Yesterday, while we were downtown Atlanta at the Coke Museum, we paused to have some lunch near a drinking fountain. As we were eating a man came to get a drink, wearing a tattered overloaded backpack and looking down trodden. Lucas looked at me and said "that man doesn't have a home...we should give him some food". We were already done eating. But, I offered to go get him a hot dog. He said yes. While I was gone, my brother and Lucas were sitting near him and of course Lucas struck up conversation with the man. He found out indeed he was without a home, and my brother said the man told him that he was "broke" and had no job.
I came back with the hot dog and we gave it to the man. I told him "May God Bless you".
He left and headed across the streeet the The Atlanta Rescue Mission.
Lucas's heart was broken for the man as he told me "dat man has no mommy or daddy, and no home...that is sad".
I agreed.
His sweet sensitive heart just cannot walk away from these guys. He wants to serve them and make sure they have food. The lonliest hardest part for him to reconcile is the fact that the man "has no mommy or daddy". Of course as an adult, I'm thinking, he wouldn't be living with them anyway because he is a grown man. But, that doesn't seem to register with Lucas. The thing that is registering with him is the fact that he has "nobody" to go home to or be with...no family.
How or why would I ever turn my back on an opportunity to serve someone like that---especially with Lucas looking right at me...
I wonder
How many times have I walked past someone and Jesus just looked at me and said..."he has nobody..." yet I've walked right past them. I think I need to be more alert and aware of the world around me and stop whining and complaining about the little things that bug me.
I have family.
I have food.
We have a little income.
We have a home
Lord, teach me to be thankful
Teach me to be as aware of people's needs as Lucas is.
My Family
Summer 2015
Friday, March 30, 2012
Lucas quotes-Part 1
Over the past 6 months or so I decided to start writing down some of my favorite Lucas quotes. I'm sure there will be more so I'm calling this Part 1. Maybe every 6 months or so I will post them again...
enjoy...
Sept. 2011
laying in bed cuddling with Lucas, and Buddy the dog too. Buddy starts licking me and it bothers Lucas so he tells him..
enjoy...
Sept. 2011
laying in bed cuddling with Lucas, and Buddy the dog too. Buddy starts licking me and it bothers Lucas so he tells him..
"Buddy,
we protect girls,
we don't lick them.."
a few days later, Lucas got in a bit of a funk over an issue that came up and we have been trying to get him to label his feelings and tell us what's going on. I think he is getting it cuz he came up with this all on his own...
"You hurt my heart"
oh my...that's a heartbreaker.
Oct. 18, 2011
"Mommy, Do you know what? Today you look like pretty girl..."
10/21/11
Lucas to Grandma when she came for a week long visit from Wisconsin....
"Why don't you just move right here already?"
"Why don't you just move right here already?"
10/31
Lucas: "Daddy married you long time ago."
me: "yes"
Lucas: "I can't marry you anymore. I'm too late."
11/15/11
While eating lunch today...
"mommy, sometimes my tummy with food inside can dance...."
then he aske Me: "How 'bout your tummy? does your tummy have feet that can dance?"
12/1/11
Lucas from the backseat of my car while eating Krispy Kreme...
"I love it mom...
I just love it...
I just love donuts...do you know dat?"
12/2/11
heading outside for Lucas to try to ride his bike (footless)...per his request.
He said "ee fee"...I wasn't sure if he was trying to say something in English...
then I said "was that Chinese?" he smiled and said "yes"...I was stunned. He has not been saying anything in Chinese and claims he can't think of any of the words nor does he understand it anymore. (after just 8 months) I said, you spoke chinese...you found a chinese word...
He said:
"I found one, I can't find a whole bunch...."
1/16/2012
Lucas was talking about Isaac graduating from high school next year and getting married. (no plans on Isaac's part, but Lucas is obsessed by making sure he does get married at some point)
"My brain is dead"
Lucas heard me say it
He said
"Alright! We need to call 911"
then he said:
"Say....My mom's brain is dead....10-4"
1/26/12
"Sometimes I can "Chuke"---(pretty sure that is a combination word---choke and puke"
"You are da amazing mommy I never seen."--after opening his birthday presents today.
2/6/2012
on our way out the door...
putting on Lucas's army guy jacket he got for his birthday.
I went to zip it up.
and he said "no"--
not a defiant thing, but with a grin
And I said "why not?"
with a twinkle in his eye he said: "cuz I wanna look fancy"
so apparently not zipping your jacket is "fancy"...???
3/26/12
Talking to our neighbor and "helping" him tell his wife what a good cook she is. He told the man "this is what you do"
With a big grin on his face...
"First you try da food.
Then you say: "Honey you are a genius cooker""
He is so proud to give this retired man advice on how to appreciate his wife of 38 years....=)
(he says I'm a genius cooker all the time thanks to training from his dad)
"mommy, sometimes my tummy with food inside can dance...."
then he aske Me: "How 'bout your tummy? does your tummy have feet that can dance?"
12/1/11
Lucas from the backseat of my car while eating Krispy Kreme...
"I love it mom...
I just love it...
I just love donuts...do you know dat?"
12/2/11
heading outside for Lucas to try to ride his bike (footless)...per his request.
He said "ee fee"...I wasn't sure if he was trying to say something in English...
then I said "was that Chinese?" he smiled and said "yes"...I was stunned. He has not been saying anything in Chinese and claims he can't think of any of the words nor does he understand it anymore. (after just 8 months) I said, you spoke chinese...you found a chinese word...
He said:
"I found one, I can't find a whole bunch...."
1/16/2012
Lucas was talking about Isaac graduating from high school next year and getting married. (no plans on Isaac's part, but Lucas is obsessed by making sure he does get married at some point)
"well, He won't get married if he doesn't cut his hair
dat's da trut'"
1/2012
I was frustrated and could not remember something.
As I am inclined to talking to myself I said.."My brain is dead"
Lucas heard me say it
He said
"Alright! We need to call 911"
then he said:
"Say....My mom's brain is dead....10-4"
1/26/12
"Sometimes I can "Chuke"---(pretty sure that is a combination word---choke and puke"
"You are da amazing mommy I never seen."--after opening his birthday presents today.
2/6/2012
on our way out the door...
putting on Lucas's army guy jacket he got for his birthday.
I went to zip it up.
and he said "no"--
not a defiant thing, but with a grin
And I said "why not?"
with a twinkle in his eye he said: "cuz I wanna look fancy"
so apparently not zipping your jacket is "fancy"...???
3/26/12
Talking to our neighbor and "helping" him tell his wife what a good cook she is. He told the man "this is what you do"
With a big grin on his face...
"First you try da food.
Then you say: "Honey you are a genius cooker""
He is so proud to give this retired man advice on how to appreciate his wife of 38 years....=)
(he says I'm a genius cooker all the time thanks to training from his dad)
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Painting a birdhouse--Lucas style
Yesterday Lucas finally got to paint the birdhouse and feeder he assembled last Fall. We just never quite got around to it.
So, he suited up....
for surgery...
or
something....
and off he went to paint...
(I really didn't give him hazzardous materials to paint with....really)
by the way, it takes 2 drinks to help you paint--one from McDonalds and one from Quiznos..
Diligence...
ooops...after all that...he STILL got paint on his neck...
and Buddy the dog just watches----
So, he suited up....
for surgery...
or
something....
and off he went to paint...
(I really didn't give him hazzardous materials to paint with....really)
by the way, it takes 2 drinks to help you paint--one from McDonalds and one from Quiznos..
ooops...after all that...he STILL got paint on his neck...
and Buddy the dog just watches----
God’s Heart for the Orphan Is HIs Heart for You
This morning Peter and I were again remembering that tomorrow will be ONE YEAR that we met Lucas...ONE YEAR! Can you believe it?
This devotional was in my inbox this morning from Purpose Driven Life...(good timing huh?)
I Love how God sends these reminders at just the appropriate time. I no longer see Lucas as an Orphan because he is NOT. However, the fact remains that without God moving our hearts in this area, he still would be sitting there. I do remember 1 year ago getting ready for the next day as we were sitting in China in a hotel. I was very anxious/excited and wondered if I would even react or feel connection with this child we were going to be meeting. Would I feel like a kidnapper? How could I feel connection to "somebody elses" child? Makes me chuckle now... because he Isn't somebody elses child. He is OURS! duh!
more tomorrow.
This devotional was in my inbox this morning from Purpose Driven Life...(good timing huh?)
| ||
“A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families ...” (Psalms 68:5-6 NIV) The gods that the ancient world worshipped were concerned with great people — the mighty and cunning, the swift and the gorgeous. The rest of humanity served as a backdrop — bit players, foils, inconsequential fodder for the grand plans of kings, generals, and deities. Not so with the God of the Bible. We see God’s strange interest in the people on the margins carved upon every page of Scripture. It was evident in Yahweh’s selection of a nation of slaves to be his special people. It echoed in his choice of sheep-tenders to be the first to hear news of the Incarnation. But perhaps nowhere do we see this curious reality more clearly than in God’s passion for the orphan. We may miss how odd it actually is because we live in a culture that is deeply shaped by Christian assumptions. Though it is often violated, to care for the weak and vulnerable remains a Western virtue. This generally wasn’t the case in the cultures that surrounded Jewish and early Christian communities. Like modern Social Darwinists, ancient societies typically saw weakness as unworthiness to live. As the Roman philosopher Seneca described Roman culture during Jesus’ time, “We drown children who at birth are weakly and abnormal.” Consider then the marvel of a God who not only tolerates the feeble and lowly, but places special premium on defending and caring for them. What a contrast. We see God, the most potent and self-sufficient Power imaginable, continually expressing profound concern for the least potent and self-sufficient — the orphan in distress. The Law describes, “He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow ...” (Deuteronomy 10:18 NIV). The Prophets echo the same truth: “For in you the fatherless find compassion” (Hosea 14:3b). And, again, in the psalms, “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families ...” (Psalm 68:5-6). As we grasp this outlandish, beautiful reality, we encounter the truth of God’s father heart. It pulses not only for the orphan, but for each of us as well. He pursued us when we were destitute and alone. He adopted us as his children. He invites us to call him “Abba” and to live as his daughters and sons. Of course, we must not miss the fact that God calls his people to do the same. We are to live out “pure and faultless religion” by caring for the orphan and widow in their distress (James 1:27). As we do this, we reveal God’s heart to the world. Whether by adoption or foster care or mentoring or supporting the local Church in care for orphans around the globe, we display that astonishing reality that the Great One cares passionately for the least. And in the process, we experience God’s heart more deeply ourselves as well — a peculiar, marvelous love for the orphan. A peculiar, marvelous love for us. Talk About It
|
I Love how God sends these reminders at just the appropriate time. I no longer see Lucas as an Orphan because he is NOT. However, the fact remains that without God moving our hearts in this area, he still would be sitting there. I do remember 1 year ago getting ready for the next day as we were sitting in China in a hotel. I was very anxious/excited and wondered if I would even react or feel connection with this child we were going to be meeting. Would I feel like a kidnapper? How could I feel connection to "somebody elses" child? Makes me chuckle now... because he Isn't somebody elses child. He is OURS! duh!
more tomorrow.
Sunday, March 25, 2012
An Easter Parade
Our subdivision had an Easter Parade and egg hunt this weekend. We got Lucas's favorite Fire Engine..Number 21--to come lead the parade while all the kids walked, rode bikes, etc behind them. Lucas was in his glory...
Lucas is in the orange shirt...riding next to the Easter Bunny...
then there was the Easter Egg Hunt...
And Engine 21 stayed for quite a while, and Lucas just ate up all the Fire Engine time he could get. These firemen are the BEST...Firemen..Nick, Mark, Jeb, and Dale were awesome!! Thanks guys!!
This is Lucas's sweet friend Logan the Easter Bunny Fireman..=)
Eventually the guys did have to leave...But, Lucas was right there saying good bye.
Then he wanted his face painted like an elephant...
Lucas and his friend Emma...the elephant and the piggy...=)
Lots of fun for everyone...=)
Lucas is in the orange shirt...riding next to the Easter Bunny...
then there was the Easter Egg Hunt...
This is Lucas's sweet friend Logan the Easter Bunny Fireman..=)
Eventually the guys did have to leave...But, Lucas was right there saying good bye.
Lucas and his friend Emma...the elephant and the piggy...=)
Lots of fun for everyone...=)
Saturday, March 24, 2012
washing feet...
Today there were some pretty serious issues in our house.
Things that needed some "consequence" both for a big boy as well as a "little" boy.
Can't go into too much detail on the issue in public, but suffice it to say, consequences fell.
We have suspected for a long time that one form of discipline Lucas was accustomed to in China was cleaning. Often times when we would have big blow ups, he would just go into auto pilot mode and clean something. It was as if the issue could not be over until cleaning occured.
So, today Lucas did something and told us about a boy in China that had done a similar thing and what the consequence was for it. By the way he just really learned that word consequence this week or at least it connected with him and he is actually using it appropriately now. After the boy in China did this thing, his consequence was to wash everyone's socks in the orphanage and wash their feet and their faces too. This was a Big deal to Lucas. Truth be told, I would not have used this consequence for this infraction. It didn't seem "logical" to me. But to him it was a big deal.
So, tonight....
Lucas washed our feet
and then he asked to also wash our socks.
He proceeded to show me "how" to wash socks, and let me tell you, he could get a job doing it.
At age 8 he has skills...just sayin'---not sure if that is good or bad--as in --How much experience have you had and "why"?
As he did that it was as if a load was lifted off his shoulders--His mood lightened.
Then when he came and sat down next to me afterward, I told him I loved him, and that he was a wonderful boy.
He said, "I'm not a wonderful boy, do you remember I did...X...?"
I said, "yes, but do you know that I forgive you and your sin is washed away just like that dirty water we dumped down the tub?"
He then began to spontaneously sing "Oh Happy Day...Oh Happy day...My sin is washed away..."
I said, "Yes, That is It Lucas! That's exactly it"
(I did not teach him this song---I think it came from Passion Kids--his Sunday School class)
I LOVE the way the Holy Spirit speaks in and through this boy.
and
the way He speaks and directs even the discipline of our boy.
Like I said, I never would have chosen this form of consequence but it was PERFECT in bringing repentence and resolution and restoration to our boy.
God is so good. Bringing Grace even through a difficult day.
Things that needed some "consequence" both for a big boy as well as a "little" boy.
Can't go into too much detail on the issue in public, but suffice it to say, consequences fell.
We have suspected for a long time that one form of discipline Lucas was accustomed to in China was cleaning. Often times when we would have big blow ups, he would just go into auto pilot mode and clean something. It was as if the issue could not be over until cleaning occured.
So, today Lucas did something and told us about a boy in China that had done a similar thing and what the consequence was for it. By the way he just really learned that word consequence this week or at least it connected with him and he is actually using it appropriately now. After the boy in China did this thing, his consequence was to wash everyone's socks in the orphanage and wash their feet and their faces too. This was a Big deal to Lucas. Truth be told, I would not have used this consequence for this infraction. It didn't seem "logical" to me. But to him it was a big deal.
So, tonight....
Lucas washed our feet
and then he asked to also wash our socks.
He proceeded to show me "how" to wash socks, and let me tell you, he could get a job doing it.
At age 8 he has skills...just sayin'---not sure if that is good or bad--as in --How much experience have you had and "why"?
As he did that it was as if a load was lifted off his shoulders--His mood lightened.
Then when he came and sat down next to me afterward, I told him I loved him, and that he was a wonderful boy.
He said, "I'm not a wonderful boy, do you remember I did...X...?"
I said, "yes, but do you know that I forgive you and your sin is washed away just like that dirty water we dumped down the tub?"
He then began to spontaneously sing "Oh Happy Day...Oh Happy day...My sin is washed away..."
I said, "Yes, That is It Lucas! That's exactly it"
(I did not teach him this song---I think it came from Passion Kids--his Sunday School class)
I LOVE the way the Holy Spirit speaks in and through this boy.
and
the way He speaks and directs even the discipline of our boy.
Like I said, I never would have chosen this form of consequence but it was PERFECT in bringing repentence and resolution and restoration to our boy.
God is so good. Bringing Grace even through a difficult day.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Lucas's growth records
Ok
I am probably not the best parent sometimes
I just never really looked closely at Lucas's growth records in his Chinese documents
Today, as we are approaching 1 year with him home, I started digging for info and think I found it.
Our sweet boy was so tiny.
He still is at 8 years old and just hitting 45 lbs.
Here is what I found
Age Weight Height
5days 5.3 lbs 17.7"
3 mo. 8.8 lbs 21.3"
6 mo 13.2 lbs 23.6"
9 mo 15.4 lbs 24.8"
12 mo. 15.4 lbs 25.2"
18 mo 16.5 lbs 25.6"
24 mo 17.6 lbs 27.2"
30 mo 19.8 lbs 27.6"
I would suspect the height to not change much and be affected. And I suppose it lines up with missing bones in your legs that you would not grow in weight also, but zowie....from 9-18 months he gained just ONE pound and from 18 months to 2 years just one pound. And little boopski was only 5 lbs at 5 days old....oh do I wish I could have been holding him and feeding him and nourishing him during those formative days.
at 7 years old when we got him last year he was 40" and 40lbs.
and that is AFTER his surgery which removed his feet 6 months ago (I don't think he lost much height at that time since they kept the heel pad, but maybe a little bit)
Thanking Jesus for growth and development today!!!
I am probably not the best parent sometimes
I just never really looked closely at Lucas's growth records in his Chinese documents
Today, as we are approaching 1 year with him home, I started digging for info and think I found it.
Our sweet boy was so tiny.
He still is at 8 years old and just hitting 45 lbs.
Here is what I found
Age Weight Height
5days 5.3 lbs 17.7"
3 mo. 8.8 lbs 21.3"
6 mo 13.2 lbs 23.6"
9 mo 15.4 lbs 24.8"
12 mo. 15.4 lbs 25.2"
18 mo 16.5 lbs 25.6"
24 mo 17.6 lbs 27.2"
30 mo 19.8 lbs 27.6"
I would suspect the height to not change much and be affected. And I suppose it lines up with missing bones in your legs that you would not grow in weight also, but zowie....from 9-18 months he gained just ONE pound and from 18 months to 2 years just one pound. And little boopski was only 5 lbs at 5 days old....oh do I wish I could have been holding him and feeding him and nourishing him during those formative days.
at 7 years old when we got him last year he was 40" and 40lbs.
Today he is 45 lbs and 42 1/2"
and that is AFTER his surgery which removed his feet 6 months ago (I don't think he lost much height at that time since they kept the heel pad, but maybe a little bit)
Thanking Jesus for growth and development today!!!
reminders from Romans 1
Peter and I have been doing some early morning chatting, praying, and studying together over the past few weeks. LOVE it!
At first it started out with topics from the study I was doing.
But that is over, so I asked Peter...
"What should we do next?" He picked the Book of Romans...
nice...
nice light reading.
If you've never read it...it's awesome, but heavy...=)
LOVE IT! But, it is one of those books where we could spend a week on a paragraph.
We already had some insights yesterday from Romans 1, but today he just tossed out 2 more things that I wanted to capture...
Romans 1 (Paul talking to the Romans)
13 ...that I planned many times to come to you (but have been prevented from doing so until now) in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles.
Even Paul, who was obviously doing God's work and had devoted his life to that work, was prevented from coming to these people, the Romans "until now"...
in other words, even if we are following God and doing His work, we cannot miss the fact that His plans are still greater than anything we could conceptualize. We may not understand why He has us where we are for this season or there are apparent delays. Even if we are following His will, He may prevent us from moving forward to the next thing...until His timing is perfect. Paul wanted to come to these people earlier, but was "prevented from doing so until now".
As we wait on word from the interview over a week ago, we know God has plans we don't know or understand. Whatever the case we wait. And need to learn to be content. We want to make sure we remain in His will as we wait, but we wait. If Paul had to wait to do "his" work....geesh...how much more we may have to wait.
The other insight Peter shared and I just loved---related to the above but also unrelated...
The past few nights Peter has been turning on a show to watch in the evenings called "The Frozen Planet". It is a nature show that talks about the frozen regions of the world including the animals and natural formations, etc. I love that Peter watches this stuff because it actually brings up great conversation about God and His creation.
This verse from Romans 1 was part of that conversation last night:
19 since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. 20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.
It speaks about the salvation of those who chose not to listen, but it also speaks to this topic as well, because God has really made so many things plain to us simply in His creation. How can we excuse our lack of trust in the One who created it all? Isaac, age 16, was asking Peter about these bizarre creatures like Narwhals (like a huge fish with a spikey nose like a unicorn)
here is a short video of them....and as Nat Geo says "the tusk has no evolutionary purpose..." (that just makes me chuckle)
On the show they also saw Giant Seals with weird noses and tiny little creatures in the sea that make a rainbow of colors. "Why"? Why would God create all these creatures? In the end the answer was "because He can". In other words, God has revealed Himself in all creation.
vs. 20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.
There really is no excuse for not knowing or believing in God or about God especially as He reveals Himself. Just simply look at His creation, if nothing else. Even if these creatures have features that have "no evolutionary purpose"... it's almost as if God just smiles and says..."I did that one just to mess with your simple minds.."
So, if He could do all of that, and intimately be involved in His creation--how much more so is He involved in our circumstances?
He sent His own Son to die for our sake...
Seriously, how dare we doubt His timing,
His intimate involvement in every detail,
His love for Us!
deep breath
ok then
Today,
I will rest in Him.
and
Trust
and
Worship Him
Every detail is taken care of!
Thank You God!
At first it started out with topics from the study I was doing.
But that is over, so I asked Peter...
"What should we do next?" He picked the Book of Romans...
nice...
nice light reading.
If you've never read it...it's awesome, but heavy...=)
LOVE IT! But, it is one of those books where we could spend a week on a paragraph.
We already had some insights yesterday from Romans 1, but today he just tossed out 2 more things that I wanted to capture...
Romans 1 (Paul talking to the Romans)
13 ...that I planned many times to come to you (but have been prevented from doing so until now) in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles.
Even Paul, who was obviously doing God's work and had devoted his life to that work, was prevented from coming to these people, the Romans "until now"...
in other words, even if we are following God and doing His work, we cannot miss the fact that His plans are still greater than anything we could conceptualize. We may not understand why He has us where we are for this season or there are apparent delays. Even if we are following His will, He may prevent us from moving forward to the next thing...until His timing is perfect. Paul wanted to come to these people earlier, but was "prevented from doing so until now".
As we wait on word from the interview over a week ago, we know God has plans we don't know or understand. Whatever the case we wait. And need to learn to be content. We want to make sure we remain in His will as we wait, but we wait. If Paul had to wait to do "his" work....geesh...how much more we may have to wait.
The other insight Peter shared and I just loved---related to the above but also unrelated...
The past few nights Peter has been turning on a show to watch in the evenings called "The Frozen Planet". It is a nature show that talks about the frozen regions of the world including the animals and natural formations, etc. I love that Peter watches this stuff because it actually brings up great conversation about God and His creation.
This verse from Romans 1 was part of that conversation last night:
19 since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. 20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.
It speaks about the salvation of those who chose not to listen, but it also speaks to this topic as well, because God has really made so many things plain to us simply in His creation. How can we excuse our lack of trust in the One who created it all? Isaac, age 16, was asking Peter about these bizarre creatures like Narwhals (like a huge fish with a spikey nose like a unicorn)
here is a short video of them....and as Nat Geo says "the tusk has no evolutionary purpose..." (that just makes me chuckle)
On the show they also saw Giant Seals with weird noses and tiny little creatures in the sea that make a rainbow of colors. "Why"? Why would God create all these creatures? In the end the answer was "because He can". In other words, God has revealed Himself in all creation.
vs. 20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.
There really is no excuse for not knowing or believing in God or about God especially as He reveals Himself. Just simply look at His creation, if nothing else. Even if these creatures have features that have "no evolutionary purpose"... it's almost as if God just smiles and says..."I did that one just to mess with your simple minds.."
So, if He could do all of that, and intimately be involved in His creation--how much more so is He involved in our circumstances?
He sent His own Son to die for our sake...
Seriously, how dare we doubt His timing,
His intimate involvement in every detail,
His love for Us!
deep breath
ok then
Today,
I will rest in Him.
and
Trust
and
Worship Him
Every detail is taken care of!
Thank You God!
Monday, March 19, 2012
"mom, I know where da milk comes from on a cow..."
Me: "really?...where"?
Lucas: sitting in the backseat of the car he pointed to and used the chinese word for an "unmentionable" part of the male body...
Me: "really?" "that's where you think the milk comes from?"
I have to say I was a bit taken aback by THAT one...
I think it's time for a trip to a farm, or at the very least a video of a cow being milked...
I did mention the word "udder" to him and also the fact that only female cows give milk, but I'm still chuckling a little on the inside and a tad shocked that he really thought that.
(although I do have to say he is not the only one that is confused....Disney doesn't seem to know it either with that stupid farmyard movie from a few years back with a male cow with udders...that thing drives me Crazy!)
Lucas: sitting in the backseat of the car he pointed to and used the chinese word for an "unmentionable" part of the male body...
Me: "really?" "that's where you think the milk comes from?"
I have to say I was a bit taken aback by THAT one...
I think it's time for a trip to a farm, or at the very least a video of a cow being milked...
I did mention the word "udder" to him and also the fact that only female cows give milk, but I'm still chuckling a little on the inside and a tad shocked that he really thought that.
(although I do have to say he is not the only one that is confused....Disney doesn't seem to know it either with that stupid farmyard movie from a few years back with a male cow with udders...that thing drives me Crazy!)
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Our sweet Benjamin Gary....22 years...
Today is a day to reflect and remember...
we won't ever forget...
a little baby boy, born March 18, 1990.
Our sweet little Ben.
After he was born, faces in the room looked sullen. (he never cried, but I never really heard that lack of noise because I was a tad delirious). They brought him to me, and said "he is a sick baby"...I looked at him, and saw a cleft lip. So I thought, "ok...go take care of him"...they whisked him away... After the surgery, they let us go see him. There was such a pit in my stomach, everything was so surreal. Even now it's hard to even really imagine that day. All I saw was a tiny little person all full of tubes and not moving. They basically said he would not be able to live.
He died just 1 hour after being born.
Life and Death, all in one day.
Shock... but also
joy at just having had a baby, but not knowing what to do with those emotions running side by side.
That day, we had a nurse who also had lost a baby years ago.
She gently tried pursuading me to see my baby, even though he had died. (I'm still so grateful for her)
I didn't know what to do.
I thought it would be weird.
I thought it could be gross.
My brain was having a hard time registering all of the emotions.
But, I wanted to see him.
I wanted to hold him.
He was still our child.
Finally, we decided that indeed it would be ok.
She brought him to us.
We held him.
We cried.
We rocked him.
I laid him beside me.
I cradled him.
We cried some more.
But, we also looked at him and wondered who he looked like, and tried to imagine him grown up. We lived his little life in just the moments we had with him in the hospital after he had died.
We recieved cards, letters, notes, gifts...but all of them were "sympathy" cards. I remember feeling jipped! I had just given birth. There was joy in that. Having never really experienced anything like this or known anyone who had, I realized quickly that sympathy was ok. Yes, it is appropriate, but with this kind of loss, there is also a loss of the celebration of life. I remember thinking, "let me be happy about my baby...even just for a few moments" But, didn't know how to ask for that or the appropriateness of it either. How would anyone really know that? or how would they say it? such a bizarre set of circumstances.
I was allowed to stay in the hospital for the full 3-4 days and to see him a few more times.
Looking back those are some treasured memories.
Although I do wish we had more pictures of him.
Somehow, we didn't have a clue about the importance of that.
We have just a few polaroids of him that nurses took. But, not many.
We had a funeral several days later.
and then the grieving really kicked in.
We did go to a great support group called Resolve Through Sharing for about a year.
That was good for both of us.
Now, 22 years later
Our story is full of many layers of grief.
But, also, so much healing.
In our house, laughter and tears often run side by side.
We have quirky ways of doing things.
But, in it all, God has been there.
Oh yes, I've shared with Him a few opinions on how I think life should go, or should have gone. And fortunately He has gently reminded me He is still in Control and hasn't sruck me down for being disrespectful of His Sovereignty.
Today, we remember.
and that is ok.
We will never forget our sweet boy Benjamin.
or
ever stop wondering...
"What would he be like today?"
On these days, I am not quite sure if I think of him more as my "baby"--because that is all I really knew--or more of a "man", because that is what he would be. Either way, he is my boy! and it is his birthday, and I will never forget.
Happy Birthday son.
(for those that do not know...Benjamin was born without kidneys. We didn't know anything was wrong till the day he was born--this is what cause the lack of fluid around him and also contributed to his lack of lung development--all incompatible with life. Our second son--Samuel was also born with this same condition 1 1/2 years later--but diagnosed in utero, and also died about 1 hour after being born. The condition is called Potter's Syndrome and/or Renal Agenisis)
we won't ever forget...
a little baby boy, born March 18, 1990.
Our sweet little Ben.
The day was weird.
I was 30 weeks along. It was my first pregnancy. I was excited about the fact that we were just 10 weeks away from greeting our first baby. We had a baby shower with the 4th graders I was teaching at the time just about 1 week before...but this morning, I woke up. And there were signs things were not right. We called the doctor and they said we should come in right away. We went to the hospital and there, they asked a bunch of questions. Then they asked if I felt like I had been leaking fluid. I said "no". To them it appeared as tho there was very little fluid around this baby. I didn't really know what that meant, but they seemed stressed out because he was early and he was breach. They said, he could get "stuck" so they wanted to do an emergency c-section. As they wheeled me to the operating room, I remember the doctor saying..."85-90% of these babies survive" so basically, don't worry too much. I was very disoriented. They did a spinal block and I was undergoing surgery in just minutes. After he was born, faces in the room looked sullen. (he never cried, but I never really heard that lack of noise because I was a tad delirious). They brought him to me, and said "he is a sick baby"...I looked at him, and saw a cleft lip. So I thought, "ok...go take care of him"...they whisked him away... After the surgery, they let us go see him. There was such a pit in my stomach, everything was so surreal. Even now it's hard to even really imagine that day. All I saw was a tiny little person all full of tubes and not moving. They basically said he would not be able to live.
He died just 1 hour after being born.
Life and Death, all in one day.
Shock... but also
joy at just having had a baby, but not knowing what to do with those emotions running side by side.
That day, we had a nurse who also had lost a baby years ago.
She gently tried pursuading me to see my baby, even though he had died. (I'm still so grateful for her)
I didn't know what to do.
I thought it would be weird.
I thought it could be gross.
My brain was having a hard time registering all of the emotions.
But, I wanted to see him.
I wanted to hold him.
He was still our child.
Finally, we decided that indeed it would be ok.
She brought him to us.
We held him.
We cried.
We rocked him.
I laid him beside me.
I cradled him.
We cried some more.
But, we also looked at him and wondered who he looked like, and tried to imagine him grown up. We lived his little life in just the moments we had with him in the hospital after he had died.
We recieved cards, letters, notes, gifts...but all of them were "sympathy" cards. I remember feeling jipped! I had just given birth. There was joy in that. Having never really experienced anything like this or known anyone who had, I realized quickly that sympathy was ok. Yes, it is appropriate, but with this kind of loss, there is also a loss of the celebration of life. I remember thinking, "let me be happy about my baby...even just for a few moments" But, didn't know how to ask for that or the appropriateness of it either. How would anyone really know that? or how would they say it? such a bizarre set of circumstances.
I was allowed to stay in the hospital for the full 3-4 days and to see him a few more times.
Looking back those are some treasured memories.
Although I do wish we had more pictures of him.
Somehow, we didn't have a clue about the importance of that.
We have just a few polaroids of him that nurses took. But, not many.
We had a funeral several days later.
and then the grieving really kicked in.
We did go to a great support group called Resolve Through Sharing for about a year.
That was good for both of us.
Now, 22 years later
Our story is full of many layers of grief.
But, also, so much healing.
In our house, laughter and tears often run side by side.
We have quirky ways of doing things.
But, in it all, God has been there.
Oh yes, I've shared with Him a few opinions on how I think life should go, or should have gone. And fortunately He has gently reminded me He is still in Control and hasn't sruck me down for being disrespectful of His Sovereignty.
Today, we remember.
and that is ok.
We will never forget our sweet boy Benjamin.
or
ever stop wondering...
"What would he be like today?"
On these days, I am not quite sure if I think of him more as my "baby"--because that is all I really knew--or more of a "man", because that is what he would be. Either way, he is my boy! and it is his birthday, and I will never forget.
Happy Birthday son.
(for those that do not know...Benjamin was born without kidneys. We didn't know anything was wrong till the day he was born--this is what cause the lack of fluid around him and also contributed to his lack of lung development--all incompatible with life. Our second son--Samuel was also born with this same condition 1 1/2 years later--but diagnosed in utero, and also died about 1 hour after being born. The condition is called Potter's Syndrome and/or Renal Agenisis)
Friday, March 16, 2012
A blog worthy day...
You know how some days we just go through and nothing really profound happens and it is "just another day"...
and then
There are days like today that seemed so "blog worthy".
First I start with some of the "yuck"
I don't always know what causes profound reactions in Lucas.
But, today he had a pile of meltdown type reactions to the word "no"...he wanted to do something, and I stuck to my guns and said no because I really had to. He has to learn there just are times when "no" is the answer. I won't go into all the gory details, but it was rather ugly for a good 45 minutes or so. But, it is definitely better than it used to be and does not last as long. He also actually responds to the consequences too, which is a big step. I mention this because of what happened at the end of the day which is also a cool change that has evolved over the past few months. (jump to the end if you want to know)
He did get over it and we ended up going to a local school festival today. Lots of fun for Lucas. I just wasn't thinking when we got there they would require cash or check to pay for the rides, etc. So as I realized that, I told Lucas we needed to turn around and go home. I felt bad but just didn't have any cash along. As we were about to leave a lady in front of me said "I've got it covered"... I was stunned and didn't really know how to react. It was a $15 wristband. She paid it in full. Even if I did have the cash along, I'm not sure I would have bought the whole $15 wristband because we are pinching pennies. Lucas had a blast. The lady selling the bands said, "you know you need to pay it forward TWICE...she was a stranger, and she blessed you"....I agreed...then said "Thank you Jesus" outloud!
In those circumstances, I totally see God's unexpected Provision.
While at the festival we had some interesting interactions with several people because
Me: "Lucas, you know what?...."
Lucas: "...I'm an amazing boy....dats what you gonna say, right?"
Me: "dats right"
I guess he must have been reading my mind. I was reflecting on all he was doing throughout the evening and just "being Lucas"...I love dat boy.
and to end the day there is the....
Daddy Confessional.
Lucas has a habit...
If anything goes haywire during the day--ie. school issues, or discipline, etc. he feels a need to tell daddy about it when he gets home or right before bed. I don't tell him he has to tell daddy, he just brings up the issue and tells him what he did. It actually is a pretty good habit. He feels a need to confess to his dad whatever happens. As he refines this habit in his life, I'm praying he sees the importance of confessing to God his sin, and recieving the sweet forgiveness He offers too.
and finally, just a little funny moment tonight.
I never heard Lucas do "einie meeine minie mo" before. Tonight he was deciding which glass of water to give daddy and he said
and then
There are days like today that seemed so "blog worthy".
First I start with some of the "yuck"
I don't always know what causes profound reactions in Lucas.
But, today he had a pile of meltdown type reactions to the word "no"...he wanted to do something, and I stuck to my guns and said no because I really had to. He has to learn there just are times when "no" is the answer. I won't go into all the gory details, but it was rather ugly for a good 45 minutes or so. But, it is definitely better than it used to be and does not last as long. He also actually responds to the consequences too, which is a big step. I mention this because of what happened at the end of the day which is also a cool change that has evolved over the past few months. (jump to the end if you want to know)
He did get over it and we ended up going to a local school festival today. Lots of fun for Lucas. I just wasn't thinking when we got there they would require cash or check to pay for the rides, etc. So as I realized that, I told Lucas we needed to turn around and go home. I felt bad but just didn't have any cash along. As we were about to leave a lady in front of me said "I've got it covered"... I was stunned and didn't really know how to react. It was a $15 wristband. She paid it in full. Even if I did have the cash along, I'm not sure I would have bought the whole $15 wristband because we are pinching pennies. Lucas had a blast. The lady selling the bands said, "you know you need to pay it forward TWICE...she was a stranger, and she blessed you"....I agreed...then said "Thank you Jesus" outloud!
In those circumstances, I totally see God's unexpected Provision.
While at the festival we had some interesting interactions with several people because
Lucas is Mr. Friendly.
He has few inhibitions and introduces himself to random people, asks them their name, tells them his, and shakes their hands. He just loves initiating conversation with people and asking them questions about themselves or how they are today. So many people complemented him on his kindness. It was so sweet. (and yes we have had the "stranger" talk with him)
He got a chance to go on several bounce-house type things and there were a few ocassions where I wished kids could just mellow out and be kind. There were way too many kids in some of them. Lucas took his shoes off, but kept his legs/feet on with socks. But, since his ankles really don't bend, he struggles to get up the bouncy ramps. If someone bounces on it while he is climbing he really has a hard time climbing, and nobody would cut him some slack. To be fair, they didn't know... But, the
Mother Bear in me wanted to just yell at all of them. I finally realized Lucas was figuring it out (and doing a little yelling on his own too..=)...I wanted to tell the kids, "hey, just slow down a little bit and let the kid have a moment to get up the slide". But, the reality is, he is going to deal with these things in life, so I watched closely, but he handled it very well.
After watching Lucas during this festival for an hour and a half, I left with a very happy boy that loved all the fun. I was carrying him as we walked to our car cuz he was a little worn out and I said:
Me: "Lucas, you know what?...."
Lucas: "...I'm an amazing boy....dats what you gonna say, right?"
Me: "dats right"
I guess he must have been reading my mind. I was reflecting on all he was doing throughout the evening and just "being Lucas"...I love dat boy.
and to end the day there is the....
Daddy Confessional.
Lucas has a habit...
If anything goes haywire during the day--ie. school issues, or discipline, etc. he feels a need to tell daddy about it when he gets home or right before bed. I don't tell him he has to tell daddy, he just brings up the issue and tells him what he did. It actually is a pretty good habit. He feels a need to confess to his dad whatever happens. As he refines this habit in his life, I'm praying he sees the importance of confessing to God his sin, and recieving the sweet forgiveness He offers too.
and finally, just a little funny moment tonight.
I never heard Lucas do "einie meeine minie mo" before. Tonight he was deciding which glass of water to give daddy and he said
"Einie meenie
(pointing to each glass back and forth with each word)
mine,
mine,
mine,
mine..."
well, that works....if you only say "mine mine mine" you don't end up needing to share right???
lol It was so funny...
oops one more thing...
Isaac had a new friend over tonight.
Lucas was getting ready for bed and after he took his legs off he asked..."Does she know about my circle feet?" He didn't want to go downstairs unless he knew it was ok I guess. I just told him "it's just who you are...it's really ok, but yes she knows"
oops one more thing...
Isaac had a new friend over tonight.
Lucas was getting ready for bed and after he took his legs off he asked..."Does she know about my circle feet?" He didn't want to go downstairs unless he knew it was ok I guess. I just told him "it's just who you are...it's really ok, but yes she knows"
Sometimes I write a blog entry just to remember...
and today was one of those days.
It was a blog worthy day.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Give Thanks to the Lord
This is how God works.
This was in my inbox this morning...
So we are THANKFUL this morning and do not want to miss the opportunity to share it.
Not trying to jump ahead of God and the remaining plans He has. But, still needing to be thankful even for the encouragement he gave Peter yesterday. THAT alone was Praise Worthy no matter what else happens.
This was in my inbox this morning...
So we are THANKFUL this morning and do not want to miss the opportunity to share it.
| Purpose Life Devotional March 13, 2012 |
| Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. Has the LORD redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has redeemed you from your enemies. |
| Psalm 107:1-2, NLT |
| Let the redeemed of the LORD say . . ." God has done so much for us, and we have so much for which to thank him." He wants us to tell everyone all that he has done. These verses are not so much a mandate to witness as a declaration that when we live in God's presence we will not be able to keep this glorious experience to ourselves. |
| What has God done for you? Is there someone you can tell? This Also makes me think of a song... I know... shocking another song... But, this is what my brain does. And it is how the Holy Spirit prompts me and reminds me. I get music in my head and especially in these wee hours of the morning when it's quiet I hear Him speak through it. Much of it is directly His word anyway... Oh, the other reason this song sticks in my head is because Lucas screams it around the house all day long lately. He LOVES it!... I'm Not Ashamed (Passion 2012)...Kristian Stanfill |
Monday, March 12, 2012
1st job interview in 4 years today...
Ephesians 3:20-21
Now to Him who is (B)able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think,(C)according to the power that works within us, 21 (D)to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations [a]forever and ever. Amen.
I believe in a God of the beyond the beyond what we can ask or think....
Today, Peter had a job interview. (he hasn't had an interview in almost 4 years)
Can't go into too many details.
More to come later in the week.
But, suffice it to say, it was very positive.
It is 3 miles from our house.
Can you even imagine?
3 stinkin miles from our house.
I'm laughing.
A job possibility that is challenging, creative, and has awesome potential in my husband's line of work...and it is right under our noses?
God sure has a sense of humor.
The job was really not "ready" until now.
And they had to experience some things also before they got to Peter and found a solid guy with the experience they needed.
No offer is on the table yet.
But, they are planning to talk to him sometime this week.
3 stinkin' miles from our house.
I'm still in shock--but really....why should I be?
I believe in the God of the IMPOSSIBLE!
TO HIM BE THE GLORY NOW AND FOREVER...
Prayers appreciated as the details begin to unfold. Praying for continued wisdom, discernment and direction. We don't want to jump into anything without wisdom or out of desperation. I'm just a little stunned that it is even a possibility. Prayer prayer prayer!
Now to Him who is (B)able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think,(C)according to the power that works within us, 21 (D)to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations [a]forever and ever. Amen.
I believe in a God of the beyond the beyond what we can ask or think....
Today, Peter had a job interview. (he hasn't had an interview in almost 4 years)
Can't go into too many details.
More to come later in the week.
But, suffice it to say, it was very positive.
It is 3 miles from our house.
Can you even imagine?
3 stinkin miles from our house.
I'm laughing.
A job possibility that is challenging, creative, and has awesome potential in my husband's line of work...and it is right under our noses?
God sure has a sense of humor.
The job was really not "ready" until now.
And they had to experience some things also before they got to Peter and found a solid guy with the experience they needed.
No offer is on the table yet.
But, they are planning to talk to him sometime this week.
3 stinkin' miles from our house.
I'm still in shock--but really....why should I be?
I believe in the God of the IMPOSSIBLE!
TO HIM BE THE GLORY NOW AND FOREVER...
Prayers appreciated as the details begin to unfold. Praying for continued wisdom, discernment and direction. We don't want to jump into anything without wisdom or out of desperation. I'm just a little stunned that it is even a possibility. Prayer prayer prayer!
Saturday, March 10, 2012
"Mommy, look I can run..."
...Of course we were in the middle of a museum yesterday when he made the discovery, but you should have seen him...so proud!
His stride is a little lanky and awkward, but he was so full of grins I just had to share. I didn't have a camera or video camera with me, so no pics yet. But, I may have him show off a bit today and see if I can get it video taped.
Another step forward in the progress of new life for Lucas.
His stride is a little lanky and awkward, but he was so full of grins I just had to share. I didn't have a camera or video camera with me, so no pics yet. But, I may have him show off a bit today and see if I can get it video taped.
Another step forward in the progress of new life for Lucas.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
"Encouraged"
...a word out of my husband's mouth this morning. LOVE that! Just little things that are giving him encouragement on this journey. I LOVE that God is giving that to him. Not a lot to really hang our hats on yet, but just a few little projects have come for him this week and I think he is feeling the affect of prayer. We are also just enjoying watching God speak in small ways.
When I did my quiet time this morning I opened my Bible and really had no specific direction in mind. I just finished a study with some ladies so I didn't have a "plan". But, for some reason I felt God saying
Isaiah 46. why? I really had no clue what was in Isaiah 46. Really? Isaiah 46? that's sort of random. Ok.
So just went there and found this...
at first glance I just read through it and I have to admit I questioned why? but then re read it and "heard" God giving words of Encouragement.
1 Bel bows down, Nebo stoops low;
their idols are borne by beasts of burden.[a]
The images that are carried about are burdensome,
a burden for the weary.
2 They stoop and bow down together;
unable to rescue the burden,
they themselves go off into captivity.
I'm left with these words that encourage me...God is in control! Believing Him for what-ever He has in store. Obsessing over HIM. Not over the circumstance! It is so cool that He is so clear in reminding us that HE is GOD! LOVE IT!
Now THAT is encouraging...
(and relieving too)
When I did my quiet time this morning I opened my Bible and really had no specific direction in mind. I just finished a study with some ladies so I didn't have a "plan". But, for some reason I felt God saying
Isaiah 46. why? I really had no clue what was in Isaiah 46. Really? Isaiah 46? that's sort of random. Ok.
So just went there and found this...
at first glance I just read through it and I have to admit I questioned why? but then re read it and "heard" God giving words of Encouragement.
1 Bel bows down, Nebo stoops low;
their idols are borne by beasts of burden.[a]
The images that are carried about are burdensome,
a burden for the weary.
2 They stoop and bow down together;
unable to rescue the burden,
they themselves go off into captivity.
3 “Listen to me, you descendants of Jacob,
all the remnant of the people of Israel,
you whom I have upheld since your birth,
and have carried since you were born.
4 Even to your old age and gray hairs
I am he, I am he who will sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry you;
I will sustain you and I will rescue you.
all the remnant of the people of Israel,
you whom I have upheld since your birth,
and have carried since you were born.
4 Even to your old age and gray hairs
I am he, I am he who will sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry you;
I will sustain you and I will rescue you.
5 “With whom will you compare me or count me equal?
To whom will you liken me that we may be compared?
6 Some pour out gold from their bags
and weigh out silver on the scales;
they hire a goldsmith to make it into a god,
and they bow down and worship it.
7 They lift it to their shoulders and carry it;
they set it up in its place, and there it stands.
From that spot it cannot move.
Even though someone cries out to it, it cannot answer;
it cannot save them from their troubles.
To whom will you liken me that we may be compared?
6 Some pour out gold from their bags
and weigh out silver on the scales;
they hire a goldsmith to make it into a god,
and they bow down and worship it.
7 They lift it to their shoulders and carry it;
they set it up in its place, and there it stands.
From that spot it cannot move.
Even though someone cries out to it, it cannot answer;
it cannot save them from their troubles.
8 “Remember this, keep it in mind,
take it to heart, you rebels.
9 Remember the former things, those of long ago;
I am God, and there is no other;
I am God, and there is none like me.
10 I make known the end from the beginning,
from ancient times, what is still to come.
I say, ‘My purpose will stand,
and I will do all that I please.’
11 From the east I summon a bird of prey;
from a far-off land, a man to fulfill my purpose.
What I have said, that I will bring about;
what I have planned, that I will do.
12 Listen to me, you stubborn-hearted,
you who are now far from my righteousness.
13 I am bringing my righteousness near,
it is not far away;
and my salvation will not be delayed.
I will grant salvation to Zion,
my splendor to Israel.
take it to heart, you rebels.
9 Remember the former things, those of long ago;
I am God, and there is no other;
I am God, and there is none like me.
10 I make known the end from the beginning,
from ancient times, what is still to come.
I say, ‘My purpose will stand,
and I will do all that I please.’
11 From the east I summon a bird of prey;
from a far-off land, a man to fulfill my purpose.
What I have said, that I will bring about;
what I have planned, that I will do.
12 Listen to me, you stubborn-hearted,
you who are now far from my righteousness.
13 I am bringing my righteousness near,
it is not far away;
and my salvation will not be delayed.
I will grant salvation to Zion,
my splendor to Israel.
:3-4
makes me smile...He has known and been aware and upheld us since our birth. Why would he stop now? even with our gray hair...=)
vs. :6-8--- convicted and reminded me that we are not to put anything above God, not our job, our money, our desires, nothing. We are not to create idols out of anything. I think it is easy to be distracted from seeing God when our thoughts are filled with meeting our physical needs--when we feel desperate just to make ends meet we think "If only I had a decent job, insurance, money to pay my bills. Then I wouldn't have to worry and I'd be happy". Or the opposite. I've talked to people that do have a lot of money and great jobs, and they are still obsessed or discontent. Maybe they are obsessed by what to do with their money or how to manage it. Maybe they think ... "just a little more and I will be Happy". Either way, God is pretty clear that HE is our God! And He won't be replaced. No idols-- the job or persuit of a job cannot become an idol.
:9 I am God, and there is no other;
I am God, and there is none like me. I'm left with these words that encourage me...God is in control! Believing Him for what-ever He has in store. Obsessing over HIM. Not over the circumstance! It is so cool that He is so clear in reminding us that HE is GOD! LOVE IT!
Now THAT is encouraging...
(and relieving too)
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