Tuesday 31 July 2012

Ask hubby a question.................. be prepared!

My husband does make me laugh! No really............... let me explain.  It has become a bit of a joke in our house that unless you have a couple of hours spare don't ask him a question that might require a long (ish) explanation.  Well today we kind of forgot and got trapped.........

After a lovely walk through a nearby town of Angouleme, about 45 mins from our gite and a scrummy bbq we decided to play a memory game.  We each took turns to look at a picture and then answer questions based on what we could remember.  So came the question about the best strategy to use in order to remember the most.  Well he was in his element.......... 20 minutes later the debate continued.  His strategy is to link the objects into a story; mine is to photographically capture the images of the objects into my mind; Sam's......... well he had no strategy, but still scored full marks; must be an age thing!!!!!!

Gracie is looking forward to championing at bingo tomorrow, we started playing it with her as a toddler as a way of helping her learn / recognise numbers and she loves it.  Talking of Gracie she got a bit of surprise as she cooled off in the pool earlier, a visit from the dog next door.  She wasn't impressed, but quickly forgave him!

We got a special treat today, a phone call from Grandma all the way from Nigeria, just to see how we were doing.

PS I am enjoying reading Proverbs, a chapter a day, I really encourage you to do the same.

Today (day 218) I am thankful for a day of treasured memories made.

Monday 30 July 2012

Intimate times......... anywhere

I took an extra long shower this morning, no, not because I was in need of a deeper scrub, but I was just lost in a special moment, in deep conversation with my Father, praying and mulling lots of things over with him.  It must have been a good 20 minutes which might not seem long, but trust me it is, when there are no immediate demands on you or your time.  It was a lovely intimate time, really gave the day a kick start!

Talking of the day, where did it go?  It was already after 3.00pm before we set out for a bit of exploration.  Mind you there was the matter of charging a flat car battery for a couple of hours (short story, tell you another time!) before we could set off.

I don't know if you have one of these, a special notebook to jot down lots of random thoughts, ideas, prayers, anything really.  Well I have a personalised one that was given to me by a friend that I use for this sole purpose and I have been putting it to good use.  If you don't have such a notebook I highly recommend you purchase one and keep it nearby all the time.

Thank you Lord today (day 217) for reminding me of the necessity of such intimate times with you.

Sunday 29 July 2012

Taking stock....................

Happy Sunday!  Whatever you are up to I pray it is in an atmosphere of fun, love and laughter.

Waking, refreshed, to the sounds of................ well, nothing, to be honest, just tranquil quietness and a smiling sun.  The gite which is in a rural setting is beautiful and the family who own it most welcoming.  They built it by converting the existing barn on their large plot into a simple, stylish, light and open plan holiday home.  Monsieur Gaschet told us it took him two years to build and he must and should be proud of the result.  I have so much respect and admiration when people embark on such projects and actually do the toil themselves; it must be incredibly gratifying.  The biscuit coloured painted walls complement the exposed stonework perfectly; the pool, well Gracie and Aaron will happily report on that and the wine, well chilled (yes Di I brought a couple of bottles of my Villa Garducci........they might not have it in France)! 

It is good to stop, sit and just take stock of life and all it encompasses, to talk without interruption, to fall asleep where ever, when ever and not have to clock watch or set early morning alarms, just the simplest of pleasures in life are my heart's desires.................

Now I was not able to read my word for today yesterday as we were on the road so I sat to absorb it this afternoon and what a blessing it was.  Let me explain why it was even more of a blessing and a most poignant one.  I was having a chat with a friend of mine the other day about the complicated subject of  'forgiveness' and how difficult it can be to move on from hurtful experiences especially when we have, but there appears to be no repentance on the other side.

Forgive us...as we forgive..' Matthew 6:12
Let's clear up some misconceptions about the words, 'Forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.'

Satan will try to convince you that if your feelings haven't changed
toward the person who wronged you, you haven't truly forgiven them.
No, you can make the right decision and still have the wrong feelings!
This is when you need faith to carry you through.

You have done your part, now you are waiting for God to do His.
God has the power to change your feelings toward the one who hurt you,
and He will.

Another misconception is that all you have to do is make a decision
to forgive and then your job's finished. No, you are instructed to 'Invoke
blessings upon and pray for the happiness of those who curse you,
implore God's blessing (favour) upon those who abuse you...' (Luke 6:28 AMP).
You say, 'Bless them? Are you serious?' Yes. The word 'bless' means
'to speak well of.' You're extending mercy to those who don't deserve it.
But isn't that what God does for you? 

The truth is, you cannot truly forgive without the Holy Spirit's help.
So today why don't you pray, 'Holy Spirit, breathe on me and give
me strength. I forgive _____________ [name] for what they did.
I release them from this debt and ask You to bless them. I turn the
situation over to You. I trust You for my total restoration. Help me,
Lord. Heal my heart, in Jesus' name, amen.'
Now, by faith, leave it all in your Father's hands, move forward and anticipate
His blessing. You won't be disappointed.

I have read this several time, dissecting a little more each time.  I am so glad
I do not have to lean on my own understanding because things would just not
add up,but instead look only to my Father to explain things clearly and
succinctly to me. 

One of my favourite books of the Bible is the book of proverbs, the book of
wisdom and so my personal challenge during this summer break is to read it
again, a chapter each day will see me through a month.

Enjoy the rest of this blessed Sunday (day 216) for which I give thanks.






Saturday 28 July 2012

Thanking Him again..................

I don't normally fall asleep on lengthy car journeys because I insist on staying awake to keep my husband company as he takes on the mammoth task of a 10-12 hour drive to our holiday destination, but you know what, I couldn't manage this year and so succumbed to much needed sleep leaving him at the helm.  I take my hat of to him because he does the entire drive without so much as a hint of grumble.  It is mentally and physically taxing so I feel the least I can do is to provide him with .a constant stream of refreshments and natter.

Today (day 215) I am thankful for journey mercies and His holy angels who were with us every step of the way.

Friday 27 July 2012

Thanking you Lord.......................

Father God today (day 214) I thank you for Your goodness, love and grace which continues to be sufficient for me and mine; for wonderful friends who always go that extra mile to demonstrate their love for us.

Today and always I pray;

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow us all the days of my life, and we shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Thursday 26 July 2012

One on one..................... so necessary

Life can get pretty crazy can't it, in the nicest possible way; much to do and only 24 hours to do it!  Still I managed to pack a whole lot in to mine.......... thank you Lord for sustenance.

One of my favourite things to do is to spend time with my kiddies, one on one and honestly during term time it can be so hard to grab a window of time because if we are not working / at school then we are going back and forth to various extra curricular activities as well as enjoying time with our fellowship and family and friends.  So it was a special treat for me today to go out with just one of my boys, Aaron and what a wonderful time we had.  There was a purpose to our outing, he needed new underwear (I'm sure he won't mind me sharing this with you!), but you know there doesn't have to be, just an extra special time together.  After persuading Gracie not to gate crash which actually wasn't as hard a job as it could have been, might have something to do with her friend who had come over to play, we set off.

It was such a priceless, intimate time of chatter, laughter and just touching base, without interruption and we even grabbed a bite to eat; it is lovely when time is not of the essence!  Aaron commented on what a superb day he'd had out with me and that's good enough endorsement for moi!

Thank you Lord today (day 213) for my perfect companion and memories made.

Wednesday 25 July 2012

Many hands made light work.......................

I really am just very thankful today (day 212) for my loyal dynamic duo, Aaron and Gracie who insisted on accompanying me to school today for day 3 of 'sort my new classroom out for September!'  Now we all know that moving home is mega stressful, but I nominate moving classroom for second prize.  Monday was my 'where do I start, help somebody,' day.
                           
Tuesday was my 'all things bright and beautiful,' day.  Well it's amazing what orange and yellow backing paper can do to lift a dull dreary room.  I hadn't been excited when I was told where my new classroom would be as it is a narrow, quite dark space and needed a lot of tlc.
                             
Today though was lovely; Craig, Sting, Barry, Maurice and Robin entertained us musically as we plodded on with the endless jobs.  Aaron experienced a little of what it's like to do 9 to 5 shift and Gracie carefully cleaned and rearranged a couple of bookshelves before deciding that this thing called work experience was not for her and made a swift exit to a friend's for the afternoon.  My Aaron though has staying power and stuck it till the end and even took photos of his handiwork.  Mission accomplished (well nearly!)  The hot, hot sun meant we did feel like were doing a work out and so may be a couple of pounds lighter.

ps here is the second instalment to decision making.

Decision Making (2)
'Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.' Proverbs 16:3
Here are two important things to remember when you're making an
important decision:
1) Believe that God is directing your steps. Because He is! 'The Lord directs
the steps of the godly...Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the
Lord holds them by the hand' (Psalm 37:23-24 NLT). God didn't say you
wouldn't stumble. He just promised to pick you up, dust you off, correct you
when you need it, and keep working with you. J. I. Packer says: 'A moment
of conscious triumph makes one feel that after this, nothing really matters; a
 moment of seeming disaster makes one feel like this is the end of everything.
But neither feeling is realistic, because neither event is really what it's felt to be.'
So don't get bent out of shape; by God's grace you'll handle it and come out wiser.
2) Realise that God can bring good out of bad situations. 'And we know that
God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and
are called according to his purpose for them' (Romans 8:28 NLT). In every success
story you'll find struggles and setbacks. And you'll also find tenacious faith that
refuses to give up. After listing a series of adversities that would make your worst
day seem like 'a trip to the beach,'
Paul writes: '...None of these things move me...' (Acts 20:24). Where does such a
n attitude come from? It comes from knowing that God is working in you,
He's working with you, and He's working through you.
And as Ethel Waters used to say, 'My God don't sponsor no flops!

I love it!

Tuesday 24 July 2012

Decisions, decisions........... you are not alone!

During the last couple of weeks, in particular at school I have found myself in situations where I have had to make decisions about various situations that have arisen and it hasn't been easy.  Even after putting the situations before my Father and knowing that He has by best interest at heart and that my well being is uppermost in His mind it can still be difficult to fully rest in the peace of the my decision.  Doubt quickly sets in.  As always my life manual holds the answers to ease my unease.


 Decision Making (1)
'Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.' Proverbs 16:3
If all your life you've been warned about making bad decisions,
fear can cause you to miss God-given opportunities. 'If the trumpet
does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle?' (1Corinthians
14:8 NIV). Now you're like the mule standing between two bales of hay;
unable to decide which one to eat and afraid of making the wrong choice,
you starve to death. You must act! Your need to do things perfectly and your
desire to control every possible outcome will keep you stuck. So:
1) Stop trying to please everybody. 'Fear of man is a dangerous trap,
but to trust in God means safety' (Proverbs 29:25 TLB). Once you know
what brings you fulfilment, as long as it's God's will, chart your course
accordingly and refuse to let the opinions of others stop you or colour
your view.
2) Remember, over time your goals can change. What's needed today may
not be right for you a year from now. So reassess your plans regularly and
be willing to change direction. 'We should make plans-counting on God to
direct us' (Proverbs 16:9 TLB). When your spiritual gut says no, pay attention.
3) When God is on your side, you'll prevail. Somebody asked Abraham Lincoln
if he was sure that God was on his side. He replied, 'I haven't thought much
about it. I just want to know I'm on God's side.' It's normal to speculate about
how you'd like things to turn out, but God alone controls the future. Just trust
Him.'  Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.

Tell me I am not alone in the tangled web that is 'decision making!'  From the
moment I wake up in the morning it starts; decisions, decisions.  The message
here is clear, trust in the Lord and not in man's outlook or opinion, which at the
best of times can be unreliable.  For me the second point has been the
strongest and most clear advice that has seen me through in my decision
making recently and today (day 211) I am truly thankful to my God given
life manual.
I hope it will minister to you in the same way it did to me.

Monday 23 July 2012

Search for the hero...............

In life there are so many earthly people to look to for inspiration; our parents, spouses, children, friends, teachers, work colleagues, people in our community and further afield who have made a difference or left a legacy.

Today I was reading up on all things olympic and came across '50 Britons to watch' at the paralympic games.  As I read each one I had to pause for a while to absorb each one's story.  Most had been injured in accidents; accidents that had left them unable to resume their normal lives, but instead they had to search deep within to find the courage to continue a new life, full of new challenges / uncertainty.  Their journeys had brought them to the 2012 games where they will compete in a variety of events in the hope of collecting the ultimate prize, the gold medal!  To get to the point of competing they would have had to, in the words of the song by M People, 'search for the hero inside.'     It is one of my favourite songs of all time.

Sometimes the river flows but nothing breathes.
A train arrives but never leaves.
It's a shame.
Oh life - like love that walks out of the door,
Of being rich or being poor.
Such a shame.
But it's then, then that faith arrives
To make you feel at least alive.
And that's why you should keep on aiming high,
Just seek yourself and you will shine.

[chorus]
You've go to search for the hero inside yourself,
Search for the secrets you hide.
Search for the hero inside yourself
Until you find the key to your life.

In this life, long and hard though it may seem,
Live it as you'd live a dream.
Aim so high.
Just keep the flame of truth burning bright.
The missing treasure you must find
Because you and only you alone
Can build a bridge across the stream.
Weave your spell in life's rich tapestry -
Your passport to a feel supreme.


The sometimes daily grind of life causes us to dig deep, but thank goodness we have a Hero whose body was broken for you and I.  Today (day 210) I am thankful to have come across the profiles of some very inspirational people and salute them.



Sunday 22 July 2012

Sticks and stones ......................

It is so so important, in fact, crucial as parents that we make sure we constantly build our children's self esteem and confidence as much as we can because they will get knocks along the way.  Now I am not one to brag, but where my husband and children are concerned I make no apologies...........  Now my boys are most handsome and my Gracie, a little beauty, but not just on the outside, but also on the inside.

Life being life and people being people I cannot legislate for what my children might encounter outside of their home and today Aaron was quite upset about something he had experienced.  He had gone out to play tennis with two friends and said he heard someone poking fun at the shape of his head.  Now my instinctive reaction was to take up my battle spear and go to seek out and confront, but thank goodness that common sense and the strong arms of my husband were there to hold me back!!!!.  I explained to him that unfortunately most of us have been or will be subject to similar comments at some point in our lives; growing up I was teased for having skinny legs (this had quite an impact on my confidence way into my adulthood) and also for wearing glasses.

As a family we all talked to him to encourage him about the fact that he is perfectly made, in His Father's image and took the opportunity to talk about the forthcoming Olympics, focusing on the paralympic athletes and the adversities they have had to overcome.  Importantly that each of them are unique whole beings with incredible gifting just as he is.  Big brother Sam continued to build him up by reminding Aaron that only just recently when he went to take his music exam one of the examiners commented on how handsome he was.   You see it's not my imagination!

Honestly it hurts me very much when my children feel hurt by mindless behaviour like this, but you know what Aaron has gone to bed knowing that he is very much loved, regarded and highly favoured and today (day 209) I really am most thankful.

Saturday 21 July 2012

A sunny start!

The sun came out and stayed out all day!  What a blessing.  You can tell the school vacation is truly here.  My Aaron is having his first sleep over of the holiday tonight and I could not convince him otherwise with excuses about homework to be done or that it's best to have things like that during the holiday season!  Hearing their laughter makes me laugh because these are the memories that will last a lifetime.  So I raise my cup of tea to many more sleepovers.

Thank you Lord today (day 208) for a sunny start.

So long, farewell to another school year.............

Technology is a wonderful thing when it works for you or you know how to use it......................  I couldn't post yesterday but here it is.

The term has ended and what an overwhelming day it was.  I looked across the room at the children who came to me as babes and see them now, a year on.  God's grace has been sufficient for them too.  We danced and laughed and sang and played this afternoon.  The pupils from year 6 did their annual tour of t-shirt signing; it was an emotional time for them too, their 7 years of primary education was coming to an end and a new journey would begin for each of them.  I don't think that they are fully aware of the enormous, though exciting transition they will be making to secondary school.

School felt especially quiet after they had left at 3.00pm, as if it knew that the children would not be back for quite a few weeks. 

My Aaron has completed his first year of secondary school and Gracie will move into year 2 next session.  It hardly seems possible.

My Father in heaven today (day 207) I thank You for this past school year, for the way You have held me in the palm of Your hands. Your heavenly angels kept watch over me whilst Your holy spirit resided where ever I was.

Thursday 19 July 2012

To say 'thanks'............

Wrapping, writing, more wrapping, more writing - all in preparation to say 'thanks.'  One cannot underestimate the importance of and impact saying 'thank you' can have to both the person saying it as well as the recipient.  Now of course it is easier and definitely less costly to just say it, but you know expressive sentiments last a life time and a small gift is merely a gesture to further express that thanks............

We are blessed with so many opportunities and occasions to give votes of thanks to various people in our lives and I don't like to miss them, especially when the people concerned are the unsung heroes that make my job as a teacher easier.  So I pen my carefully thought through lines to sincerely thank them; my teaching assistants, lunchtime supervisor, caretaker, cleaner, after school club carers, office staff and of course the cook who cuts me a larger slice of raisin bread at play time.  It's true that they are, after all, just doing the jobs they are paid to do, but without just one of these pieces of my professional jigsaw my ability to do my job effectively would diminish somewhat!

Today (day 206) I give sincere and heart felt thanks for each of you.

Wednesday 18 July 2012

Effective together................

Today felt more like a house moving day than a regular school day.  Quite a few of us are moving location next academic session and so we had some heavy duty shifting to do, but had an army of very willing helpers on hand.  It's a funny old profession, teaching, on the one hand we are finishing a school year and almost simultaneously preparing for the next.  This time of the year can be potentially extremely stressful so we rely on each other to get through.  The seemingly constant supply of indulgent cakes and biscuits helped to ease the strain.

There are times in life when it is necessary for teams to pull together in order to be effective and I am thankful that today (day 205) was one of those days.

Tuesday 17 July 2012

Thank you my son!

Today (day 204) I am simply thankful for Sam who had already started to prepare dinner on my arrival after a very long day at school.  I pray in advance for his children, who will do the same for him!  But you know what, this is how he is every day; my Sam meets and greets me as I arrive home and makes a much needed cup of tea.  Biased I am, but his wife will be a most blessed and loved woman.  Amen!

Monday 16 July 2012

Affirm............. say it loud and proud

"Mum I was really nervous at first.  My hands were shaking when I started playing."   My Gracie, tonight, youngest solo performer at the school music concert.  It's ok to be proud isn't it?  As she finished playing she looked round to find us in the audience, just for that look of affirmation. I applaud my girl because I certainly didn't have such confidence at her age, to perform in front of a packed hall.

As parents we encourage, build, guide, support; it is a pleasure and privilege to do these things, just like our Father in heaven wants to do with us.  Her delight at the end of the evening when we met up again and simply told her how proud we were of her was just priceless.  She skipped along in her 'high' heels as we headed home. 

Aaron too got a surprise at school today.  He was awarded a certificate of excellence in four subjects in recognition of outstanding work and progress.  I had barely parked the car when he came racing out to ask me to guess what had happened.  He was in no doubt we were proud of him and delighted for him; he had grafted to earn such success.  We tell our children that God will always honour the labour of their hands with good fruit.

Expressions of affirmation last a life time so say it loud and proud.

Today (day 203) I am humbled to be a part of such inspiring, young lives.

Sunday 15 July 2012

I am a new creation....................

I can't help but share good reading when I come across it so please forgive me if I am a bit boring in this way.  I am constantly inspired by the things I read, from a variety of sources, but undoubtedly the best reads come from the Book itself!

When we give our lives to Jesus it is a life changing moment, when we give over our old self and become a new creation in Christ Jesus.  We can bask in this new life as we start a new journey in our lives with Him at our side.  However because we live in the real world we still live in a secular society, one in which our new self can feel as if it is at war with the old and doubt sets in.

Thank God that our Father's word tells us otherwise.  Read this and know as I do today (day 202) that the moment we asked Jesus into our lives we were no longer in condemnation, but instead began a journey that would require us to walk in His grace daily.  To do so we need to seek His face daily;

'There is another power within me that is at war with my mind...' Romans 7:23
Today let's talk about: The enemy within. Your old nature is like a fifth column, always looking for ways to sabotage you. It's the door through which satan enters. You have two natures, an old one and a new one. They are opposite, and they are always on a collision course. A great illustration of this can be found in the birth of Jacob and Esau. '...Rebekah became pregnant with twins. But the two children struggled with each other in her womb. So she went to ask the Lord about it. "Why is this happening to me?" she asked. And the Lord told her, "The sons in your womb will become two nations. From the very beginning, the two nations will be rivals. One nation will be stronger than the other; and your older son will serve your younger son' (Genesis 25:21-23 NLT). Paul talks about his 'Dr. Jekyll' nature and his 'Mr. Hyde' nature. 'I love God's law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to sin that is still within me' (Romans 7:22-23 NLT). What's the answer? Starve your old nature and feed your new one! Again Paul writes: 'No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier' (2 Timothy 2:4). That means you must: 1) Regularly communicate with headquarters through prayer. 2) Read God's Word to be sure you're obeying your Commanding Officer. 3) Keep your spiritual morale high. 4) Not get entangled with the wrong people or things.

Saturday 14 July 2012

All in good spirits!

Recently here in the UK we have been bemoaning the current, well actually and past, wet, wet, wet weather.  So much has had to be cancelled because of it; my school sports day, festivals across the country.  Today was no different as the grey skies wept bucket loads.  However it couldn't dampen the mood as some of us stood to cheer on the carnival procession which included our ever faithful school float with its Olympic themed truck.  The children and adults were all in very good cheer and a good cheer is what we gave them as the passed by!

Today (day 201) I am thankful for 'let's just get on with it' spirit which meant all the hard work that had been put in by the participants of the procession did not go to waste!

Friday 13 July 2012

Setting a world record..................

200 days of gratitude........................God's grace has been and continues to be sufficient for me. 

I was watching a programme on the television tonight called 'Guiness World Records' where a melting pot of contestants displayed their peculiar talents in order to secure a place in the book of world records.  I won't expand on their exploits, but some were clearly dangerous.  Mouth wide open at times I wondered why people would be prepared to risk their lives for such a prize.

Yet there is One who had no gimmicks, but instead gave His life, not to earn a place as an entry in the 'Guiness World Records' book, but as the author of the greatest book in history (a record that cannot be broken), the Book of Life, so that you and I could have our names written in;

The Lambs Book of Life - Not everyone has his or her name written in the Lambs Book of Life! Ones name is not written in at birth, nor does he or she have it written in by the sovereign choice of God. A person's name is written in the Lambs book of Life only because he or she chooses to ask God to place it there. Jesus Christ offers us eternal life if we receive Him, if we invite Him into our hearts.

Today (day 200) I am thankful that God's grace is sufficient for me.

Thursday 12 July 2012

poetic license or not?

This week at school we having been mixing the children up and doing some activities on some of the countries taking part in the Olympics this year.  My group have been exploring and finding out about the rainbow nation South Africa!  One of the tasks they were set was to write an acrostic poem for South Africa.  It got me thinking and I thought it would be lovely to do the same, but about Jesus Christ.  This is what I came up with:


Just come as you are
Embrace the love to be found in his outstretched arms
So that your life may be made brand new
Understand this, you have been born again
Stand up and continue on your life journey

Celebrate you no longer walk alone
His gospel of truth you must now share
Rejoice in the Lord God most high
In reverence and without fear
Say it loud and say it proud
Today is the day my Father has made and I will rejoice in it

Today (day 199) I am thankful that with open evening over at school it really is the final countdown until the summer vacation begins!

Wednesday 11 July 2012

Looking and learning.......................

Gracie was engrossed in something in her bedroom and even had the door closed.  When I went to investigate she was busy writing a song, her first song and without (well ok, some mummy bias) it was pretty good.  She said she had tried to get some of the lines to rhyme.  After singing it to me
a cappella she announced that over the next few days she will be trying to put a tune to it on the piano! 
"Wow," I said, mouth ajar and a big encouraging beam on my face.  Great things start with small beginnings so I am excited for her enthusiasm, creativity and diligence.  She was writing another verse right up until bedtime.  Yesterday she was busy designing a dress for one of her dolls.  Where will her creative juices take her to next.  In fact next week she will be performing a piece 'Ode To Joy' on the piano at her first music concert at school............  My Gracie embraces life to the full and loves people, such inspiring qualities in someone so young.  Well I am inspired and humbled as I look and learn!

Today (day 198) I really am just thankful to have been blessed with the privilege of being a parent to such a 'Grace.'  In all she does she is so true to her name: it stems from Latin "gratia" meaning "pleasing quality," "favour," or "thanks." In Christian theology, grace is the unconditional love of God toward all people.  In Greek Mythology, the three Graces (Kharites) were Goddesses of adornment, beauty, dance, festivity, grace, mirth and song.

Tuesday 10 July 2012

Sufficient grace..............

Do you ever have one of those starts to the day, when you wake with a start because you have just remembered something!  Well....................

Aaron had a piano exam today and it is his Dad who is in responsible for all things musical in our household and this morning he was over 100 miles away and had not remembered and so came the challenge - what to do.  I knew I wouldn't be able to sort things out with school at such short notice (the exam was at 2.05pm) so 'mission possible' was underway. 

Now running later than I'd like for school I had to quickly write a letter to his form tutor asking permission for him to be excused from school for the afternoon, locate the address for the exam venue and arrange for big brother Sam to organise lunch first, then a taxi to transport them there and back.  Ah yes and cash for said taxi meant a quick dash to the cash dispenser and whistle stop trip back home during my lunch hour.  Finally and the most important thing, wishing my boy God's blessings and favour for his exam.

One again His grace was sufficient for us all and He met us at a point of need.  Today (day 197) I give heart felt thanks to my Father in heaven for a big brother called Sam who always happily steps in to look after his younger siblings who by the way adore him beyond words.

Monday 9 July 2012

Take every opportunity to steward...............

'...Watch out that no...bitterness grows up...' Hebrews 12:15
Betrayal is something others do to you; bitterness is something
you do to yourself. It's impossible to go through life without being hurt.
It may be an unfaithful mate, an employee who slanders you or a boss
who fires you without explanation. Sitting at supper with His disciples,
Jesus said, 'One of you will betray me' (Mark 14:18 NIV). Shortly after that,
Judas betrayed Him with a kiss. Some folks will kiss you today and
kick you tomorrow. But Jesus refused to become bitter. That's because
He knew Judas' kiss would usher Him into His destiny. Nor did Jesus turn
His back on Peter when he denied Him. Instead, Peter was the only one
He mentioned by name when He arranged to meet His disciples for breakfast
following the resurrection. Jesus saw people in the light of their potential,
not their problems. What they were at that moment didn't keep Him from s
eeing what they would become when His grace touched their lives. And you
must be that way too. This is why Paul wrote: 'Get rid of all bitterness...
Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as
God through Christ has forgiven you' (Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT). So eliminate
any words of bitterness from your conversation. Stop rehearsing the details o
f your past unless it's to teach and encourage others to rise above theirs. How
often do you revisit your old issues? What are you doing to make sure no
bitterness remains in your heart? God says, 'Do not remember the former things,
nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing'
(Isaiah 43:18-19 NKJV).

God's word is simply 'poetry in motion!  I just had to share this.

At this time of the year at school we have some high school students in
attendance at school in order to engage in some work experience.  It is always
a timely initiative because we are totally snowed under, trying to round
off a year whilst preparing for the next so the arrival of extra pairs of hands
are warmly received.  I always start by chatting to them and establishing
what they want to do during their time with us.  I don't want them to be out
of their comfort zone, but at the same time allow them to experience aspects
of teaching that I feel they would enjoy.  I have been blessed today with a
young girl who is keen to do more than simple administrative tasks and she
seemed to enjoy it. 

It is always a privilege to steward young people and give them a positive
experience that will leave a lasting memory and perhaps influence their
choices, behaviour, ambitions and outlook on life and today (day 196)
I am thankful to have been given such an opportunity.

Sunday 8 July 2012

Keep that flame burning....................

The matchsticks are doing a grand job keeping my eyes open.  I sort of had under an hour's sleep last night.  Sam started a weekend job at a club in town and came home at 3.00am so I waited up to see how he got on.  Before we knew it we were welcomed into Sunday by sweetly singing birds.  We then both decided to stay up as we were going to watch the Olympic torch as it passed by just outside our church.  Well he bailed out on me and fell asleep at around 5.00am so I decided it would be more distressing to have very little sleep and instead filed some paper work.

The crowds gathered at our church which is at a pivotal point, a crossroads in the town.  The people chosen to carry the torch were specially selected for a variety of reasons and come from a different walks of life.  At church we were busy preparing refreshments for the crowds afterwards which gave us a wonderful opportunity to witness.  I know I say it all the time, but our worship was simply amazing, His presence was just felt by all.

Our pastor said something that really captured the essence of our walk with the Lord.  He talked about the fact that the Olympic torch is carried for a short period of time by several individuals, but we are meant to carry and keep our flame of salvation burning until we meet Him face to face. Like the Olympic flame our flame has to weather the storms of life.  We have to work hard to keep our flame burning in order to stand a chance of finishing the race.  Like the torch bearers we are a chosen few As the song says;

Father of creation, unfold your sovereign plan
Raise up a chosen generation
That will march through the land
All of creation is longing
For your unveiling of power
Would you release your anointing
Oh God let this be the hour

    Let your glory fall in this room
    Let it go forth from here to the nations
    Let your fragrance rest in this place
    As we gather to seek your face


    Thank you Lord today (day 195) for using an event such as today's to remind us to not let our flame (that was born our of our salvation) extinguish.
     

Saturday 7 July 2012

Lord you never let go.......................

And even when I’m caught in the middle
Of the storms of this life
I won’t turn back, I know You are near
And I will fear no evil
For my God is with me
And if my God is with me
Whom then shall I fear?
Whom then shall I fear?
Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me

 
MATT REDMAN - YOU NEVER LET GO

Thank you Lord today (day 194) for this Saturday, for your mighty hand of protection which was evident in a situation that could have been catastrophic.

Friday 6 July 2012

This is my desire.........................

Building a relationship with God:

'Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord...' 2 Peter 3:18

First, Make up your mind. Spiritual growth doesn't happen by osmosis. You don't just wake up with it one morning, you have to set your heart on it and make it your highest priority.

Second, Break up your will. Until your will is surrendered to God and brought into alignment with His purposes, you will go in circles spiritually.

Third, Wake up your faith. Obey the leadings of God's Spirit. Don't be afraid, He will not let you down. Just make sure you don't let Him down. 'Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for He who comes to God must believe that He is...a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him' (Hebrews 11:6 NKJV).

Fourth, Take up your cross. '...If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it' (Matthew 16:24-25 NKJV).

I don't know about you, but this is certainly my desire, to build the most important relationship of all.  Thank you Lord today (day 193) for spelling it out so succinctly.


This is my desire you to honor you
Lord, with all my heart I worship you
All I have within me I give You praise
All that I adore is in you

Lord I give you my heart
I give you my soul
I live for you alone
Every breath that I take
Every moment I'm awake
Lord have Your way in me


I believe all other relationships we make in our life journey will have, underpinning them, our relationship with God.








Thursday 5 July 2012

Those who can't..................?

I faced a different kind of challenge today; Gracie has been studying the story of Pocahontas at school and tomorrow they have to dress up either as said character / Indian princess, you get my drift........  Well I have tried to purchase a costume for her, trying to source it from a variety of places, beg, borrow, but not steal comes to mind, but to no avail.  So most reluctantly I have attempted to make one for her.  Armed with a pillow case, I have already massacred a bed sheet and disposed of my sorry attempts I have made something!  Don't worry I will not take pictures of it until she wears it (it will look so much better), but guess what she is thrilled, full beam thrilled.  I am thrilled that she is thrilled, but there is no danger of me changing career direction.

What's that saying 'Those who can't teach.'

Thank you Lord today (day 192) for humouring and honouring my efforts!

Wednesday 4 July 2012

The Benefits of Making Jesus 'Lord'


The Benefits of Making Jesus 'Lord'

'...No one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit.' 1 Corinthians 12:3
Making Jesus 'Lord' of your life means that He must have the first and l
ast word in all things which concern you. It means you are called to walk
with Him, to prove yourself valuable to Him, to please Him and do what
He wants, when He wants it, and in the way He wants it done. Here are
three great benefits that come from putting Jesus behind the wheel and
making Him 'Lord.'
1) When you don't know what to say, He will tell you.
'The Sovereign Lord has given me his words of wisdom, so that I may know
how to comfort the weary. Morning by morning he wakens me and opens my
understanding to his will. The Sovereign Lord has spoken to me, and I have
listened. I have not rebelled or turned away' (Isaiah 50:4-5 NLT).
2) When you can't defend yourself, He will fight for you. '...The Lord is my
fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? When evil people
come to devour me...they will stumble and fall. Though a mighty army surrounds
me, my heart will not be afraid. Even if I am attacked, I will remain confident'
(Psalm 27:1-3 NLT).
3) When the burden feels too heavy, He will carry it for you. 'Give your burdens
to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and
fall' (Psalm 55:22 NLT).
And these three benefits are yours when you make Jesus 'Lord' over every area
of your life.

Word for Today July 4th

This just ministered to me in a very big way, I was quite emotional when
I had finished reading it.  What a powerful message.  I am so thankful today
(day 191) for these three benefits without which the ladder of life would be so
much harder to climb.  Meditate on this message as I did.  It will bless you.

Tuesday 3 July 2012

Meal times ...........don't let them slip away

When my husband is working far away like he was today I don't expect him to be home early as the drive home is usually a lengthy one, but today I got a lovely surprise, he arrived home earlier than expected.  For Grace and Aaron it meant they would see him before they go to bed and he would be able to join our natter after dinner which tonight was about habits, specifically food habits.  Don't ask me how we got on to that particular or should I say peculiar subject and boy did we chuckle.  We established that Grace's food habits replicate that of her Dad and that I get somewhat cranky when I am very hungry!

Meal times are one of my favourite times because we can be there for a long time and no one minds.  In fact it is a struggle to leave the table.  It gives us all an opportunity to share, encourage, laugh, remember, look ahead, discuss the things we are thankful for, bring forth things we are concerned about.  Meal times are not like any other times and really must be treasured and made a priority of family life as much as is possible.

Today (day 190) I am thankful for the gift of being able to share and partake of such an immensely special time with my precious dinner guests.

Monday 2 July 2012

A cup full of life's tonic!

As the academic session begins to draw to a close so too are the extra curricular activities that my younger two enjoy.  Often to mark the occasion parents are allowed to watch a special performance of the dance classes and today was my opportunity to look inside, beyond the blacked out door and see what she has been doing.  What a treat it was too; it was her modern jazz class and they were showing us the routine they will perform for an exam in the autumn and my jaw ached from smiling, not just for her wonderful delivery, but from the beam that was on her face from start to finish.  She loves to dance and seeing her today made all the mad dashes after school and juggling of finances to make it possible all the more worthwhile (she has asked and expressed a desire to add tap dancing to her repertoire)!    On Wednesday I will get to repeat the process again when I sneak a peak at her ballet class.

Simple things like this lift my spirit no end, and are a body, mind and soul tonic if ever there was one and today (day 189) I humbly give gratitude.

Sunday 1 July 2012

No need to run on empty..................

I just can't get enough of the encouraging messages from the 'Word for Today.'  It is part of my five a day ...... just add my husband and kiddies and my daily ration is complete!  It always hits the right spot although it is no substitute for the Book itself.  Well today my words of encouragment came from another precious source my sis Comfort who also always hits the right spot when it comes to uplifting words and prayers of affirmation.  Today's message was about surrounding yourself with people who build you up and lift your spirits when you feel emotionally drained and I feel I have most certainly experienced that this week.  In fact let me share the whole message with you.


When you're emotionally drained and under pressure, you're vulnerable to making serious mistakes. Samson did. Notice how Delilah brought him down: 'She prodded him day after day until he was tired to death. So he told her everything...' (vv. 16-17 NIV). You can attend church every week and read your Bible from cover to cover, but it will do you little good if you're running around physically and spiritually depleted. Furthermore, it's hard to live with such a person, and almost impossible to help them because their mind is in the grip of a negative force. You say, 'What's the answer?' 1) Examine the company you're keeping. When you need rest and relief go to the right people; when you're feeling down, reach for those who can lift you up. The Psalmist said, 'I am a friend to all...who follow your precepts' (Psalm 119:63 NIV). 2) Check your fuel gauge. Samson wore himself out in a good cause because he failed to replenish his soul. Are you doing that? One New Year's Day during the Tournament of Roses parade in California, a beautiful float suddenly sputtered and quit-out of petrol. The whole parade was held up until someone found a petrol can. The funny thing is, this float represented the Standard Oil Company. The Bible says, 'He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak' (Isaiah 40:29 NIV). As you spend time with God in prayer and the Scriptures, He will strengthen you and give you back your peace and stability. It's the ultimate therapy. It's also the ultimate protection!
UCB Word for Today

It is so important to remember that God does not expect us to be an island, carrying the load alone.  Instead he wants us to seek strength from the like minded and it has certainly made a difference to my frame of mind so I encourage you to do the same when you find yourself in a similar situation.  God's grace is sufficient for me and you and comes to us when we most need it, when our fuel guage is running on empty and I am thankful today (day 188).