Tag: joy

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Prayer

Finding Grace #240

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?

This week was a great week! It was just as full, but for whatever reason, it was less stressful. Maybe it was because I went shopping one afternoon and even squeezed in a nap. At any rate, I was grateful for God’s grace and goodness.

On Wednesday, a friend took Lydia to church again. I went to pick her up a little later, but it was helpful to have some extra time at home preparing for the rest of the week.

Friday night was spent with the same friend (and others) at church praying for our nation. There are so many issues we are facing, personally and in our communities and beyond. Prayer is so important and I appreciated meeting together with these wise people as we sought the Lord’s help.

Today, Lydia and I enjoyed time outside at a local park and then went to a local farmer’s market. We bought some veggies and sampled a few treats. We also walked through part of a historical neighborhood enjoying the beautiful houses on this sunny day. Then, she played outside while I worked on a project and made veggie lasagna using the biggest zucchini I have ever seen!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Finding Grace #239

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?

This week was full, but really good! A friend came over on Sunday, and then we had our family Zoom time. My little nephew gets cuter by the day!

On Tuesday, Lydia and I took advantage of an opportunity for free mulch down the block from us. We took five loads/roundtrips with a shovel, loaded wheelbarrow, two 5-gallon buckets, and another small bucket, but we got all our steps in and then some!

Work was a little slower paced and more manageable this week. It seemed quieter with less activities, and I appreciated the chance to catch up! That said, I am grateful for the work God has given me to do! 

Yesterday, I fixed my coffee maker and saved a fair amount of money (by not replacing it). It had recently started leaking water underneath, which was odd. So, I went shopping for a new one, but they didn’t have it in store. Then, I researched similar models, but finally decided to try fixing mine, and as a backup, order one next week. Thankfully, I found a couple videos online. One person had taken their machine completely apart, while another used a dremel. I tried the first way, but it was very tricky. So, I borrowed a dremel from my neighbors and reattached the hose (in back). Success!

Then, in the evening, Lydia and I made some chocolate chip cookies, watched a show, and called my parents (to tell them a couple jokes). We enjoyed the quality time together!

Today, I graded some assignments, worked on a couple projects, cleaned the house, replaced a faulty light switch in the bathroom, and ran some errands with Lydia. She especially enjoyed walking around the arts and crafts store!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Worship

Not So Different

On Sunday, one of my African friends came over to hang out. We had a great time sharing a meal, talking about food, clothes, shopping, church, work, and family. Then, we played games with Lydia. Our usual.

My friend complimented me on a new houseplant. I laughed and told her it was fake. These days, I don’t have much time to devote to real houseplants, though I do enjoy them!

She then told me that some of her houseplants found homes with other friends because she always kills them. Apparently, her other friends were quick to tell her she doesn’t have a green thumb. How ironic other cultures have similar nuances!

My friend often gives me updates about her other international friends. For example, one of her Middle Eastern friends had twin boys earlier this year. I have not met the babies since the family moved out of state recently.

So, on Sunday, we watched a video of the mother talking to her seven-month-old boys. They were so cute, and I could really see their personalities coming through.

It was fun listening to the mother’s language, and it made me happy the boys will grow up knowing her language first and English second. It is good they will learn about her culture and their heritage, as well.

To my surprise, I could understand the gist of what the mother was saying. Well more or less! I could not understand her exact words, of course, but I could understand her tone of voice. Every mother I know says the same things to her precious baby!

It seems she was saying how big and how strong and cute they were. One of the twins was moving his arms and legs like a choo-choo train and she mimicked those sounds.

It happens all over the world. You probably know exactly what I am talking about!

Years ago, when I was pregnant with Lydia, some people visiting from Singapore were trying to guess my baby’s gender. They had a whole set of old wives tales they were relying on to make their decision! The same ideas exist in other cultures, too!

Even further back, I once traveled to Sweden to visit some friends and still remember with exact enunciation the phrases, “Kan du klappa? Kan du vinka?” which means “Can you clap? Can you wave?” There was a baby boy and his family kept excitedly asking him to show me.

As I sat and talked with my friend on Sunday, I was reminded that our similarities outweigh our differences. We have very different hair, skin, cultures, backgrounds, and preferences, but we both love Jesus. And, God brought both of us to North Dakota!

Over the years, we have both helped each other problem solve. We have learned a ton from each other and are better off for it. In the end, we are really not so different.

There is so much going on in our world right now. I hope each of us can remember to set aside our preferences and enjoy each person for who they are. We can celebrate our differences and rejoice in our similarities. It really doesn’t matter, just treat each other well.

Each person you see is loved by God. Each person represents a part of His character and creativity. Think about that for a minute. All of that diversity within each of us shows you just how vast God is. We cannot put Him in a box or contain Him!

We need each person’s contribution; none of us is better than the other. If you sit down and share food and conversation, perhaps you’ll learn just how much you have in common! Everyone feels the need to belong. For those of us who know Jesus, we are family.

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God, thank You for creating so many different kinds of people. It shows us how wonderful You are, to think up so many special characteristics. Help us love each other well. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Which do you typically notice first, someone’s differences or similarities to you?

Tasks: As you go about your week, see if you can notice any similarities across cultures. We all laugh, enjoy selfies, like to celebrate, tell jokes, eat fruit, kiss our babies, value hard work, have bad days, become sad, etc. In the end, we are not so different!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Procrastination, Wisdom, Words

Everyday Encouragers

Last week, I imagined how it would be in Heaven if we one day have to apologize to every person we maligned with our words or actions, even if they were unaware of it at the time. Awkward!

I often think about things like that. I enjoy using my ‘mind’s eye’ to grow and reflect, which helps me appreciate my current experiences and consider other perspectives.

That said, what if the opposite also occurs? What if we get to track down and thank every single person in Heaven for anything kind or helpful they did that benefitted us, even in the tiniest of ways? This could include an unexpected gift, or opening a door, or praying for someone, not to mention all the many ways we bless those we know.

Can you imagine how long that would take us? Good thing we will be there for Eternity!

Or, to take it a step further, think about how it would feel if we one day have to go up to everyone and say, “Sorry I didn’t say this sooner, but I really appreciated it when you…” or “Well, I meant to send you a card, but I didn’t because I was busy…” Ouch.

Again, I don’t have any indication that will actually happen, but it might be worth thinking about. If it makes you squirm a little, now is your chance to do things differently.

I know it brings God great joy when we are grateful and treat each other well.

Either way, we don’t have to wait to apologize or say thank you! Even today, our lives, words, and actions can ooze grace toward others and win them to Jesus Christ.

Our words can bring life to a dying world. What a privilege!

We don’t need a special occasion or reason to be a blessing. As we go about our day, we can encourage others. We can apologize when needed and say thanks, too.

We can compliment each other and shout out any good we see.

Also, don’t wait to tell someone you love them. You may not get another chance.

Finally, don’t wait until life slows down… that may never happen! Just make it a habit to be generous and kind as you go throughout your day!

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Father, thanks for all You do for us. Help us grow in grace and gratitude, so we can share Your love with others. Help us be mindful of the impact of our words. May we use them to bring life and glorify You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Does this blog post comfort, convict, or challenge you? What changes will you make as a result?

Tasks: Look for ways to use your words and bless others today. Send a thank you note, praise someone for their efforts, compliment clothing or kindness toward others. Be generous when spreading grace and joy today!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Finding Grace #237

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?

This week was good, but I didn’t get enough sleep! I stayed up late several nights for various reasons, only to get up early to go to work and daycare. I had some technical difficulties that took until Wednesday to resolve. Thankfully, there were no serious problems, just a lot of back and forth and playing phone tag with IT support.

Lydia had a lot of fun at daycare and school this week. She worked on several really cool artsy projects at daycare and home. At school, she enjoyed seeing her friends and bringing homework to do on her days off. A win-win, perhaps?!

Work went well for me this week all around, but there is just so much going on! Thankfully, the activities I get to do are all worthwhile. It makes a huge difference when you enjoy the tasks overall and see the purpose behind the work. I had some fun, engaging conversations with both Veterans and students! Thank You, Jesus!

This week’s weather was gorgeous. I enjoyed driving all over town to work, school, daycare, and a few stores while running errands. I love seeing all the stunning colors!

Today, I worked on a project and graded some assignments. Tonight some friends were supposed to come over, but we cancelled when some of their family members weren’t feeling well. It’s better to be wise and safe. Instead of visiting with friends, I am continuing my projects and enjoying some time with Lydia!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance

Finding Grace #236

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?

This was a good week. I picked up a few extra hours at the VA and had a great time teaching my students. On Labor Day, I was off from the VA, but had two Zoom calls for Concordia. I was glad for the slower pace because the rest of the week was full!

On Wednesday, I mowed the lawn after work. I looked ahead and saw potential rain, so I took advantage of the timing and gorgeous weather. It was cool but calm! Mowing early in the week helped free me up later in the week. It did rain a little, but I also worked extra hours and had a few activities planned with Lydia. 

School went well for Lydia this week! She had fun learning and even was stretched as she tackled some personal fears with success. She seems to be adjusting well!

Today, a friend came over for our writer’s group. We always have fun discussing our ongoing projects. Then, Lydia and I did some cleaning and are relaxing tonight!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer

Come Hell or High Water

Lately, I have seen several 2020 memes with the same theme.

For example: If 2020 were a slide, it would look  like a little boy sliding down a cheese grater. Or, If 2020 were a type of candy, it would be black licorice.  There are people that enjoy black licorice, but you get the idea. 🙂

This year has shown us all how unpredictable life can be. It has brought heartache and death, but it also has helped many people reprioritize family, friends, and health, perhaps shifting them to more balance and a slower pace.

Of course, each person has had different circumstances and reactions. For me, 2020 has been helpful to lay aside other people’s random expectations and focus on personal projects and goals. Spending extra time with Lydia has also been wonderful.

One day last week, I was late to pick up Lydia because I had stayed an extra 2+ hours at work unexpectedly. It turned out well, but I wondered if she would be worried about me.

Since I am Lydia’s only parent, she occasionally worries that something might happen to me, too. (I appreciate your prayers for her little heart.) Over time, she has learned to work through her emotions, and she coached herself this time without any issues.

When I arrived at daycare, Lydia asked what took me so long, but wasn’t too rattled, thankfully. Still, in my mind’s I heard myself saying, “I will never forget to come for you. Come Hell or high water, I will be there!” Of course, Mama Bear didn’t actually say this, but it did make me think of a Bible verse I recently read again.

Interestingly, the idiom “Come Hell or high water,” has been around for over one hundred years. But God already beat us to this concept thousands of years ago! Yes, He has been with us through Hell and high water. Of course, Jesus stormed the gates of Hell and conquered Death. Here are a few other examples, too:

The Lord shut the Ark door for Noah, his family, and the animals before the Flood.

God provided a burnt offering for Abraham and Isaac.

God parted the Red Sea and, years later, the Jordan River.

He walked in a fiery furnace with three young Israelite men.

Jesus walked on water and calmed a couple of storms on the Sea of Galilee.

I don’t know how He will come through for you, specifically, this week. But, I know He cares and He will do whatever it takes. He is for you and not against you!

God created fire, Hell, water, and well, everything else. He is still on His throne and remains in full control. Nothing is impossible for Him. He loves a good breakthrough!

This year has certainly been wild, but we can trust that God will keep His Word. He has been with us through it all, and nothing, neither Hell nor high water nor anything else will keep us from His love (Romans 8:38).

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Heavenly Father, thanks for being so faithful. You have proven Yourself over and over, in Hell and in high water! Thanks for being with us. May we trust You in every challenge. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever thought about God being with us in Hell or high water? How does that knowledge make you feel today?

Tasks: Read some of the highlighted Scriptures and see how God came through for those in the stories. Trust Him with your story today.

 

Posted on in Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Prayer, Worship

The Same Power

Some weeks are smooth sailing, while others feel chaotic right from the start. Usually, most things go well enough, but there are days when it is difficult to stay on top of everything. This started out as one of those weeks! 🙂

I usually prefer to have at least a basic idea of what needs done when, but this week, I feel like I am still catching up. Periodically I have the nagging sense that I am forgetting something. I probably just need more sleep!

On Monday, I received three emails from students in my nutrition class, while at my other job. They were confused about what needed to be done. The students had misread the syllabus, so there was no real problem, but it was something I needed to address sooner rather than later.

Then, after work and daycare, I picked Lydia up. We made it home and were preparing for dinner before we needed to leave for an evening activity. We had enough time, so I decided to get a head start on the birthday treat I was going to make for someone at work.

That’s when I questioned if the treat I had planned was a good idea afterall. This person has a food allergy, and even though I planned ahead, I decided to buy something instead just to be safe. So, Lydia and I raced across town to visit a special bakery to by some allergen-friendly cookies before they closed. We just made it!

We had just enough time at home for a quick supper before the evening activity, a class for Lydia. She had a great time and was super chatty afterward. She wanted to play a game with me and kept on talking. She shared her heart on several topics indeed!

While I was listening to Lydia recap her day, I realized if I hadn’t bought the special cookies, I would have missed the quality time with her. She was so excited after her class, and it felt like a priceless opportunity. Someday, that may change, so I am soaking them up!

All of Monday’s events felt stressful at first glance. I really was just focused on getting through the next couple of days. But, when my plans failed, God reminded me His ways are better. He even gave me time with Lydia in the evening that I wouldn’t have had otherwise.

Tuesday also turned out differently than planned, but this time, I just rolled with it. I prayed for God’s help, and He blessed my day. I didn’t accomplish everything on my list, but I did my best and had peace about it. His grace is sufficient!

18 “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. 22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”– Ephesians 1:18-23, NIV

I’m so glad we don’t have do life solo or in our own strength. Our success in life does not depend entirely upon what us! Sure, we each have to do our part, but we can rely on Almighty God. He is the One we live for, and His Spirit is ready to helps us. (Zechariah 4:6)

If you belong to God, you have full access to God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit… the very same power that raised Jesus from the dead is alive in us. Don’t forget it!

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God, thanks for all You do for me. Thanks for the gentle reminders that I should depend on Your strength alone. I choose to rely on Your Power, Lord, which far exceeds any of my problems. Help me persevere and walk victoriously with You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How is your week going so far? Are you operating in your own efforts and resources or are you relying on and asking God for His limitless strength and grace?

Tasks: Listen to this song, by Jeremy Camp, and memorize Romans 8:11.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #234

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?

This was a busy, but fulfilling week! On Sunday, Lydia got a new pair of shoes for school. We also met her teacher this week, and Lydia made sure her desk and locker are ready to go for her first day next week! With the current COVID guidelines, she will have about ten kids in her cohort, with the other thirteen kids in her class are in the other cohort (attending on different days). It will be an interesting year!

I had some great patients at the VA this week! Several Veterans were making good progress, which is always gratifying.

On Friday, I also taught my first nutrition class at the local college. I hope it goes well, and I can already tell it is a good fit for me. I have a lot of prep work still to do (to revise assignments and such), but I had fun meeting my students!

Today, one of Lydia’s friends came over to play. After that, we hung out with another family. We walked around some local botanical gardens and went to get frozen yogurt. We always have fun together, and I’m glad we made time to meet up!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #233

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?

This was a great week! On Sunday, we enjoyed our usual church gathering, and I noticed some of the trees are already starting to change colors! I saw beautiful yellow leaves, but I’m not sure I’m ready for cooler weather… 🙂

On Monday, I attended orientation at the local college where I will be teaching a nutrition class! The semester starts this next week. It was good that I did because I learned a lot, met some great people, and got a little more acclimated to my department.

This week, I celebrated one year working at the VA! I can’t believe how fast this year flew. I have really enjoyed serving Veterans, and I love working with a wonderful team of dietitians and other staff! At the same time, I have been challenged and grown professionally, which positions me well to teach at the college this fall. #winning

This week, I made some exciting progress on a few projects. It can be challenging to keep everything straight, but my family was good to offer input on some key decisions. I also confirmed plans for Lydia’s fall school and daycare options. This included calls, emails, and paperwork. It was a big week, and I had to keep everything straight! It was a little complex, but, I am really thankful for God’s provision and direction.

Yesterday and Today, I have been hyper-focused on finishing up my syllabus! I mowed a couple days ago and postponed hanging out with a friend so I could keep my momentum. Earlier, Lydia helped me with some housework (teamwork makes it faster). Then, she after that, she spent much of her time playing with a friend. So, that has been helpful!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!