And, you missed it.
Or maybe you had plans to meet some friends at a restaurant. At the last minute, you decided not to go. You had your reasons, but they didn’t seem so good when you heard about the amazing time they had. A celebrity ate at the table beside them, an exciting conversation took place, the celebrity treated them to desserts, and they each received a free backstage pass to his upcoming concert. Each of your buddies called to tell you their version of the incredible evening. And, you missed it.
We’ve all had sinking moments like this. Don’t feel bad. Even one of Jesus’ disciples, Thomas (a.k.a Didymus) missed the most amazing miracle of all time.
Three days after Jesus died on a cross, all of his disciples, except for Thomas, sat in a room, the doors locked for fear of persecution. Bewildered by recent events—the death of Jesus, finding his tomb empty, and hearing that a few had actually seen Jesus alive—the disciples were overwhelmed.
Suddenly, Jesus appeared among them comforting them with words of peace! Awestruck by Jesus’ pierced hands and feet, they first thought he was a ghost, until he asked for some fish and ate it before them. He spoke to them and opened their minds so they could understand, and they believed.
All except Thomas.
Where in the world was Thomas? Was it his turn to retrieve water from the well? Did he send a message to the rest of the guys that he needed a day off? Perhaps he awoke that morning with a headache from all the stress. Whatever the reason, Thomas missed it.
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| Praising Jesus |
Don’t you know Thomas had to listen to each, of his ten friends, share their personal experience of what happened? While Thomas’s heart was still grieving and his confused mind reeling, he endured quite a bit. It might have been Luke’s constant, beaming grin, Matthew singing at all hours, and John’s spontaneous praise dancing!
Did Thomas think all ten men hallucinated at once? Was he angry? Did he put on an attitude of bitterness? All we know for sure, is Thomas said he would not believe it until he saw Jesus’ scars and touched the spear-penetrated side himself. Ever since then, and for the rest of time, he’ll be remembered as “Doubting Thomas.” Poor Thomas. Perhaps, there is something else to consider.
Even though Thomas had his doubts, he did not turn from God. He did not flee from the other disciples. The enthusiastic sincerity of his friends compelled him to hang around. Perhaps the other disciples showed empathy to Thomas, encouraging him to remember the words Jesus’ spoke during his ministry on earth. Recollecting their own qualms, they showed Thomas kindness and loved him with grace. Each day, they reminded Thomas of all Jesus’ miracles they had witnessed. What if, every night, while the others slept in peace, Thomas cried out to the Lord to help him remember, to help him believe?
A whole week passed—10,080 minutes.
Between listening to accounts of the miraculous event over and over again and lying awake at night trying to make sense of it all, most of those 10,080 minutes Thomas struggled.
However, even though he was skeptical, Thomas stayed close to the disciples. All he knew was when he left his friends they were fearful and confused, and the next time he saw them they were drastically changed, full of joy and anticipation. Whatever wonderful thing happened to them, Thomas wanted it, too. He was on the brink of believing.
Then, it happened. One week later Jesus appeared to the disciples again and this time, Thomas was there.
Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.
(John 20:26-27, NIV)
By then, Thomas did not need to touch Jesus’ scars. As Christ came across the room, Thomas allowed Him to come into his heart. He believed and cried out, “My Lord, and my God!”
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| Don't give up sharing your faith. |
Is there someone you know who is strugglingg like Thomas? Perhaps he expresses his doubts yet, he still hangs around, intrigued by the way you live your life; fascinated by your sincere belief that Jesus is alive and rules in your heart.
You’ve shared your Christian beliefs with him repeatedly. No matter how wonderfully you present the gospel, you cannot make him believe. Keep praying and allow the Holy Spirit to work. Don’t give up. Perhaps your friend realizes he’s missing something miraculous and is on the brink of believing.
Share with us. Have you had an experience with a “doubting Thomas”?
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Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life.
He who believes in me will live, even though he dies,
and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.
Do you believe this?" |
Celebrating our risen Savior, Jesus Christ!
I pray you all have a blessed and joyful Easter.
See you back on April 28 as we talk about
missing out on something special.
Has that ever happened to you?
Dont' miss next week's post!
Blessings,
Sally
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| Siblings with an imagination! |
National Sibling Day is April 10. How will you celebrate? No gifts necessary. May I suggest gathering around a fire pit, or calling on the phone, to swap childhood memories with one another? What do you think of when you think of your siblings?
I have one sibling. She is my elder by ten months. We enjoy telling people we’re twins during a two-month span each year.
Growing up it was nice having a sister close to my age. We played everything together. Our favorite summer pastime was sitting in our dirt driveway making mud pies and ant hospitals. I’ll let you use your imagination on that one. But, let me mention, we were kind to our half-smushed patients and served them sugar water as we tried to make them stay on their tiny, toilet paper beds.
We enjoyed playing together. We loved board games and using our imaginations. Barbie doll episodes sometimes lasted for days, as we made houses out of books, and clothes out of scrap pieces of cloth. We also spent hours writing and illustrating stories, usually about talking dogs. Each of us had a suitcase filled with paper, pencils, and crayons. Her suitcase was black and mine was blue. After we finished a story, we would staple it into a booklet and let each other read it. Good times.
Living with siblings isn’t always entertaining. Sometimes we fussed. She was a pincher and I was a biter. I should’ve given more thought to my choice of weapons. The evidence stacked against me, I received more discipline because teeth marks last longer than pinch marks. Sometimes siblings torture one another. My sister knew I hated to feel the texture of velvet. Whenever a devilish mood struck, she’d chase me around the house, threatening to throw a velvet blanket on top of me. Occasionally, she captured me in it, and then my yelling drowned out her giggles. I still hate to touch velvet.
Of course, I tormented my sister as well, but mine was not intentional. Apparently, my eyes stayed open when I walked in my sleep and that freaked her out quite a bit. So much so, she kept a big, red plastic ball bat beside her bed. I learned quickly to deal with my own nightmares and not enter her room in the middle of the night. Even when I assured her I was fully awake, and just wanted to sleep with her because I had a bad dream, she would grab that bat and start yelling for me to get out. I stopped trying to convince her the night she swapped out the plastic bat for a metal baton.
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We defintely make life
interesting for our mom. |
Ah…the memories. We grew up and developed different interests. For a time we were separated by distance during our college years and early years of marriage.
Thankfully, we live close to one another now. We minister to each other through prayer, conversation, and sharing an occasional meal together. Even our most serious conversations eventually end up with sisterly giggles. We joke about who is going to take care of who as we age, because we each are a handful already. We daydream of one day living in a cottage together, our husbands out puttering in the garden, and we’ll be inside laughing and writing our stories, together again.
You never know about sharing a house with a sibling. I think it would work—if we kept one rule.
No velvet blankets.
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| Sister Writers, Pam Martin and Sally Matheny |
(Happy Sibling Day, Sister. I love you very much and I’m continually blessed by your precious life.)
Hey, readers, it’s your turn! Share with us a favorite memory about your siblings!
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| Is Your Teen Stressing Out? |
Is your teen feeling overwhelmed with school, relationships, or work? Transitioning into young adulthood can be stressful. How can parents assure their teens, they have what it takes? “‘Some parents set out on a mission to get rid of stress in their kids, but the fact is, some degree of stress is very therapeutic and an appropriate amount of stress is what helps us become strong. The hard part is what's appropriate. We do know the more we try to mitigate all stress in our children's life the less resilient that child becomes and they feel hopeless about their own future." [i] Numerous articles, such as this one, point to the symptoms, and the reasons for the anxieties teens face. Helpful suggestions are offered on how to curtail the stress, such as cutting back on activities and minimizing negative factors.
However, I suggest Christian parents counsel their teens to add more to their lives. That’s right—more. Allow me to explain.
The following suggestion is presupposing your teen already has a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. If he doesn’t, this is a great time to explain our need for Christ. However, this post is addressing the hearts of Christian teens.
Teens may become anxious about the uncertainties of life, especially when it concerns their future; whether that’s the prom this spring, or making education choices for a career ten years from now. Quite often we hear young people express, “But, I don’t know what God wants me to do with my life!” Parents can encourage their teens by looking at 2 Peter 1:
“For this very reason, make every effort to addto your faith, goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 1:5-8 (NIV)
Ask your teens what they think God means by faith, goodness, and knowledge. How can we increasethese?Will something have to decrease in order for this to happen?
What does self-control, perseverance, and godliness look like in their day-to-day lives? In what ways can they strengthen these qualities? How will that affect others around you?
What are examples of brotherly kindness and love we show at home, at work, or at school? Which area do they find it most difficult to show love? Why? What do they think will help them show more kindness and love to people?
Based on scripture, what do they know about God’s love? Encourage them to make a list and post it where it’ll remind them of the magnitude of His powerful love.
At some point in this conversation, a slight eye roll or a heavy sigh will may place. It’s okay. Just tell your teens the same thing Peter told his “children.”
“So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them…I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live…and I will make every effort to see that…you will always be able to remember these things.” 2 Peter 1:12-15 (NIV)
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| Teens Need Parents Refreshing Their Minds and Hearts |
No matter what they say with their lips, it means a great deal to teens when parents show they care. There's not a one-size-fits-all answer for reducing stress. Occasionally, teens may need a little parental guidance in time management and decision-making. Ultimately, they need godly, loving parents refreshing their minds andhearts.
Assure them if they increase in God’s ways, there is no need to stress out. Everything is going to be okay, because they have what it takes.
Does your teen have what it takes?
Do you?
[i]Jayson, Sharon. “Teens Feeling Stressed, and Many Not Managing It Well.”USAToday.com. Web. 2014/02/11
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| Children learn fom hard walls of adversity. |
Sometimes life feels like an obstacle course. Zigzagging through distractions provides adventure. Successfully hurdling small problems brings satisfaction. However, occasionally, we find ourselves in a quagmire. We come face-to-face with a hard wall of adversities. People watch to see how Christians will handle these dilemmas. Our children are among them.
For weeks, I wobbled along with intermittent foot pain. I never had problems with my feet, so I dismissed it as aging pains, until it finally got to the painful point of needing a physician. Even after following his advice for treating a Morton's neuroma, the pain worsened. My wobble turned into a Frankenstein Slide-Step. A second trip to the doctor proved my Morton’s neuroma was a bit of a show-off. This nerve damage to the foot, typically affects the ball of the foot and two toes. Mine was affecting my entire foot and ankle. Plus, the “good” foot was beginning to show similar symptoms. Returning home with medication, I crawled into bed to wait for healing. It is improving, but ever so slowly. Remember the character Tim Conway used to play on the "Carol Burnett Show" with white, Albert Einstein hair? Remember his slow shuffle-walk? He moves faster than I do--seriously. Patience is required; not only from me but from my family.
My husband has been wonderful but he has to go to work every day. That left me at home with our nine-year-old son. He is learning many things.
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| Labor of Love |
*He knows Grandma loves his mom. So much so, she’ll come and help clean the house, and when she does, she expects him to pitch in and help. Go, Grandma! He loves when she calls to inquire if we’d like her to bring us chicken pie and green beans. He enthusiastically shouts, “Yes!” Grandma has her own physical ailments so he knows these things are a labor of love.
*He has seen this same sacrifice made by his aunt. After working an exhausting job, she has also gone home, cooked for us, and delivered it before feeding her own family. Our son's other aunt also sent a wonderful blessing—a wheelchair. Now, I have less pain moving from room to room. My little driver enjoys pushing me and is learning not to scare me as much making turns.
*Grandpa made two trips to the store to find bedroom slippers large enough for my swollen feet. He has picked up groceries for us. Grandpa is still recuperating from back surgery. His grandson is witnessing how families takes care of one another.
*My homeschool student thinks doing math and other subjects on Mom’s bed is more comfortable than the dining room table. (Don’t get used to it, mister.)
*He noticed when my Mary Kay rep. came inside and asked if she could pray for me.
*He enjoyed meals two of our homeschool friends prepared for us.
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| Helping One Another |
*He hears about church friends texting to check on me, and helping to fulfill my duties at church. And about the emails from my long-distance writing buddies remembering me in their prayers.
*He has listened to the prayers of several friends and family asking for God’s comfort and healing for me.
*He watches his dad do the things I normally do like the laundry, grocery shopping, and cleaning the kitchen—and all without complaining. He also sees the gentleness and caring; the flowers dad brought home one day along with my favorite ice cream. He's also learning if Dad buys groceries, there's always things in the bag that weren't on the list, like three kinds of Oreos.
*My little boy hears my own prayers, thanking God for every step; for every minute of sleep without pain; and for so many little things I appreciate more deeply now. He understands my sorrow for not being able to do as many things as I’d like to do with him--and for him. Lately, He's asked to do a great deal for himself. We’re practicing patience, together. We’re learning how to bless one another in different ways.
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| Pray for one another. |
I want to say thanks to you all for the ways you’ve blessed our family. Your prayers mean so much—please keep praying. It’s going to be a slow recovery, surgery may be required, but progress is made every day. God is faithful and merciful. I thank Him continually for you and your compassion.
Hopefully, we’ve been modeling compassion to our son over the years. But over the past month, he's observed it in a new way. It’s making an impact. At lunchtime the other day, he wheeled me into the kitchen. To my surprise, he had put a tablecloth on the table, set the table, snipped a flower from the ones his dad brought home and placed it in a small vase beside my plate.
He announced, “And now that an adult is beside me,” before striking a match to light a candle. He throughly took pleasure in producing fire. So much so, he blew the candle out three times in order to light it again before I assured him it was well lit.
Then, he prayed a sweet prayer to God for our food and for me.
He’s growing up…in stature and wisdom.
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Share your blessings! How have your children or grandchildren seen God at work in your life, when times were tough?
The day I sashayed into the church with the back corner of my dress firmly tucked inside my pantyhose was one of my most embarrassing moments.
My two toddlers and I had made a restroom stop before the morning worship. Anyone with toddlers knows this is no easy feat.Finally I arrived at the sanctuary pew and got the children settled. A sweet, teenage girl quietly slipped in the pew behind me and informed me of my predicament. If I could have crawled under the pew and slithered out, I would have. My only option was to laugh it off and make the necessary adjustments.
Afterwards, my husband asked, “Could you not feel the dress stuck in there?”
I assured him with all the control top undergarments, everythingfelt stuffed in there! Due to the numbing tightness, I was totally unaware the dress had gone astray.
That incident happened over ten years ago. Not one Sunday has gone by since that I have not triple-checked the location of my hemline. Needless to say—lesson learned.
All too often, I rush around in life, never really seeking God’s direction. Sometimes my day is jam-packed with so much stuff--that I absent-mindedly agreed to mandate, coordinate and participate in--that I fail to realize something is amiss.
It’s easy for my heart to become calloused to God’s purpose for my life. Even if all my activities are good ones, I can allow myself to become stretched to a numbing ineffectiveness.
God wants me 100%. He wants to be the first thing on my mind. When I choose to focus on Him, amazing things come to pass.
When hardships burden you because you rushed ahead and did not seek God’s counsel … slow down.
Choose not the controlling pressures of the world, but rejoice in the freedom Christ offers. Pray, seek God’s wisdom and guidance in all things, including the use of your time. Tust and obey when He says, “Be still.” Any afflictions along the way will soften your heart, making you sensitive again to His voice and His will for your life.Their hearts are callous and unfeeling, but I delight in your law. It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.
Psalm 119:70-71 NIV
Gumption. It can mean practicality, common sense, or downright guts of courage.
It had been two years since our last visit to the roller-skating rink. Not much has changed. Same disco ball. Same glow-in-the-dark neon splashed carpet on the walls. They did have some new “walkers” for beginning skaters that made me laugh. The kids looked like they were practicing for a future Sr. Citizen Roller Derby!
Whoever came up with the idea of the walkers made with PVC pipe, connectors, and wheels was very wise. Whoever decided there should be an additional charge of two dollars to rent one was a genius.
One could say they had a lot of gumption. There were two more people at the skating rink that greatly impressed me with their gumption.
One was a little girl in pigtails about six years old. Her name was "Carrie." She kept falling down about every two minutes—or less. She even had the aid of one of the walkers and yet she still would slip and fall. I watched her with fascination. Most kids steadily skate around the rink. Carrie was different. Every time, she would start out pushing the walker, then, very quickly Carrie chose to do one of two things. Plan A was to become a blur as she “speed skated” as fast as she could. Pigtails flying behind her and then CRASH! She hit the floor, legs sprawling and tangling up with the walker.
If Carrie wasn’t speed skating and speed-falling, she always fell back to Plan B. Taking a few steps with the walker, she then pushed it to the side and tried to skate on her own without its assistance. Once again, Carrie met with the floor rather quickly. Only a tiny flicker of pain came across her face. She never cried out or complained. She just crawled across the floor, playing “Frogger” with the oncoming skaters. She had to crawl because she did not know how to stand up in her skates without holding onto the walker. The cute little girl clearly did not know how to skate but that didn’t stop her. As I was watching in amazement at her determination, I heard a woman’s voice behind me.
“Excuse me,” she said. Smiling and shaking her head, she added, “I never thought I’d be out here at my age. It’s been years since I’ve skated.”
“You’re braver than I am,” I said, patting her shoulder as she passed by me.
The woman looked to be in her early sixties. She was skating beside a little three-year-old girl. The little girl had the walker but if I were Grandma, I would have gotten one too! Grandma was a pretty good skater. She just inched along at a slow speed, taking pictures with her cell phone. Clearly, she was having a good time with her granddaughter.
Now me, I was cheering my son on from the sidelines. Don’t get me wrong. I’d love to be out there skating with him but I’ve got neck issues. One bump from a skater or from the hard floor would put me in the bed for days. So, I took photos and cheered from the sidelines.
Several parents were walking beside their kids as they skated. My son, who isn’t too cool for his mom just yet, called for me to come walk beside him.
Just as I walked out onto the rink, a skinny little girl fish-hooked my leg and we do-si-doed for awhile before regaining our balance.
As I made my way to my son, I noticed the Grandma taking more photos with her cell phone. But this time it wasn’t of the little three-year-old. She was taking photos of the pig-tailed speed-skater girl.
I thought the Grandma must be as fascinated with this girl as I am. Then, I noticed how they were talking with one another and smiling at each other. As we drew closer to them, Cara took another spill right in front of me. I offered her a hand and pulled her up.
“You’re doing awesome!” I told her.
“Thanks!” she said with a big grin and skated off again.
I looked over at Grandma and asked her if the little pigtailed girl was hers.
She nodded, still smiling, and said, “I never thought I’d be raising four grandchildren, but here I am.”
I conveyed to her how much I had been admiring the bravery of her granddaughter. I told her that little girl would go far in life because she never gives up and just keeps picking herself up and keeps trying. Before walking away, I added that Carrie had more gumption than anyone else did on that skating rink.
The grandmother smiled proudly and nodded as she inched away on her skates.
I only witnessed two hours of Carrie's life today but she captured my heart. I’ll probably never meet her again but I feel certain she's got a great future ahead of her.
She’s learned how to have gumption in the midst of adversity, and she’s learned it from her loving grandmother.
I understand what first impressions are, but what exactly are “the best of intentions?” Is that supposed to make a bad thing sound good or a good thing sound bad?
My oldest daughter was coming home from college for the weekend. Her fiancé and his parents were also coming to spend the weekend with us. We were excited about getting to know his family better before the summer wedding.
Of course, major cleaning took place the week prior to the visit. On the day of our guests’ arrival, I’m sweeping up the latest brood of dust bunnies, (how do those things appear overnight?), when I notice something else that was not there the night before.
On the glass of a curio cabinet is a hazy film. The dry, odd-looking film begins at eye-level and trickles downward.
I retrieve a wet cloth and cleaning spray. Scrubbing what appears to be dried milk, I am wondering how it got so high on the cabinet. There is nothing on the floor. Wait a minute. Is that a smear across my newly mopped floor?
“Zachary!”
My eight-year-old son appears in the dining room. I interrogate about the smear on the cabinet and the floor.
“Dad was going to tell you but he thought he could just clean it up since you were upstairs cleaning last night.”
As the story unfolded, it became apparent that Zachary made his sister a chocolate-chip cookie dough milkshake the night before. He was so excited to present her with his creation that his heels tried to pass his toes in route, which resulted in a collision with the floor.
“Dad, tried to wipe the milkshake off the floor.”
All the floor cleaner had been used in the week’s prior cleaning so I decided to bypass my burning desire to ask what he had used to “clean” the floor.
“What about this milkshake on the glass?” I asked.
“Oh, that. Well, we didn’t see that last night. I didn’t see it until this morning.”
“It’s three o’clock. When were you going to say, ‘Hey, Mom—There’s milkshake on the glass’? You know people will be here in just a few hours, right?”
“I meant to tell you. I forgot,” and he bounded off to play.
I finish cleaning the glass and walk to the kitchen to dispose of the mess. It occurred to me that if they missed the big smear on the cabinet last night, they might have missed some milkshake splash on the wall and baseboard. I return to the dining room to inspect.
My other daughter walks in and starts laughing. She compared my facial expression to that of Eddie Murphy’s in the movie, Daddy Daycare.
Remember the scene when he sticks his head into the bathroom to check on the toddler learning to use the potty? He begins looking at the floor and his face contorts with horror as he looks up the wall and to the ceiling. Well, that was me. I traced a trail of chocolate-chip milkshake from the baseboard, up the wall, and onto the CEILING! How in the world...?
I start scrubbing. I pull a chair over to the wall. I climb up to wipe the milkshake from the top of the wall. That’s when I noticed bits of chocolate-chip cookie-dough milkshake splattered and dried on top of the curio cabinet. Shaking my head in dismay, I begin to move china teacups to one side and start the scrubbing process all over again.
The baseboard, wall and curio came out sparkling clean. The ceiling with its bumpy white spray was another matter.
“Let’s get a knife and just cut out those pieces,” Zach offered.
“Zach.” My sense of humor had vacated the house hours ago.
“How about we throw a bowling ball up there to knock off the pieces of cookie-dough?” he asked with eyes gleaming in anticipation.
“Zach.” This time my tone of voice sent him scurrying off to safety.
My husband arrived home from work and the story grew more interesting. It seems Zachary left out the part of how half the milkshake ended up in his hair as he fell.
My sweet husband had the best of intentions. He tried to clean up this enormous fiasco without my help. He knew I had been cleaning all day and didn’t want to bother me with one more mess. He is a wise man and probably foresaw a frazzled woman snapping. His natural instinct as a protector kicked in and he did the best he could.
After I expressed my gratitude and thankfulness that Zachary did not crash dangerously into the glass cabinet, I reminded everyone that guests were coming.
“No one will look at the ceiling. No one will even notice it,” my husband said with a promise he’d paint it later.
The kids agreed. “No one will see it. Don’t worry about it.”
They were probably right. Who looks at the ceiling, anyway?
Later, the guests arrived and all was going very well. As they all sat down for a meal, I was in the kitchen getting my plate of food. I hurried back into the dining room so we could begin eating.
There they were…all of them…gazing at the ceiling.
My family was pointing out the brown, speckled spots on the ceiling and retelling the whole story!
I’m sure they had the best of intentions. So much for first impressions!
However, our first impression did break the ice and made us all laugh. We wanted everything to be nice for the arrival of our guests. We had the best of intentions for everything to be perfect.
But, we are real. Stuff happens—sometimes it affects us, sometimes it affects everything else in our lives, including the ceiling.
Don’t you love when spring ushers in warmer sunshine and longer daylight hours? For some people though, even spring days seem like long, dark winter nights. The occasional glimpse of sunshine is barely enough to keep them going. But even on those lonely days, there is something to celebrate. A party may not be in order, but joy is possible if there is a diligent search for it. Every day gives us reasons for exaltations.
Last week’s blog post was about when the powerless pray. A youth pastor was struggling to survive in the hospital after open-heart surgery. He and his family have been walking through some exceedingly tough days. They discovered that this young man’s aorta was torn fifteen years ago after a car accident. The doctors were baffled how he has been walking around and living a full life all this time. When they went in to make the repair, the damaged portion literally crumbled in their hands. The past fifteen years has been a miracle for this man. Want to hear another miracle? He is now at home recuperating and exalting his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Months ago, the pianist, Ms. Evelyn, in our church fell and broke her shoulder and arm. She is in her seventies and has been unable to care for herself. Her passions in life are her music, cooking, and caring for others. Many days were filled with pain and discouragement. Some said they didn’t think she’d ever be strong enough to come back to church. Another person mentioned the impossibility of her ever being able to play the piano again. Last week, Ms. Evelyn came to church. This week, she played the piano. Shedding joyful tears and sharing her testimony, Ms. Evelyn exalted her God. A woman has been praying for the salvation of her brothers for years. Last week, while she and her husband were out of town, her youngest brother suddenly passed away after suffering a heart attack. Grief-stricken, she and her husband traveled a long, heart-broken road home. They clung tightly to their Shepherd even when it seemed all hope was lost. There is great sadness due to the loss of the loved brother. But the tears of grief merge with tears of joy. A pastor, who had been visiting the brother, shared how this lost sheep had found the Shepherd and had found peace. Even though the hearts ache, there are exaltations lifted up to the Savior.
Hopefully, your day is sunny and bright. However, if circumstances find you in a dismal place—keep searching for the joy. Look past the cobwebs of pain and discouragement. Peek inside every annoying crook and aggravating cranny. It’s there, but you will need to look to the Son to help you find it.
The Spirit of the Sovereign Lordis on me,
because the Lord has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes, the oil of joy
instead of mourning, and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Isaiah 61:1-3
Great story and story-telling! Loved the part where his heels tried to pass his toes.I am a visual reader so you created wonderful pictures in my mind.
I love this story and so many of us and relate this.
Thanks for popping in, Cathy! When my husband told me the part about Zachary with milkshake in his hair, I asked him why he didn't take a picture! We all would have loved to have seen that photo on the blog! :)
Thanks, Mary Jane. What's on your ceiling?