Sequoia Ways

Can you STOP junk mail?

2012-02-08T14:09:00.000-05:00

We not only receive junk mail addressed to us "or the current resident," but we still receive mail addressed to adult children who left home more than a decade ago. That was understandable, if a little strange.

But, then, the situation became compounded last year when we began receiving junk mail for relatives who have been deceased.

How do you make it stop? Can you?

Since my mother-in-law's death last summer, we now receive catalogs and requests for donations addressed to her. And we get mail addressed to other members of the family who have been dead for more than 10 years.

Our postal carrier started to park in front of our home to lug the daily mail to our door. I was afraid to face him, concerned he'd be wearing a back brace one morning.

So, in the fall, before the holidays, I visited a dozen or more company websites, requesting certain junk mailings to stop. Would they listen? I wasn't sure. It was a test.

If an email response came from the company, it usually stated that since they print catalogs in advance, we may still receive one or more mailings before our request would take affect.

There was no hope for the mail carrier through the holidays.

We piled unsolicited materials in a box. After the first of the year, I vowed to try again.
This year, it took us longer than usual to take down the tree and put away relics of family festivities.

Now that it is February, I'm hoping to stem the flow of unsolicitate sales materials to our home addressed to us and a host of other people, living and dead.

How do you stop receiving unwanted mail? Does it ever stop? Will it when you ask? If a company representative tells you they print sales materials in advance so you may still receive one or more mailings before this change takes affect, do you believe them? And does it stop?

Can you look your mail carrier in the eye and say, "I tried to do something kind to you, to me and the environment today"?

On "Overcoming Barriers to Forgiveness"

2011-11-15T16:59:00.001-05:00

"Apology and forgiveness are essential to healthy marriages," Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts) shared in a recent Focus on the Family radio broadcast, "Overcoming Barriers to Forgiveness 1."

Apology and forgiveness are important in all our relationships.

None of us is perfect. Offenses happen. And the road toward forgiveness and reconciliation can be more complicated and take more time than saying, "I'm sorry."

Have you ever offended someone, apologized, and still experienced barriers in the relationship? Apologizing may not be enough to restore a relationship if it isn't what the offended person needs to hear, explained Gary Chapman and Jennifer Thomas, authors of The Five Languages of Apology: How to Experience Healing in All Your Relationships.

There are different ways to apologize. More importantly, there are different expectations people have for when they believe an apology is sincere. So, unless the words and expressions meet another's expectations, the apology may not be healing, no matter how sincere.

Interesting thought.

If you're looking for practical information on this subject, I'd highly recommend listening to two pod casts where Chapman and Thomas share important insights into a timeless and important issue for all of us who have ever offended someone we care about:

Overcoming Barriers to Forgiveness 1

Overcoming Barriers to Forgiveness 2

In brief, Chapman and Thomas said the five apology languages are different ways someone thinks another should apologize if they are really sincere:

Expressing regret ("I'm sorry." And tell them what you're sorry for.)
Accepting responsibility ("I was wrong.")
Making restitution ("What can I do to make this right with you?")
Genuinely repenting (by planning to change) ("What I'm going to do to change the plan so this situation may never happen again.")
Requesting forgiveness ("Please forgive me.")

So, is this a formula for success? Does practicing these five languages of apology guarantee forgiveness? Not at all, the authors conceded. Forgiveness is a gift, not a right.

So, why learn apology languages? If you value a relationship, why not learn to communicate an apology in a way that expresses sincerity to the offended person? Effective communication can bring healing where barriers once existed.

What do you need to hear for an apology to bring healing? Respond in the comments.

No winner for Kathi Macias' book Deliver Me From Evil

2011-11-07T11:01:00.000-05:00

Public announcement: No winner of the book drawing.

There was no winner for a copy of Kathi Macias' book Deliver Me From Evil. Since the only commenters were the author and a representative of the blog tour, who should not be eligible for such a drawing, no drawing was held.

So, I still have the review copy of the book. I plan to offer it as a free book to a commenter who is not the author or a member of the blog tour at a later date. Watch for details.

So, if you're reading this blog and wondered, you may still have an excellent chance to receive a copy of Kathi Macias' book Deliver Me From Evil.

Related Posts: Author Interview: Deliver Me From Evil

Question for discussion: Have you ever offered something for free and didn't have any takers? What did you do?

Sharing lives and homes across generations

2011-10-28T12:05:00.000-04:00

It's not uncommon for families to live together.

When a baby comes home from the hospital, he may move into a home with two parents and older siblings. Aunts and uncles, grandparents -- relatives and family friends -- all welcome him. They hold him and cherish him, when they can, if only during short visits from across town or from across the country.

Babies around the world grow up in a multi-generational home.

In recent decades in our country, boot-camp or college dorm-life may be a young adult's first immersion in a predominately single-generation living experience. It's become part of the American Dream for many young people to grow up and become separate financially and socially from their parents and grandparents. They move out and on to set up their own apartments or homes. And many may someday embrace a new generation in their lives and homes.

This wasn't always how families expected to live. In many eras and locations, generations shared lives and homes. And they still do, in one way or another. But economics are changing realities again in big and little ways.

In recent years, the economy, staggering student debt, and limited job prospects have changed the affordability of independent living for millions of young adults, if only temporarily.

American families have responded to new economic realities by opening hearts, lives and homes.

How are we doing it? I'd like to exchange tips and stories.

Perhaps you know someone who lives with parents or with adult children. I do. We do.

I'm interested in getting a dialog going on how we manage to share lives, fortunes and homes across generations. We can learn a lot from one another.

How do you share living situations across generations with love and respect?

Author Interview: Deliver Me From Evil, by Kathi Macias

2011-10-21T09:28:00.002-04:00

How did you come up with the idea for Deliver Me From Evil and the Freedom series?

It actually came out of a phone conversation with Andrea Mullins, the publisher at New Hope. We were discussing the Extreme Devotion series (about the persecuted Church), which I was still working on at the time, and we began to consider topics for a second series. Andrea was the one who suggested human trafficking, and it really struck a chord with me. The more I researched it and worked on the proposal, the more excited I became about joining forces with others working to abolish modern-day slavery, which is exactly what human trafficking is.

What was your favorite scene to write in Deliver Me From Evil?

This book/series has been the most difficult I’ve ever written, simply because the subject matter is so dark and heavy. More than once I had to walk away and clear my thoughts before moving on from one scene to another. But interspersed between the heartache and tragedy are several lighter scenes (written and incorporated into the book out of necessity), dealing with a pastor’s family and their Bible college-bound son who inadvertently discovers the human trafficking ring and becomes involved in the heroic and dramatic rescue attempt. Any scenes revolving around the absolutely functional and loving life of the Flannery family are my favorites.

What was the most difficult scene, and why?

There were many difficult scenes in this book due to the subject matter, but the hardest had to be when the main character, 18-year-old Mara, realizes that one of the younger girls is being tortured and killed in an effort to extract information and punish her. Though the actual violence is done offstage, Mara experiences each blow and muffled scream, as does the reader.

Did you always know you wanted to be a writer? If not, how did you catch the writing bug?

Oh yes, I never wanted to be anything else. From the time I discovered the power and allure of words, I was hooked! I was an avid reader before I started kindergarten. A short story I wrote in the third grade was turned into a play for the entire PTA, and I won all sorts of awards for poetry in high school. I even told my then boyfriend (now husband) Al when we were in our early teens that I was going to be a writer one day.

How do you go about writing your fiction books? Which comes first for you, plot, characters, and/or theme?

I usually get what I call “a niggling in my soul,” which eventually emerges into the very basic theme of the book. I hate outlining and writing proposals because I do NOT develop plots or even characters ahead of time. I start with a couple of main characters, a starting and ending point for my story, and just let the rest unfold as I go. I know. We’re not supposed to do it that way, but it works for me, and I so enjoy the surprises as the story develops and my characters take over. So much fun! So long as they don’t try to lead me away from my pre-determined ending. Then I have to reign them back in a bit.

How do you get your ideas for your books?

Kathi Macias

I have ideas coming out of my ears! I am a seriously addictive idea person. You want ideas? You can have my overflow! My challenge is to figure out which ones are worth pursuing. Not every cute or fun or even meaningful idea that pops into our head is meant to be a book. I pray, think, study, bounce them off people, etc., before committing to moving ahead with one of them. For the most part, however, nearly all my book ideas are, to one degree or another, born out of some moral or social issue that I care about.

How can we find out more about you, The Freedom Series, and other books you are writing?

Please visit my website at KathiMacias.com.

Free book: I will be giving away my review copy of this book to a randomly selected commenter. Check back next Friday to see the winner.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for posting the author’s interview on my blog. This blog tour is managed by Christian Speakers Services (ChristianSpeakersServices.com).

Changing with the changes

2011-10-03T20:36:00.000-04:00

So many changes have been happening, I've neglected posting to this blog. I hope to change that pattern. And soon.

Lately, I've been adjusting to going back to work. Good changes in this economy.

Thanks for your patient understanding with me and this blog during a time of many changes.

A time to sort and a time to linger

2011-08-03T11:14:00.000-04:00

My 82-year-old mother-in-law died recently. Those who knew her will miss her smiling ways. She's in a better place now with more to smile about.

I've learned a few things in the wake of her passing. I don't mean to sound crass, but I never knew there was so much to do after someone dies. Maybe you haven't thought much about it either. I don't think many of us like to think about dying.

Did you know there are calls to make to cover hospital and hospice bills? Things to check on at the bank and with insurance policies? Arrangements for burial or cremation? Plans for a memorial service? Things to do to coordinate with family and friends coming in from out of town for a memorial service? Meals together, as time allows? Rides to the airport? Flowers to order for the service?

Someone has to do these things. We were fortunate family and friends helped out with so many details. And Pat's will and pre-arrangement preparations made some of the tasks easier. We were grateful.

And there was still much to do.

At the memorial service, we reflected together on a long and well-lived life now over. Oddly, being together helped fill some of the loss. At least temporarily.

Then there were people to meet. A line of friends and family wanted to say something about Pat's life or share a hug or wipe a tear. She touched and changed many lives. How could we know we knew so little about her?

Afterwards, my brother-in-law asked, "Why don't we say some of those nice things to one another while we're alive?"

Yes, why don't we? Why don't we look up from the tasks and things that distract us, so we can really see, love and appreciate one another in ways that connect us? Why don't we learn one another's love language and use it while we can?

The pastor expressed hope that people would think to say nice things to one another after something like this.

After a death in the family, time to reflect came in odd moments of the day or night.

But not much time then. Not while people expressed condolences before they returned to their lives.

And not when we went back to the house, her house. For there were things to organize and decide -- possessions, bills, accounts, taxes, probate. What were we to do with all these?

We didn't have all the answers, so we did what we could. And talked with others. And we did it again the next day and the next. We'll do this for as long as it may take. And, we're grateful for the help God provides through the process.

At some point something like this makes us think about dying. We don't like to think about the inevitability. So, we may not take time to prepare, even if it may make it easier for others who will have to sort through the memories and things we leave behind.

When I think about dying, I don't want to leave my things in a mess. Not if I can do something about it. When I look around my home, I see too many things. Everywhere. Too many couches and castoff books. Too many piles of things I meant to file, but didn't. Too many things I meant to donate that clutter our lives. Why is it so hard to carry them out the door?

I don't want things to overrun my life. These things take too much time. I want less of them. Not more. Life is too short to spend on a clutter of things. Surely someone else can use some of them.

More important, there are things I meant to say to those I love. Why do I think there will be time enough later? My priority lists have got to change. Today.

Since people are more important than things, I want to be more intentional in investing in better relationships and memories. I want to drive more for visits to a hospital or living room, invited or not. I want to write more notes, send more cards and timely gifts. I want to be proactive to share various ways of saying "I love you."

By God's grace, I hope some relics of these acts of love will endure if only as a good memory. Some things are more than things.

Yesterday morning, I asked for wisdom on what to keep and what to let go, where to help with another's burdens and where to carry and organize my own. As is his custom, Mater curled up in my lap. He's seldom invited, but always welcome. We spent a few moments of purry contentment together before I got to work. All those things could wait. Again. For, even if I can't get everything organized right away, or ever, or do all the things on my to do list, I want to savor time with this sweet cat. Life is too short not to.

How about you? What memories, things or legacy do you want to leave others?

Free ebook: Veiled Freedom

2011-07-23T12:40:00.000-04:00

Veiled Freedom, by Jeanette Windle (Tyndale House, 2009) is free this month on Kindle, Nook, Sony, CBD.com. This book was a 2010 Christian Book Award and Christy Award finalist.

Books: When a Man You Love Was Abused

2011-07-20T15:53:00.000-04:00

Special Announcement from Cec Murphey:

Today I learned that the Kindle version of my book When a Man You Love Was Abused is available for $1.99 through Amazon. The special will run through next Wednesday, July 27. If you know someone who loves a man who was abused, or if you know a man who was abused, tell them about this offer.

This Saturday, July 23, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, I will be involved in an important seminar to help those who have been abused and those who love people who have been abused.

Main sessions include: I Ought to Be Healed by Now and The Lies We Believe.

Breakout sessions include: When a Man You Love Was Abused, When a Woman You Love Was Abused, and Finding Hope in the Heartache.

For more details on the When Someone You Love Was Abused seminar, click here.

Life is Fragile: Live Like You Were Dying

2011-07-12T08:05:00.019-04:00

Life is fragile.

A few weeks ago we received serious news about my brother-in-law in LA. A few days ago we received a call about my mother-in-law. One is mending, the other is not.

So, instead of writing this week, I'd like to remind us all to consider how quickly what we know and see and take for granted can change. Below is a song that says a lot of what's on my mind, among other things, because of family events.

In God's great kindness, he has given us life, choices and enduring love. So, let's love one another while we can.

Official Tim McGraw video

Bucket List by Stephen Mara is a cool video.

Related posts

Live Like You Were Dying by Craig Wiseman shares the story behind the song in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Country Music.
Home by the Esh family
Christ Broke Our Chains

What would you include on your YouTube video version of Tim McGraw's song? Please respond in the Comments.

Betty Ford: Grace and Courage in action

2011-07-09T10:59:00.005-04:00

I admire Former First Lady Betty Ford's dignity and candor. She made her struggles to cope with difficult personal problems public and helped many.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

2011-07-08T23:09:00.003-04:00

If you're looking for an inspiring tale of courage and endurance, watch As Far As My Feet Will Carry Me.

The subtitle for the paperback edition is The Extraordinary True Story of One Man's Escape from a Siberian Labour Camp and His 3-Year Trek to Freedom.

Read more »

How to Read a .pdf eBook on a Kindle

2011-07-05T22:59:00.010-04:00

I'm getting to know my way around my new Kindle.

Did you know you can read free .pdf eBooks on your Kindle?

While I was looking for free eBooks on the Web, I found a Kindle tip that was easy to do.
Read more »

Book Review: ABC is for Circus by Patrick Hruby

2011-07-01T22:47:00.004-04:00

[Book cover for ABC is for Circus]

ABC is for Circus by Patrick Hruby
(Ammo Books 2010) is a beautiful book, designed to enjoy with a child, if he lets you.

The clear, vivid colors and enchanting designs in this chunky board book are delightful for children of any age.
Read more »

Book Giveaway: Pressing into Thin Places

2011-07-01T00:00:00.012-04:00

[Book cover]

This week I'm giving away my review copy of Pressing into Thin Places: Encouraging the Heart Toward God, by Margaret Harrell Wills, Ed.D

Learn more about this beautiful and inspiring book here:

Book Review: Thin Places allows glimpses of God

Ends July 8. I'll announce a winner on July 9

Leave a comment with your email address for a chance to win this lovely book. If you prefer, you can email me your email address instead of leaving it in the comments.

Book: The Principle of the Path by Andy Stanley

2011-06-30T15:17:00.002-04:00

Andy Stanley used a vivid analogy of a personal experience he had of traveling on a road past a Road Closed sign to discuss choices we make in life and where they lead.

Some choices don't lead where we think they do; instead, they can take us where we don't want to go. Stanley offers practical key ideas that can help travelers reach their destinations or cope with a Road Closed situation.

Read more »

She didn't have what it took ... or, did she?

2011-06-29T19:50:00.002-04:00

Gladys Aylward

Inspiring people come in all shapes and sizes. Some, like Gladys Aylward, are small dynamos.

This is the first in a series of stories about inspiring people.

Working wannabe

Gladys Aylward's (1902-1970) limited educational abilities and work-related credentials as a parlor maid did little to impress the China Inland Mission Center. She didn't measure up. She failed their tests.
Read more »

Have you read The Lost Tweets of Jesus by Ed Cyzewski?

2011-06-24T15:25:00.001-04:00

What would Jesus have tweeted? If you ever wanted to know, Ed Cyzewski could tell you. He's written the e-book, a red letter edition, no less. He claims he's "Uncovered the World's Greatest Ancient Digital Mystery." See for yourself.
Read more »

Blessings2Go

2011-06-21T10:34:00.005-04:00

Have you ever heard the phrase "blessed to be a blessing"?

Vintage postcard of banana tree.

I first heard this phrase while studying the Bible in Colorado. This was the unifying theme as we worked our way from Genesis to Revelation. We learned God poured out his blessings on Adam and Eve, and later Israel, so his people could be a blessing to others. In the New Testament, we learned Christ's work and teaching continued God's goal of blessing all nations.

Blessing is defined as "a special favor, mercy, or benefit," given by God or others.

Read more »

Subscribe by email is now available

2011-06-19T19:25:00.003-04:00

A new Twitter friend visited my blog and suggested I add another way to subscribe to new blog posts. She pointed out that some blogs offer subscriptions by email, but my blog doesn't.

Thanks to her, now it does.
Read more »

Book Nook Fridays

2011-06-17T11:14:00.005-04:00

Maybe you've noticed that in recent weeks the topic on Fridays revolves around books and authors. Soon, I'll include book giveaways where you can leave a comment with your email for a chance to win a free book.

In today's post, Becky Harling, breast cancer survivor, shares lessons she's learned and the books she's written. I hope you find it interesting.

Please feel free to comment and let me know what you think.

Coping with Breast Cancer: Interview with Becky Harling

2011-06-17T10:53:00.001-04:00

Listen to Hope for the Journey on Blog Talk Radio.

In this broadcast, Yvonne Ortega, national speaker and author of Finding Hope for Your Journey through Breast Cancer: 60 Inspirational Readings (Revell, Sept. 2010), interviews Becky Harling, a Bible teacher, speaker and breast cancer survivor.

Becky Harling talks about lessons she learned through her struggles with breast cancer.
Read more »

Protecting a marriage, part II

2011-06-13T08:22:00.001-04:00

I'm still very interested in the question Michael Hyatt posed in this blog post "What Are You Doing to Protect Your Marriage? Hyatt made excellent points and has collected great responses. A least one interesting discussion has spilled over into other blog posts. (Read The Lamb's Power: Building Character.)
Since writing a list of 10 things I'm doing to protect my marriage, one of my contributions to Hyatt's ongoing discussion, so there is something more I want to share here. There is much to think about.
This subject is so vital for us individually, for our children, our grandchildren, our evangelical Christian community and our nation.
Read more »

Enter to win a copy of Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Cat's LIfe

2011-06-10T06:01:00.001-04:00

Mater enjoys the scanner.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Cat's Life ~Book Review & Giveaway~

Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Cat's Life
101 Stories about All the Ages and Stages of Our Feline Family Members

By: Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hanson and Jennifer Quasha
Foreword by: Wendy Diamond

Enter book giveaway contest here. Winner will be selected on June 12, 2011.

Mater's antics at our house could fill a book. He isn't camera shy. He runs to the door when the door bell rings, always interested to greet strangers.

Service repairmen and visitors find Mater willing to help at any time of day.

Do you have a fun story or photo of a cat's life?

Think before you post: Sexting dangers exposed

2011-06-07T07:00:00.000-04:00

Christianity Today recently posted an article warning readers that the growing trend of sexting, sending nude or sexual pictures over cellphones or sometimes the internet, among young people is dangerous.

Watch Exposed, a 10-minute video

In this day of instant connections, it takes only a moment to dangerously complicate a life.

Do you or someone you love know the dangers of sexting?

Are you looking for Cheapskate writers with money-saving tips?

2011-06-03T07:59:00.146-04:00

If you're looking for new ways to save money, you might want to break open a copy of Jeff Yeager's book The Cheapskate Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of Americans Living Happily Below Their Means (Three Rivers Press, 2010).

While on vacation I saw the title and picked it up. During these recessionary times, I'm looking for economical tips. Aren't we all?

I read Yeager's book in a single evening. Yeager's writing informs and entertains. He includes many familiar and new tips for keeping expenses down.
Yeager shared stories and advice culled from fans of his earlier book, The Ultimate Cheapskate's Road Map to True Riches: A Practical (And Fun) Guide to Enjoying Life More by Spending Less (Broadway 2007).

Yeager shares humorous stories of his memorable trip from San Diego to Tuscon to promote his 2007 book. He traveled on the cheap by couch surfing and biking. A handful of stories push a few boundaries.

Who are these people?
More fans than he expected spent hours filling out a questionnaire on his website. Yeager writes these are independent and confident people who are living well with less.

Least likely to practice tip?
Dumpster diving behind a restaurant to serve to company.

Most hazardous to Yeager's financial health tip?
Many of Yeager's fans admitted they bought his book used, borrowed it from the library or read it in Barnes and Noble during lunch breaks. I bought Yeager's book at a used book sale. I guess that makes me a Cheapskate also.

How about you? What money-saving tips or stuff do you share with friends?

We remember the price of freedom

2011-05-30T15:10:00.002-04:00

Flag at Lincoln Memorial. Photo credits: CW Brown May 2009

Today, on Memorial Day, we remember ... the service and sacrifices of those who paid the price for the good of others.

We owe much to those who have sacrificed time, comfort and sometimes their lives.

We continue to live in freedom because of those who are willing to serve.

Thank you.

Does remembering the sacrifices of others provoke a response from you? If so, what?

Books: Helping others can help us get through hard times

2011-05-27T07:00:00.002-04:00

The Hidden Gifts of Helping

In his book, The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times, Stephen G. Post weaves personal experiences with scientific research, philosophy and spiritual principles in a discussion of how helping others brings benefits.

Post knows what he is talking about, personally and professionally. He has a long list of credentials, degrees, awards, and publications in the field. His personal and professional life regularly keeps him in practice teaching, advocating and modeling a helping ethic. His family members also follow his lead. Post shares the stories of how he and his family helped others during and after a difficult move from Chicago to New York in 2008, after 20 years in Chicago. Post's personal narrative serves as a thread that ties altruistic concepts together and underscore his theme.

Although the basic premise of the book is not new, this subject is timely during these recessionary times and worth repeating.

At times I found the book slow going due to scholarly information, philosophy and research findings. More anecdotes would have made concepts vivid and the narrative more lively.

Post is beyond well-qualified to write on this subject. His credentials are impressive. He is Professor of Preventive Medicine, Head of the the Division of Medicine in Society, and Director of the Center for Medical Humanities, Compassionate Care and Bioethics at Stony Brook University. Prior to that he was Professor of Bioethics, Religion and Philosophy, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University and Senior Research Scholar at the Becket Institute of St. Hugh's College, Oxford University. Post is president of the Institute for Research on Unlimited Love, supported in part by the Templeton Foundation, for which he also serves as Trustee. And the list goes on. Read more here.

Disclosure: B&B Media Group provided me a free copy of this book for review. There were no requirements for a favorable review.

Have you found helping others yields unexpected gifts? How?

Stepping through yesterday, today and beyond

2011-05-26T17:03:00.013-04:00

Lauren enjoys a step on the journey.
(Photo credits: M. Brown, c 2006)

Our Lauren graduates today with a master's degree.

Yesterday

Lauren worked hard to reach this milestone. She invested money, hard-earned money, yet-to-be-earned money. Money well invested in her future.

Lauren invested long hours, week after week, year after year, to complete classes, internships, and to master information and pass tests -- all this and more to fulfill what was required of her.

She did it. She did all she had to to reach this point. She did it one task at a time, one day at a time, over and over. She kept trudging, sometimes skipping, on the journey to today.

Today

So, today we celebrate Lauren's accomplishments. Congratulations, Lauren! We're so proud of you.

And beyond
The journey is not over. More milestones wait just beyond our sight....

What milestone are you nearing? What keeps you going?

Thin places allow glimpses of God

2011-05-25T07:00:00.003-04:00

Pressing into Thin Places:
Encouraging the Heart Toward God

Pressing into Thin Places: Encouraging the Heart Toward God, by Margaret Harrell Wills, Ed.D., is like a gentle breeze scented with hope that draws readers close to the heart of God.

In her book, Wills serves as a reliable guide on a meditative journey. She uses vivid and sometimes personal anecdotes, original poetry, and scripture -- all serve to encourage readers.

This small book is best read in a quiet room so time can slow down and attention can rest and linger on its time-proven truths. You may want to mute a cell phone or TweetDeck.

Thin places allow glimpses of God
In her book Wills shares glimpses of God at work in the world. She writes of difficult situations, a death of a child, brokenness and discouragement. She shares how we who follow Jesus and seek God may find a thin place, a time "when we feel especially close to God, where for a moment the spiritual and natural worlds intersect and narrow into a thin place, a place of sudden, momentary awareness of the deep presence of God."

Readers may be inspired to reflect and seek a glimpse of God pressing through thin places in their lives also.

I appreciated reading Wills words. This is a book I'll want to keep on my shelf so I can reread passages on difficult days. Time spent with powerful truths can refocus a discouraged mind to renewed awareness of God's love and faithfulness.

Read it yourself or give it as a gift to someone in need of an uplifting message of God's love.

Disclosure: B&B Media provided me a free copy of this book for review. I was not obligated to write a favorable review.

Have you caught a glimpse of God at work in a thin place in your life? How do you find a thin place?

What are you doing to protect your marriage?

2011-05-24T10:31:00.001-04:00

Together

Michael Hyatt, chairman of the board of Thomas Nelson, often shares useful tips and information in his blog. He also asks great questions. Today was no exception. Hyatt's thoughtful blog post "What Are You Doing to Protect your Marriage?" provoked a variety of responses.

This was my contribution to the discussion:

Here are ten things that help to keep our marriage healthy. (I'll speak mostly for me.)

1. I'm growing in my faith relationship in the goodness, provision and love of God. This is foundational for growing who I am and what I bring to the relationship.

2. I'm practicing faith, trust and love in my husband and our marriage.

3. I'm committed to my husband and our relationship. We've made a public commitment during the marriage ceremony 30+ years ago. I've restated that commitment to him privately at different times through the years.

4. We practice good communication skills.

5. We cultivate respect for each other in attitudes, choice of words, and big and little actions.

6. We practice asking for and giving each other forgiveness. No one is perfect and this is essential relationship maintenance.

7. We spend time together as we can. We find activities we enjoy together.

8. We give each other space to be unique. For example, he likes sci-fi and all things technical. I like different books and movies. We don't ridicule or restrict one another in the areas or things we don't share in common.

By Faith

9. I'm living on the growing edge. Sometimes the growing edge was a diet, finishing college or mastering a new stage of parenting. The growing edge keeps me just a bit different from yesterday and from getting stale or bitter.

10. I remember. I remember that even though I do all the good things I know to do my marriage is not completely protected. And I remember that God has promised to never leave me or forsake me. So, I remember to love, appreciate and enjoy my husband in my words and actions, as I have opportunity, one day at a time.

How about you? What are you doing to protect your marriage?

For Writers

2011-05-22T13:59:00.001-04:00

Writers Digest 101 Best Sites
MacGregor's Literary Books that Make a Difference
Michael Hyatt's blog, From Where I Sit
Mary DeMuth's blog, So You Wanna Be Published blog
Sally Stuart's Marketing blog
Rants and Ramblings: On life as a Literary Agent
Terry Whalin's blog, "The Writing Life"
Pyro Marketing blog
Publisher's Lunch

Treasure hunting

2011-05-20T13:26:00.000-04:00

As children, my sister and I enjoyed collecting sandy treasures. One December when bills overwhelmed my single-mother's budget, we decorated our Christmas tree with strings of shells, popcorn and cranberries. I was six and have seen many trees since, but it is still one of the most beautiful trees I've ever seen.

Recycling and price-careful shopping have become more popular during this recession. Concerns about employment, rising costs of everything from gas to food have combined with concern for the environment. So green thinking includes not only recycling newspapers, cans, bottles, and children's clothing, but also many other items now.

This week we've been shopping at the beach resorts on the East Coast in Delaware and Maryland. Outlet stores and grocery stores have been busy, but thrift stories have been busier.

Treasures abound for those who are willing to shift through decades of cast off items in various forms, styles and conditions.

For those planning on shopping along the Delmarva Coast, check out these shopping opportunities:

Popular shopping outlets:

Delaware tax-free Tangier outlets ... popular brand name shopping at discounts

Ocean City factory outlets ... popular brand name shopping at discounts

A selection of many thrifts in the area:

Beebe's Treasure Chest ... remarkable sales if you have time to dig. Twenty dollars can go a long way.
18675 Coastal Hwy.
Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
(302)644-2878

Encore Thrift Shop ... a haven for jewelry lovers. Several necklaces and stained glass items were tempting.
17689 Coastal Hwy.
Lewes, DE 19958
(302)645-1676

All Saints Parish Thrift Store ... friendly, clean, well-stocked variety. We picked up planting pots.
20673 Coastal Hwy.
Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
(302)226-3123

Depending on what you're looking for, treasures for your style and budget can be found along the Delmarva coast.

How has the recession changed your treasure hunting habits? Can you share any treasure hunting tips for others?

Book: Pressing into Thin Places

2011-05-03T17:26:00.000-04:00

This press release details a book worth reading when it becomes available soon:

Recognizing the “Thin Places” in Our Lives

Pressing into Thin Places leads hurting readers to a place where hope is found

Is there sustaining comfort to be found for the suffering, perhaps flailing, faithful? Dr. Margaret Wills, Ed.D, asserts that there is, and in her book, Pressing into Thin Places: Encouraging the Heart toward God (Brown Christian Press), she invites questioning, thinking, and hurting readers to recognize glimpses of wonder and to draw strength and find rest in the presence of a loving God.

Dr. Wills knows from her own experiences that life is not simple and that we all need encouraging words and reasons to hang on to hope. She offers these in abundance in this deeply personal, beautiful, and thoughtful work that summons authenticity and contemplation while soothing the dark night of the soul with kindness and truth. With transparency and refreshing gentleness, Wills tackles universal fears, disappointments, wounded relationships, and even death and beckons readers to pull aside the veil and to see into that “thin space,” as the Celtics called it, where all that separates heaven and earth becomes almost transparent. She invites readers to wrestle and be comforted by assurances of God’s love and goodness even in the darkness.

Pressing into Thin Places is a collection of stories from the author’s personal experiences, punctuated by her poetry and infused with biblical verses and rich truths. Wills answers questions like, “How do we keep from falling into despair when pain and suffering weigh heavily upon us?” and answers honestly questions about doubt, mystery, and the experience of not knowing. Wills offers insight for bringing biblical truth to life, wisdom to cultivate a listening heart, encouragement for the downhearted, reassuring words for the faltering, and comfort and rest for those in any stage of their faith journey.

“When Jesus delivered His Sermon on the Mount, He spoke specifically to the poor in spirit, the slope-shouldered individuals who had lost the hope that they would change or that anything about them would ever be any different,” says Dr. Wills. “He blessed those who had reached into their spiritual pockets and found them empty. He blessed those who were desperate, needy, and at the end of their rope. He offered hope. Through the book I want to offer hope with the sharing of a few ‘thin place moments.’ I encourage readers to have eyes to see that God gives us reminders that, though we are tethered to this earth, there is another realm of reality and to feel unified and connected with God through that knowing.”

A writer and a poet, Dr. Wills is dedicated to the ministry of encouragement and helping people experience hope, wisdom, and faith in their spiritual journey. She has written for a number of publications including The Journal of the Fort Smith Historical Society. She previously served on the board of the Arkansas Community Foundation. Dr. Wills makes her home in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

A portion of the proceeds from the sales of Pressing into Thin Places will go to the John Brown University Center for Relationship Enrichment.

Pressing into Thin Places: Encouraging the Heart toward God

by Dr. Margaret Harrell Wills, Ed.D

Brown Christian Press – June 2011

ISBN 978-1-934812-99-0/208 pages/softcover

www.pressingintothinplaces.com

Silver Lining Success -- Coming Soon

2011-04-28T11:31:00.001-04:00

Sunset in La Jolla, courtesy of pdphoto.org.

On Pam Kruger's website, I clicked on the link "Silver Lining Success," fully expecting stories of people who have battled through troubles and discovered unexpected gifts and treasures.

Instead I found a brief message, "Turing adversity into opportunity: COMING SOON," and a photo of sunlight transforming the edges of dark clouds into shining strips.

Even so the simple words "Coming Soon" ministered hope.

"Coming Soon" is a hope-filled message for the journey. When we're going through the storms of life, we need this hope. When we're still living the story and haven't yet reached a resolution stage, we need to remember God is at work. God is faithful. God gives good gifts to his children. When God allows dark clouds to obscure the sun for a time, we can be sure there are blessings to come.

Dark clouds cannot completely hide the shining light of God's love at work in our lives. If we haven't seen them yet, God's shining silver linings are coming soon for his beloved children.

Maranatha.

During life's stormy times, what messages give you hope?

Easter forgiveness

2011-04-24T22:17:00.000-04:00

Toby smiles

Easter. A day filled with so much more than bright outfits, chocolate eggs and marshmallow bunnies, as good as all those are now and then.

Easter. A day like none other.

Easter. The day Jesus broke barriers of death and darkness that keep God from his beloved children. Jesus opened the way of forgiveness, abundant life, and a way of love that never ends.

Happy Easter to all who love God's ways.

Love smiles in ways it could not before the first Easter.

A gift beyond ordinary

2011-04-21T20:50:00.000-04:00

Hand painted cover by Kristine Kriszick

Letters in our mailbox usually come in plain envelopes. But, last week, an online stamp buddy in San Diego sent me a hand-painted cover.

I'm not the only lucky recipient of Kristine's gift for creating unexpected beauty. Kristine regularly decorates envelopes she mails to friends and stamp collectors around the world. You can see more of her creative work on this stamp collecting website.

When I opened our mailbox last week and saw the extraordinary cover Kristine painted, I heard sea gulls and felt a hint of salt spray. Maybe it was my imagination. At any rate, the sweet-faced otter Kristine painted brought back memories of Marineland visits and days spent on the California shores of my childhood, of foaming waves, barking seals, delicate shells and hot sands.

Most mail we receive doesn't remind me of seashells, water critters and coastal shores. Kristine's remarkable cover shared beauty that transformed something ordinary into something beautiful. So, I wanted to share this with you.

How about you? Do you have a story of something ordinary transformed into beauty?

Writing opportunity: 2012 MOPS Devotional

2011-04-13T08:24:00.002-04:00

2012 MOPS Devotional Seeks Submissions

Never Alone is a devotional for mothers underscoring God's promise of His presence in her life - all the time. Scheduled for publication by Revell for a Summer release in 2012, Never Alone will be a companion to the 2012 theme book for Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) International.

You are invited to audition devotionals for this special book by sharing your own moments and memories of how God's presence -- or your yearning for it -- impacted or is impacting your days of parenting preschoolers. As we know, motherhood can be an isolating exercise. But God is there in the loneliness and most clueless moments, as well as those joyful instances we want to freeze for all eternity. Please consider sharing a part of your faith journey with today's 100,000 MOPS moms and others who can be encouraged by your experiences. Feel free to share this call for submissions with others who might have a heart for this project and a compelling story to impart.

Categories for submissions are:

Dawn: God is with us… in the firsts.

Nourishment: God is with us… and provides.

Monkey Bars and Cardboard Cars: God is with us… in laughter and play.

Holding Hands: God is with us… in our marriages.

Time Out: God is with us…when we feel overwhelmed.

In the Dark: God is with us… and in control.

Matching Socks: God is with us… in the mundane.

Duty Calls: God is with us… in our sacrifice.

Girl Power: God is with us…in our friendships.

On The Move: God is with us… in our work.

Guidelines are as follows:

· Submissions should be approximately 600 words, and if possible include a scripture reference pertinent to what you are sharing. We reserve the right to use a different verse if necessary.

· Devotionals are essentially stories: vivid, conversational, focused pieces that inspire, not preach. We want to help moms reframe their view of motherhood to include God where they might not have. Your honest voice is very important, as is your ability to be clear and purposeful. And where warranted, humorous!

· Your name, address, email address, phone number and devotional category and word count should appear at the top of your submission.

· Email submissions to swallace@mops.org. Deadline is June 1.

· Writers will be paid $50 for each accepted submission. Writers may submit in several categories.

· Please include a 50-word biography at the end of each submission that includes information on your own season of motherhood.

May God bless you and reveal himself to you in your mothering always.

Happy writing,

Susan Besze Wallace, editor

swallace@mops.org

A winning strategy to keep from quitting

2011-04-09T09:26:00.000-04:00

Someone has said, "The difference between failure and success is picking yourself off the ground one more time."

Like many of us, Michael Hyatt, CEO of Thomas Nelson, battles the desire to quit. He has learned not to let feelings dictate the outcome for his dreams.

Michael Hyatt shares his strategy for endurance in his blog post "What Keeps You Going When You Feel Like Quitting?"

For every important area of his life, Hyatt has created a list to remind him why he is doing what he is doing. So, when he is tempted to quit, he has reminders of the dream. Hyatt has written these lists for his marriage, his career in publishing, his writing project, his running, you name it. These lists help him keep going when he feels like quitting.

Hyatt does more than discuss the topic abstractly. He gets down to specifics by sharing his marriage list.

Hyatt's article is practical and useful. Sometimes I feel like quitting. Hyatt's article gives me a tool to use today. So, I'll make a list of why I'm blogging. I hope it helps me follow Hyatt's leadership to revisit why I choose to keep blogging when I feel like quitting.

After that list, I think I'll write one for parenting adult children, practicing hospitality ....

How about you? Do you have a winning strategy that keeps you going when you feel like quitting an important dream or relationship?

Canorus blossoms de-hacked

2011-04-06T10:12:00.000-04:00

Spring. Once again cherry blossoms perch on dark limbs outside my office window. Delicate pink hues brighten areas that have endured winter storms and turbulent winds. Songbirds broadcast joy.

Through the years our cherry tree has survived those forces and my best intentions.

Years ago, when the limbs of our cherry tree were infested with bag worms, I cut off the diseased limbs. Then the tree was so odd looking, I chopped down the rest. Why let George Washington have all the fun?

As you may expect we missed the cherry tree, especially in April. Overgrown azalea bushes at its base hid its resurrection for a time. Now the cherry tree is more beautiful than ever.

Last fall, I noticed bag worms had occupied several branches high in the tree. This year we'll hire a tree specialist instead of trying to fix the problem ourselves.

Our backyard cherry tree reminds me of relationships worth keeping. We all like it when plants and relationships go well with little effort. But what happens when problems arise? Years of inattention can make small problems into big ones. Good intentions, unfortunately, can be as effective as my tree care skills.

Love is always a good idea. Love that cares, listens, forgives and tries again and again to make things right. God promises love never fails.

Asking God to help is always a good idea also. Problems may savage a relationship, but they need not destroy it completely if the Great Physician, Doctor Love himself, is asked to help. He knows all about resurrecting people and relationships that seem hopeless. I'm told he's good with trees also.

How do you switch from hacking to healing remedies with the people (and trees) you love?

Mixing up traditions

2010-11-22T09:59:00.001-05:00

Turkey. Photo Credits: Courtesy of PDPhoto.org

Thanksgiving dinner is coming up soon. At our house, food is beginning to crowd shelves and counters. And I'm not done shopping!

I'm looking forward to cooking for family and friends. I love when we can get together. Those times are rare since adult children have moved to different states during the college years.

Traditions evolve
We customarily celebrate Thanksgiving at our home by serving a traditional meal of turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing and the usual fixings. Last year we went to a friend's house and sampled foods that were amazing. Laura will serve one of her mother's recipes again this year.

I love having many cooks in the kitchen. Everyone seems to enjoy pitching in. When our four children were younger, pitching in meant stirring the mashed potatoes or dumping canned green beans into a casserole dish. As the children grew, so did their interest in more interesting ways of serving green beans, turkey and potatoes. They have surpassed my basic cooking skills. As a result, over the years our eating traditions have changed.

As the older children have married, our traditions have changed again. The married children have two sets of parents who enjoy their company during holidays, so they alternate visits between families. One year they visit our home for Thanksgiving and spend Christmas with in-laws. The next year they reverse this.

Mixing it up
With most of our children able to come home for Thanksgiving this year, we're breaking from our usual Thanksgiving now and Christmas then schedule. We're mixing it up.

Since we don't expect to see Jeff and Allison and their two young boys in December, we're expanding our definition of thankfulness.

We're putting our Christmas tree up early this year. We'd like to celebrate Christmas with the young ones so we can watch them open and play with their presents. Everyone else will have to wait a few more weeks for their Christmas gifts.

I don't consider this blurring of holidays a cop out to commercialism in stores. Bending and molding traditions is a practical way to deal with distance and schedules, even if traditions are mixed up this year.

Rather then missing family members at Christmas, we are planning ways to double (and triple) our reasons to be thankful this year.

I think God, the giver of all good gifts, understands.

How about you? Do you have a favorite Thanksgiving tradition? What do you do when circumstances challenge or change your traditions?

When it's fun

2010-11-19T07:48:00.000-05:00

Attending Obama's inauguration was fun.
The Metro home? Not.
Photo Credits: (c) C Brown 2009

One thing why writing is fun for me:

I enjoy putting words to images

or disembodied thoughts

or a tsunami of feelings.

For me writing is something like capturing a moth and pinning it to a board. Then I can study the details.

I enjoy sharing what I learn.

How about you? What do you enjoy doing? What do you do when it is no longer fun?

Raking good will

2010-11-15T13:03:00.002-05:00

A forest view in Japan, vintage postcard.

Fall is a beautiful time of year in Maryland. Red, gold, burgundy, green, olive and brown leaves festoon limbs and litter lawns. This is one of my favorite times of year.

Raking leaves
I raked leaves this morning from our lawn to the curb, sweeping them across green grass. In years past, children would help by leaping into the piles I made, and crunching dry leaves underfoot. This morning a gentle breeze kept me company, rearranged a pile here or setting a leaf twirling there.

I didn't let new accumulations of litter discourage me. I wasn't expecting perfection, only progress.

Some of our leaves scampered across to a neighbor's yard. I watched my leaves mingle with other leaves I couldn't identity. My neighbor's tree was aflame with bright leaves that hadn't yet fallen. None of the leaves I raked were hers. Not yet.

Raking good will
It only seems right that a homeowner with a tree could collect at least some of the leaves that litter a neighbor's yard.

I don't pretend I scouted down every leaf the breeze ripped from our tree and threw onto our neighbor's lawn. But while I had the rake out, why not? Why not collect a few leaves from a busy neighbor's life before some blew on my lawn anyway? Why not share God's love in a small way?

So I worked in the sunshine this morning for a few minutes longer. And the breeze that had been rearranging my work for an hour began to blow leaves in the direction I raked.

It's a funny thing about trying to help someone else. Like autumn leaves, good will won't stay where you put it, it spreads.

How can you spread goodwill today?

Silence therapy

2010-11-12T14:56:00.000-05:00

Mt. Hood, Oregon

I'm enjoying the silence of a quiet house. Nap time! Toddlers are sleeping.

Nana's soaking up the silence as a camel gulps down water at an oasis. Soon it will be time to snack on real and pretend food, color, or hold a plastic potato head while small fingers fashion a face. And best of all it will be time again to listen to the uncensored thoughts and feelings of small children's squeals or cries or giggles or chatter or gibberish or grunts.

Children are delightful. Children are wonderfully exhausting. And, yes, now and then, children present challenges for creative problem solving and quick prayers to God for wisdom, patience and perspective. As ever, God is ready and willing to provide for our needs.

Sometimes I miss the time when my own four children were young. Now I enjoy the moments and sometimes hours when I can play with small grandchildren or chat with an adult child.

Resting now will make playing later and the evening's work more enjoyable.

Sometimes sleep isn't what is needed most, silence is. Silence has a way of soothing ruffled nerves and frayed patience. Silence provides a cushion from the busyness of the day so that regaining perspectives is possible. Silence provides an opportunity to stop the doing and be.

God is ever present, ready to help. In the busyness we may forget this, in silence we can rediscover our purpose and strength in Him.

Years ago, I wrote an article for Living with Children, a Christian parenting magazine, entitled "Oasis of Peace," where I discussed opportunities in a busy day where it was possible to find (or make) places of renewing rest. One example I included was the restfulness of washing dishes at night while Dad took young children into another room to play. No one wanted to help! And that was the best help of all for several silent minutes! Just long enough to catch my breath and then join the noisy social life of love in action.

How about you? In all the busyness of your day, how or where do you finding refreshing moments of silence or renewing rest?

Vote

2010-10-31T21:24:00.000-04:00

Don't forget to vote on Tuesday. Your opinions are important. Make the effort. Make a difference.

Reading Stronger can make you stronger

2010-10-25T16:42:00.004-04:00

Stronger: Trading Brokenness for Unbreakable Strength by Jim Daly, President of Focus on the Family, based in Colorado Springs, is worth reading (David C. Cook, 2010).

In Stronger, Jim Daly shares his and many others’ experiences with suffering that gave them the choice to be “Beaten, Bitter or Better.” Throughout his book, Daly builds a case for choosing to let the difficulties in this life make us better and stronger as we find our strength and hope firmly grounded in God’s uncompromising love for us. God is more than powerful, and He can do more than we hope.

The alternatives? We could grow Bitter, but that’s no fun. And why should we stay Beaten when Christ offers us purpose in and through pain and struggles?

Some of the principles are not new, but Daly’s stories and slant on a familiar subject breathe with the Spirit of God’s consolation.

I enjoyed reading this book. It is well-written and packed with inspiring stories and the type of truth that can be life changing. (Reading is one thing, acting on what we read can make all the difference.)

I also appreciated that he handled discussions of depression and experiences of trouble realistically and with great understanding and skill, unlike some writers who are handier with quick answers than with conveying a friend's astute compassion.

Daly’s words are like a healing hug, straight from the heart of God to touch a broken place, however large, or small or little half-forgotten.

Disclosure: A copy of this book was given to me for review by B and B Media Group, Inc., but with no obligations to write a favorable review.

How about you? When trouble strikes close to your heart or loved ones, do you choose to stay beaten, grow bitter or become better? Why? How?

Related links:

Stronger, by Jim Daly

Aging with humor and grace

2010-10-24T15:02:00.000-04:00

I have a stamp buddy in Florida who is young at heart. He is a marvelous example of aging with grace and humor.

Here is a link he sent me recently that inspires me to look to the future with a smile. I hope you do too.

Old Rock Stars

Why do it?

2010-09-23T10:07:00.001-04:00

In today's publishing, platform vs. content questions can inspire discussion among writers and editors. Publishers would like to publish great content, but they need to have buyers, so writers with a platform that attracts readers (and buyers of books) appears to be more important than working with unknown writers with a great idea or content.

An online writers group posed a variation on the question of "What is more important 'killer' platform or 'killer' content?"

In response, I wrote out the following thoughts. Since this is a big reason why I write on this blog, I want to share here also.

Thoughts on ['killer' platform vs. 'killer' content] are potentially deadly for me since I don't have a 'killer' platform. This issue is important for those making business publishing decisions. I understand that.

However, for those of us who have messages, we need to be careful not to let this destroy our efforts to communicate.

I think of a flower I saw while on a walk in King's Canyon, California. The flower grew deep in the woods, visible only by a few hikers. It bloomed in a patch of sunlight and was strikingly beautiful. I stopped and stared at it for a long time. If only the Creator and a few passersby saw it, the flower nonetheless was giving 100% of its gifts and messages to whomever would listen.

The memory of that flower inspires me to write to the audience God provides.

Publishers need to worry about the numbers of those who buy books. Christian writers need to write, if only to an audience of One.

Question: What do you need to do today, if only for an audience of One?

"Seeing God in the Wake of Loss"

2010-09-01T09:35:00.011-04:00

In today's Focus on the Family's Daily Broadcast, Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman continue sharing their journey of grief and faith since the accidental death of their five-year-old daughter Maria in 2008. In "Seeing God in the Wake of Loss," a multi-part program, the Chapmans share candidly about the difficult road they have been on individually, in their marriage and as a family.

The 2008 accidental death of their daughter Maria jettisoned the Chapman's into a journey they didn't choose. Not only are they grieving the loss of a child, they have struggled with questions of faith and hope that swell and churn in the wake of such experiences.

When feelings, questions, and struggles threaten to drag them under, they said they have been showing up for life. They're not going through this alone. God is helping them, and it is hard.

By Maria's graveside, Mary Beth spoke for a moment with her son Will Franklin, who was behind the wheel of the car that struck and killed Maria. She admitted that the journey is hard and would be until the day they reached the One who made them.

Although the Chapmans have not fully recovered from the grief of losing a child (does anyone ever?), they are speaking out, sharing thoughts, feelings and their faith in the One who holds them together and keeps them going.

Mary Beth wrote the story of this journey in her recent book, Choosing to See: A Journey of Struggle and Hope. She said she didn't want this story, but she is sharing it in the hope of what God can do.

Hope is a recurring theme through this broadcast. The Chapman's speak of their hope in what God has done, is doing and can do. They share their hope to spend eternity with this loved child. They also share hope for Will Franklin to journey well through the guilt he struggles with since this accident.

The story isn't over. By sharing their story, the Chapman's have invited us into their lives, struggles and their faith in the Overcoming One who is actively working through these things.

Since the accident, Steven Curtis Chapman recorded a new song and album, Beauty Will Rise, that speaks of the hope they have for the future God has planned for those who love him.

The journey continues.

Can you see God's footprints on your journey? What gives you hope when you struggle toward your future?

Dr. Perkins' legacy on justice endures

2010-08-30T11:26:00.001-04:00

Dr. John M. Perkins, the keynote speaker at the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference spoke on Justice, Compassion and Advocacy issues. Dr. Perkins has been a Civil Rights activist for decades. He accepted Christ in the 1960s.

During a panel discussion later in the conference, Dr. Perkins shared a story of the time he was brutally beaten by authorities in the South, to the point of near death. That's when he said Love changed him. Love, not hatred, filled his face as he spoke about those painful experiences.

Dr. Perkins has worked with writers to create several books on Justice, Compassion and Advocacy issues, including a biography. He works to change the world so God's justice can create reconciliation. God makes the difference where nothing else can.

The statement I found most striking? "I want to make Jesus Christ beautiful."

Books worth reading: Stronger by Jim Daly

2010-08-24T10:21:00.001-04:00

This sounds like a book worth reading. This is the press release:

Spiritual Strength Training: Life’s Challenges Can Make Our Faith Stronger

Focus on the Family President Jim Daly asks:

Do we allow our circumstances to define God or allow God to define our circumstances?

Click here to watch the Stronger book trailer!

While serving with Focus on the Family, Daly has come face to face with many people dealing with heartbreaking trials. Yet on a trip to Beijing, China, when he asked a local missionary the question “How do you pray for us?” the answer was eye-opening. “We are praying…for the church in America to get more persecution.” Why would someone viewing the lives of believers living in the U.S. ask such a thing from God? Daly concluded that ours is viewed as a weak faith in need of strengthening.

As Daly began to examine his own life and the lives of those with whom he ministered, he observed that trial and persecution had a markedly different effect upon people, and he discovered that those who chose to surrender their situations to God—painful though they might be—grew stronger in their faith, while those who chose to face their trials alone with resentment and anger often turned their back on God—blaming Him for their circumstances. Daly’s latest book, Stronger: Trading Brokenness for Unbreakable Strength, explores the choices that lie at the crossroad of tragedy and presents a vision of strength that the Church and families can cling to during hard times.

Using life principles and personal stories, Daly reveals the most formidable and powerful strength—the kind that endures and hopes even when all seems hopeless. Daly states a profound truth he has observed in the lives of fellow believers: Christ alone is the one true foundation upon which we must stand and to whom we must cling when the going gets tough. Christ offers this strength to us all—not because we deserve it, but because He loves us. Unless we choose to live in Christ’s unbreakable strength, we will live lives broken by bitterness.

Is God to blame? Is He punishing His people? Drawing upon his own life experiences and of those with whom he has shared his ministry, Daly indicates that the opposite is true. God uses every circumstance in our life, whether He orchestrates it for a purpose, or allows it to occur, to show us His great love and continually invite us into closer relationship with Him. Daly states, “If we believe in a big God, one who is mighty enough to create the universe and every living creature in it, who is still actively making miracles and involved in our lives today, we possess a powerful hope. No matter how traumatic or tragic our circumstances, we know that anything is possible if it’s in His will. We ask for the Lord’s intervention in the great and minute issues of our lives, understanding that His power is unlimited.”

Stronger: Trading Brokenness for Unbreakable Strength by Jim Daly

David C Cook/September 1, 2010/ISBN: 978-1-4347-6446-1/237 pages/trade paperback/$14.99

www.davidccook.com

A new look and title

2010-08-22T10:19:00.001-04:00

If you haven't noticed, or you're new to this blog, I've been tinkering with the look and focus of the heart messages I want to share on this blog. So, Sequoia Thoughts now has a new name, a new description and a new look. I hope you like the changes.

Come back often as we journey in grace to deeper understandings of the hope of his calling.

When love wears boots

2010-08-20T09:19:00.003-04:00

Lord, you establish peace for us; all that we have accomplished you have done for us. -- Isaiah 26:12 NIV

As a teen, I read love stories. I couldn't read enough. Some weeks, I read two or more.

So, my young heart thought relationships were all about feelings of love. Hollywood did much to sell that lie.

Although feelings are important, I've learned that love is bigger than that. Commitment is a vital component to a lasting love relationship.

Commitment does what feelings can't. Commitment is love with work boots on. Commitment decides to hang in there when times are good and when times aren't. Feelings come and go, but love's commitment endures.

These thoughts are on my mind this morning as I think about our wedding anniversary coming up next week. Thirty-five years ago David and I stood before a pastor, our friends and family and made promises I hoped we could keep with God's help. I must confess, I didn't really think we could get this far. My mother had been through two painful divorces, why should I live happily ever after?

But over the years our married love has grown and so has our commitment, one day at a time, one small decision to act loving and choose kindness, on good days, on bad days, over and over.

I was terrified to get married.

Marriage is an act of faith, a step toward hope. There are no guarantees. Promises are broken every day.

So why has our marriage lasted when so many others have not? There could be many reasons. I'm not smart enough to sort it all out for myself let alone tell you. I wish I could.

One thing I know. We entered this marriage relationship asking for God's help. Our commitment and love for one another included a commitment and love for God and God brought the same to the relationship. When I walked out of that church holding my husband's hand, I was also gripping God's hand.

Even so, could our marriage have dissolved at some point during the years? If it were only David and I clinging to one another, maybe. But with God's arms wrapped around both of us? He helped us.

If I'd been foolish enough to shake God's help off, I think I could have run away. I certainly felt like it a few times when life felt impossible and not fun. God's love was stronger than the situations that could have sucked us under, and God helped hold us together, individually and as a couple.

If anyone congratulates us for staying together for 35 years and asks, how did you do it? The secret is, with God's partnering, we've been growing in our love and commitments.

A marriage where God is also working has three pairs of workboots on the ground.

So if we could do it with God's help, could you do it? Why not?

On faith enough to do what makes us come alive

2010-08-19T11:32:00.000-04:00

Ask yourself what makes you come alive and go do that because the world needs people who have come alive."

- John Eldredge "Wild at Heart"

My only question some days to this inspiring statement is, when you're doing "what makes you come alive," who is paying the bills so you can eat?

I'm grateful for my sweet husband who encourages me to write. And pays the bills as God provides.

How about you? Can you stay alive if you do what makes you come alive?

Faith for today in the One who can

2010-08-17T07:51:00.000-04:00

Since my youth, O God, you have taught me,
       and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.
Even when I am old and gray,
       do not forsake me, O God,
       till I declare your power to the next generation,
       your might to all who are to come.
Your righteousness reaches to the skies, O God,
       you who have done great things.
       Who, O God, is like you?
Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter,
       you will restore my life again;
       from the depths of the earth
       you will again bring me up.
You will increase my honor
       and comfort me once again.

-Psalm 71:17-21 (NIV)

Unpacking

2010-08-15T13:44:00.001-04:00

For the last several days I've been attending the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference. My head and heart are packed with information and ideas. As I untangle them, I'll share some here.

Book Review: The Buzzards are Circling, But God's Not Finished with me Yet

2010-07-23T13:49:00.000-04:00

In The Buzzards are Circling, But God's Not Finished with me Yet Stan Toler combines humor with sound biblical theology as he encourages and challenges those who face troubles. During these tough economic times, this book does much to answer tough questions and issues.

Toler's messages address a variety of difficult situations and life challenges. Toler, his family and members of his congregation have experienced a bevy of difficulties, Toler describes some of these as a massing of buzzards and then shares folksy stories, anecdotes and relevant scripture to dispel their menacing presence.

The Buzzards are Circling, But God's Not Finished with me Yet contains practical wisdom liberally mixed with humor in each chapter:

When Your World Crumbles, You Don't Have to be One of the Crumbs (You Can Survive Your Situation)
Life is Full of Uncertainty ... but I Could Be Wrong about That (Gaining Confidence in Tough Times)
God Created the World in Six Days and Did Not Once Ask My Advice! (Letting God Take Control of the Situation)
Hold the Phone! Can't We Talk about This First, Lord? (God Uses Testing Times as Building Times)
When the Fountain of Youth Has Rusted (Learning to Cope with Life's Challenges)
Don't Take My Plate Just Yet, I'm Getting Up Enough Courage to Finish the Broccoli (Surviving the Lean and Mean Times)
Everything isn't Relative; I've Also Got Some Good Friends (Good Relationships Help Us Through Tough Times)
Help, I've Fallen, and I Don't Want to Get Up (Settling the Issues That Hinder Healing)
I Know I'm Lost, but the Scenery's Spectacular! (Finding the Purpose in the Problem)
The Undertaker May Be Smiling, but God's Not Finished with Me Yet (Finding Hope above the Hardship)

Stan Toler is senior pastor of Trinity Church of the Nazarene, Oklahoma City, OK, and is the author of more than seventy books.

God's love is limitless

2010-07-15T07:57:00.004-04:00

In a recent Upper Room devotional, Mike Macdonald wrote: "Our Creator knows our limitations. While desiring our best, God is not surprised or thwarted when we fail to live up to the divine hope for us. God's love for us is even more abundant and unconditional than parents' love for their children."

We'll run into people (we may be one of them) who can't communicate God's great love for us as we are, where we are. God's love stretches beyond our understanding. God's love is unconditional, it knows no limits.

God's love reaches beyond our faults, failures and limits. These don't surprise him. Nothing, the scriptures says, nothing can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8).

Books: God Knows My Name: Never Forgotten, Forever Loved

2010-07-14T07:29:00.005-04:00

Have you ever had one of those days when you want to climb into the sudsy tub of God's love and soak out the tensions and strains of the day?

If ever a book massages and soothes a weary spirit, this book does. The messages and tone of God Knows My Name communicate everything a beloved child of God needs to know about the heart of God toward those who believe.

This book is biblically sound in a warm, conversational way.

I hope you or someone you love reads God Knows My Name: Never Forgotten, Forever Loved, by Beth Redman.

On "Trusted Advisors" by Michael Hyatt

2010-07-13T07:13:00.000-04:00

Michael Hyatt often writes helpful blog posts. Today is a great one, full of practical and wise points.

Who Are Your "Trusted Advisors"?

Finding solid footing in God's love

2010-07-12T09:25:00.003-04:00

I'm meditating on rejection today. That isn't true. That's too tame a word. I'm wrestling with rejection today. Some days it's a mud wrestling match. I'm slipping. My feet and heart are reaching for the stone foundation of Christ's love and truth so I can get a better footing.

There's a lot of rejection in this life. If you work as a contractor, freelance writer or artist, you run into rejection. If you apply for jobs or compete for better positions, you run into being judged and possibly found short of someone's expectations. If you're in the dating phase of relationships, you may feel rejected many times.

Sometimes you know why you're rejected, sometimes not. Sometimes you're at fault and there is something you can do to improve. Sometimes when you don't measure up, the other may be using a faulty measuring tape. The difference isn't always clear.

Jesus dealt with rejection. He was "the stone that the builders rejected" (Acts 4:11). Christ didn't measure up to standards and expectations. You'd think religious leaders would have recognized God's heart in Jesus, but they didn't. In his case, it wasn't his fault. He was perfect. And he was perfectly suited for the work God had for him. It was the leaders and observers who used faulty measuring tapes on him. God, on the other hand, called him "beloved" and he was "well pleased" with him (Matthew 3:17).

Jesus was wise to focus on and stand confidently on the firm footing of God's attitude toward him. We are wise when we follow Christ's example.

God sees his children as beloved. Although we fall short of God's perfection, he reaches out to us and draws us near to his heart, not to condemn us, but to accept us and to work with us in deep ways to cleanse us, renew us and restore us into ever more meaningful levels of love and relationship.

When others count us out, God recruits us and teams with us anyway, in small places or large, where others see or not.

Jesus knew rejection and trudged on, serving as God directed. Christ's obedience didn't always appear to be successful, but in the long view, God was pleased.

God is in the business of restoring the broken and those rejected by others. God's truth strengthens our faith on firm foundations.

Is the world slinging dirt and mud? Shake off the dust, wipe off the mud, build your life and hope on the enduring truth of God's love because God is a rewarder of those who seek him.

Transitions

2010-07-11T15:16:00.000-04:00

I'm in quiet mode during construction and change. This blog is on hold for the time being.

Enjoy your summer.

Books: God Knows My Name: Never Forgotten, Forever Loved

2010-06-15T08:17:00.002-04:00

This sounds like a book worth reading:

Finding Acceptance, Love, and Worth

Redman helps women find their true worth in the eyes of the Father who knows their names

Click here to view the God Knows My Name book trailer!

In a society that defines worth by material possessions, professional success, and physical beauty, it is often difficult to feel worthy of God’s love and forgiveness. Sometimes, those who are closest to us, even parents and siblings, can deeply damage our hearts by rejecting the person God has created us to be in Him. God Knows My Name: Never Forgotten, Forever Loved is Beth Redman’s confident declaration that believers do not have to bow beneath these feelings of rejection and worthlessness.

Redman readily recognizes that no matter how good and whole we are, there are days when we all feel misunderstood, blamed, forgotten, and rejected. She wants readers to recognize these feelings for what they truly are—the enemy’s attempt to make us feel anonymous, illegitimate, and unfit to be recognized by our Heavenly Father. In the face of the world’s damaging message, Redman boldly declares that if we are God’s child, He has lovingly called us and chosen us for His glory. God bestows great worth and significance upon His children, and it is within His grace alone we will find meaning and purpose.

Evangelist and author Beth Redman shares her heart through poignant, vulnerable stories from her own life when she experienced the rejection of her father. Using scripture and tender assurances of God’s love, God Knows My Name reminds readers that God created them and loves them deeply despite their flaws and failures. Redman wants readers to know with certainty that God’s love is not the whimsical, uncertain love that is often shown to us by our earthly family and friends, but a deep, unfailing love that allows us to find our sense of worth in Him despite what others think about us. This encouraging book lets readers know that they are not alone in their struggles and that they are significant to God because He has chosen them for His glory.

Redman takes the reader through the truths found in God’s Word to show them that they are known intimately by God. Not only is He our Creator, but He knows our pasts, our choices, and even our future. Loving His children unconditionally, God helps and defends us from the enemy’s lies throughout every event of our lives and wraps us in the assurance of His unfailing and eternal love. Redman wants women to know that God’s Word allows them to know and love God as intimately as they are already known and loved by Him.

Ultimately, we are not defined by what others think of us when they hear our names, or what our earthly parents say about us. Instead, we find definition in the authority and power and compassion of the God who loves us. It’s time we heard His voice the loudest.

About the Author: Beth Redman is an evangelist, songwriter, singer, and author of several books, including Soul Sister and Beautiful. She is also the co-author, along with her husband Matt, of the book Blessed Be Your Name. Recently, Beth and Matt received the Dove Award for the Worship Song of the Year for “Blessed Be Your Name,” which they wrote together. Their combined song-writing skills also produced the popular worship songs “Let My Words Be Few,” “Facedown,” and “You Never Let Go.” The Redmans and their five children live in Atlanta where they serve as part of a team leading Passion City Church with pastors Louie and Shelley Giglio.

God Knows My Name: Never Forgotten, Forever Loved by Beth Redman

David C Cook/July 1, 2010/ISBN 978-0-7814-0365-8/188 pages/softcover/$14.99

www.davidccook.com

This book will be available next week.

As you are

2010-06-14T14:26:00.000-04:00

Cats are a comfort. They accept you as you are. Feed them, give them shelter, talk softly, treat them well, and they respond with love. Cats don't care who your parents are/were. Cats don't care what level of formal education you've completed. They don't care what your job title, or lack of one, is, nor what your net worth is. Cats just like you if you like them and treat them well. Simple.

I wish people were so simple.

God. Well, the whole God thing would be a nightmare if it weren't for grace. What we couldn't be and couldn't do for ourselves, God did, so we can come near to him and be accepted as we are, as Christ is making us into.

I wish more people were as smart as God.

I wish I were.

Shadows

2010-06-12T17:58:00.001-04:00

I haven't thought about her too much lately. She hasn't been around. He remembers her still.

It's been nearly a year since his wife died. Her sudden death swept him into a world without her. She was his best friend and more. He told her everything. No one, nothing, has taken her place.

Sometimes a sister or a brother calls him to see how he is coping. Sometimes he's glad to tell them what's going on. Sometimes, he said, he cries. Some men die shortly after a spouse dies, he shared. I've heard of that, I agreed. His faith is strong, he said as he wiped tears from his cheek.

All I could do for him was pray silently and listen. I let him share whatever feelings and memories spilled from his heart.

Death.

Listening to someone in grief casts shadows.

I don't think about losing a spouse too often. Today, I could see shadows of a future grief.

Hope and pain, love and grief swirled among his words. Faith also. He talked of eternal life.

There was a time I would have been frightened by death's shadows. Not today. Jesus is near to the brokenhearted, scriptures tell us. Have you ever wondered how Jesus can stand to get close, really present with those in grief? I think he can look beyond the moment, beyond the feelings, and see a brighter future.

Shadows remind me to cherish each moment, each person, as a gift, God's fragile gift.

God will swallow up all death shadows someday and, together, all the righteous will rejoice. That thought gives me perspective.

Love restores

2010-06-04T12:33:00.000-04:00

We've been walking through older homes for sale in Philadelphia in recent weeks. We have a contract on one now.

The home has character. A small vestibule opens into a large living room and dining room. The original oak arch separates the areas. An old oak banister ascends to private rooms on upper floors. In the rear of the home is a modernized kitchen and private back yard.

Many of the home's contrasts of old and new are enchanting.

During a recent home inspection we looked more closely at floors, wiring, plumbing, roof and basement. For its age, the home is in good condition, the inspector said, but it needs some work and money to bring it up to and keep it at a well-maintained condition. Some of the fixtures will need to be replaced, some can be repaired.

Love restores

I've been meditating lately on God's investment in us. He took us in our "as is" condition. He saw things about us that he loved. He also clearly saw the stains, scrapes, ruptures and brokenness. He chose to get involved.

Love cost him. Love paid the price, a staggering price.

Love has restored, is restoring and will continue to restore his children with good gifts, laughter and beauty.

The transformations earn God well-deserved praise and much joy. God shares all these and much more with those he loves.

Night glasses

2010-05-13T15:29:00.002-04:00

Have you ever tried to peer into the murky future? It's frustrating when you can see so little of what might be ahead on the path. Joys and future challenges are all shrouded in the unknown.

Have you ever stood at a crossroads and tried to see which path was better?

We make choices without fully knowing what affect decisions will have on our future and on those we love. We weigh available facts and pray. We wonder. Maybe we worry.

Fear can wrestle away peace of mind, if we let it. Fear of the unknown, fear of making a wrong step or a bad decision. Fear can paralyze movement in any direction.

Faith takes a different perspective. Faith looks not only at potential problems and tries to prepare wisely as time and resources allow, faith also looks to the One who promises to go with his children.

God loves us and helps us. God said he would never leave or forsake us. The writer of Psalms 23 knew God to be a good shepherd who could find green, restful pastures, and still, refreshing waters. God restores the deep places in those who trust him. As David was helped by God's companionship and presence as he walked through dark shadows toward a table of future feasting, we can also find the help we need on our journey.

Hindsight, some say, gives people 20/20 vision. The psalmnist wrote, surely "surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life." When the psalmnist looked behind him, he saw God at work for his good.

Faith dons night vision glasses and can envision goodness and mercy up ahead, not just behind.

Faith takes the next step.

Heart dreams

2010-04-27T12:46:00.005-04:00

Don't give up because of obstacles.

Keep trying.

Keep learning.

Keep giving your heart dreams to God

and asking him to help

with the next step

...and the next step

...and the next step.

Photo Credits: (c) 2009 Brown

If God is Good: Faith in the Midst of Suffering and Evil

2010-04-16T08:19:00.000-04:00

I'm reading If God is Good: Faith in the Midst of Suffering and Evil, by Randy Alcorn (Multnomah, 2009).

The section "Why Does God Allow Suffering?" offers readers insights on the following topics:

How God Uses Suffering for his glory
How God uses Suffering for Our Sanctification
How God Uses Suffering to Build Our Character
Suffering can give Birth to Joy, Compassion, and Hope
How God Uses Our suffering for the Good of others

Alcorn's book is wise and relevant.

I want to highlight one of Alcorn's points which resonated with a recent experience I've witnessed:

As dentists, physicians, parents, and pet owners regularly demonstrate, suffering may be lovingly inflicted for a higher good.

Not long ago, I watched as a doctor/father held his two-year-old child and administered a breathing treatment.

The hospitalized child yelled "No! No!" as he pressed the mask against her face, covering her nose and mouth. Assurances and soothing tones did not still her cries. The child screamed repeatedly. Sweat poured down her small face. She fought to free herself from her father's arms and grabbed at the mask. The doctor/father secured the mask firmly over her face again.

When the treatment was over, the father tenderly held the toddler while her raspy breathing slowed. She lie limp in his arms, watching Snow White dancing with romping dwarf friends on the big screen across the room.

How could the small child understand the procedure that wrenched everyone in the room, including her father, was necessary and good? Someday she may understand.

As an earthly father can allow short-term suffering for a greater good, our heavenly father allows suffering for lasting good.

I highly recommend If God is Good. Alcorn's book skillfully uses principles, perspectives and personal stories to reveal the heart and mind of God.

What do you think? If you've read If God is Good: Faith in the Midst of Suffering and Evil or other relevant books, what thoughts or quotations resonated or clashed with you?

Some day my prince will come . . .

2010-04-05T16:29:00.006-04:00

It isn't politically correct for modern stories and movies to let princesses get so embattled by problems that their only hope is for a prince to rescue them. That's the old style.
     You don't see modern princesses like Princess Tiana completely helpless. Tiana works hard alongside her prince to overcome struggles and fight off enemies together . . . all the way to the altar.
   In contrast, Snow White bites into a poisoned apple and collapses. From then on, she can only sleep gracefully in a glass coffin. She is completely helpless to rescue herself from the curse of the sleeping death. Her only saving grace was wanting the prince to come for her.
   Snow White models an important biblical truth.
     Ever since Adam and Eve munched forbidden fruit, death's curse has been capturing God's children, prince and princess alike, one by one, and we've been helpless to free ourselves. God's true love, in Jesus, has the power to break death's curse. Those who look for God's help, have not and will not be disappointed. When Jesus touches expectant hearts, they live again.
     So whether or not we marry in this life, someday, Jesus will come for his bride, the church, and there will be a great wedding feast.
     Now there's a happily ever after ending we can trust.

Related Posts:
What's Snow White Got To Do With It?
Beauty for ashes: Heaven, by the Esh family

Awesome God

2010-04-05T07:42:00.006-04:00

Christ broke our chains

2010-04-04T07:12:00.006-04:00

Hope comes in the morning

of sin,

suffering and death

... so we can
run

to our Father's

outstretched arms.

I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power. God put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the age to come. And he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all. -Ephesians 1:17-23 (NRSV)

Hope through dark times

2010-04-03T10:47:00.001-04:00

Today I am meditating on the day after Christ's crucifixion. This day in Holy Week doesn't get as much press as a joyous Easter sunrise service.

The time between death and resurrection can be a pain-filled and confusing experience of jumbled memories, questioning, regrets, and anguished prayers. When someone we love dies, something within us dies also. Some wrestle with helplessness and despair.

The disciples experienced many emotions after Jesus died. Mary grieved for her son. The disciples mourned for their mentor and teacher.

If you've ever lost a child or someone you love, then you know something of grief. Perhaps you are grieving today.

God doesn't leave his beloved children bereft.

God's story of redemption doesn't end in death, defeat and destruction, even if it may feel that way for a time.

On a dark day, a time of hurt or grief, I've learned to ask, with the psalmnist:

       Why are you downcast, O my soul?
       Why so disturbed within me?
       Put your hope in God,
       for I will yet praise him,
       my Savior and my God. (Psalms 42:11 NIV)

As helpless children, we can look to our heavenly father. Believers through the centuries have found God willing and able to do for us what we can not do for ourselves. Those who hope in him will not be disappointed.

Related posts:

Beauty for ashes: Home, by the Esh family

Photo Credits: Brown, (C) 2010.

Beauty for ashes: Home, by the Esh family

2010-04-02T11:57:00.025-04:00

What's so good about Good Friday for Christians? Jesus opened death's doorway, so we could find the heart of God, our home.

Eight members of the Esh family went Home after dying in last month's crash on Interstate 65 in central Kentucky. Read their story.

The song with the lyrics:

Thank you, Shirley Brosius, for sharing the Esh family's story of faith. God gives beauty for ashes.

What are your memories of home? What makes a house a home?

What becomes of the broken-hearted?

2010-04-01T09:37:00.002-04:00

Didi Benami was eliminated on "American Idol" last night. I expected she would be. Tuesday night Didi sang "What Becomes of the Broken Hearted?" During a mentoring session with Usher before the show, Didi couldn't sing the lyrics without breaking down into tears. She'd chosen this song, she explained, because it meant something to her, because it moved her. Unfortunately for her and the audience that night, Didi didn't sing the song well. And her performance didn't move her audience to pick up the phone and vote for her.
     Sometimes we can be too close to suffering to be able to talk or sing about it in a way that is meaningful for listeners. I think that was what did Didi in. Didi's delivery was too affected by her own feelings to allow her to sing well or to provide a catharsis for others. Then, when given the chance to connect with listeners by explaining her story, she couldn't or wouldn't.
     An emotional Didi left "American Idol," Teflon Tim remains to sing again, at least for another week.
     I'm not saying that feelings are wrong or bad.
     "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven," scripture teaches us: "A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, . . . a time to be silent and a time to speak" (Ecc. 3:1, 4, 7 NIV).
     There is a time and place for weeping, for dancing, for silence and sharing. Feelings aren't bad. Feelings are.
     I think there is a tendency to want to keep things light, to keep things fun. Yet there is a time, a valuable and appropriate time, to visit a place of suffering. I went to such a place recently when my granddaughter was in the hospital. I went there because I loved her and wanted to be with her.
     God's like that.
     God isn't sitting in a comfortable chair watching us on his big screen. God is near, involved, aware, ready to listen, ready to help.
     God can be trusted with times of laughter, even in a hospital room. God can be trusted with our tears. God can handle the silent treatment or angry words, knowing that he is worthy of praise. Our heavenly father loves us where we are, as we are, but he doesn't leave us there, alone.
     God cares enough to weather our seasons with us.
     What season are you in today? Are you turning up the music, dancing with a toddler to an exuberant Snow White song or an Usher tune? Are you wanting to crawl into bed and stay there until a better day dawns or at least someone takes out the trash? Are you able to talk about what's troubling you with a trusted confidante? Or, do you feel you can't share your heart yet, not even with God?
     In whatever season you find yourself, God is near.
     What becomes of the broken-hearted? Didi Benami didn't offer explanations last night. God can.
     God can sit through a season of weeping with us, if necessary, because he knows a time of dancing and joy will come at the proper time, if not here, then in heaven.

What kind of God lets little children suffer?

2010-03-31T12:58:00.002-04:00

Suffering children.

We've seen televised images of thin and battered Haitian children climbing through rubble in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake. We've heard news stories of children who have been brutalized by strangers, or worse yet, by parents. We might even be one of those people who was hurt during childhood in ways that never should have happened.

Real life isn't Disneyland. Not all tigers are toys or a friendly person who is dressed in a plush costume.

How can a teacher or parent or any caring person see a hurting child and not say something, do something, to help?

I don't know how doctors can stand to watch a screaming and bleeding child be carried into an emergency room.

If we can care, why doesn't God seem to care?

How can God have any kind of joy and peace while he sits in front of his big screen and watches children struggle and cry? How can God keep silent about what he sees? How can God let his children suffer and continue to suffer for any period of time, even for a minute? What kind of good heavenly father is that who gave people free choice and set us all loose on this planet with people dangers, environmental dangers and who knows what else?

Incredible. If I didn't know Jesus, I'd be really angry at our Heavenly Father.

I think Christians may have a tough time explaining that God is good and loving to some thinking and caring people who show up in church this coming Sunday in Easter outfits. And they may not have many opportunities to have this discussion with those who refuse to go anywhere near a church. All are welcome here. Let's talk.

Let's get real. God's big enough to handle the truth. You don't think he's heard people asking this question?

Well, he's heard plenty from me. This isn't a topic he's afraid of. Not the God I know.

I'm willing to discuss this topic with anyone who wants to. Or if you just want to listen in, that's okay, too.

I have thoughts on the subject which I'll share on this blog over a series of entries; this is too big an issue to address in a single post. I'll also share insights and thoughts others have expressed. You're welcome to chime in.

I'd like to hear your thoughts if you want to share your experiences, your questions, what you've learned or what you believe. We can agree or disagree, but let's be respectful.

What does Snow White have to do with it?

2010-03-30T13:39:00.001-04:00

My granddaughter, 2 1/2, loves Snow White. Of course, she puts it differently. She says she IS Snow White. There is definitely a resemblance.

In recent days and months, I've watched Disney's "Snow White" countless times beside her. I've become a fan.

Snow White has a lot to teach us about life, the world, faith, good, evil, how to treat others, and most importantly about love. We could probably learn a thing or two about what it is to be a princess (or prince), a beloved child of God, the King of Kings.

In conjunction with the Let's Be Real series of blogs I have on my heart, I will post a thought or two on The Gospel According to Snow White.

The problem of pain

2010-03-30T10:37:00.003-04:00

I find it hard to understand how a good and loving God can allow pain in this world. I've read books on the issue that have offered insights and perspectives, some I agree with, some I don't. Titles that come to mind are The Problem of Pain, by C. S. Lewis, and How Can Bad Things Happen to Good People, by Harold Kushner.

Some of the questions explored in the books included: If God is good, how can he be loving to allow pain in this world? Or if God is loving, how can he be good to allow pain in this world? Each author came to his own conclusion.

Each of us may have formed an opinion on the subject.

For a thinking person of faith, I think the existence of pain in this world is a HUGE problem.

What do you think?

Let's get real: Life hurts

2010-03-30T09:48:00.000-04:00

Sometimes life hurts. That's what I'm thinking about today, this week. You're welcome to join me in the discussion.

I have some thoughts on the subject. I bet you do too. You can agree with me or not. That's okay. I want to listen to you. I hope you listen to me. We may learn something from this sharing.

No holds barred. Let's have at it. I like honesty. Let's be honest.

The Scriptures say, "You will know the truth and the truth will set you free." I believe truth can hurt. I also believe we can become freer people by exposing ourselves to Truth -- our truth, another's truth, God's truth.

Let's not be afraid of speaking or hearing truth as we know it. But, let's be respectful of one another while we share...

This is Holy Week for Christians. Good Friday is coming up soon. I'd like to start this discussion with something worth talking about.... the problem of pain. Is it a problem? Is God good? Is God loving? What kind of Father in heaven would let his children get hurt? What kind of God would give people free choice and allow them to hurt one another? Those are some of the questions I want to get real about.

Changing times, changing roles

2010-03-24T13:15:00.000-04:00

This week I'm Nana, helping with grand kids while their parents work nights. That's a different role than the independence I experience most of the time at home.

As I understand the Nana role, correct me if I'm wrong, Nanas aren't in charge. Oh, for some moments and some tasks, maybe, when parents aren't around, but not in the way Moms and Dads are in charge. And not when they're home.

Over time a parent's role changes from being a parent to helping an adult child be the parent. That's part of the Nana role I'm talking about. Tricky stuff.

It's challenging to slip wisely and gracefully into the Nana (or grandparent) role. Sometimes it feels like snapping on a scuba mask, squeezing into a wetsuit and fumbling with fins. It takes time and attention not to trip. I have bruises to prove it.

Wearing a Nana role includes slipping in a mouth piece. Good thing. It can get a bit bloody biting that tongue. Especially a big tongue like mine. Better to have something to slow down rash words and guard a hasty tongue.

Sometimes I've forgotten to slip on the mouth gear of discretion, and then -- ouch! -- down slam my teeth. But too late.

How easy it is to say something that offends, or do something, or not do something, or not say something! Whew!

Good intentions don't always reap good results. In those times I'm grateful for cleansing, healing prayer for myself and for whatever damage I may have done to others. Then I remind myself to pray for wisdom before opening my Nana mouth again.

Yes, I know. Being a Nana doesn't always mean biting a tongue. Some things may need to be said but at the right time and in the right spirit. More often it may be wise to be silent and pray. Good communication helps. Forgiveness helps.

Wisdom wears God's love in all interactions with adult children and their children, even if it feels like a tight scuba outfit and an uncomfortable mouthpiece at times.

How about you? What gear helps in your roles and relationships?

Are you bearing heavy loads?

2010-02-24T11:04:00.001-05:00

Broken tree limbs litter grounds outside my office window. A recent snowstorm dumped record levels of snow onto branches, lawns, roofs and roads. Several roofs collapsed in the region, many more limbs buckled under the weight of February's snow.

Younger limbs higher on the conifers survived the storm. Older limbs were not as fortunate. The younger limbs have less area, less capacity, to hold wet snow as it sifts through the sky and slips from higher branches. Lower, older limbs which have stretched to gather sunshine further from the trunk have more surface area. Surface area can be an advantage for synthesizing sunshine, but a disadvantage when wet snow clings in heavy clumps. Some limbs broke under the weights of the storm and now litter lawns.

This image reminds me of workloads. During this time of economic challenges, when more employers are cutting back, are you being asked to carry heavier work loads? Are fewer people volunteering to help a community project or in the church, yet needs are increasing?

How do you carry heavy work loads and survive?

Taming tech anxiety begins with remembering

2010-02-19T18:40:00.014-05:00

I like to joke now and then about struggles I've had with computers. It helps to remember. It may help to share.

As a Web worker for our local church, I meet people with diverse attitudes and comfort levels with technology. Some are excited, some cooperative, and some are outright hostile.

A Web worker in the local church may enjoy spreading the word of Christ's love on the Web site, but loving words are needed behind the scenes as well, especially for those who resist change the loudest.

When I can listen and recognize frustrations or fears I've once felt, I'm in a better place to pray. When I can hear, "I don't want to have anything to do with the Web site" and not expect him to change, that gives him space to own his feelings as the whirlwind of technology invades more and more of his once familiar world and also his church routines.

Mastering technology is important, but it isn't the most important part of Web work for the church. Serving is. Remembering helps.

Yikes! There's a spider in my Web

2010-02-17T10:33:00.013-05:00

I work on our church's Web site. It is a wonderful way for a writer and Christian to serve in the church, but it isn't paradise. Or maybe I should say it is similar to paradise on some days, but watch those spiders!

Spiders are creepy, crawling problems, thoughts and sometimes people that unsettle my concentration on serving God. They have eight legs!

Yesterday I tangled with several spiders. Yikes!

Today is a time for healing from their bites. My bandages have a smiley and the verse, "The Lord is good."

Since Christ could endure the cross out of love for us, I willingly and prayerfully serve him now on a Web. But I don't do it because I like spiders or their traps. Sometimes I don't even like technology.

No, I serve the living Christ who said he was the Way, the Truth and the Life. Christ's way for me has lead me on a journey on Webs and through Webs. Although they can be cool, I'm not enthralled by Webs; I'm seeking God's smile.

How about you? What critters infest your garden? How do you fumigate?

Sweeter than chocolate

2010-02-15T11:01:00.004-05:00

I heeded a friend's recent message to live simply and invest in relationships. In the aftermath of several monster snow storms in the metropolitan Washington area, I helped a neighbor shovel her driveway. We chatted a little. It was a rare opportunity to catch up on each other's busy lives.

No good deed goes unrewarded.

A few days later she brought over a large tin of cookies as an early Valentine's gift. I said thank you, but "Yikes!" I didn't buy that particular tin at Costco during the holiday season for a reason. Many little, tiny, delicious reasons and several hard-to-walk-it-off-the-hips reasons.

For days our family snuggled in the family room with that unexpected tin of cookies. Snow piles everywhere we look have outlasted those tasty gifts.

The rewards of being a good neighbor are sweet. I like her smiles.

I think I'll give her several of my yellow roses.

How about you? What non-chocoholic ways do you try to be a good neighbor?

Dodging calorie overload at church

2010-02-15T08:15:00.009-05:00

Do you ever get the feeling that people are more interested in your wallet than your best interests?

Ads on television strike me that way. Yesterday, during footage of the Winter Olympic Games, ads frequently interrupted the games to entice viewers to buy this product or that service.

I know, that isn't news. That's what ads are all about.

Often I tune out commercials. I'm just not interested in most of the appeals to buy this and that. The appeals come from their desire to sell or promote their product or service. Most appeals aren't focused on you as an individual and what you want or need. Long ago I realized that and decided that I can't buy it all, and probably shouldn't. So, I try not to listen to appeals that really aren't what I want or need. That's healthy screening, and it is a good thing.

What about commercials at church? How are we as smart consumers to respond? What if those ads are "dressed" in appeals to support deserving causes?

For example, yesterday was a major fund raising campaign to support youth summer trips, so tables near the weekly coffee service were loaded with overstuffed subs, chips, and baked items. All morning.

It stuck me that this was an oh-so-much-like-Pizza-and-Duncan-Donut commercials on television trying to sell me something I don't really need. With one exception. The bake sale at church was for a "good cause."

I may need to eat, but I don't need to eat all those calories. I really, really don't.

Today, after consuming more than I should have of those good-cause baked goods, I'm taking time to wonder what Jesus would think of calorie loaded fund raisers at church?

I've come to several conclusions.

For one, I don't think Jesus would have as much of a problem passing up the brownies as I do. But, I'm not sure he'd buy them. I don't think Jesus would have loaded up on all the calorie laden products on sale yesterday as so many of us did. That wouldn't have made him a bad person. Jesus would have prayed before he pulled out his wallet, and he would have exercised God-controlled spending. If led by God, Jesus would have found ways to show love and support for the youth. Maybe he would have bought a product or two. Maybe not.

Speculating on what Jesus would have done only partially helps me, because what I'm trying to decide is what God would have me do in this type of situation.

As I think about it more today, I don't think the bake sale event yesterday was in the best interests of the consumers -- the focus was on wallets walking through the door for a "good" cause.

I was one of those consumers walking into that market place in the church environment yesterday, and I didn't see much that I should have bought. I looked for Weight-Watcher-friendly food alternatives, and I didn't see much. Some of the chips packages, perhaps, since they had nutrition information.

I was thinking that as I canvased the goodies, but then I looked at all those eager youths behind the tables, wanting me to buy. Internal battles waged. The baked goods looked yummy. It was for a good cause. The youth are cool. Youth events are cool. I teach youth Sunday school. What message would I send if I didn't buy and buy a lot?

So, I bought more than I had intended to. I blew it. Again. But this time, I tried to console myself, it was for a good cause. I pulled out my wallet in the jostling crowd around the tables again and again, to buy a cake here, brownies there, chips on this other table, subs from this group. Oh, yes, we did buy a few bags of left over lettuce, too.

I wasn't fooled. My head knew something about all this just wasn't right.

Today, in retrospect, I think I'm one of those weaker members of Christ's body in the chocolate area.

Today, the entire situation is still on my mind, and I'm thinking and praying it through.

Did you know that an entire US state (I forget which) has banned bake sales at schools because of weight problems? That action along with yesterday's events causes me to consider: Is it good to support baked sales at church?

Not for me. Not at this point in my life.

What would Jesus have done?

Jesus probably would have stuck money in a bowl somewhere and passed up taking bags of baked goods to his car or bus or bike, whatever mode of transportation he'd use today.

Is a church bake sale really a God honoring thing?

I don't think so. Well, I mean, I'm not saying having a baked sale is wrong. What I'm saying is that good-cause bake sales pose a problem for people like me who don't need those calories. We don't need appeals to help the youth by buying or eating calories that we don't need. Those appeals hurt us in a weak area.

The Apostle Paul taught people to honor God in their living styles and their eating and to refrain from actions that cause others problems.

Baked sales cause me problems. As a smart consumer (no pun intended), I need to be careful in the baked goods department.

In the future, if I can't buy (and eat) baked goods in moderation, I think I need to avoid baked goods sales. Even at church. Perhaps especially at church.

What about you? What kinds of good-cause fundraisers can Christians support that have the best interests of an organization and consumers in mind?

Living Simply

2010-02-05T09:23:00.005-05:00

I've been away, silent. I haven't had much to say. Today I do.

Our church is running a campaign on Living Simply this month. Big talks coming.

I've studied the topic before and I've been deeply impressed with some of the messages, so I can anticipate some of what is coming in the sermons. I've already read a message or two that have accompanied the church staff's campaign.

Living Simply. Not a bad concept. Not a bad pitch. Especially coming from sermons in today's complicated world. Life is stressful. Life is busy. Life is short and do we really have time to waste minutes and hours doing things that aren't important or necessary?

That's where the simple message of living simple can have an appeal to busy people -- return to the simple life of simple pleasures, deeper relationships and meaningful, not wasted, moments. Spend less, live more.

Ah, but this topic is frought with mine fields of simplistic answers and anything but simple motives.

There are people who sincerely want to help others. They want to free up the overstressed, overbusy person. They want to redistribute time and talent to help others -- isn't that what Jesus taught others in his ministry during this life on Earth? And he lived it, he didn't own a home or many possessions.

And then there are people who use the messages to further their own agendas or feather their nests.

How many people take up a Live Simply message and live it?

Living Simply messages that I think have real merit are ones that shift the focus from things to relationship, that is a closer relationship to the One who loves us.

Living Simply messages that harp on how much time we spend staring at the TV, listening to electronic devices, staring into computer screens or peering into Ipods or cell phones only partially hit the mark. It isn't technology or things that are the real problem, it is our attachment to them. The real question is why we do what we do? Living Simply .... for who? for what? and why?

What do you think?

Happy New Year

2010-01-04T17:37:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas.

Happy New Year!

Share the good news

2009-12-17T12:13:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas

2009-12-17T11:45:00.001-05:00

after a long silence . . .

2009-10-31T17:21:00.001-04:00

Happy Halloween!

Review: Talking to the Dead

2009-07-08T18:00:00.003-04:00

Talking to the Dead, by Bonnie Grove (David C. Cook, 2009) is a hard-to-put down first novel.

Twentysomething Kate Davis can't get her husband, Kevin, out of her mind. He's dead, but he won't stop talking to her.

Is she crazy? Why can't she stop grieving? Why can't she even enter their bedroom?

Kate's efforts to deal with her grief lead her to strange outbursts that strain relationships with friends and family. She seek's help from several counselors and a paster who are less than helpful. Finally she finds a therapy group that may help and she meets Jack, a kind and unconventional pastor.

But Kevin's keeps talking and his secrets won't stay hidden. Was Kate losing her mind? Would she ever find grace and health?

This book was wonderfully crafted with psychological mysteries that ring true and surprising plot twists. I didn't want to put the book down until I knew the ending.

I'd recommend this book. Excellent.

Hidden values of obstacles

2009-06-29T10:58:00.007-04:00

Michael Hyatt recently discussed the value of obstacles on his blog. He encouraged his readers to learn to embrace obstacles instead of resisting or resenting them. Obstacles can shape, hone, and prepare people for the tasks ahead. Obstacles can challenge and reveal our priorities and perspectives.

Great reading, good encouragement:

The Necessity of Obstacles, Part 1
The Necessity of Obstacles, Part 2

Michael Hyatt's comments on this topic remind me of what Randy Pausch said of obstacles in his Last Lecture:

"The brick walls are there for a reason... The brick walls are not there to keep us out, the brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something," he said. "Because the brick walls are there to stop the people who don't want it badly enough. They're there to stop the OTHER people."

Good to remember.

How about you? What obstacle do you face today? What can you learn from it?

Review: The King's Legacy by Jim Stovall

2009-06-17T16:04:00.008-04:00

The King's Legacy: A Story of Wisdom for the Ages by Jim Stovall, David C. Cook, 2009.

This edition of The King's Legacy is the second printing, a gift edition with a presentation page. This little book by the best-selling author of The Ultimate Gift is a fast read and attractively illustrated with black and white sketches.

The introduction was friendly, thanking me for investing time in reading this book. Stovall won my attention right away when I read, "My greatest desire is that your investment of time will be richly rewarded and pay wonderful dividends for the rest of your life."

Yeah, you and me both. In this economy we can all use a few wonderful dividends.

The story sounds like a fairy tale, of sorts, but a search for wisdom has timeless value, the kind that comes with dividends.

Stovall weaves a tale of an enchanted kingdom long ago and far away, where a king decides to leave a legacy. One of his wise men suggest that a legacy of the Wisdom of the Ages would be lasting and worthy of a king. The king agrees and so begins a search for the Wisdom that would be a tribute to the king and his rule.

All of the king's subjects are invited to share wisdom. In turn, the king and his wise men listen as each relate wisdom gleaned from a lifetime of work. Men from all walks of life come before the king to share: a merchant, soldier, poet, farmer, physician, jester, teacher, traveler, town crier, banker, hunter, historian, laborer, scientist, judge and elder. An outspoken woman dares to share lessons she's learned as a parent. Each subject has a unique perspective to offer, but the king finds it difficult to label any of their contributions as the Wisdom of the Ages, the Wisdom above all others.

Just as the king decides to end the search and declare the Wisdom of the Ages, the king finds the Wisdom he seeks from an unexpected subject.

This was something of a Commoners Got Wisdom contest that kept me turning pages and wondering how I would sum up wisdom to meet the challenge.

The kingdom setting and contest of sorts premise of the story make it fun and easy to keep turning pages. I enjoyed the search, listening and mulling over each subject's statements that contained a lot of wisdom but was it the wisdom the king sought as a legacy? Was it the best of the best? And, if the king's wise men didn't know, who would? How would the search end?

The King's Legacy is packed with wisdom, big and small, practical and timeless. It is informative but dressed in fancy costumes.

I would have liked to hear more women represented, but the kingdom setting kept most at home, talking to children and family members, not the king. Too bad.

All in all, this was a fun read as well as informative. The legacy when it was finally unveiled was satisfying and worth the journey.

The King's Legacy: A Story of Wisdom for the Ages holds timeless truths for any age.

When Early was late

2009-06-10T08:40:00.011-04:00

We've been exploring the history of the region in recent months. So, we visited a nearby Civil War site and learned more about the Battle of Monocacy, the "Battle That Saved Washington."

Some of the events of that Civil War battle inspire me.

In July 1864, Maj. Gen. Lew Wallace commanded the irregular Union forces that positioned themselves in Frederick, Md. when Lt. Gen. Jubal Early's hardened soldiers marched toward Washington, D.C. Wallace was outnumbered, but his inexperienced troops battled through the day.

Technically, the Battle of Monocacy was recorded as a Confederate victory since the Confederates eventually overran the Union forces and pushed them into a retreat to Baltimore. In a longer view, the battle helped to achieve a victory days later at Fort Stevens.

Hours mattered.

The hours that Early and his forces fought in Frederick gave General Ulysses S. Grant time to reinforce defenses around Washington, D.C. So, by the time Early's straggling and exhausted forces finally prepared for a unified assault on Fort Stevens on July 12th, Washington was prepared and successfully repelled the attack.

Although Lew Wallace's defense in Frederick couldn't keep the Confederate troops from advancing on Washington in 1864, the delay contributed to Fort Steven's success. Efforts in in the short run, even though they resulted in failure, aided a later success.

If Early had arrived at Fort Stevens a day earlier the story may have had a different ending. The fort was poorly defended by boys, elderly men and wounded from Washington hospitals, who hopped, hobbled and crawled on dirt roads to defend the capital. Late on July 11th and through the night, reinforcements arrived to defend Washington.

On the morning of July 12th, Early saw the reinforcements positioned on Fort Stevens. Although he decided to attack, the Confederate forces eventually withdrew.

If Early's forces had defeated Fort Stevens and advanced into Washington that July, the Confederate attack may have had a demoralizing affect on the nation in an election year. Abraham Lincoln had many enemies and people were weary of the war. Lincoln needed decisive wins on the battlefield that summer and fall to buttress his leadership and his campaign for reelection.

This story inspires me to think differently about failure.

Failure on a single day needn't mean a lasting failure. A battle may have been lost but not the war. Persistence matters.

Perspectives matter. A different perspective may alter unrealistic expectations. If failure fills a close-up lens, will a wider view of the situation reveal a different significance and a future hope?

What are you battling today? What can keep you fighting toward your goals -- beyond failure and past resistance?

For more information:

Battle of Monocacy
Battle of Fort Stevens

Photo Credits: Monocacy National Battle Field, cannon at Gambrill Mill, Md. Photo by C.W. Brown.

Thank you, Veterans

2009-05-25T13:57:00.012-04:00

Memorial Day 2009.

We attended the National Memorial Day concert last night on the West Lawn of the Capitol. The service was stirring and my heart is still thankful.

During Memorial Day weekend, perhaps more than other days, I think about the sacrifices and service you gave to this country. You risked much, and you endured unimaginable things during times of peace (I don't believe I could get through Boot Camp) and during horrific times of war.

As a nation, we have much to be grateful for. For more than 200 years, from Revolutionary times to actions in present-day Afghanistan and Iraq, this people has depended on its citizen soldiers and those who enlisted in its Armed Forces. You have protected and defended this nation. Thank you.

I am grateful.

Thank you for the freedoms and privileges we enjoy in this country that your service made possible.

Thank you for heeding the call of duty in times of your nation's needs.

Thank you for putting yourself on the line so others you would never meet could sleep safely at night and rise the next morning, morning after morning, to walk freely along the beaches and streets of this country.

Thank you for all the things you did that I don't know about, but God does.

May God richly reward you for who you are and eternally will be and for what you did, for we can never repay you.

And may those you loved find peace and purpose in God's everlasting love.

Photo Credit:(c) CWBrown, 2009. National Memorial Day Concert 2009, on the West Lawn of the Capitol.

Related Articles:

Arlington National Cemetery's Memorial Day Service: Obama urged action
National Moment of Remembrance: Can you spare one?

Memorial Day 2009: Commemorative events at historic sites

2009-05-24T16:52:00.000-04:00

Through out our country's history, brave men and women served on muddy battlefields or along dusty roadsides, in silent offices, battle weary ships or noisy planes.

From Revolutionary times to current events in Afghanistan and Iraq, this nation owes much to the brave men and women who've served this country well.

Memorial Day weekend commemorative events are opportunities to remember.

Being at a historic site during Memorial Day weekend can amplify memories and enhance the significance of this holiday.

For this reason, during Memorial Day weekend, hundreds of thousands of people visit museums and monuments in the Washington, D.C. area.

Today and tomorrow, the following historic sites in the Washington, D.C. area will have one or more commemorative events that are open to the public and free:

National Memorial Day Concert, West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol - Sun., May 24, 8:00 - 9:30 p.m. National Symphony Orchestra, actors, dignitaries and musical artists. Co-hosted by Gary Sinise (CSI:New York) and Tony Award-winner Joe Mantegna (Criminal Minds) Gates open at 5:00 pm. Free.
2009 Summer Blast Off!, Wolf trap National Park of the Performing Arts, Filene Center - Sun., May 24, 8:00 p.m. "The President's Own," United States Marine Band with fireworks. Gates open at 6:30. Arrive early, park closes when capacity is reached. Firewoks begin at approximately 9:30 p.m. Free.
Arlington Cemetery - Mon., May 25, 2009, 11:00 a.m. Wreathlaying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns, followed by an observance program in the Memorial Amphitheater. Hosted by Maj. Gen. Richard J. Rowe, Jr., commanding general of Joint Force Headquaters - National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington. Free.
National Memorial Day Parade - Mon., May 25, 2:00 p.m. Celebrities, dignities and bands from 50 states will parade down Constitution Ave, from 7th Street to 17th Street, past the White House. Free.
Wreath laying and "World War II Radio Hour" events, U.S. Navy Memorial, 701 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.
- Mon., May 25, 10:00 a.m. - Fleet Reserve Association's wreathlaying with guest speaker Ernest Borgnine. Free.
- Mon., May 25, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. - Live Music "World War II Radio Hour" (music of the Andrew Sisters). Free.
- Mon., May 25, 1:00 p.m. - Naval District Washington's wreathlaying. Free.
Air Force Memorial - Mon, May 25, 2009, 9:00 a.m. Keynote speaker is Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Rodney McKinley. Open to the public. Parking is plentiful. Free.
Viet Nam Veteran's Memorial, Constitution Ave. and 21st St. NW, Washington, D.C. - Mon., May 25, 2009, 1:00 p.m. Keynote speaker is Peter M. Holt, CEO of Holt Companies and the San Antonio Spurs. Featured speakers are Air Vice Marshal Kym Osley of the Embassy of Australia and Dr. Heidi Kraft, deputy coordinator for the U.S. Navy Combat Stress Control program. Free.

Related articles:

Memorial Day: Can you spare a moment to remember?

For more info:

Obama's remarks on Memorial Day Weekend 2009

Responding to a writing opportunity at Examiner.com

2009-05-14T10:29:00.006-04:00

I started writing for Examiner.com. I'm now the DC Historic Travel Examiner. Last night I posted my first article on Arlington National Cemetery since yesterday marked its 145th year. With Memorial Day approaching, this is a good time to think about those who came before us and sacrificed so we could enjoy the many freedoms we have.

If you're interested in history in the metropolitan DC area, you're welcome to visit my Web page at Examiner.com. Let me know what you think.

Got requests?
I take requests! If there are specific areas you'd be interested in reading, drop me a line and I'll look into them. Monticello is now on my list of places to visit and research.

Want to write?
If you're interested in writing for Examiner.com, they still have slots for writers. Tell them I sent you.

I enjoy learning about and learning from history. We can learn much from those who've gone before us, if we would only observe and listen.

How about you? In what ways has learning about or visiting a historical site been meaningful to you?

Related links
DC Historic Travel Examiner home page

Gustave Niebuhr: On "How Much Words Matter"

2009-05-14T03:31:00.005-04:00

Religion writer Gustav Niebuhr, author of Beyond Tolerance, spoke on how much words matter at the Evangelical Press Association convention in Indianapolis, May 6-8, 2009.

This may seem a strange message to share with a banquet room filled with professional editors and writers. If anyone knows the importance of words, surely these gifted communicators would.

But even experienced communicators may need a reminder during these economic times. When long-standing institutions stop their presses, lay off employees or decide to only publish online, economic worries can cloud judgments and distort perspectives.

Encouragement to revist reasons to communicate despite obstacles and economic woes is a timely reminder for communicators in any field.

I wrote down several comments that touched my heart:

"Words carry power and can be profoundly transformative."

"Something you say or write may embed [itself] in another person's consciousness and change the way they live and act in the world."

Whether or not you earn a living by writing or speaking, your words matter.

Photo Credits: ImageBase, domain free.

If you shared life-giving, transformative words with someone else today, what would you say?

National days of celebration

2009-05-12T11:00:00.000-04:00

Two national days of celebrating have just passed: Mother's Day and the National Day of Prayer. Father's Day and National Grandparents' Day are yet to come.

Mothers, fathers, grandparents and prayer are important every day of the year. Can you imagine life without any one of them?

Life without parents? Unthinkable
Without parents or grandparents, where would we be?

If we hadn't been born, maybe we'd be living with God, somehow, somewhere. But how would we enter into this life's reality without those specific individuals in our family tree who lived, loved and allowed us to exist?

Prayer gifts
Then there's prayer. Without prayer, we may not venture into life as fully or as joyfully. Prayer frees us to follow God's ways and avail ourselves of resources beyond our capabilities: love for others, including the unlovely; wisdom for all puzzles, big and small; strength for challenges; and all manner of spiritual gifts for tasks at hand.

We join our voices in prayer on the "National Day of Prayer," not because God won't listen unless we shout at him from large groups, but because God promises to be present when 2 or 3 or more gather together in his name. God hears our voices when we join in a chorus of petition and praise. God listens for solitary ones who call on him, trusting him to hear.

God makes himself available 24/7, daily. No busy signals. No hidden fees. Call while you're in range. Be daring in your asking. You may find answers beyond your wildest dreams within God's generous gifts of himself and his creations. He satisfies seeking hearts.

How do you celebrate national days for mothers, fathers, grandparents or prayer?

Photo credits: ImageBase, domain free photos.

Starting over in the 50s

2009-05-04T05:18:00.006-04:00

A friend at church lost his bookstore business. He has to start over, knocking on doors, explaining why he needs a job.

In today's economy, it isn't easy to find a niche where someone over 50 will fit. At a liveable wage. It isn't easy if you're younger than 50 either.

"You have many marketable skills. Someone needs what you can do." He tentatively nodded his head.

"It might take a long time to find a place."

Yes, it could be a painful search. Humiliating. Humbling. I didn't say this out loud.

Pain etched my friend's face. Age discrimination is illegal. Yet it happens.

In interviews he's gone on recently people look at him and express concern he will retire in a few years.

"I don't know too many people who can retire anymore. We're going to be working until the day we die, in one way or another." He nodded. "Well, you'll need to tell them that. You'll need to sell yourself."

We sat in the foyer of the church, discussing how hard it is to communicate who we are and what we have to offer in interviews. That's true whether you're unemployed, or considering changing positions in a large organization, or you're younger than 50, much younger, and face discrimination because of youth and lack of experience.

At any age, it's painful to feel shut out and see a wall and closed door between you and paid insiders.

It's painful to seek a niche where you can contribute.
It's intimidating to knock on doors and hope one will open.
It's humbling to ask to be considered to help with needs they have.

How do people with little faith in themselves or in a kind God deal with the wear and tear of searching for a place in this world?

I couldn't seek, knock or ask without some hope that who I am and what I have to offer is what an employer (or publisher) needs. I draw comfort from believing each of us is uniquely gifted by God and he helps us.

That isn't to say we can (or should) stay in the same position at a company our entire life. We may have to move to another employer. We may have to shift occupations to stay financially solvent or be challenged creatively. We may have to start over, not because we chose to but because circumstances forced us to.

In whatever situation we may find ourselves, God never wavers in his concern for us. He sent Jesus to draw us to himself. He wants to satisfy us with his good gifts.

God has good gifts for us, but they won't just appear magically. We need to do our part. Jesus taught:

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." (Matthew 7:7-8 NIV)

God promises we will receive when we ask; we will find if we seek; and we will knock on a door that opens. He goes with us on our hunt.

How long will it take to receive ... find ... or knock on a door that opens? What keeps you willing to do what it takes to find out?

Photo credits: Public Domain, Petr Kratochvil