Making a Bed for Jesus by Joyce Schafer

When my children were little I was always trying new ways to teach them the true meaning of Christmas. One year I read about preparing the crib for Jesus. The idea was that you took an empty crib (or basket) and made it nice and soft for Baby Jesus.

Starting the first of December everyone's name was put into a container and a name was drawn out every Sunday. For that week you were to do extra thoughtful things for that person in secret. Anytime you did something you could take a piece of straw and put it into Jesus' bed.

It was fun watching the kids sneak around doing good things and by Christmas Eve we had a nice, soft bed for Baby Jesus.

I wish I could say that this had such an impact on my children that they never fought again and continued to do nice things for each other but of course it didn't------or did it?

Today I saw my adult daughter taking care of her sister's two kids and fixing her brother lunch. I saw my son loaning his combine to my son-in-law. I also saw my other son hauling grain for his brother and helping with his chores. I realized that this is the adult version of putting straw in a bed for Baby Jesus and I am very proud of them.

Proverbs 22:6 Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not run from it.

An Advent Life by Tana Lemay

“The best way to prepare for the coming of Christ is to never forget the presence of Christ.”
-William Barclay

Have you ever noticed how Mark’s sermons coincide, or bump up against something that is going on your life? Sometimes it’s a pleasant surprise affirming that I’m on the right track. Other times it is a very uncomfortable poke in the arm; a reminder of areas in my life needing attention.

When the Write Sisters decided to dedicate this newsletter’s writings to Christmas, I started looking for quotes related to Christmas and stumbled upon this one under the heading “Advent”. Dictionary.com defines advent as an arrival or coming; momentous, of importance; the second coming of Christ.

In most Christian homes, Christmas is a celebration of Jesus’ birth. Some families follow the tradition of an advent calendar, opening a window on the calendar each day revealing a picture or item related to the Christmas season, leading up to the baby Jesus on Christmas day.

This is where Mark’s recent sermons come in to play. Recently he has challenged us to live each day as if it’s the day Jesus will return. Live our lives as an advent calendar. Presented each day is a window of opportunity to live for Christ, in His image. Easy to do? Absolutely not. At least not on our own. But with Jesus, the possibilities are endless.

The Christmas Tree by Donna (Ensign) Woods

The scent of pine fills the air...
Ornaments hung with loving care.
Delicate hues of hand-blown glass
...Keepsakes from the past.
A display of dazzling lights,
To warm the heart on wintery nights.
Decorations crafted by tiny hands,
Glitter and glue and rubber bands.
Shimmering tinsel of silver and gold
Cascading from boughs that gently hold....
The sweet jingle of a Christmas bell,
And a priceless story to tell...
...For deep within this festive display,
Is a reminder, of another day.
A splintered cross...no boughs of green,
No twinkling lights to be seen.
Twisted thorns, in place of tinsel bright
...The Earth trembling on a starless night.
Imagine Christ...hanging on that Christmas tree
His out-stretched arms, for the branches we see.
A satin tree skirt, carefully spread.
For drops of blood from hands and head....
Packages wrapped with holiday flair
A symbol of love He came to share.
From the cradle...to the cross...
He came...even knowing the cost.
As you gather 'round the Christ Child's tree
Look beyond, lighted boughs you see.
Unwrap His gifts of eternal love,
As angels fill the skies above.
Accept His gifts on Christmas morn
...Remembering the reason Christ was born...

THE REAL GIFT by Donna (Ensign) Woods

I want to tell you a story that is priceless and old,
A story prophets of old, wondrously foretold.
Gabriel, an angel of God, brought Mary the news,
She was the one our Father was so careful to choose.
Her questions were many, but she didn't inquire,
Wishing only to do what the Lord would desire.
To Joseph...how could she possibly explain ?
Her family and friends...what about gossip and shame ?
Faithfully, she trusted and was wonderfully blessed.
Always knowing in her heart......His will is best !
As Mary and Joseph returned to the place of their birth
A multitude of angels stood watchful guard on Earth
A humble servant of God to behold,
As the magnitude of His love was about to unfold.
Walking all day, over a rough and dangerous road
Or on the back of a donkey, she was a treasured load.
Weary from traveling all day long...
...Birth pains were coming fast and strong.
I'm sure she was a radiant, beautiful sight,
As she prepared for that very first Christmas night.
The Inn was full, there was simply no room...
But the Baby would be coming very soon !!
Imagine Joseph's panic, as he pleaded for his wife,
And the approaching birth of this precious little life.
Jesus was born in a small, dimly lit stable.
The birth of our Savior...it's not a holiday fable !!!!
There were no jewels or fine cloth for Him to wear,
But blanketed with love, and hope to share.
Hovering all around, were the angels of the Lord
Rejoicing the birth of One so adored.
Iluminating the sky, with each shimmering wing,
Now, our voices should echo the praises they sing.
Even the animals had watched and anxiously waited
And joined with the angels as they celebrated.
Ponder the true meaning of this season
...The birth of Christ is the only reason.
Take a moment to bow and pray....
Praise God for the real gift of Christmas day.

Season of Peace by Tana LeMay

Do you ever feel like you get no peace? Each day is full of its own strife, trouble, and business - endless to do lists, questions to answer, people to see. And throughout it all is noise. It’s in the background, foreground and all around. If it’s not the TV or radio, it’s a door slamming, or a phone ringing, or a child yelling, “Mom!”.

“Peace is not the absence of trouble. Peace is the presence of God.” -Unknown

I am not a morning person. I love to sleep in. Even so, each work day I set my alarm to go off before everyone else’s. Why? That’s my time of peace and quiet. The only background noise is the soft ticking of a clock, or the muffled sound of the furnace or air conditioner running.
I have two favorite spots to enjoy my peace and quiet. In the winter you’ll find me in the coziness of our basement family room. My summer spot is my favorite – our front porch. Each day is greeted with the rising sun and the morning songs of the birds. Did I mention I’m not alone during these moments? Each morning, I ask Jesus to join me. I sit with Him, soaking in His word and allowing His peace to flow through me, charging my batteries for the busy day ahead.

The hectic holiday season is upon us. So much to do – shopping, holiday parties, baking, gift wrapping, decorating, etc. It’s a wonder we are even able to enjoy it. May I make a suggestion? Start each day with Jesus and allow His peace to nurture you throughout this season and into the next.

1Corinthians 1:3 (NIV) Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

My Spiritual Life? by Theresa Zuber

Romans 12: 1-2 (NIV) 1Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. 2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

I recently read that nowhere in the Bible does it mention the word “spiritual life.” How interesting. I even did a search to make sure that was true and sure enough… it’s not in there! Why? We often are concerned about our spiritual life, aren’t we? The problem is God makes no distinction between our everyday life and our spiritual life. God expects that our lives ARE spiritual. . We want to compartmentalize our relationship with God, our jobs, our hobbies, our dreams – but all of it is to be offered to God as our spiritual act of worship. He doesn’t just want part of our lives – he wants all of us, everyday in everything.

The Message says it this way: Romans 12:1-2 (The Message) 1-2 So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.

God, help me to weave together the various parts of my life so that they reflect you in all aspects. Decrease my desire for those things that are apart from you and increase my desire for those things you have prepared for me to do. I trust that you have my best in mind. Guide me.

Don't be the Weakest Link by Susan Shull

Disclaimer: Please forgive me if I sound like your nagging great aunt- you know, the one you don’t like very much.

Have you ever considered your importance in God’s big picture? Paul tells us in Acts 17:24-27 that God determined exactly where and when each of us would live. In his wisdom, he knows the best circumstances that might cause people to seek him and reach out for him. He cares about each of us and has a perfect plan for us. We might think our lives aren’t really important, that the decisions we make don’t really affect anyone besides ourselves. But, thinking that way would be wrong.

Each of us is a link in a chain of faith from Adam and Eve into eternity. If the chain breaks with you, who will that impact? Generations and generations of your family members may miss out on eternal life and heaven if you don’t stay close to your heavenly Father, walking through life with Him as your comforter and guide. Kind of scary, isn’t it?

I am so thankful to have been raised in a Christian home. My church-going parents and extended family members have been a great example for me. Since I have turned several pages on life’s calendar, I can better appreciate the sacrifices made in order to be that example. I would love to be able to thank the previous generations for staying true to their commitments to the Lord, thereby making it much more likely that those who followed them would accept Christ as Lord and Savior. Now it is my turn to be the example.

Every generation, I guess, has those who are pillars of the church. You know the type-those who could be counted on to attend regularly, who were “workers” in the church. Some of those worked in a visible, in-front way and others were quiet, behind-the-scenes-prayer warriors. These people were the Sunday school teachers, youth group leaders, and casserole-toters of my youth and adulthood. They came to church and brought their families with them.

WARNING! Here comes the scolding-great-aunt-who-probably-doesn’t- know-the-whole-story-and-who-should- mind- her- own- business part. Where are these families now? It seems many of them are A.W.O.L., attending on holidays or even an occasional Sunday morning, hurrying out the door as soon as the last Amen is said, depriving their children and themselves of Sunday School, church friends, and possibly, heaven forbid, a relationship with Christ.

This just breaks my heart. God doesn’t promise us that just because our parents or grand-parents are Christians, we have a ticket to heaven. Each person must come to the saving knowledge of Christ on his own, but it will be so much easier to see the need if one is sitting in the pew every Sunday and in Sunday School right after that.

So….. when you are tempted to push the snooze button, roll over, and go back to sleep on Sunday morning, DON’T DO IT! The destination of eternity for those who will follow you may depend on your example of being a faithful servant. Please don’t break the chain.

CHRISTMAS EVE - Donna (Ensign) Woods

On your way to a Christmas Eve celebration,
You stop by a lonely gas station.
Twinkling lights reflect on snow covered ground,
It's the only thing open for miles around.
You hurry inside...you're running late,
Don't want to make the guests all wait!
The attendant wipes a tear from her eye,
You can only guess what makes her cry...
On the back counter is a photograph,
Of two small children with eyes that laugh.
The reason she cries is now crystal clear,
She longs to be with them...but has to be here!
A single mom works late on Christmas Eve
...The gifts a few, that Santa will leave...
A gift from you could give her hope,
As she desperately struggles to cope.
Be prepared for a time like this...
A chance to witness, you don't want to miss.
Pretend your wallet is in the car,
Let the love of Christ be a shining star.
A little cash in a Christmas card...
It's really not that hard.
Don't sign your name...
Just give the Lord all glory and fame.
Hand it to her... and walk away
Secretly bless her on this wondrous day.
As she reads the words,"I'm praying for you"
"God bless you and your children too"
Your car's long gone, as she cried...
Holding the "hope" you tucked inside.

This is just a little story...but it is also meant to be a reality check for all of us, as we enter into the holiday season. This Christmas is going to be tough for a great many people all over this country.

Children of single parents often suffer the most...as the parent has to choose between spending precious time with their children... or feeding them and keeping the heat on.....
....I remember.....

I pray we will all keep our eyes and ears open....as well as
our hearts, as the Holy Spirit places people and
situations in our paths.

Sky Angel Cowboy

This is precious!! Thanks to Susan Shull for the link!

I Am From.... by Tana LeMay

(Modeled after a poem by Georgia Ella Lyons)

I am from weekends at the farm
with a cranky pony named Ginger and a friendly mutt called Buzz.
I am from waking up to the voice of Jan Rush,
the sizzling of frying bacon and the smell of brewing coffee.
I am from the Dog n Suds and root beer mugs and
helping Dad bag Christmas treats for his bus route kids.
I am from Barbie dolls, paper dolls and endless games of rummy.
I am from summers at the Drive-In, taking tickets, boxing popcorn,
and five straight nights of Cool Hand Luke.
I am from tri-colored shag carpets where the wolf spiders hid;
from Fairground street, with the ornery Britton kids as neighbors.
I am from elephant pants and velour sweaters;
from Seasons in the Son, Elvis Presley and Elton John.
I am from formal living rooms reserved only for company,
family vacations, Cardinal baseball and VBS.
I am from fried chicken and homemade rolls every Sunday;
from strawberry picking and gathering eggs. I don’t like hens.
I am from 3 hours drives on Christmas Eve and unwrapping gifts at 2:00 am.
I am from Walter Kronkite, the Vietnam War and Watergate.
I am from John Wayne movies and Sunday nights dedicated to Gun Smoke.
Through it all, I am from my heavenly Father,
yesterday, today and tomorrow.

I Am by Joyce Schafer

(Modeled after a poem by Georgia Ella Lyons)

I am from John Deere tractors and Chevy trucks
I am from barns full of cows, pigs, chickens and kitty cats
I am from my dogs, Laddy and Stubby and my pet calf, Rowdy
I am from barefeet, mud puddles, bee stings and mosquito bites
I am from paper dolls, baby dolls, dress up clothes and tea sets
I am from hoeing in the garden, berry picking, gathering eggs and feeding pigs
I am from homemade noodles, donuts, bread and pies
I am from my grandmother's wood stove and her spiced peaches and
My grandfather's rocking chair and wooden cane
I am from my father's overalls and straw hats and
My mother's print dresses and big aprons.
I am from my sister's hand-me-downs and
My brother's put-me-downs
I am from learning to sew in 4-H, playing my saophone in the band and singing in church
I am from my pink bedroom with little pink chair, green frog, and white fluffy dog.
I am from work before play, early to bed and early to rise, get good grades,
dress like a girl and don't talk back.
I am from God and I am blessed

God is in Control! by Theresa Zuber

Daniel 2:20-21 (The Message) says

"Blessed be the name of God,
forever and ever.
He knows all, does all:
He changes the seasons and guides history,
He raises up kings and also brings them down,"

I have to say that I am concerned about where our world is headed. Regardless of who won the election, our nation has gotten itself in a disastrous situation with disregard for human life, deteriorating morals and has adopted a completely self-centered focus.

That said, I still claim the promise that God knows all and that he raises up kings and brings them down. Therefore, I may be concerned, but I'm not worried. I don't fret over what's going to happen, because I know that God is in control of it all! It helps me have the hope that it's all going to work out.

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Vote!!! Take a stand on moral issues!

Teach me to Dance - Theresa Zuber

Beautiful.

Peaceful.

Quiet. Sunshine.

Rest. Calm.

Deep breath.

Relax.

Focus.

Stress ebbs away with the river. Nothing to do but write and read.

Where will you take me, oh Creator? What path have you PREPARED for me to go down today? I trust you to be my guide. TODAY I promise not to run ahead but to follow. Lead me to the beautiful places you have in store for me. I can hardly wait to see you - your character - your spirit - as you reveal yourself to me today.

Guide my mind, my words, as you teach me.

Daddy - let me stand on your feet as you teach me to dance YOUR dance!

Isaiah 30:21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it."

Psalm 40:5 "Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare."

Where I Am From - by Donna (Ensign) Woods

(Modeled after a poem by Georgia Ella Lyons)

I am from 40th and plum...
40 miles from No-where and Plum out in the sticks
...as my Daddy used to say...
Strasburg, Illinois

I am from the screen door slamming
and cookies baking.
I am from simple times, hard work and good neighbors.
Noodles drying on the kitchen table,
Dinner rolls, apple pies and macaroni and cheese.

I'm from huge gardens, canning rings,
and the sound a mason jars sealing.
I am from 13 County fairs,
Perfect vegetables on plates of 5,
Display baskets, crepe paper and parsley.

I am from Bob and Wanda
Number 4 of 5.
Long days, short nights and cold winters
I am from the oil burner...
Standing close...warming one side at a time.
I am from everything olive green.

I am from the wringer washer on the back porch
and clothes hung neatly on the line.
I am from the grape arbor and
The sweet smell of spearmint.
I am from 4-H and Home Ec,
Learn it all...Do it all !!

I am from Bogie, Pepper, Smitty
and my little Tony dog.
I am from mud between my toes and
the dirt road hill.... with the old iron bridge,
waiting at the bottom, just for me.
I am from trails through the timber
and the mushroom patch.
Blackberries and chigger bites.

I am from the chicken house,
Feathers, butchering and frying.
I am from tricycles and mud puddles
lightning bugs and home made dresses
...polyester double knit.

I am from troll dolls and Barbie dolls
and the Box Elder tree...
Hot Wheels cars and a road of pretend
around the trunk.
I am from art class and Mrs. Ray
Sketching, painting and the pottery wheel.
I am from the writing desk
and the fine point pen.

I am from the angel in the Christmas pagent
White sheet gown and wings of tin foil and cardboard.
I am from Duck-Duck Goose and
Red Rover Red Rover.
I am from the Carom board and Monopoly
and the card table tent.

I am from monsters in the attic and under the bed...
Creaky stairs and a vivid imagination!!
I am from Nancy Drew mysteries
and Gilligan's Island
I am from Precious and Few, Time in a Bottle,
and Love Story.
Lost in the 70's, bell bottoms and
the Vietnam war...

I am from basketball games and Comet Power.
Listening with tears in my eyes as
the National Anthem played.
I am from green and white pom- poms
and School Song...
A shiny gym floor and popcorn.

I am from the cow pasture and the metal gate
...fishing June bugs out of the water tank...
I am from the majestic old acorn tree
that always stood watch over me.

I am from hope and promise
yesterday, today and tomorrow,
...I am from God's plan...

Where I am From... Who am I? by Jaime Reynolds

(Welcome Jaime!! Glad to see your first post!)

(Modeled after a poem by Georgia Ella Lyons)

I am from Jerry and Donna Haycraft
and later in life...blessed with Jerry Woods
I am from a single Mom, working two jobs,
...just to make ends meet.
I am from Grandpa Bob and Grandma Short.
I am from Strasburg, Illinois...a big hole in the Earth
...but it's where I called home.
I am from hiding in cabinets
and playing with pots and pans
I am from a Strawberry Shortcake bedroom.
I am from Cabbage Patch dolls and Barbie dolls.
I am from chicken coops, hog barns and sale barns.
I am from playing in water filled ditches,
after a heavy rain, with my brothers.
I am from playing in the creek with my brothers and cousins
...and Grandma Lucy never knew where we were ...
I am from big brother's hits, kicks and bruises...."Tough Love" !!!
I am from my little brother,
always knowing I was there when he was scared at night.
I am from huge gardens, tree climbing, canning,
cooking and 4-H.
I am from cooking, cleaning and laundry,
...no time for play till work is done.
I am from the most caring, and loving family
...when sometimes, that's all we had.
I am from good times and bad times.
I am Jaime (Haycraft) Reynolds
and I am proud of who I have become.
God Bless !!

Where I am From by Susan Shull

(Modeled after a poem by Georgia Ella Lyons)

I am from cornfields and bean fields
From hogs, cows, and chickens.
From we have planting to do and
30 more acres to harvest.

I am from the October sky
Crisp fall nights and
Millions of twinkling stars.

I am from the vegetable garden,
The string, stakes, and tiller.
Fresh green beans, corn on the cob,
And vine ripened tomatoes.

I am from church Christmas programs,
Finger foods in the basement after services,
And “Thou shalt be saved.”

I am from family secrets only whispered about,
Hair curled tight by new perms and
Brush rollers with plastic picks.

I’m from family reunions,
Homemade ice cream packed in scary dry ice.
From a bunch of bananas at least a yard long,
and no swimming until one hour after we eat.

I’m from hard times and good times
From sleepless nights and
Sweet peace.

I’m from Ted and Alice
And “treat others
The way you want to be treated.”

I am blessed.

Your Assignment for Today.... by Susan Shull

The Write Sisters recently went on a little get away to San Damiano retreat center in Southern Illinois. www.sandamianoretreat.com The setting was absolutely gorgeous and we had a wonderful time. Being a teacher, I couldn’t help bringing an “assignment” for everyone to work on, and since the girls are so nice, they played along with me.

A few years ago on a teacher listserve, someone suggested doing a “Where I am From” activity with our students. It is taken from a work originally written by Georgia Lyons and requires the kids to use her poem as a model for writing their own. I have been amazed at the quality of the poems my students have written, and I thought the girls would enjoy the exercise too. I was right. Over the next few days, we will post ours on the blog.

I encourage you to write your own “Where I am From” poem!

I Believe by Donna (Ensign) Woods

I believe in the moon and the stars, of the Heavenly night,
Even when they are hidden from my sight.
And in the hope of a bright new tomorrow,
Even if today is filled with sorrow.
I believe in miraculous growth and healing,
Even when tired and hurting is what I'm feeling.
I know there are angels hovering near-by
Even though I can't see them, as I cry
I believe in the rainbow promise, arching in the sky,
And in a Heavenly home when I die.
I believe Christ was born through a virgin birth,
Even though He no longer walks upon this Earth.
And in God's awesome mercy and grace,
As He sent His Son to die....in my place.
I believe He died on a cross to save you and me,
I didn't have to see Him hanging on the tree.
I know I've been forgiven for each and every sin,
As I walk each day, keeping my eyes on Him.
I believe He rose from the dead, on the third day,
To give us hope, and show us the way.
He now sits, in Heaven, at God's right hand,
And daily prepares me for what He has planned.
I believe, one day He'll return, in radiant glory,
For the final chapter, of this Earthly story.
I know He will judge our lives one day,
That's why I ask for guidance, each time I pray.
I believe, my sinful-self was left in a watery grave,
I was given new life, as He lovingly forgave.
And I will one day walk the streets of gold,
With His nail-scarred hand, to hold.
I believe He answers each and every prayer of mine,
Perfectly...in His way, and His time.
He is in awesome control, I do believe,
Wheather I dance with joy, or sadly grieve.
He is with me on the mountain tops of blessed cheer,
And in the dark, cold valley of each painful tear.
I believe we each have a purpose, that's why we're here
So, I eagerly listen, when I feel Him near.
I know in my heart, I truly do,
He has a very special plan, for you too.
I believe every promise that Jesus made
Rejoicing with the angels that my debt is paid.
Celebrating His wonderous, eternal love,
As He touches my life every day from above.

.....But, do you believe, in eternity through Him ???
Or have you shut Heaven's door, and allowed Satan in ?????

The Power of Words by Susan Shull

We had a wonderful church service Sunday! I almost said awesome, but I stopped myself. Mark, our preacher, encouraged us to reserve that word for describing our Lord and Savior. I agree with him that we throw “awesome” about in casual conversation when we should save it for its appropriate use. Anyway, back to the point…… The singing was beautiful, the sermon was very challenging, and I have been thinking about it off and on ever since. The presence of the Lord was palpable. He was there just as He promised in the scriptures to be if two or more were gathered in His name.

In her post, Theresa referred to Mark’s challenge to write down our beliefs, but I was inspired in another way. Last June when I went to Women of Faith in St. Louis, I purchased the book Same Kind of Different as Me, a nonfiction book co-written by Ron Hall and Denver Moore. The book lay on my nightstand for months untouched. However, I recently picked it up and started reading and finished it last night. What a book! What an inspiration!

The lessons of the book were so motivating and meshed with what I learned from Sunday’s sermon. In the book one woman felt led by the Holy Spirit to become involved with a homeless mission in Fort Worth, Texas. Not only did she feel led, but she followed through. As a result of one person’s faith and obedience, God worked in the lives of many, many others. In his sermon, Mark urged us not to focus on the whole world but to narrow our focus to one person in our sphere of influence who needs the Lord. Can you imagine how Jasper County would change if all of us Christians would really do this? Heaven knows our world needs what the Lord has to offer free of charge.

Our God is a truly awesome God, and I pray that I will not miss his calling to me. I pray that I (and you) will follow his leading in my life. If all of us would do what he asks us to do, He can change the world.

What's your Creed? by Theresa Zuber

Today our pastor challenged us to write our Creed. "Don't panic" he said, "I know there is no creed by Christ, no book but the Bible..." However, if you don't know what you believe-- have firmly fixed in your mind the "what" and the "WHY"-- then it will be difficult to win others to Christ. How can we give testimony to the truth, when we stumble on the words? Or sometimes, out of fear or lack of preparedness, we don't speak at all.

So, I'm throwing out the challenge to the world wide web.... What is your creed? How has the truth of God's word molded and shaped your life. How has it effected your world and changed you into who you are now. What truths do you cling to that are your firm foundation? Which biblical promises give you comfort, ease your fears, warm your insides?

I've been working on this very thing for my book, and frankly, I find it a daunting task to concisely list what I believe. This will give me a reason to continue trying to organize my thoughts.

Phil 1:3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Looking forward to seeing the results of this challenge!

Sweet Words by Joyce Schafer

I remember an especially unfruitful harvest season. The combine would go all day with only a trip or two to the bins.

We sat our four children down and explained to them that we would need to cut down on expenses.

Later in the day, I was running to town for groceries and asked my husband if he had any cash. The next thing I knew here came my little one with his piggy bank saying, “Here, Mommy, you can have my money for food.” I was truly humbled by his thoughtfulness.


I sat the kids back down and explained even though we could not afford a lot of extra things, they did not need to worry about having a home or food.

It is amazing how God can teach us life lessons. I learned that day that we need to be content with what we have and true blessing can come in the form of a little boy and his piggy bank.

Phillipians 4:12-13 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

River of Contentment by Donna (Ensign) Woods

When before the Lord, on bended knee,
River of CONTENTMENT flow over me.
Wash away tears of my day,
Renew me as I pray.
Breathe deep and be refeshed
Feel His touch...so richly blessed.
CONTENT....peace be still,
To seek His perfect will.
Longing to hear..."Well Done"
As light fades witht the setting sun.
To hear the whisper of His voice,
As He touches my every choice.
CONTENT with who I am...
In God's wonderous plan.
Cradled in the arms of the Lord
As rocking a baby...loved and adored.
CONTENTMENT found in His mercy and grace
While He caresses my weathered face.
Peace cannot be found in fortune or fame
But, only in the promise of His holy name.
...Sweet peaceful rest...
CONTENTMENT blest.
Oh River of CONTENTMENT, flow over me,
Touch my soul from bended knee.

Scriptures about Contentment

PROVERBS 19:23
The fear of the Lord leads to life:
then one rests CONTENT
untouched by trouble.

HEBREWS 13:5
Keep your lives free from the love of money and
be CONTENT with what you have, because God has said,
"Never will I leave you;
never will I forsake you."

1 TIMOTHY 6:6-8
But godliness with CONTENTMENT is great gain.
For we brought nothing into this world, and
we can take nothing out of it.
But if we have food and clothing, we will
be CONTENT with that.

PHILLIPIANS 4:11-12
......I have learned to be content what ever the circumstances.
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.
I have learned the secret of being CONTENT
in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry,
whether living in plenty or in want.

Daydreamer by Tana LeMay

One Christmas years ago, my dad and stepmom gave me a Norman Rockwell figurine. It’s a young woman sitting with her chin resting in her hands, leaning forward, her elbows on her knees. She’s staring dreamily into space. The figurine is called “The Daydreamer”. My parents were quite pleased with themselves for finding something that so aptly described me. At the time, I wasn’t amused.

With the passage of time and the gaining of wisdom, I can appreciate the gift more. For you see, I do like to daydream. To imagine the what ifs of life. What if my husband let me buy the shiny red Jeep Wrangler? What if we lived in a small beach side community? What if I lost those extra pounds? What if……

Daydreaming in moderation is ok, but too much time spent there could lead to discontent; to resenting, instead of enjoying, the blessings we do have. And, we have all been blessed in some way or other. Paul writes to Timothy, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1Timothy 6:6) In Philippians 4:11, Paul declares, “for I have learned to be content, whatever the circumstances.”

How do we learn to be content in a world that bombards us with advertising full of young, beautiful actors? I believe the first step is daily prayer and time in God’s word. Take a moment to list what God has done for you. Review it regularly, and add to it as more blessings come your way. The next time you find yourself standing in a line with free time to daydream, count your blessings instead and thank God for each one of them.

Keeper of the Past by Donna (Ensign) Woods

I am a keeper of the past...
Not wanting yesterday to slip from my grasp,
While holding today, so it will last.

Old-time treasures, tucked safely away,
Each one holding a piece of yesterday,
Gentle reminders to give thanks when I pray.

Black and white photos of solemn faces,
Of long ago people and long ago places,
Where hardship and toil has left it's traces.

Keepsakes hidden in Mama's cedar chest...
...Grandma's sparkling broach...her very best.
And a four leaf clover...neatly pressed.

As I sit in Luda's rocking chair,
With Merrill's table beside it there...
I've saved bits and pieces of the past to share.

Tiny stitches on each tattered quilt block...
And the rhythmic chime of an old mantle clock
...Grandma's kettle and my Aunt's blue crock...

Moments in time...gone too soon,
As the setting sun gives way to the moon.
My heart now slows to a simpler tune.

Capture the moments, make them last...
For tomorrow come much too fast,
...For a Keeper of the Past...

What will be Your Legacy? By Theresa Zuber

I went to the bible to look up the word legacy; to see what God's word had to say about it. But I found nothing. It's just not a word used when God's Holy word is translated to English. However, I found this passage that I believe describes what kind of legacy God wants us to have. It's found in Deuteronomy 6: 4-9:
4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. 5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.

Make sure that you leave your children more than posessions and memories. Leave them a legacy that will last them into eternity. Make sure they witness a life grounded in God and his word. A life led by the Spirit. A life, modeled after our Savior Jesus Christ.

Abba Father - I pray that you will help me to leave a lasting legacy of faith as an example to my loved ones. Help me to stay grounded in your word and focused on your path for me. I pray for my family that they, too, will seek you diligently, faithfully and tirelessly until we are all with you in heaven!

Legacy by Joyce Schafer

A short while ago I was given a precious gift— a tattered book with my mother's name written in it and dated 1931. It joined a collection of a stained and well-worn notebook filled with my mother's recipes and my first bible, a gift from my parents.

I also have my mother's special pin-a gift from her kids with all the birthstones of her children and grandchildren. My niece's daughter has asked me if she could wear Grandma's pin at her wedding. She is the first of this generation to walk down the aisle. Is she starting a new tradition? Only time will tell.

My favorite gifts from my sister are a Heidi book she gave me Christmas 1960 and a 1970 Home extension cookbook which contains some of her recipes. She would always include pictures of her family in Christmas cards over the years. I remember complimenting the ladies who prepared her funeral dinner on the homemade rolls. My sister was smiling from above when they said this was her recipe.

Even though my mother and sister have been gone for many years the legacy they left for future generations was a love of reading, a love of cooking, a love of family and a love of church and God.

I really had not given much thought to my own legacy until I started writing this paper. What legacy will I leave my family?

My favorite pieces of jewelry are my wedding ring, my mother's ring, and my bracelet with all my grandkids birthstones. My free time is spent attending my grandkids' events, reading, writing, cooking and helping out at church.

It would seem that my legacy will be the same as my family members who have already completed their journey her on earth-a love of family, a love of reading, a love of cooking and above all a love of God and church.

A Written Legacy by Tana LeMay

My family wasn’t big on traditions or the concept of a legacy to intentionally pass on through succeeding generations. My grandmother, however, loved to tell stories of her life growing up in Fairfield. I loved hearing her stories, but can only remember bits and pieces of them. I wish I had had the foresight to put her stories in writing before she passed away. Now, they are lost forever.

Several years ago, a friend of mine tried to turn me on to journaling. I found it to be an interesting idea, but wasn’t driven enough to make it a habit. Fortunately, Donna Woods was led to lead a journaling class, and the rest, as they say, is history.

My main reason for journaling is to have a means of passing along to my children and grandchildren a legacy of sharing my written words. A means to provide them a glimpse into my daily life, my thoughts and most importantly, my relationship with my savior, Jesus.

In today’s busy world, we lose focus of what’s meaningful. We’re just too busy living. I hope my children will read my journals and share them with their children. Maybe, somewhere along the way, one of them will also put pen to paper, sharing a piece of themselves to pass along to future generations. My prayer is that this legacy will reveal to those who come after us the richness and comfort of walking along side Christ and that He will be the common thread of a legacy that will live forever.

Grandma Knows Best by Susan Shull

In my past talk-show-watching-days, I saw an interview with a young audience member who had written her own obituary. Having written down what she wanted others to say about her after her death, she planned to spend the rest of her days living in a way to make that happen.

That really struck a chord with me and got me thinking. What do I want others to say about me after I have taken my last breath? If it is to be good things, I had better start living that way now. I am so lucky because I have had wonderful examples to follow.

Being raised in a Christian family is something for which I am immensely grateful. As kids, my sisters and I always knew what we and our parents would be doing Sunday morning, Sunday night, and Wednesday night. We would be in church. Even though there were times we wanted to stay home and watch Flipper and The Wonderful World of Disney, it wasn’t really an option. Going to church was what we did. It was also what our grandparents did. And that brings me to my grandmothers and the legacy they have left not only to me, but also to each of their grandchildren.

My grandmas both lived close to us and were a huge part of my life. I always thought of Grandma Marrs as my “country” grandma. As a young married woman, she had a couple of unfortunate incidents in her driveway, and she never drove again. Because of this, she was almost always at home. A pink bowl always sat on the kitchen table filled with scrumptious oatmeal cookies-each with 2 precisely placed chocolate chips. Her house always had a lingering smell of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy, my favorite Sunday foods. Grandma always had time to play a game of Old Maid or to read a book to me. She must have worked 24/7-she even made yummy homemade ketchup-but I remember her best sitting in “her” chair with a stack of books beside her. Her favorite book was her tattered and worn Bible.

Grandma Marrs taught me many valuable lessons, but the one I consider most important was to read my Bible. She read hers from Genesis to Revelation every year and her love for the scriptures was very evident. We had many interesting discussions about the Lord and I am forever grateful for her example.
On the other hand, I considered Grandma Spencer as my “city” grandma, which is a hoot since she lived in Yale! Grandma was widowed twice-The first time when her children were very small and as a result, she became a very independent woman. She raised her kids alone and seemed pretty fearless to me. She drove everywhere, including to St. Louis in her 80’s. For years, she even wrote the Yale Press , which appeared in several area newspapers. Her no-bake cookies and hot rolls were legendary.

She also loved the Lord and showered that love on everyone she met. She taught me that a Christian must live her faith, and she did. The woman was never home. I wish I knew how many visits she made to the nursing homes and hospitals. There is no way to know how many hangers she crocheted and gave away. Her hands were never still since she was always “doing” for someone. She was a big hugger, and I would love to feel her arms around me right now.

Since I am fortunate enough to be a grandma myself, I want to leave a legacy of love for my own grandchildren. I hope some day they can say…..I know my grammie loved the Lord and she loved me!

Changes by Donna (Ensign) Woods

The woman that looks out of the mirror,
Isn't the one I remember from yester-year.
She's older and grey and changed a little now
Her eyes look the same, but they're different some how.
The laughter of youth used to be on her face,
Now, little wrinkles are taking their place.

The house I grew up in has been torn away,
It brings tears to my eyes, I have to say.
The big maple tree that I used to play under
Was long ago destroyed by lightening and thunder.
...I still remember the room in which I slept,
Where are my dreams and treasures I kept.

My kids are growing up and moving out on their own.
Everything changes, even here in my home.
They're trading in a snuggly teddy bear,
For husbands and wives with a future to share,
No more wet kisses or nighty-night song,
The world is full of changes, my whole life long.

Every morning as I sit and pray...
I quietly remember the day...
When a family ate together every night,
And "home-made" food was a normal sight.
A "treat" ...was ice cream for a dime
...Not the poisonous drugs of our time.

Everything changes...except God above
Consistant in His mercy and love.
Preparing for me, His perfect plan
...Loving me...just as I am...
Lives are always changing...yours and mine
But God is the same....through all of time.

Looking for a Clean Slate? by Theresa Zuber

(I'm excited to report that a version of this article will appear in the Nov/Dec issue of "Devozine" a devotional magazine for teens published by Upper Room Ministries.)

Do you remember when you were a child and played with an Etch n Sketch? Mine was red and had a little screen and there were two dials. One dial made the line go up and down and the other, side to side. If you turned them both at the same time you could make diagonal lines – well sort of. If you were really good you could write your name or draw a decent picture. But the nice thing about this toy was that if you made a mistake, it was no big deal. All you had to do was turn it upside-down and shake. When you turned it back over you had a clean slate.

Isn’t it funny how God can do the same thing with our lives? Sometimes we are plugging along pretty well but something trips us up and we sin. Some sins, or mistakes stand out in our lives like a sore thumb. It could be BIG or it could be little, but – all the same – we've goofed up.

PS 32:5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD"-- and you forgave the guilt of my sin.

PS 103:12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

God wants us to repent, to turn from our sins--our mistakes. He wants us to go a different direction.God has a big heart. He’s ready to wipe the slate clean. All we must do is ask for forgiveness.And then – back to the drawing board. We’re ready to start over. God’s given us a clean slate. What we do with it is in our hands.

Dear God, I don't understand how you can forgive and forget so completely, but I trust that you do! I praise you and thank you for giving me aclean slate, a fresh start, another chance. You are the creator. Guide me. There is no one better to steady me as I begin again.

Me First by Susan Shull

Climate change.
Spare change.
Time for a change.
We are the change we’ve been waiting for.

Change is a word that is constantly bandied about in our society. And one thing is for sure-change happens. We often act like that is a bad thing, but some things shouldn’t stay the same.

Since I enjoy reading quotes, I googled quotes about change and found tons of them. I especially liked this one:

“Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.” Tolstoy

This one really challenged me because as I was thinking this week about what to write about our topic, I was really tempted to get on my soapbox and do some preaching. I was going to share my opinions about abortion, education, same sex marriage, and politics. I had some ideas about changes others should make and I wanted them done ASAP.

Isn’t it funny how God works? Tolstoy’s quote brought me up short and totally changed my perspective from the great big picture to a very small one-me. What changes do I need to make?

I am going to do some soul-searching today and concentrate on what I could do differently to show the love of Christ to a world that needs to know the only thing in life that never changes is the only thing in life that really matters:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”John 3:16

Life Happens During the Interruptions by Theresa Zuber

For the most part, interruptions drive me CRAZY! I have MY agenda, my plans, my projects and I don’t have time to be interrupted. Not only that, but I’m busy doing what I need to be doing; and if I get interrupted, that means it won’t get done. (Sound familiar to you?)

Let’s look at a day in Jesus’ life. He started out teaching his disciples, then the Pharisees were there putting their twist on things. And then….

Matt 9: 18While he was saying this, (Jesus had been teaching in the previous passage) a ruler came and knelt before him and said, "My daughter has just died. But come and put your hand on her, and she will live." 19Jesus got up and went with him, and so did his disciples. 20Just then a woman who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak. 21She said to herself, "If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed." 22Jesus turned and saw her. "Take heart, daughter," he said, "your faith has healed you." And the woman was healed from that moment. 23When Jesus entered the ruler's house and saw the flute players and the noisy crowd, 24he said, "Go away. The girl is not dead but asleep." But they laughed at him. 25After the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took the girl by the hand, and she got up. 26News of this spread through all that region. 27As Jesus went on from there, two blind men followed him, calling out, "Have mercy on us, Son of David!" 28When he had gone indoors, the blind men came to him, and he asked them, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" "Yes, Lord," they replied. 29Then he touched their eyes and said, "According to your faith will it be done to you"; 30and their sight was restored. Jesus warned them sternly, "See that no one knows about this." 31But they went out and spread the news about him all over that region. 32While they were going out, a man who was demon-possessed and could not talk was brought to Jesus. 33And when the demon was driven out, the man who had been mute spoke. The crowd was amazed and said, "Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel." (NIV)

Jesus was interrupted constantly during his ministry. The passage above lists 5 interruptions in only 16 verses! A few more examples: the man that was lowered through the roof, while Jesus was trying to teach (Luke 5:18); blind Bartimaeus who wouldn’t stop calling Jesus’ name (Mark 10:46); Nicodemus, the Pharisee, questioning Jesus at night (John 3); the sinful woman who washed his feet with tears and dried them with her hair while Jesus was attending a dinner in someone else’s home (Luke 7:36-50).

But you see that’s just another difference between Jesus and me. Each time that Jesus was interrupted, he didn’t say, “Yeah, I’ll be with you in a sec.” OR “I can maybe get to that next Tuesday.” Not “You’ve got to be kidding. Can’t you see I’m swamped here?” When Jesus was interrupted, someone’s life was changed.

Have you ever noticed? Interruptions are what define our life and our memories. It’s not the business of going to work everyday. It’s not vacuuming. It’s not doing the laundry. It’s the interruptions. It’s the sudden phone call from a friend who has found out she has breast cancer. It’s the terminal illness of your parent. It’s the nearly fatal car wreck of your spouse. It’s standing for an hour at a funeral visitation. It’s the tiny hospital room where you sat by your child’s side for days on end. In those “interruptions,” we have a chance to be Jesus to someone. No, you can’t give sight to the blind and make the lame walk; but you can show love, give comfort, empathize, and sometimes- just be there.

Why do we let interruptions in our life upset us? These events, annoyances, disasters, crisis are the things that our lives are made of. Are we missing opportunities, because we view them as interruptions to OUR plans? Since when did God say life was going to go according to OUR plans??

“Eph 2: 8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- 9not by works, so that no one can boast. 10For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (NIV)

This week as life throws you a curve ball, remember to take the opportunity God has given you to change someone’s life. It’s what Jesus Would do!

As I look back over my life, I can see that it’s the “interruptions” that I remember most. God, help me to embrace these opportunities to “do good works.” And God, when I become an interruption to others, Help them have the patience and the right words to be Jesus to me. Never let me be SO SELFISH that I miss a chance to show Your love to someone who desperately needs You at that very moment in my life. Help me see that how I respond to these “opportunities”defines who I am and how important YOU ARE to me.

Tears of Change by Donna (Ensign) Woods

Much of life is seen through a Mother's tears,
Flowing from the heart, over the years.

Tears of change streak her face,
In every sad and happy place.

Beginning with tears of joy at her baby's birth,
The most precious delight found on earth !

Followed by prayer-filled fatigue,
As she struggles to meet each child's need.

...As the bus drives away on the first day of school,
Mom stands waving good-bye, in a tear-fed pool

Her tears console may little heart-breaks
Through the twisting turns each life takes.

When her child is hurting, tears fall as she prays,
Asking God to heal them, as He blesses their days.

Flowing over disappointment, pain, and fears...
Is a Mother's love, reflecting through tears.

When teenagers forget all they've learned,
A Mother cries tears, that frustration has earned.

Prayer filled tears combat the evil they fight.
As she paces the floor late at night.

As children grow up and leave her home,
A Mother's tears fall, when she is all alone.

Her tears remember each wonderful child
And each little face that lovingly smiled.

Mother's tears are often very hard to explain...
They are wrapped in joy, desperation and pain.

But a Mother's tears always mean love...
Another gift from God above !!!

Guest Column by Mary Lou Dill

(Mary Lou has often told this story. I encouraged her to put it down in writing because it is so precious to me! I praise God for the older generation that has supported our worship team and has joined in worshipping in a new way! Thankyou Mary Lou! - Theresa)

Change. A word many of the older generation do not like to hear. So, here I am, a seventy-something widow entering the sanctuary and ready for one of the week’s highlights—the worship service. I have always loved the beautiful sounds of the organ and the piano as the prelude envelopes me. So I sit in my chair, speak to the others around me, and wait. And then I see it—or rather, I don’t see it. There is no organ. There is no piano. The choir chairs have disappeared. The choir members stand, the minister will use a music stand, and keyboards have appeared. Guitars and drums are added. Then the song leader — oops, worship leader— bounds onto the platform and worship begins. LOUD worship begins.

After I catch my breath at all the changes, I look around. The young people—those teenage kids who are too cool to enjoy any kind of church service—are actually singing. Some are even smiling and clapping. As I watch, I see the tremendous amount of energy and enthusiasm between all the younger people and the worship leader. And the worship leader? A sweet, sweet young man from a wonderful Christian family. His excitement and obvious love for the One he worships, and the ones he worships with, is contagious, even to a resisting little old lady.

Well, that was the beginning of our new worship service. Did we “old fogies” blow it out of the water? Absolutely not. We missed the old hymns and the gentleness of yesterday’s worship. But seeing the interest of the younger people was reason enough to keep quiet and start adjusting. After all, there weren’t too many words to learn for those new songs—mostly just the same phrases over and over.

And then time passed, as it always does. And our worship team used that time wisely. They toned down some of the volume. They built the order of worship around the central theme from the minister’s sermon. They brought back some of the old hymns. They read scripture. They spoke with heartfelt love and sorrow about mistakes they had made and the congregation thought, “I did that, too; maybe I can be a witnessing Christian after all.” And the words of the new songs? I discovered many of them were direct quotes from the Psalms and other scripture.

It is a new day at Scott Avenue Christian Church. This seventy-something grandmother can hardly wait for Sunday morning to come and once again be enveloped in a powerful, focused worship service.

Change? If the end result is half that of our worship service, I say, “Bring it on!”

We will be Changed by Theresa Zuber

Some people embrace change but most seem to be resistant to big changes. Especially changes that they are unsure of: new software at work, a new boss, a new low-cholesterol, low-fat, high fiber – (read “low taste”) diet, Wal-Mart redesign—you know when they move stuff around and you can’t find anything!!!

Have you ever noticed that our never-changing God is all about change? Seasons, the weather, the orbit of the planets are always changing. Puppies mature into dogs, tiny babies grow up – sometimes taller than their parents, and seeds sprout and grow into something completely different! Clouds in the sky are constantly shifting and moving into various formations and sometimes, they disappear altogether.

Jesus ministry brought about HUGE changes. Some people accepted the truth, others resisted and held onto what was familiar. Even today, those who recognize him as the Messiah- the Savior-the Christ and accept him are eternally changed.

1 Cor 15:51Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— 52in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.

If you don’t like change – look out! Heaven is bound to be different than your life on earth. Don’t worry. You’re going to love it!!! Start practicing now and embrace the changes in your life. Who knows what God has in store for you?!

Seasons of Life by Joyce Schafer

Our word this week is “change” and what an appropriate word this is for this time of year.

Fall is my favorite time of year. I love the trees. We have a tree in our front yard that turns the most beautiful golden color. When I am coming home from work and see this tree I am just amazed at the beauty God creates.

Out in the country the crops are maturing and the combines will soon be busy. This is the time of year a farmer is rewarded for all his hard work. I have many fond memories of helping in the field. Some of my best prayer times were in the cab of a tractor. To me, being close to nature is being close to God.

The schools are once again open and filled with teachers and students. The classrooms that were silent over summer are filled with giggles and noise. Some students look forward to the beginning of the school year while others would like for summer to go on forever. Parents have mixed emotions too. Some who have a child going to school for the first time may shed a few tears. Others with older kids may cry, too—for an entirely different reason.

I am reminded just like the seasons of the calendar year our lives go through seasons of change. In the Spring of our Life everything is fresh and new and we are pretty green when it comes to life experiences.

Then we enter the Summer of our lives. For most of us this time is filled with getting married, raising children and having careers. There simply are not enough hours in the day to get everything done. This stage, like summer, passes way too quickly leaving only memories behind.

I am now in the autumn of my life. This is the time for a lot of physical changes: hair color, age spots, wrinkles and a brain that goes on vacation once in awhile. The good news is— I really don't care. This really is the best years of your life. I have more time to do what I want to do instead of what I need to do. I have never felt closer to God because I have the time to study his word, journal and pray. I am more content and try to live in the moment enjoying all the beautiful blessings our Lord has given us.

The final season is winter. This is a season filled with celebration-Christmas and the beauty of a snow-covered winter wonderland. It can also be a dark season filled with depression and sadness. The choice is ours and with God's help Winter can be a time of celebration of a life well lived and finally a home in eternity.

Change by Julie Short

Listen
Sh
Listen

Do you hear Him? Are you open? Are you willing?

Are you still and listening?

Or are you busy being; Angry, shooting hurtful venomous words at others
Trying to change others, Make them…..

The only person we can change is us.

I stepped out of my anger for just a moment and I listened
I heard…Is it worth your relationship with me?

Listen, and God will lead, listen and forgive
Listen,
And allow God to change you into someone you won’t even recognize.
And out of the broken/shattered pieces of my life
God is making something beautiful.
Listen, do you hear the pencil drawing on the paper,
amazing I didn’t know I could do that
Listen, do you hear the sound of the keys typing out the words I never knew
Listen, do you hear the sound of my speaking in front of people,
I never could have
Listen, do you hear the sound of scissors cutting and hammers hitting nails,
Listen, do you hear God picking up each shattered/broken piece
and carefully putting it together, molding and hammering.

The most important change
is allowing God to change us, our hearts, our minds,
Allowing God to make something beautiful out of the mess of our lives.
Change does not come without being open to God,
with out pain, without patience.
God makes all things beautiful in His time.
Are you Listening?
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me.” John 10:27

Louie Giglio - Laminin

Today our sermon was about Jesus, the creator of everything!

John 1 The Word Became Flesh
"1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2He was with God in the beginning.
3Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4In him was life, and that life was the light of men. 5The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it."

Col 1:16-17 "16For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. 17He is before all things, and in him all things hold together."

Watch this video and be prepared to be impressed by our awesome God! (from Theresa)

OVERWHELMED !!!!! by Donna (Ensign) Woods

HURRY!!...Get in the car.
Taking Madison to the E.R.
So much discomfort and pain,
Pray for no traffic or train.
Fever won't break...
How much can a baby take ?
Blood tests and x-rays...
Seem to take days !
My stomach...turning, churning...
As my mind is burning.
Feeling like I can't breathe
Praying God will answer and relieve.
Her tiny body swelling...
Waiting...waiting...no one's telling.
CAT scan reveals the news,
There are no choices in which to choose.
...Big tumor....must come out !
What is this Dr. talking about ????
She's only 14 months old...
Hanging on every word we're told
For an ambulance...there isn't time,
...They helicopter Life Line !!!
So weak I can't stand !
This was never planned !!
Waiting for Maddy...a surgery team...
This must be some horrible dream !!
Her fearful, pleading eyes...
Hearts breaking with her cries...
Reeling from shock, this can't be true
So desperate...nothing we can do !
I fall to the floor to pray...
"Please dear Lord, don't take her away !!"
Cry so hard and pray so much,
For our Savior's healing touch.

The Healing Prayer by Donna (Ensign) Woods - A Grandma

Thankyou for being the God of mercy and love,
And for the multitude of blessings you send from above.

The suffering of children, we don't understand,
But, we know all is in control, of your mighty hand.

Today, I humbly come, to kneel at the throne.
To intercede for Madison, your precious own.

A beautiful child, she's one of your best.
So, for her, I put the power of prayer to the test.

As I kneel and pray, I knock at your door.
May she feel your presence as never before.

May the Holy Spirit guide me, as I prayerfully intercede,
And I ask that you supply, for her every need.

Place your healing hands upon her, this very hour.
Bless each cell in her body, with your awesome power.

Let her feel your healing, flow through each vein.
I empower this prayer, by your Son's holy name.

Strengthen her body, to have victory in trial.
Bless her with joy, that makes her smile.

I can't understand why she must endure so much.
Please bless her, with your healing touch.

Send angels to guard her, both day and night,
And equip them well, to aid in her fight.

Shield her Lord, from this vicious attack.
Drive out the cancer, don't let it come back.

Your Word says, "ask and you shall receive...."
I'm asking Lord...and I do believe....

Restore her health...Oh Lord, I pray.
I ask for your blessings today.

Heal her Lord, in your awesome way,
In Jesus name, I constantly pray.

Amen

I challenge each and every one of you to pray this prayer for Maddy and Elijah
.....and every child you know that has been diagnosed with cancer.

Overwhelmed by Tana LeMay

Overwhelmed. When don’t I feel this way? Living in a culture that is over stimulated, constantly moving and changing, makes this feeling seem almost normal. Every day, we are surrounded by people, items and situations demanding our attention. Once you jump on that vicious wheel that is constantly turning, never stopping, it’s hard to get off.



Of course, some of my stress is self-induced. I’m always finding more that needs to be done; busy tasks that will probably go unnoticed by others whether I complete them or not. I let them worry at me until I take the time to do them.

This past year at work has been very busy, with only a day off here and there (which I fill with items from my to-do list!). I wasn’t planning to take a week off, but my big project has been stalled. I decided to take advantage and will be on vacation next week.

Immediately, I added to my to-do list – wash windows, clean closets and cabinets, transplant irises, put up sweet corn………. Then I met with my Write Sisters. After studying our lesson, Julie reached for our tin of words and pulled out “Overwhelmed”. Great. I live it and now I have to write about it. Fortunately, thinking about this word led me to think of the opposite – rest and relaxation.

Jesus not only took time to rest himself, he also recognized that each of us needs a time of rest. Mark 6:31b-32 says, “he said to them (his disciples), “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.

I have promised myself that I will follow Jesus’ lead. With kids home from school, I won’t have much opportunity for solitude. However, since they are so good at resting, I think I’ll make time to plop right down beside them and enjoy some rest.

Two Week Paid Vacation by Joyce Schafer

I confess. I am a recovering workaholic. After going years without a paid vacation it was hard to get used to the idea of getting paid to do nothing.

In the past years I had spent the majority of my vacation catching up on those jobs that never get done the rest of the year. This year was different. I decided to do what I wanted to do and not what I needed to do.

I did not get off to a great start. The first day I had doctor and dentist appointments. Not exactly something I wanted to do but I did get a clean bill of health clearing the way to go forward with the fun stuff.

Tuesday I took my grandson, Riley, to Walmart. To a five year old Walmart is a wonderland. Then we got cheese pizza (his choice) and went to the park to eat and play.

Wednesday I took a "Me Day". I did some writing and went to the library and got some books. The afternoon I spent reading. Every time I started to feel guilty and jump up to work. I reminded myself "Hey, you are getting paid to do this."

The next day was A.J. and grandma day. He wanted to "do lunch" at Solid Grounds and play miniature golf.

I love doing one-on-one time with the grandkids but with twelve of them it gets harder and harder.

I did some backsliding on Friday and did some housecleaning and laundry. This was necessary so we could take off a few days and visit my brother in northern Wisconsin. The highlight of the trip for me was seeing the eagles fly over the lake. What a beautiful sight.


I love baking so I spent a day making cookies, muffins and cinnamon rolls. I spent the next day watching the grandkids eat them. Just in case any of their parents are reading this they also ate grapes, cantaloupe, watermelon, peaches and lots of other healthy stuff.

Spending time with all of my grandkids was the perfect way to end my vacation.

Psalms 23:1-3 The Lord is my Shepherd I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me besides quiet waters, he restores my soul.

My soul has been restored and I am ready to go back to work refreshed and energized. I am also looking forward to Labor day, Columbus Day, Veteran's Day and all those other holidays I get paid for doing nothing. I think I am finally getting the hang of this.

Help is on the Way by Susan Shull

My name is Susan and I am a S.H.E. (Side-tracked Home Executive). For those of you who are Born-Organized, the rest of this will seem ridiculous so quit reading now.

One of the most humiliating events in my life occurred years ago when our boys were small. It was late afternoon in the dead of winter and the boys and I had spent the entire day playing. The floor was covered with Legos, blocks, toy tractors, Hot Wheels, puzzles, and books. Dirty glasses and cookie crumbs were on the end tables; folded stacks of laundry lay on the couch. We were probably still in our pajamas-not unusual for us in those days. The boys were watching Daniel Boone reruns and I was more than likely reading or crafting when we heard a knock at the door. Since there was no pretending we were gone, I answered the door. One of Brad’s sweet aunts stood there-someone who had never visited us before and who didn’t know we didn’t normally live in filth. I was mortified beyond words. She was very gracious but didn’t stay long. I promised myself that would never happen again……….but it did.

I just have always had trouble keeping things “together”. I get involved in a project and let every thing else fall apart. Can I get a witness?

Miraculously, a few years ago in a random email I learned about a website that literally changed my life-http://www.flylady.com/. This is a free service started by a busy, messy procrastinator just like me, Marla Cilley. Marla sends daily emails helping her readers to establish good routines, get rid of clutter, check their calendars, and complete easy-to-do daily housekeeping missions. Her motto is “You can do anything for 15 minutes!” My timer is now something I could never do without-I have one upstairs, downstairs, and in my desk at school.

What a difference flylady has made! I now know that when my outsides are messy my insides are messy, and I hate that feeling. One of the best benefits of the whole flylady system has been helping me establish a morning routine which includes at least 15 minutes for Bible reading. This may not sound like much, but it is amazing how much can be read in that amount of time. Over a year, it really adds up.

Our house still isn’t perfect, but I’m usually not embarrassed to have unexpected company any more. I feel so much better about myself even though my natural tendency to procrastinate still causes me problems. If any of this sounds familiar and you are ready to make a change, give yourself a little hug, turn on your computer, and check out Flylady. I wish I had known about it years ago.

Moments by Julie Short

Overwhelmed with:
Fear
Loneliness
Debt
Agendas
Pain
Anxiety
Anger
Grief
Guilt
Yesterday
Tomorrow
Lack of time
Lack of energy

But, what does God want me to do today?
How can I reach out and feel less lonely today?

Praise God that I don’t have to live yesterday today
And I don’t have to live tomorrow today.

I can live in the moments of this day,
some will be good,
some blah,
some challenging,
some painful,
and some beautiful, unforgettable.

If I live the moments of this day,
cherishing the good moments
celebrating the great ones
letting go of the ones I have no control over
(after all we only have control over ourselves,)

if I push away the remnants of yesterday
and I don’t grab tomorrow before it comes

If I simply live in the moments of this day,
one moment at a time,
relying on God to lead, guide and protect
Hiding His word in my heart.

I don’t feel overwhelmed.

Moments are doable
they don’t have room for yesterday
or tomorrow.

They only happen today one at a time

Praise God for moments!

Chaos to Calm

I need to make the salsa so I can use up those tomatoes from the garden. The laundry is flowing out of the hamper. The weeds are getting higher than the flowers. Need to call my friend who's been sick. Need to go to a funeral visitation. Should send a card. Pay bills. Read bible. Study lesson. Work. Need sleep. Up early. Start all over. Beans need stemmed. What’s for supper? Forgot to call. Stressful day. Forgot a birthday. Check the messages. Feed the dog. Call the vet. Late to meeting.

Overcommitted. Overwhelmed. Over it.

Lord, you are the orchestrator of the universe. Order my world.

Summer Blessings by Susan Shull

There are many things I love about teaching, but one of the best is a 90 day weekend (so named by Marvin Allison!) Here are 10 things I am loving about this summer:

1. Time….to read, think, piddle.

2. Swinging in our porch swing doing my “devotions.” I love having time to leisurely read my Bible, pray, journal, and take notes on whatever Bible help book I am making my way through. I love to take notes-odd, I know!

3. Freezing corn-if you disregard the biting flies and the feeling of having been dunked in a bottle of Elmer’s glue-all that sticky corn sugar, you know. We all gather at mom and dad’s house and spend the day working on it together. I enjoy the conversation, the yummy garden lunch mom always prepares, and the feeling of accomplishment when we are done. It is especially fun for me this year since I have two little granddaughters who are huge corn fans and who will be excited when I serve it to them this winter!

4. Speaking of granddaughters, we have had so much fun together seeing High School Musical at the Muny, the Cardinals, and just hanging out together. They are such a joy!

5. Sunday night-I love Sunday nights in the summer knowing that I don’t have to rush off on Monday morning unless I want to.

6. Nature-I love the smell of the corn as it is pollinating, the beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and the haze surrounding us in the early morning.

7. The food….ah, the food! If there is anything better than fresh green beans, corn on the cob, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, even zucchini, I don’t know what it is. I feel so sorry for people who only eat food from a can or package.

8. Fabric-I get giggly inside when I have the chance to sit at my sewing machine and work with fabric.

9. Project Runway- I love this show. It is filled with drama and people who like to sew. I’m almost embarrassed to admit how much I enjoy this program-one of the few I watch on a regular basis.

10. Having Brock home for the summer-I feel so fortunate that he has an internship in Effingham. Since he will be a college senior this year, I know our nest is truly emptying and I will miss having him home for college breaks. He is delightful to be around.

I encourage you to take some time out of your busy schedule and make your own list of summer blessings. God is so good and I am thankful.

Are you the Weakest Link? by Theresa Zuber

A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. But, it seems that God oftentimes uses the weakest, most unlikely people, to accomplish his work.

Take Gideon (Judges 6 & 7) who declared himself the least man from the weakest clan, yet God used him. Gideon found it hard to believe so he asked God to give him a sign. Then, he asked for more signs – not that he didn’t trust God- but he had no confidence in his abilities to lead God’s people. Could he possibly understand God correctly? Was he completely bonkers???

Gideon is not the only one who had trouble believing God could use him. Moses argued with God that he was “slow to speak”. Did you get that? He said he wasn’t able to speak to Pharaoh, but he had no problem arguing with the most High God.

Other times God has used unlikely people: Rahab the prostitute (Josh 2), David the young shepherd boy (1 Sam 16), Joseph the dreamer (Gen 37-41), Matthew the tax collector (Matt 9), Zaccheus the “wee little man” (Luke 19), and Peter, who denied Christ three times. (Mark 14)

1 Cor 1:26-27 “Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.”

Our society places great importance on being self-confident and believing that you can do great things. Yet God seems to use those people who have emptied themselves out so that there is room for Him. Suddenly, being a link that God can use for His purposes seems much more important than fitting in with the rest of the world.

2 Cor 12: 9But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 10That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Dear Lord by Rachel Pitcher

Dear Lord
Hear my prayer
Know that I
need You there
beside me all the way
each day

I need you there
hear my prayer.

I fall
and confess my sin
you forgive
and draw me in
hold me close and say, "You're fine,
you're mine."

I need You there
hear my prayer.

Sorrow comes
and with it fear
I'm far away,
you draw me near
so I can feel You lifting me
up to see 

You were there
You heard my prayer.

Joyful feelings
flood my soul
you are there
to make me whole
creating within me life anew
to honor You!

Lord,
I'll be there
with You in prayer.

The Frog Pond by Donna (Ensign) Woods

As I sit by the frog pond to meditate and pray,

A dog barks from somewhere far away.

The distant timber line stands tall and proud,

A protective fortress, a woodland shroud.

Tree tops filled with feathered delight,

Announcing a new day, from the still of the night.

A multitude of birds, each with their own song.

Singing peace, the whole day long.

A nearby tree reflected in the aqua mirror...

I thank God for the calming peace I feel here.

The water on the pond, so still and serene,

Framed by dew covered grass, so soft and green.

A bull frog croaks his morning song,

At the little frog pond...where nothing is wrong.

The water bugs dance to the frog's serenade.

All is at peace in the frog pond parade.

Playful fish create ripples that go round and round,

Silent and gentle, without making a sound.

Above the water, dragonflies dance to and fro,

With no worries and no place to go.

Cattails and wildflowers awaiting their winter's rest.

To awaken next Spring in their splendid best.

The little frog pond, a simplistic delight,

I find refreshing peace, in God's creative might.

Here, I find renewed hope for today,

As I listen to God, and thankfully pray.