The Present – A Gift from God

I wish more people knew about God’s love for them! It would make such a huge difference in our existence here on Earth.

If more people knew Jesus, I am sure there would be fewer arguments, fewer accidents, no reason for jails to exist, and no starving people!

This is because people would be willing to listen, willing to yield, willing to love, and willing to give,  and joyfully with each effort!

During the celebration of Christ’s birth, I pray that you might spend time communicating with Him, especially to say Thank you to the One who created everything for our benefit! He loves people that much! Make a great effort to get to know Him as He wants no one to perish. When you take that step, God responds. He will help you daily with your journey!

Below is verbiage from a postcard that I purchased from that same swell Thrift Store in a little town nearby. At one time the card was offered complimentary at the Biblical Seminary in New York City.

SOME SENTENCES FOR TESTING TIMES

   It is by no means enough to set out cheerfully with your God on any venture of faith. Tear into smallest pieces any itinerary for the journey which your imagination may have drawn up.

   Nothing will fall out as you expect.

   Your guide will keep no beaten path. He will lead you by a way such as you never dreamed your eyes would open upon.

   He knows no fear, and He expects you to fear nothing while He is with you.

   The clinging hand of His child makes a desperate situation a delight to Him.

   A true walk with God will do more to awaken awe, wonder and amazement in your soul than would a century of travel through the sights of earth.

   It is your business to learn to be peaceful and safe in God in every situation.

   To take you to His end, by the way you know, would profit you little; He chooses for you a way you know not, that you may be compelled into a thousand intercourses with Himself, which will make the journey forever memorable to Him and to you.

   Difficulty is the very atmosphere of miracle – it is miracle in its first stage. If it is to do a great miracle, the condition is not difficulty but impossibility.

   Whatever His questions or his reticences, we may be absolutely sure of an unperplexed and undismayed Saviour.

Selected from a Christmas Message, which originally appeared in “The Life of Faith,” London.

(Then the postcard says – see other side…)

A KINDLY SUGGESTION

CONSIDER HIM, who put Christmas, Good Friday and Easter in the Calendar.

He is central in Christianity and by Him it should be judged. He is central also in the Bible, and by Him it is to be estimated.

HEAR HIM, when He says: “I am the light of the world. He that followeth Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life.”

“I am the door; by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and go out, and shall find pasture.” Gospel by John 8:12; 10:9.

READ FURTHER ABOUT HIM, and test the great sentence of Dante: “In His will is our peace.”

Wishing you a wonderful adventure and relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ from now and into the New Year and beyond!

Love, Laura <><

http://latestlinesfromlaura.blogspot.com

Blessed Faith

Do you believe in God? Yes? Great!

Do you believe that John 3:16 of the Bible is true? Yes? Fantastic!

(If you are on the fence, I highly recommend the text by Lee Strobel called – The Case for Christ. Its author used the Course of Law to prove that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. http://www.amazon.com/The-Case-Christ-Journalists-Investigation/dp/0310209307

Do you believe that once you are a follower of Christ that the Holy Spirit is deposited in you and will lead you where God wishes you to go for your remaining days? Yes? Awesome!

Then logic dictates that if you believe in all these things, then you are quite sure that God is omnipotent and able to do all things, right?

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” – Matthew 19:26

I have had a few conversations lately with friends whom God has allowed me to remind how amazing and loving He is. Hallelujah!

What is striking however is that several of them have not realized that as Christians, they are absolutely, positively in God’s hands. God made them, loves them and has every intention of taking care of their every need and yet there is doubt. Why?

My friends know intellectually that God made the entire universe and knows the exact number of how many hairs are on their head, but in the midst of their daily struggles, they have neglected to tell God their concerns, their desires and have not requested knowing His will for their lives.

I am confident God wants so much to hear from them. Not because he doesn’t already know what is going on, but because He wants confirmation that He is first in their lives.

The First Commandment after all is that there shall be no other gods before Him.

You shall have no other gods before^[a] me.  - Exodus 20:3

As Christians we must follow these instructions:

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ - Matthew 22:37

God wants and deserves to be at the forefront of our thoughts. He has so many blessings to share with us and so many wonderful things that He wishes us to learn, know and comprehend but if an individual is not invested fully in a relationship with God, then their life will not be as full as it could be otherwise!

It will probably include more stress than necessary which in turn causes health issues as a person tries to solve their problems in their own strength, generally impossible, especially if God is working on fine tuning their walk and perfecting their faith and trust in Him!

Our humanness (or human sin) so often gets in the way of having a consistent two way communication with God. Here is a list of the most common sins -

• 3.1 Lust
• 3.2 Gluttony
• 3.3 Greed
• 3.4 Sloth
• 3.5 Wrath
• 3.6 Envy
• 3.7 Pride

As earthly Christians, we will never be perfect but our Lord wants us to work really hard at including Him in every aspect of our life – our job (or lack thereof), our relations with family, friends, spouses and significant others (or lack thereof), our hobbies, our dreams and future plans.

We should be asking Him daily for guidance, for His permission to take certain actions and ask God to reveal His Will to us. We should be alert for opportunities that present themselves and always share the Good News of Christ.

Yes, we will make mistakes, but we have a loving Father in Heaven who is waiting for us to cry out and rescue us when we are in trouble and need help. He is always there. Guaranteed! His ways are not our ways (thankfully!) and as He is perfect and in control.

God has the best plan waiting just for you!

⁴ Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man.
⁵ Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
⁶ in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.^[a]

- Proverbs 3:4-6 - New International Version (NIV)

So the question becomes, if you have a saving knowledge of Christ, why wouldn’t you trust the Lord implicitly? He is God – all powerful and all-knowing. Is there anything you could do to rival His abilities?

God wants you to know how much he loves you and to have a positive impact on others for His Glory and all it takes is being his faithful friend, trusting in Him for absolutely everything.

Why not be His friend today?

Wishing you much love, peace and joy! Laura

http://latestlinesfromlaura.blogspot.com

Life is a Journey, Not a Destination

 

Heard it before? I know, but it seemed to ring truer this weekend than other times past. As I was finally unwinding and mentally preparing to head back to my corporate job, it occurred to me that I fret way too much. Again, not that this is news, it’s just that my recent past included way too many minutes of checking things off the “to do” list because they had to be done and getting mostly zero enjoyment out of all the effort. Monday through Friday I am paid to hurry. This idea spilled right over into my home life. I have been fighting it for a while now. The point is that life takes time. So why not take pleasure in it on a more routine basis?

Appreciate the menial tasks and the blessings of being a property owner, car owner and job holder. As best you can, forget the hustle bustle. Don’t even join in!

The “to do” list is never ending. It will always be around and guaranteed you will never accomplish it all in one day, or heck, one week or even a year. Tasks take time. Some projects take longer than 2 minutes. Recognize this and be a peace. Don’t let all those rushing around disturb your journey. Stress does more harm than good and that is a fact!

Know that God is teaching you with every event that occurs. He loves you and desires you to be in right mind and good health so you can hear, see and understand what He wants you to know. Enjoy the current task at hand with joy and know that Our Creator is always near, waiting to bless you and provide for you at life’s every turn.

Enjoy! Laura

Did you know? You are a Miracle!

The unique traits that make every human body a work of art is extraordinary!

There are tons of facts to support each individual’s complexity and that alone is a testament to how magnificent, wonderful and intelligent our Creator is!

He has blessed people so much by giving them an opportunity to exist… each person is God’s possession. We are His and His alone. That should not only make us happy but surely content and thankful.

God has a will for each of our lives… there is something that each of us was meant to accomplish as a part of God’s plan.

He loves us so dearly that he wants to have a relationship with each person so He can show us first hand his incredible love and give us a glimpse of the amazing things that are in store for us for those who believe in His Son Jesus Christ.

Do you believe that God sent His Son to Earth to share the news of Salvation with those present at that time? Do you know that the Good News is just as true then as it is today?

I encourage you to keep asking questions about God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit and the words that are written in the Holy Bible. Your spiritual health, after all, is very important.

Along the way, I also want to encourage you to take care of the amazing body that God has shared with you. Keep it in optimum shape by learning to eat the most nutritious foods and consuming beneficial liquids. Remember to exercise several times a week and you will not only feel better, but will be able to learn and understand more of the facts and ideas that God wants to share with you!

Here are two books that I have been reading lately. Enjoy!

http://www.amazon.com/Eat-This-And-Live-choices/dp/1599795191

http://www.amazon.com/The-Power-Self-Healing-Natural-Potential/dp/1401936210/ref=la_B005N2X1JC_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344878990&sr=1-1

I wish for you many days of good health, even more days of extraordinary peace and for you to be filled to the brim with the heartfelt joy that grows exponentially as you seek to know your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

~ * ~ Laura ~ * ~

http://latestlinesfromlaura.blogspot.com/

http://www.lamocreations.com

Celebrate and Rejoice!

The grace of God means something like:

Here is your life. You might never have been, but you are because the party wouldn’t have been complete without you.

Here is the world. Beautiful and terrible things will happen.

Don’t be afraid. I am with you. Nothing can ever separate us.

It’s for you I created the universe. I love you.

- Frederick Buechner - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frederick_Buechner  

[Photo above taken by Laura Moody - copyright 2011 - It is an image of a balloon weight.]

Spirit Fire Kindling - Light Your Fire with Love™

 

So I had an idea… and came up with a little product called Spirit Fire Kindling™.

A perfect start for campfires, bonfires and wood-burning fireplaces!

It is a great addition for your upcoming camping trips that include a fire for gazing or cooking! It is also a great purchase for those chilly evenings in front of a wood-burning fireplace.

Each heart is made of recycled brown paper bags and raffia straw.

I created a separate web site for this item. Check it out when you have a chance!
http://lightyourfirewithlove.blogspot.com/

Spirit Fire Kindling™ was previously sold at my friend's shop, Weathered Elegance. Check out Donna's Weathered Elegance items in person when you are in Leesburg, Virginia’s Historic District or visit her site on the web: http://weatheredelegance.org/

Interested in a bulk purchase of Spirit Fire Kindling™ for all the fun events this year? Contact me.

Thanks for supporting your local artists! :) Laura

http://latestlinesfromlaura.blogspot.com
http://lightyourfirewithlove.blogspot.com/

True Peace

To be glad of life, because it gives you

the chance to love and to work and to play

and to look up at the stars; to be satisfied

with your possessions, but not contented

with yourself until you have made

the best of them...to think seldom

of your enemies, often of your friends,

and every day of Christ; and to spend

as much time as you can, with body

and with spirit in God's out-of-doors- these

are little guideposts on the footpath to peace.

- Henry Van Dyke

Love Santorini!

I have visited there twice and given the opportunity, I would surely visit a third time! The photo above was taken by me during my trip in the 1990s.

Many film companies have traveled to the island to make such main stream films as Lara Croft Tomb Raider – The Cradle of Life and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2.

Even the second season of I Spy, the 1960s TV series with Bill Cosby, shot some footage!

I have enjoyed watching these different mediums if only to get a glimpse again of this magical Greek destination.

It would be wonderful to spend at least a week during a future visit to truly enjoy the peace the exists regularly for its inhabitants!

All of that is to say that I love Santorini. :)

Which leads me to this information below that I found on this site: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greek_words_for_love

I hope you find the data interesting!

There are a number of different Greek words for love, as the Greek language distinguishes how the word is used. Ancient Greek has three distinct words for love: eros, philia, and agape.

However, as with other languages, it has been historically difficult to separate the meanings of these words.
Nonetheless, the senses in which these words were generally used are given below.

Eros (ἔρως érōs) is passionate love, with sensual desire and longing. The Modern Greek word "erotas" means "(romantic) love". Plato refined his own definition. Although eros is initially felt for a person, with contemplation it becomes an appreciation of the beauty within that person, or even becomes appreciation of beauty itself.

It should be noted Plato does not talk of physical attraction as a necessary part of love, hence the use of the word platonic to mean, "without physical attraction". Plato also said Eros helps the soul recall knowledge of beauty, and contributes to an understanding of spiritual truth. Lovers and philosophers are all inspired to seek truth by eros. The most famous ancient work on the subject of eros is Plato's Symposium, which is a discussion among the students of Socrates on the nature of eros.

Philia (φιλία philía), means friendship in modern Greek, a dispassionate virtuous love, was a concept developed by Aristotle. It includes loyalty to friends, family, and community, and requires virtue, equality and familiarity. In ancient texts, philia denoted a general type of love, used for love between family, between friends, a desire or enjoyment of an activity, as well as between lovers.

Agapē (ἀγάπη agápē) means "love" in modern day Greek. The term s'agapo means "I love you" in Greek. The word "agapo" is the verb "I love". In Ancient Greek it often refers to a general affection or concern, rather than the physical attraction suggested by "eros"; agape is used in ancient texts to denote feelings for a good meal, one's children, and the feelings for a spouse.

The verb appears in the New Testament describing, amongst other things, the relationship between Jesus and the beloved disciple. Many Christian scholars have consequently argued that the verb's use in the New Testament is simply to describe God's love for humanity (compare with Spinoza's amor intellectualis Dei, the intellectual love of God).

In the end, "agape" is differentiated from "eros" above. In biblical literature, its meaning and usage is illustrated by self-sacrificing, giving love to all--both friend and enemy. The word "agape" is not always used in the New Testament in a positive sense. II Timothy 4:10 uses the word in a negative sense. The Apostle Paul writes, "For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world...." The word "loved" here is a form of the root word "agape".

Thus the word "agape" is not always used of a divine love or the love of God. Generally, in the New Testament it refers to a total commitment or self-sacrificial love for the object loved. The word seems to contain more of an mental or intellectual element than the other Greek words for love. It is a rational love that is not based on total self-interest. By this a Christian is required to love (agape) someone who is not necessarily lovely or loveable.

The Christian by God's grace and mercy is required to "love" someone that he may not necessarily like or love in the sense of having warm fuzzy emotional feelings toward. It is a love that acts in the best interest of the other person. The classic biblical text on this self-sacrificial love is the well-known biblical verse, John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son...." A Christian is required to love his enemies ("...Love your enemies..." Matthew 5:44). Thus. the Christian is required to always do good and have the best interest of his enemies in view when he acts.

Storge (στοργή storgē) means affection in modern Greek; it is natural affection, like that felt by parents for offspring. Rarely used in ancient works, and then almost exclusively as a descriptor of relationships within the family.

To learn more about the unique island of Santorini, visit these sites:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santorini

Just one of the many hotels with beautiful views of the island and ocean (this site has a nice slide show):
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/luxury/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3022


¸..• ´¨¨)) -:¦:-
¸.•´ .•´¨¨))
((¸¸.•´ ..•´ -:¦:- May your day be filled with many smiles!
-:¦:- ((¸¸.•´*

Monte Cristo

One of my favorite movies is “The Count of Monte Cristo,” the recent version that stars Jim Caviezel as Dantes.

Some folks might perceive the big flick as being on the cheesy side, but if you disregard the fact that the characters speak “American” vs. “French” (or other European languages) and concentrate rather on the beautiful scenery of Ireland and Malta as well as allow the poignant delivery of certain lines to sink in, then I believe you will enjoy the film as much as I do!

Highlights:

Mercedes: I don't know what dark plan lies within you. Nor do I know by what design we were asked to live without each other these 16 years. But God has offered us a new beginning...

Edmond: God?

Mercedes: Don't slap His hand away.

Edmond: Can I never escape Him?

Mercedes: No, He is in everything. Even in a kiss.

and

Abbe Faria: Here is your final lesson - do not commit the crime for which you now serve the sentence. God said, "Vengeance is mine."

Edmond Dantes: I don't believe in God.

Abbe Faria: It doesn't matter. He believes in you.


Here are a couple web site links with more details about the enjoyable film.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0245844/quotes

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Count_of_Monte_Cristo_(2002_film)


Have a great day! Be blessed and if you need wisdom, just ask the Lord God who made you!

Love Him with all of your heart, soul and mind!

Coincidence? I think not. :)

Did you know that your life has already been planned since before time by the Creator of the Universe? Pretty spectacular realization, isn’t it? God knew your name before the beginning of time!

As of late I have been connecting the dots of my life and have discovered many things.

Including this little diddy that perhaps for-shadowed what was to come to pass.

In grade school one of my favorite books on my Mom’s shelves was called “The Best Loved Poems of the American People.” I scoured its pages often and thoroughly enjoyed the delightful verbiage between its covers.

For a 10th grade English project, I made illustrations to accent some of these poems, including this one below.

My drawing for the poem called “TO A FRIEND” consisted of a single rose with a tag on it that said “Pour un Ami.”

Fast forward to present day: "Ami" is my nickname for one whom I am so happy to know.


Here is the poem:

You ENTERED my life in a casual way,
And saw at a glance what I needed;
There were others who passed me or met me each day,
But never a one of them heeded.
Perhaps you were thinking of other folks more,
Or chance simply seemed to decree it;
I know there were many such chances before,
But the others-well, they didn't see it.

You said just the thing that I wished you would say,
And you made me believe that you meant it;
I held my head in the old gallant way,
And resolved you should never repent it.
There are times when encouragement means such a lot,
And a word is enough to convey it;
There were others who could have, as easy as not -
But, just the same, they didn't say it.

There may have been someone who could have done more
To help me along, though I doubt it;
What I needed was cheering, and always before
They had let me plod onward without it.
You helped to refashion the dream of my heart,
And made me turn eagerly to it;
There were others who might have (I question that part) -
But, after all, they didn't do it!

- Grace Stricker Dawson



I encourage all to own a copy of this marvelous book or at least inquire if it is at your local library. Every page is a delicious treat that allows one’s imagination to consider the beauty of life’s many different experiences.

This web site link is one of many retail stores that offers the reprint of the 1936 copyright version to consumers.

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-best-loved-poems-of-the-american-people-hazel-felleman/1000211468

Have a great day!

On the Lighter Side - Art "Funnies"

Here are two bits of silly-ness that I thought all might enjoy!

1) Location Paris: Recently a guy in Paris nearly got away with stealing several paintings from the Louvre. However, after planning the crime, getting in and out past security, he was captured only 2 blocks away when his Econoline http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_E-Series ran out of gas. (See above photo for visual :) When asked how he could mastermind such a crime and then make such an obvious error, he replied:

“I had no Monet to buy Degas to make the Van Gogh.”

2) After much careful research it has been discovered that the artist Vincent Van Gogh had many relatives. Among them were:

His obnoxious brother – Please Gogh
The brother who ate prunes – Gotta Gogh
The brother who worked at the convenience store – StopnGogh
The grandfather from Yugoslavia – U Gogh
The brother who bleached his clothes white – Hue Gogh
His dizzy aunt – Verti Gogh
The cousin from Illinois – Chica Gogh
His magician uncle – Wherediddy Gogh
His Mexican cousin – Amee Gogh
The cousin’s American half brother – Grin Gogh
The nephew who drove a stage coach – Wellsfar Gogh
The ballroom dancing aunt – Tan Gogh
The bird lover uncle – Flamin Gogh
His nephew psychoanalyst – E Gogh
The fruit loving cousin – Man Gogh
An aunt who taught positive thinking – Wayto Gogh
The little nephew – Poe Gogh
A sister who loved disco – Go Gogh
And his niece who travels the country in a van – Winniebay Gogh

Have a great day!

Life is a Journey

I found myself saying this week that certainly one cannot know all there is to know about a topic.

Thankfully God has allowed each of us to have similar as well as different passions and interests so that we can come together and share the varying degrees of knowledge that we have with each other in order to solve problems and gain wisdom as we move forward in time!

Two cases in point –

1) Automobiles and how they are wired! – I most certainly am a youngin’ in this area. :) So very thankful to have a father who knows a thing or two about them as well as an incredibly patient mechanic who assists me with my car needs at the drop of a hat. I recommend his business services to everyone in my area!

2) Christianity and how God has wired us to grow in relation to Him! – Have learned so much in the last month about how much God loves us and how were are destined to emulate his character so that the Holy Spirit shines brighter and brighter each day.

I purchased a copy of the book called “The Release of the Spirit” from my church bookstore and would encourage all to read its contents. It is written by this gentleman – Watchman Nee.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watchman_Nee

http://www.worldinvisible.com/library/nee/5f00.0638/5f00.0638.c.htm


Peace and joy to you on this lovely Spring day! Happy growing :)

I love chocolate!

My favorite chocolate bar brand at the moment is Chocolove.

Bonus – Poems about L-O-V-E are printed inside the wrapper!

http://www.chocolove.com/

Here is the excerpt that was included on my recent purchase of Cherries & Almonds in Dark Chocolate.

3

Love is not love until love's vulnerable. She slowed to sigh, in that long interval. A small bird flew in circles where we stood; The deer came down, out of the dappled wood.

All who remember, doubt. Who calls that strange? I tossed a stone, and listened to its plunge. She knew the grammar of least motion, she Lent me one virtue, and I live thereby.

4

She held her body steady in the wind; Our shadows met, and slowly swung around; She turned the field into a glittering sea; I played in flame and water like a boy

And I swayed out beyond the white seafoam; Like a wet log, I sang within a flame. In that last while, eternity's confine, I came to love, I came into my own.


- Theodore Roethke


The entire poem is featured on this web site:
http://www.canopicpublishing.com/poets/RoethkeDream.htm


Happy Spring!

Who Taught the Sun...?

I have been blessed with the ability to teach, communicating ideas to others in person, in written or in verbal form. However, I don’t hold a candle to the greatest teacher of all:
Jesus Christ / Our Lord God / The Holy Spirit – 3 in 1. It is hard for us to comprehend fully, but those who accept Christ as their Savior won’t have all the answers until we are in God’s presence.

Have you been seeking God faithfully in order to learn more about your life and the path that you are taking? If not, talk to God today and ask for guidance. He loves you so much and wants to communicate with you regularly!

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
- Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV)

Despite the complicated circumstances that exist on the planet today, did you know that the Creator of the Universe has everything under control and has a plan?! He is aware of it all. He is Awesome in Power, showering us with love, grace and mercy as no human could ever supply no matter how they might try.

To learn more, read the Holy Bible. It is sold in a variety of stores including Dollar Tree! Or, if you prefer digit data, there are many web sites with searchable versions of this everlasting text including these: Biblegateway.com, Heartlight.org and Carm.org.

Amazing concepts: God knew our names before we were born and thus planned in advance exactly what talents or gifts we might share with our fellow man. Do you know what yours are?

Here is a link to a site that will help you find out:
http://www.mypersonality.info/spiritual-gifts/

My favorite song that honors our great Creator is called My Redeemer Lives.
It features God’s Talents, His Skills and His Works.

Here are the lyrics:

Who taught the sun where to stand in the morning?

And who told the ocean you can only come this far?

And who showed the moon where to hide till evening?

Whose words alone can catch a falling star?

Chorus:

Well I know my Redeemer lives

I know my Redeemer lives

All of creation testifies

This life within me cries

I know my Redeemer lives

Ye-e-eah

The very same God

That spins things in orbit

Runs to the weary, the worn and the weak

And the same gentle hands that hold me when I'm broken

They conquered death to bring me victory

Now I know, my Redeemer lives

I know my Redeemer lives

Let all creation testify

Let this life within me cry

I-I-I know

My Redeemer

He lives

To take away my shame

And He lives

Forever I'll proclaim

That the payment for my sins

Was the precious life He gave

And now He's alive and

There's an empty

Grave!

And I know

My Redeemer lives

He lives

I know

My Redeemer lives

Let all creation testify

Let this life within me cry

I-I-I know my Redeemer

I know

My Redeemer lives

*I know my Redeemer lives*

*I know, That I know, that I know, that I know, that I know

He lives*my redeemer lives**

Because He lives I can face tomorrow

He lives*I know, I know*He lives*

I spoke with Him this morning!*

He lives*The tomb is empty*

He lives*He Lives! I'm going to tell everybody!!*

Check on this link for an mp3 download of the song :)

http://www.amazon.com/My-Redeemer-Lives/dp/B00137ILW8

Trust God

I came across a neat little book called Footprints - Journal.

Inside and opposite the title page, it says:

“As one of the most cherished poems of the last century, Footprints has been lovingly handed down from one generation to the next. It stands as a timeless reminder that God never leaves us, that He is as close as breathing.
As you journey through the poem… and the accompanying quotes and Scriptures, let this journal inspire you to express your thoughts, record your prayers, and walk with God. And during those times when the journey is especially trying, let this be a reminder that you can trust God to carry you – often before you even ask.”

On the back cover of the text, it says:

“In these pages, the symbolism of the much-loved poem (Footprints) has been expanded into a timeless message of encouragement. Scripture and quotes accompany passages from the classic poem to lead you, one reassuring footstep at a time, on a journey of hope. Write down your concerns, and then ask God to carry them for you.”

Here is a wonderful quote from the text:

We are to simply trust God. While we trust, God can work.
Worry prevents Him from doing anything for us…
The peace of God must quiet our minds and rest our hearts.
We must put our hand in the hand of God like a little child,
And let Him lead us out into the bright sunshine of His love.
He knows the way out of the woods. Let us climb up into His arms,
And trust Him to take us out by the shortest and surest road.

- Pardington

Excerpts above are from the book called Footprints Journal ISBN – 160936-2349

The photo in this blog entry was taken by me last weekend at a nearby park. :)

Enjoy!

Christian Poet - Annie Johnson Flint

There is a small historic town not too far away that
has a wonderful Antique shop that I enjoy perusing.

Downstairs there is a vendor with a round-about wooden display case
whose slats are filled with delightful postcards from by-gone eras.

In the midst of them I recently discovered some postcards that were inserted, I believe, in old Bibles residing in the pews of big city churches or small town parishes.
There was not a lot of illustration, only text printed on them.

Here is an example of one of the cards that features beautiful poetic truth:

He giveth more grace when the burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength when the labors increase;
To added affliction He addeth His mercy,
To multiplied trials, His multiplied peace.
When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources,
Our Father’s full giving is only begun.
His love has no limit, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth and giveth and giveth again.

- Annie Johnson Flint
Casterline Cards, Orchard Park, N.Y. 5510

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http://latestlinesfromlaura.blogspot.com

Remember Rocker Bryan Adams?

Bryan Adams wrote a lovely song called - (Everything I Do) I Do It For You.

As I was listening to the cassette tape this week (believe it or not, my car actually has a mechanism to play them :) I realized that the words explained exactly how Christ feels about his Children and how he hopes we feel about Him.

May we all feel this way about the ones we love!

Lyrics:

Look into my eyes, you will see

What you mean to me

Search your heart, search your soul

And when you find me there

you'll search no more

Don't tell me it's not worth tryin' for

You can't tell me it's not worth dyin' for

You know it's true

Everything I do, I do it for you

Look into your heart, you will find

There's nothin' there to hide

Take me as I am, take my life

I would give it all, I would sacrifice

Don't tell me it's not worth fightin' for

I can't help it, there's nothin' I want more

You know it's true

Everything I do, I do it for you

Oh yeah - There's no love, like your love

And no other, could give more love

There's nowhere, unless you're there

All the time

Wishing you a day filled with much joy, laughter, peace and of course L-O-V-E. :)

Worth Knowing

So a co-worker told me this week that I was “worth knowing”. I took it as a compliment :) and positive confirmation that I am a reflection of my relationship with Christ, who is definitely worth knowing!

(For those who claim Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, you already recognize what an understatement the last phrase of my previous sentence is.)

For those who aren’t sure how to talk to Him, it is quite simple! You can communicate with Jesus with your thoughts (silent prayer) or talk to Him out loud. He will hear you and of that you can be sure! Either way, Jesus is waiting for you to say hello to Him. He loves you so much and has so many blessings in store for you!

Here are some wonderful verses from the Holy Bible:

1 John 4:7-21
New International Version (NIV)

God’s Love and Ours
7 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
13 This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15 If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. 16 And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.
God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. 17 This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. 18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
19 We love because he first loved us. 20 Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. 21 And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.

Philippians 2:9-11
New International Version (NIV)

9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.


All humans were created by God to have a relationship with Him.

John 3:16
New International Version (NIV)

16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

It is up to us whether or not we will praise His Holy Name and recognize His Power, Mercy and Grace in our lives.

Have more questions? This web site has a neat presentation: http://www.gotlife.org/intro.html

Peace be with you!

God’s Love

“God’s love is the source of all human love, and it spreads like fire. In loving his children, God kindles a flame in their hearts. In turn, they love others, who are warmed by God’s love through them.” – A note from the NIV study bible, in reference to 1 John 4:19

1 John 4:19
New International Version (NIV)
19 We love because he first loved us.

For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.
—Habakkuk 2:14

http://www.verseoftheday.com/
(in seven different languages!)

Love Defined

Love is the smile you offer another.
Love is listening patiently to someone and then choosing the words you share next wisely.
Love is a choice, the act of giving your time, your resources and your compassion to others regularly.
Love is the hug you give a friend or relative when you meet.
Love is what makes the world rotate amongst the stars!
Love shared regularly benefits many. :)

Have a blessed and wonderful day!

I love you!

Sure Valentine's Day is next month,

but there is no time like the present to say "I love you" to those you care about. :)

Afrikaans - Ek is lief vir jou!
Creole - Mi aime jou!
French - Je t'aime!
German - Ich liebe dich!
Greek - S'ayapo!
Italian - Ti amo!
Mandarin - Wo ai ni!
Norwegian - Jeg elsker deg!
Spanish - Te amo!

Al Williams - Musician

I am so happy to report that this wonderful musician performs many Sundays at my place of worship.

Check out his web site and if you are so inclined, please support his talents by attending a future concert or buying a CD! :)

http://www.alwilliamsmusic.com/home.html

God’s Guidance

This excerpt is from my favorite devotional book called
HUGS Daily Inspirations Words of Comfort –
A Howard Books product: ISBN – 978-1-4165-4181-3

The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Psalm 37:23 NLT

God is intensely interested in your life, your faith, and your future. And He will guide your steps if you let Him. When you sincerely offer heartfelt prayers to your heavenly Father, He will give direction and meaning to your life. If you humbly seek His will, He will touch your heart and lead you on the path of His choosing.

Will you trust God to guide your steps? When you entrust your life to Him completely and without reservation, God will give you the strength to meet any challenge, the courage to face any trial, and the wisdom to live in His righteousness and in His peace. So trust Him today and seek His guidance. When you do, you can take each step with faith and confidence.

A spiritual discipline is necessary in order to move slowly from an absurd to an obedient life, from a life filled with noisy worries to a life in which there is some free inner space where we can listen to our God and follow His guidance. – Henri Nouwen

Aunt Sadie’s Rosemary scented candle

Photos taken by me - copyright Jan. 2012.

Over the recent holidays, a friend gave me an Aunt Sadie’s Rosemary scented candle http://www.auntsadiesinc.com/ purchased from this store http://stores.homestead.com/hstrial-kcavanaugh/StoreFront.bok .

The candle continues to offer a wonderful aroma each time I light it and I am really looking forward to visiting Bella Funk and New Hampshire one day!

Bonus: I found this poem about candle light recently:

CANDLE LIGHT

A candle's but a little thing --

It starts with just a bit of string.

Yet clipped and dipped with patient hand,

It gathers wax upon the strand.

Until, complete and snowy white,

It gives at last a lovely light.

Life seems so like that bit of string --

Each deed we do, a simple thing.

Yet day by day, if on life's strand,

We work with patient heart and hand,

It gathers joy, makes dark days bright,

And gives at last a lovely light.

- Author unknown.

May 2012 offer wonderful opportunities for you!