Imagination

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 304: Today, I am grateful for imagination.

"Your imagination is infinite. Creativity is the magic that brings it to life." 

It is a day full of imagination as children (and some adults) bring dreams to life. Chase was a ninja nearly every year. Walker had a little more variety. It all brings back memories. Coming up with the costumes was always part of the fun. 

For 20 years at St. Jude and a decade at the Junior High, I wore a costume, too. Creativity would come to life.  Laughter, smiles, and pure fun. 

How many times do we forget that anything is possible with creativity, tenacity, and hard work. I guess the important thing is to know what you are working toward and what matters in the end. From costumes... to classrooms... to career centers... to corn fields to corporate offices... dreams can come to fruition. You may not be a ninja, but you can be a black belt. You may not be a sea creature, but you can study them or become an archeologist. 

We may not be born royal, but we can be welcomed as joint heirs with Jesus into Heaven. Does it get any better?

"That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.”" -1 Corinthians 2:9

Keep on dreaming, dressing up, and dedicating days to creativity. Don't forget to pack some glitter.  

Today, I am grateful for imagination.

Growth Mindset

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 304: Today, I am grateful for a growth mindset.

"Before you reject an idea, find at least five good things about it." -Thomas A. Edison

This is a great leadership and innovation quote, worthy of putting into practice. Human nature says, "We've never done it that way." Or perhaps, "It will never work." Innovation says, "What might the benefits be?" Resisting what is comfortable for something new can be scary, but the outcomes can be game changers. 

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline."  -2 Timothy 1:7   

A growth mindset is good for humans. Trying new things... things we cannot do "yet," keep us exploring new ideas. Time, failure, creativity, and more are packed into the practice. Negativity is rejected for focusing on what we learn from failure. Some of my favorite inventions were failures, like the "Post-It" note. The fact it didn't stay stuck became the magic that was eventually embraced and is now used daily in homes and offices.

Knowledge is not enough. Try crazy things. Fail with the wild abandon that comes with courage. Speak of the possibilities first, then begin building. 

Today, I am grateful for a growth mindset.

Home

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 302: Today, I am grateful for home.

"Our home should be life giving and soul refreshing, a soft spot to land on a hard day, and a cozy place to recharge and rejuvenate. "

As the weather turns colder, I am so grateful for home. The Love-of-My-Life made the first fire of the season last night. The scent, the crackle, the snaps, the pops, and the warm glow of the wood fireplace is something I have loved about our home from the day we bought it. It is the picture and the feel of "cozy." 

Our homes are so much more than just a favorite feature or spot. Our home is about how we feel when we are there. With our people or alone, home should be a soft landing place to rest and recharge. 

This morning, I was reminded that some people have no home. Others do not feel safe where they live. If you have a home that makes you feel safe and loved, it is something to be grateful for daily. 

I love home. I, like my Mama, love a full house. It is up to us to make it a place of warmth, love, and shelter that reflects God's peace. 

Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace be to this house!’ -Luke 10:5

Today, I am grateful for home.

Seasons

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 301: Today, I am grateful for the seasons.  

In the Midwest, we can look out our window and see a kaleidoscope of colors in the trees and on the ground. The trees dance in the autumn winds and eventually, the leaves float to the ground. It is incredible. 

These past few years, I have tried to be more intentional about pausing to take in the beauty and not let the coming winter defeat my spirit, as I do not love the cold. Winter has its own unique gifts. The same is true for spring and summer. 

 I love that we have seasons. I would miss them if I lived in a different place. We have seasons in life, too. Each one comes with beauty and struggles. Every season has dozens of reasons to be grateful, if we take the time to look for them. 

"As the Scriptures say, “People are like grass; their beauty is like a flower in the field. The grass withers and the flower fades. But the word of the Lord remains forever.” And that word is the Good News that was preached to you." -1 Peter 24-25

Embrace the beauty and the challenges of each season. It is still harder for me when the temperatures drop below freezing, but with the change in temperature comes the changing leaves and the beauty beyond my window. Perspective is powerful.

Today, I am grateful for the seasons. 

Funny Animals

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 300: Today, I am grateful for animals that make me laugh. 

"When God created ducks, He said, "Waterproof that chicken and give it a kazoo." 

It does seem like a great description of a duck. The animal world seems to be full of God's sense of humor. In some cases, the quirks that make them funny or interesting have a bigger purpose. 

Humans are funny animals, too. We love to laugh. Laughing increases our endorphins. Funny animal videos online are fun to watch. 

"Then God said, “Let the waters swarm with fish and other life. Let the skies be filled with birds of every kind.” -Genesis 1:20

The bird family has so many funny family members. For some, it is the sound they make. For others, it is the way they move from place to place. The emu, the ostrich, and the flamingo are entertaining when they interact with humans. So are goats, cats and dogs. 

Today, I am grateful for animals that make me laugh. 

Loyalty

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 299: Today, I am grateful for loyalty.

Loyalty matters in our relationships. No one is perfect. Loyalty often overlooks our imperfections and sees our quirks as endearing. Loyalty is a decision we make with intention. 

A dog is an amazing example of loyalty. They love us better than we deserve on many occasions. Their love is unconditional. They are not afraid to be uncomfortable to be near us. They wait at the window for our return. 

There are many animal species who mate for life and grieve deeply when a partner is lost. It is as beautiful as it is sad. 

 "Loyalty makes a person attractive. It is better to be poor than dishonest."  -Proverbs 19:22

Character counts. Loyalty is a beautiful character trait.  

Today, I am grateful for loyalty.

A Song in my Heart

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 298: Today, I am grateful for a song in my heart. 

I often refer to my Earworm. He sings the songs stuck in my head. I love my Earworm. Earworm drives me nuts. Both things can be true in a love relationship... at least that is what I tell the Love-of-my-Life. 

This scripture was my verse of the day: 

"singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." -Ephesians 5:19-20

Guess what Earworm is singing? The chorus to Rod Stewart's "You're In My Heart." Now, you may want to stop reading, but before you do, I want to remind you that there is an old hymn called "Jesus, Lover of my Soul" as well as a modern worship song by the same name. 

I must confess that I am a sucker for a rock ballad. Rod's voice is soothing and ruff at the same time. Then I pulled it up and listened to the whole song. He is singing about a girl. Remember,  God created man. Then he made a woman to be a partner and companion for the man. The song puts intimacy in words. Many of the lyrics could be woven into a modern worship song. 

"You're in my heart. You're in my soul. You'll be my breath should I grow old. You are my lover and my best friend. You're in my soul." 

In the lyrics, the man is unfaithful. In his betrayal, he finds himself cold, lost, longing, and incomplete. How often do we experience the same thing when we drift away from the heart of the Father, ignore the sacrifice and redemption purchased by the Son on a cross, and attempt to ignore the Holy Spirit?

Then the lyrics say this: 

"My love for you is immeasurable
My respect for you immense
You're ageless, timeless, lace, and fineness
You're beauty and elegance
You're a rhapsody, a comedy
You're a symphony and a play
You're every love song ever written
But, honey, what do you see in me?" 

Our God is all of these things. Even the lace found in a spider's web as the dew settles on it at daybreak. Nature is full of timeless, lace, and fineness. 

This part of the lyric is like an arrow to the heart:

"And there have been many affairs

Many times I've thought to leave

But I bite my lip and turn around

'Cause you're the warmest thing I've ever found 

The soul of our nation is hurting. We have affairs with money, sports, fashion, and power. None of them... not one... can satisfy the soul like Jesus. Those "habits that are hard to accept," are sometimes called a moral compass. 

God's holiness cannot tolerate the sins that destroy our souls. We never go "unnoticed," but He gifted us... and only us... with free will. We can put our human nature aside and choose Him... choose each other... and choose to do what is good, true, and at times, inconvenient. 

"You're in my heart. You're in my soul. You'll be my breath should I grow old. You are my lover and my best friend. You're in my soul." 

A relationship and intimacy with Him makes all of our other relationships better. Oh, Earworm, I guess you had something good after all. 

Today, I am grateful for a song in my heart. 

 

Wisdom Builders

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 297: Today, I am grateful for wisdom builders. 

When Solomon asked God for wisdom and not riches, we gained the book of Proverbs. Even those who reject God can gain insights from reading Proverbs. Other cultures have proverbs, but Solomon's are special. They are a mix of weather, science, good business, the ten commandments, and living well in relationships. They put God in the center of the universe and not ourselves. Learning and living by them can lead to life, lasting love, and success. 

This one uses the word "fear" in most translations. As a child, it confused me. As a child, I did not want to be afraid of God who I knew to be our Heavenly Father. As an adult, I know that fear can mean healthy respect. 

When I come  up to the edge of a cliff, my head and my stomach sense the fear. I do not like heights with unprotected edges. I am a "safety girl." There is awe, wonder, and a respect for danger. 

C.S. Lewis, in The Chronicles of Narnia captures it well in describing Aslan, the Lion who is the King who represents God. "Lucy asked Mrs. Beaver if "He is safe?" She replies, "Of course not, but he is good." Both things can be true. 

Knowing God and following Jesus is not always safe, but it is always good. Add in the Holy Spirit, and there are times we are downright uncomfortable, knowing to our core what HE wants us to do. That "stills soft voice" can be bossy, but I have discovered it is never wrong.  The Holy Trinity provides a compass, an example, a Savior, and a guide to go with us. We are never without counsel or a counselor. 

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight." -Proverbs 9:10

Spending time in Proverbs is like a bodybuilder lifting weights to strengthen the body for any test that comes along, except Proverbs helps us train our hearts, minds, souls, and spirits for the day ahead. 

Today, I am grateful for wisdom builders. 

A Kiss of Evidence

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 296: Today, I am grateful for a kiss of evidence.  

Forty days and nights of rain in an ark loaded with animals. Imagine it, if you can. The scents, the noise, the work, and the wondering if the rain would ever stop. Then, they had to wait for the waters to recede and the land to recover. Can we even imagine it? 

The time on the boat must have felt endless. 

"After waiting another seven days, Noah released the dove again.  This time the dove returned to him in the evening with a fresh olive leaf in its beak. Then Noah knew that the floodwaters were almost gone.  He waited another seven days and then released the dove again. This time it did not come back." Genesis 8:10-12

Faith is being sure of what you hope for and certain of what you do not see, but that kiss of evidence must have been incredible. The earth would be restored and God would make a covenant with man that he would not destroy the earth with water again. 

The rainbow would remind us forever of the promise. It continues to be another "kiss" from God and a reminder of his promise. 

Today, I am grateful for a kiss of evidence. 

Humility Builds Bridges

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 295: Today, I am grateful humility builds bridges. 

"Pride builds walls between people, humility builds bridges." -Rick Warren

Bridge builders are always celebrated. The engineering and the risks taken to build them are real. Even with today's technology, accidents happen. Bridges can lead to new relationships. Tearing them down has long been a play in war. 

Some walls are necessary for safety; some relationships require bridges to grow. Wisdom and humility are key ingredients. 

Proverbs wisdom never disappoints, but this verse is in Job. 

 "Fear of the Lord teaches wisdom; humility precedes honor." -Job 15:33

Bridges can be rustic or modern marvels, but they serve the same purpose. We need them to get to the other side. 

Today, I am grateful humility builds bridges. 

Perfect Peace

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 294: Today, I am grateful there is perfect peace.

There are so many things we cannot control. I like a plan with a back up plan, too. Part of our human nature is the desire to control situations and what is around us. Letting go of that control can be a daily battle. 

I love... and need... the reminder in this verse:

"You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!" -Isaiah 26:3

If our thoughts and eyes are fixed on him, it is hard to not find His peace. There is power in the knowledge that we have a God who is present for us, with us, and working things out for our good and the good of the Kingdom. 

He is not like Santa or a genie in a bottle. He is our Heavenly Father and there are other members of the family who have to be considered, too. Hard times can be God working it out in his time for a better resolution. God knows the big picture; I often focus on my few pieces in the puzzle. My corner of the world... the parts I can see... it's where I focus. 

I am grateful we have a God who is Lord of the Universe. We can trust His plan and he can give us perfect peace. 

Today, I am grateful there is perfect peace.

Time in the Word

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 293: Today, I am grateful for time together in the Word. 

I do not think we ever outgrow pictures. Bible journaling has become popular in the past decade. More than adding notes and thoughts in our Bibles, images are added, too. Yes, even sparkle. 

Adding the creative aspects... heart art... helps us "write his Word on our hearts." My favorite part is what it leaves to future generations who seek to know our faith journeys. 

We are fortunate in this season to have extra tools available, like Biblegateway.com and blueletterbible.org. We can easily search the exact scriptures we want to find and others that may relate. 

Time in The Word with family is even better than it is alone. I could not help but smile at all of the song lyrics that make their way onto our pages. From hymns to the latest worship songs and the top 20 from Christian radio stations. 

This image is more of a bible student image, but I loved that there are five women. I love a houseful! We had five women this weekend thrifting (it is better with friends), laughing, sharing, learning, and delighting in the goodness of God. One came all the way from Winterhaven, Florida. Another had just returned from a trip to Belgium (my Aunt)... overcoming jet-lag to be present. My Sisters, cousins, and sisters-in Christ. My heart is still full. 

Today, I am grateful for time together in the Word. 

Molded for a Purpose

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 292: Today, I am grateful we are molded for a purpose by His hands. 

I discovered a new artist. Jenna Larco has a collection of images with what I would call "supporting scriptures." I did some Bible Journaling this week with some special ladies. I worked on Isaiah 64:8:

"And yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We all are formed by your hand."

There are several others on this image. I love being reminded that my design is not accidental, but straight from the Master Potter's hand. He can work with the most difficult clay successfully. 

My dear friend and artist, Brittany Du Pont once told me that clay does not really "go bad." Still, fresh clay is easier for students to work with when they are learning the art of pottery. 

Do we find ourselves still willing to be molded? Do we require extra attention from the Master Potter because we fight Him every step of the way. There really is joy in letting go and letting Him shape our lives and our days. We were created for a purpose. 

Today, I am grateful we are molded for a purpose by His hands. 

The Gift of a Tribe

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 291: Today, I am grateful for the gift of a tribe.

You know who they are. They are the ones you can be with for days on end and never tire of their company. You can sit with them in silence. They share your deepest sorrows and magnify your joys.

They are "your people" and you are theirs.

Sometimes we build a tribe... and sometimes they seem to find us serendipitously. Honestly, I am always amazed how I can look back and see God's hand in it all. So, it isn't really by chance.

"Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God." - Philippians 1:3 NLT

Earworm is singing, "Who are the people in your neighborhood?" Literally and metaphorically? Our tribe is built through family, church, neighbors, and mutual interests. Some relationships take root slowly. Some are almost instant, but they grow deep roots. 

We delight in each others strengths and idiosyncrasies are given grace. We are connected even when we are apart. We can not see each other for years and instantly it is like no time has passed. They help us weather the storms. They speak life into our days and hope into our hearts. 

"Thank you, Jesus, for the people that love us deep and wide. You have gifted them to us to double our joys and to walk beside us when our hearts are breaking. Thank you for the relationships that are real and truthful. Thank you for the ones that point us to a close walk with you. Bless each one of my tribe today with glimpses of your face and grace in unexpected ways. " -Amen

Today, I am grateful for the gift of a tribe.

The Cup Runs Over

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 290: Today, I am grateful the cup runs over. 

When a cup is really full, it can run over. Remember when saucers were used regularly? In the USA, it seems as if the saucer cup and saucer has nearly disappeared. Now, we use more mugs. It is one less dish to wash, but what catches the overflow? 

We still use the phrase, "My cup runneth over." straight from the KJV of the Bible with its Olde English from the 1600's. It indicates there is a fullness and an abundance that cannot be contained. A saucer could catch the spills from enthusiastic pouring, too much cream, or vigorous stirring. A container can only hold so much before it overflows. 

"You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings." -Psalm 23:5

Abundance indicates good things. Having not just "enough" but plenty to share. The overflow is freely given and brings joy to the giver and receiver. This month, we have a kindness challenge going on at work. We are buying socks to share with those in need. Socks are always in high demand. They can act as layers to keep hands warm and be doubled on feet, too. (Feel free to drop off NEW socks at the Morton 709 District Office through 10/31... we would gladly take them or send them with your children or grandchildren to their schools... it is a District wide initiative.)

I am reminded that what spills from the heart is telling. And... to keep with this week's theme... what spills out of our mouths is supporting evidence. 

"A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart." -Luke 6:45

We can choose to spill kindness and love or negativity and ugliness. Whatever we let fill us will eventually run over. Is what spills out worth catching in the saucer? 

Today, I am grateful the cup runs over. 

A Simple Daily Prayer

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 289: Today, I am grateful for a simple daily prayer. 

First things first, right? I love this verse from King David. He walked closely with the Lord and a shepherd boy and as a king. He was not perfect, but his failures always led him to misery, repentance and redemption. 

What if we prayed this every morning when the alarm sounded, before we put that first foot on the floor?

"May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer." -Psalm 19:14

It is a good one, isn't it? It covers the very things that most often get us into messes... our words and the things we ponder in our hearts. Words slip out at times with intention and at other times in a loss of self-control. What we meditate on in our hearts becomes our focus and is reflected in what comes out in our speech and actions. 

What if we looked at the "words of our mouths" and "the meditations of our hearts" as a daily offering? It is how David so authentically frames them. I love David's authenticity and his way of simplifying big concepts. 

A mouth check and a heart check are always a good idea. 

Today, I am grateful for a simple daily prayer. 

 

Tongue Control

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 288: Today, I am grateful for tongue control.  

Tongue control is not easy. We open our mouths and things fall out that we cannot take back. How many times have we spoken to soon? Do we listen to hear or do we listen to respond. It is a real human struggle. 

James is a short little book in the Bible, but it is packed full of challenges. It is only five chapters long, but it packs a punch. It follows Hebrews, and was intended for Jewish believers. It is challenging, but there is a warmth to it, too. 

"Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry." -James 1:19

Quick to anger and carelessly flung words rarely made any situation better. I once heard someone say, "The Spirit of Corrective-ness" is not a fruit of the spirit. Listen for understanding. Listen for clarity. Lasso the tongue. Let the Lord lead when hard discussions are necessary. All of these things are easier said than done. 

As the Jewish believers walking in the light of the Messiah's life, death, and resurrection. They were full of knowledge, raised with and in the scriptures, but they... like us today... still had much to learn. 

When in doubt... don't let it out. 

Today, I am grateful for tongue control. 

Transformations

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 287: Today, I am grateful for transformations.

It is a season of transformations. The flowers have gone from seed to bloom and back to seed. Butterflies have gone from creepy crawling worms to butterflies with beautiful wings to fly. 

As the world turns, the seasons change, and earth time marches forward, transformations are always around us. I remember the boys playing with "Transformers" as children. They would start as something ordinary and turn into something fierce with some twists and turns. The word literally means to "change form." 

In the world of electricity, an electrical transformer is a device that changes (or “transforms”) the voltage level of alternating current (AC) electricity while keeping the same frequency.

We, too, are called to transform. The world is full of mixed messages media and social media challenges us to copy and emulate. Many are in stark contrast to what the scriptures say. 

"Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." -Romans 12:2 NLT

It is never a good idea to set our compass by something that changes with the wind. "Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think" is great instruction. It is instruction that requires a choice. There is a "let" that requires submission of our will to align with His will. 

Today, I am grateful for transformations.

Apple Corer/Peeler/Slicer

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 285: Today, I am grateful for the apple corer/peeler/slicer. 

Pampered Chef has so many great tools for the Kitchen, it is hard to pick a favorite. This one makes the top 10 and it is probably #1 for seasonal use (although you can use this to make curly fries). My dear and forever friend, Kelly, posted this morning about it. I knew I had to steal the images and the reminder of my love for this tool. (I might need a new one.) 

There are other brands. The one Kelly has pictured is the cream-of-the-crop as we say in the USA. It is the equivalent of a Kitchen Aid Mixer in quality. Kelly's is a beautiful red. (Thanks for sharing, Kelly.)

Back in the day, we would gather with grandmothers and aunts to take on harvest work. From green bean and tomato season, through the sweet corn harvest, and on to the apples in the fall. Oh the memories of days in the kitchens we knew best. Today, with working and full schedules, a tool like the apple corer/peeler/slicer is a game changer. We can do the tasks that used to be shared. 

Honestly, I am not sure that is a true win. I miss kitchen gatherings and making memories with the ones most important to us. It is at those kitchen gatherings I learned so much about food being a way to love our families, our friends, and the needy... as the surplus was often shared. In those kitchens, I learned that flour sack 100% cotton dish towels are the best towel ever! In those kitchens, I heard family stories that I should have written down. 

This apple corer/peeler/slicer is the best when making applesauce, apple pie, and apple cobbler with an oatmeal crumble topping. Apples baking is a scent of the season. Inhale the comfort and the cozy. We love Granny Smith apples around this house. We like firm, tart apples... and they are the best for baking. Of course, Honeycrisp is always a great choice for eating. 

This scripture is true, and it speaks of apples:

"Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket." -Proverbs 25:11

I rarely recommend a purchase, but if you love apples, you might invest in this tool. I waste so much of the fruit when I peel it by hand. The peels can be simmered on the stove with cinnamon and other fall spices. 

Today, I am grateful for the apple corer/peeler/slicer. 

Just the topping from Emeril Lagasse:

• 6 tablespoons (3⁄4 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 3⁄4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1⁄2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt

Directions: Combine all the ingredients in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment and mix on low speed until the mixture is crumbly and coarse. 

• Combine 

3-Year-Olds

 Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 285: Today, I am grateful for 3-year-olds. 

I love three-year-old's. This one is extra special. Miss Nora Claire Leander just turned three. What a Birthday Princess she made. She is Ryan and Anna's youngest (Jill's granddaughter) and has added fresh glitter and sparkle to our world. Oh, she loves to sing! 

The magic of being three is a world full of wonder! Their world and language expand nearly every day. They spend hours every day figuring things out. Connecting the language they have to things they are trying to understand. It is magical to watch and sometimes hilarious. 

This little cutie is large and in charge when she needs to be with two older brothers. She loves to cuddle up next to Randy on the sofa. Randy does not seek her attention. She looks for him. It melts my heart.

I get to dance, twirl, and sing with her. She loved her dresses, denim dress and animal print. I love a denim skirt or dress... and I always say, "A girl should wear a little animal print every day, even if no one sees it."  

She received a Karaoke machine, too. (Papa Todd and Grandma Sarah(CeCe)). Sparkle, spunk, songs, and smiles... it is good to be three!

Being three means most trials are short and joys are magnified and doubled by the energy of youth. You should hear her grab the microphone at church to sing when Mommy Anna is done practicing or Daddy Ryan is cleaning up the sound system. 

Today, Mommy and Mimi (Grandma Patty Ullrich) will sing during worship. It won't be long and she will be ready to join them. 

Look for the 3-year-olds around you. Savor them... but never, ever wake them up! (Right, Sister Lola?)

Today, I am grateful for 3-year-olds. 

He Will Make a Way

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 284: Today, I am grateful He will make a way.     

"I made a way for you last time. I will make a way for you this time." -TobyMac, Speaklife

A gentle (or maybe not so gentle) reminder of who God is. He is so much more than we know and understand. We have seen glimpses of him when he is delighted and when he is unhappy. 

Does our worry frustrate him? We know our trust pleases Him. Does he ever shake his head because we make things harder than they have to be? 

 "I am the Lord, who opened a way through the waters, making a dry path through the sea." -Isaiah 43:16

So many times he rescues us in our struggles but our trust does not become as reflexive as the He desires. He makes a way. He did it last time. He will do it again.  

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take." Proverbs 3:5-6

Today, I am grateful He will make a way. 

Help-A-Thon

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 283: Today, I am grateful for Help-A-Thon.

It is my favorite day of the school year! Although I am now in a different position, this day holds my heart. 

One of the things that stood out to me was the students who have often been on the receiving end of services embracing the opportunity to be the hands that serve. They love it! And, they see with new eyes the work that goes into providing for the needy. It is beautiful. 

You will see these hot pink shirts (my favorite one yet) all over town. Give them a shout out today or a honk if you see them between about 8:30 am and 10:30 am.

I am grateful for the hands that organize it and the hearts that dreamed it up. Today is a great day to be a Jr. Potter. 

"Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world." -James 1:27

Today, I am grateful for Help-A-Thon.

Giving

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 282: Today, I am grateful for opportunities to give of ourselves. 

"Our greatest fulfillment lies in giving ourselves to others." -Henri J.M. Nouwen

Isolation leads to suffering. We need relationships with God and each other. We were literally created for a relationship with God. "In the His image" is an interesting thought to ponder. What does that mean? 

We delight in creating good things. We find fulfillment in tending our families, our homes, our gardens, and other people. We love to laugh. We want to be loved by choice, not by force. We want to  spend our days in valuable and satisfying ways. 

This passage came to mind:

"I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship." -Romans 12:1 (ESV)

I liked it in The Message version:

"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." -Romans 12:1

It is in giving, not demanding love that we change from the inside out. 

Today, I am grateful four opportunities to give of ourselves. 

God Still Speaks

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 281: Today, I am grateful God still speaks.

"It's hard to hear God's voice when  you've already decided what you want Him to say." -TobyMac, Speak Life

That hits the nail on the head, doesn't it? We know just enough about God to determine that we know his mind. We find a verse here or there that we like,  so we memorize it and cling to it. There is so much more in His Word for us to learn. 

All memory work is important and valuable as we write His word on our hearts, but we cannot pick or choose. One of my favorite things is to look for the many times Old Testament mysteries are unlocked in the New Testament through Jesus. It feels like a treasure hunt. 

The quote reminded me of Samuel's first time experiencing God speaking directly to him. 

"Therefore Eli said to Samuel, “Go, lie down, and if he calls you, you shall say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant hears.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place." And the Lord came and stood, calling as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant hears.” Then the Lord said to Samuel, “Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which the two ears of everyone who hears it will tingle." - Samuel 3:9-11

God spoke, Samuel was confused. He thought it was his teacher and mentor calling him. Eli helped Samuel learn to listen. Prayer is when we most often hear God speak. A sleepless night might be an invitation to talk to Him. I love praying in the stillness of the dark night in my cozy bed. 

It amazes me how God can speak to me through WCIC, a local Christian music station. The song... or the dialogue... may be exactly how He gets my attention. He sends his love, corrections, and even challenges, but I have to listen. 

Today, I am grateful God still speaks.

 

Rain

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 280: Today, I am grateful for the rain.

I woke to the sound of rain. What a beautiful reason to celebrate. 

We are so dry here. Not as dry as some, but dry enough there have been a few fires. Rain is life, health, and healing. 

Rain is grace; rain is the sky descending to the earth; without rain, there would be no life. ~ John Updike.

David was in the wilderness of Judah when he wrote these words: 

"O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water." -Psalm 61:1

Take in the sound of the drops falling. The rhythm of the rain is music to my ears. The scent is heavenly. The temperature is lovely... not hot or cold. For as long as it lasts this morning, I will be grateful. 

Today, I am grateful for the rain.

Talk on the Walk

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 279: Today, I am grateful for the talk on the walk.

"What's closest to your heart is what you talk about, and if God is close to your heart, you will talk about Him. -A.Z. Tozer

We talk about what is important or interesting to us. It is a natural human to converse with other people. Some need a lot of conversation... others prefer a little, but we were designed for relationships. 

Our conversations are telling. They reflect our hearts, homes, hobbies, and our treasure. When God is at the center of those things... our hearts, homes, hobbies, and treasure, it comes up in conversation. When discussing troubles and trials, do we ever say, "I wonder how God will work this out?" Do we discuss scriptures that might encourage each other? 

"And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”." -Joshua 24:15

What are the thoughts that escape into our talk? Which ones do we let out? The tongue is a challenge to control, but where we put our focus has an impact. Who or what are we chasing daily?  

Today, I am grateful for the talk on the walk.

The Way

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 278: Today, I am grateful for the way. 

This image was so pretty. I love the sunrise. This scripture is a short prayer we can memorize and make a daily offering to our Lord. 

Do we meet and greet Him in the morning with the same thankfulness that we greet that first cup of coffee (or your favorite beverage)? Do we look at him through a similar lens of desire and need? Do we greet him before we put that first foot on the floor? We can. 

As we wake up each morning, we have a purpose. We may or may not always see and feel it, but we can simply say, "Show me the way I should go. I trust you with my life."

"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life." Psalm 143:8 (NIV)

Not every decision is easy as we walk through the day, but the Holy Spirit is real and walks with us. His Word is on our tables and on our phones. We need not go blind and alone. He is with us. He promised. We can trust him with our lives, as He gave up His for us.

There really is no greater love.  He is The Way, The Truth, and The Life. Crave Him like coffee.

Today, I am grateful for the way. 

Unique Perspectives

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 277: Today, I am grateful for unique perspectives.    

I love unique perspectives. This quote quote made me smile because that is what it is:

"Maybe the clouds and the trees and the flowers love looking at you, too." -Anonymous

What if they do? God created the world with so many things to see. We enjoy observing the world around us. What if nature loves looking at us, too?

"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." -Genesis 1:1

Man was instructed to care for earth, and to delight in it. What if the earth delights in us, too. The thought makes me smile.

Today, I am grateful for unique perspectives.      

Refuse Self-Pity

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 276: Today, I am grateful we can refuse self-pity. 

"Refuse self-pity. Refuse it absolutely. It is a deadly thing with the power to destroy you. Turn your thoughts to Christ who has already carried your griefs and sorrows." -Elizabeth Elliot

I am not sure this Elizabeth Elliot quote has been in my collection. Self-pity is self-destructive. Anyone going through a difficult season is entitled to moments of tears and expressing grief. God gave us ways to help us let the pain out. Get it out, but do not let self-pity creep in. 

Self-pity is a self-destructive choice. We can choose to focus on Jesus instead. He walks beside us in our troubles and carries our griefs and sorrows. His strength never fails. 

Too often, we fight him for the load that is too much for us to bear. We dive into self-pity headfirst and wallow in the muck of the stuff. We reject the freedom that comes in letting it go. We live miserably in our woes.

Today, my heart is grateful for the many examples of those who reject self-pity to look for a closer walk with Jesus. Our Lord sits with us in the pits and in the fiery furnace. He is always waiting. 

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." - Romans 12:2

Today, I am grateful we can refuse self-pity.