Genesis 2:2 By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work.
Rest, renew and restore do we take the time; the time that God took when He was finished His job......Genesis 2:3 And God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.
Now that I`ve adjusted to my sixth decade of life, it comes with the privilege of reminiscing and remembering. I remember when Sunday was the day of rest and family time. Stores and malls, oops there weren`t any malls, where closed. Blue law required closure for the Holy Day. The majority of people had the day off. A day to rest, relax, enjoy and recharge; sharing family meals, delighting in a home-cooked fried chicken, served at the dinning room table.
That evening we would gather in the living room, around the one and only television. Watching "together" Walt Disney and The Ed Sullivan Show, Elvis`s swivels hips were banned and blocked from view. In nineteen hundred and sixty-four the Beatles took the stage for the first time in the United States. Beatle-mania swept the nation, "I Wanna Hold Your Hand," I fell in love with Ringo! Now this amazes me, at the age of 13, I fell for the one Beatle that would struggle with alcoholism, later in life. How does this happens! Are we drawn by our genetic make-up or the sin in us, gravitating to our own likeness, even before we walk that journey????
Proverbs 4:25-26 Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your glaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm.
Alright, back to two thousand and eleven, a new time, a new society and a new way of life, but nothing has changed, God still requires and urges us to rest. Maybe, our Sabbath, our Holy Day, will be Monday, Tuesday, or Friday whatever day we have off. Listen to that little voice, is it the Holy Spirit, urging you to slow down and smell the roses, before they wither and die! Trust me, time passes so quickly, live in the moment and enjoy the gifts from God, inhale His Grace and Mercy.
2 Peter 3:9-10 The LORD is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. But the day of the LORD will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.
Commune with the LORD, pray for wisdom, strength and understanding, receive His Grace. Amen!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Find The Gate Day 320
Ephesians 2:21-22 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the LORD. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
Last week my friend Sonya told me about the book, "Heaven Is For Real," by Todd Burpo. Sonya was deeply touch by this story of a little boys astounding story of his trip to heaven an back. As reviewed by Dr. Everett Piper, President, Oklahoma Wesleyan University, he writes: "There have been many stories of `near-death` experiences that I simply have not read because I frankly didn`t know if I could trust the author. Well, I have read this book cover to cover, and moreover, I could hardly put it down! Why? Because I know the author and I believe him, Todd Burpo gives us a wonderful gift as he and his son lift the veil on eternity, allowing us a quick glimpse of what lies on the other side."
Through out the book Todd`s 4 year old son, Colton after a near-death health issue, progressively reveals facts from his adventures in heaven. Todd and his wife Sonja can hardly believe what their son innocently shares.
As I read this simply written account of Colton`s experience, I had several, aha moments. I revisited something that happened to me in the spring 2007 on board a flight to visit Rick`s sister Jeanne. Chapter after chapter, I found myself looking away from the book, desperately trying to recall the occurrence that happened on board a short flight from Baltimore, MD en route to Atlanta, GA.
I was sitting in the middle seat next to Rick, the hum of the engines invited me into a sweet, sweet nap. However, I knew that I wasn`t sound asleep, I recall hearing all of the stewardess` announcements and the noises of the passengers. But, I wasn`t awake!
Acts 18:9 One night the LORD spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city."
I heard the voice of my dear friend, Jim Mullen who had passed away in September of 2006. Jim`s voice was easily recognized, he spoke in a silly Spanish voice calling me Leen da, as he often did before his untimely death. I couldn`t see Jim, but I heard him saying to me, "Leen da, Leen da, we have to find the gate, we have to find the gate, Leen da, Leen da we have to find the gate." I recall hearing this over and over, I never saw Jim, but I felt his presence.
Jim was the only voice I heard, but I also felt the presence Mr. Bob Bennett, who had also passed years ago. Mr. Bennett was a former boss, on the horse farm where my dad worked. He came to my family`s assistance when my brother Robin was killed. Mr. Bennett and his wife invited our family to church and they were instrumental in having myself, my sister Joyce and my brother Danny baptized.
Again, I couldn`t see Mr. Bennett but I knew he was there, Jim continued, "Leen da, Leen da, we have to find the gate, we have to find the gate." I also felt the presences of one of my childhood pet, Rusty a Chesapeake Bay retriever. I couldn`t see Rusty or pet him, but I knew he was there! Though out the entire vision Jim repeated, Leen da, Leen da, we have to find the gate, we have to find the gate," his words penetrated my soul with the urgency of his message.
The plane was landing, I heard the announcements, I sat asleep-like beside Rick. My eyes were closed but my head was upright; I didn`t want to wake up and leave the overwhelming peace that I felt. I recall feeling more peaceful than I had ever felt in my life! Upon landing, I heard Rick`s voice and felt his hands shaking me. Linda wake up, I recall that I had no desire to wake up, reluctantly in no hurry I left the peace of my journey.
Rick worried that something was seriously wrong with me. As we exited the plane, I felt somewhat disoriented, I was walking but I felt that my feet were hovering about a foot off the ground. As we entered the terminal, I was awake but felt slightly confused, still feeling as if I was walking on air. Once Rick was sure I was alright, he went to get something to drink. I recall sitting there alone praying and slowing repeating the 23th Psalm, by the time Rick returned, so had I.
I recall feeling exhausted for hours but I fully recovered, wondering what exactly I had experienced. Was it a dream, a divine vision and message through my dear friend, Jim? Did this experience have anything to do with my overwhelming desire to share and witness for the glory of the LORD? Thank you, God!
Matthew 7:13-14 Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
Amen............. "Leen da,We have to find the gate"...... I miss you so much, Jim!
Last week my friend Sonya told me about the book, "Heaven Is For Real," by Todd Burpo. Sonya was deeply touch by this story of a little boys astounding story of his trip to heaven an back. As reviewed by Dr. Everett Piper, President, Oklahoma Wesleyan University, he writes: "There have been many stories of `near-death` experiences that I simply have not read because I frankly didn`t know if I could trust the author. Well, I have read this book cover to cover, and moreover, I could hardly put it down! Why? Because I know the author and I believe him, Todd Burpo gives us a wonderful gift as he and his son lift the veil on eternity, allowing us a quick glimpse of what lies on the other side."
Through out the book Todd`s 4 year old son, Colton after a near-death health issue, progressively reveals facts from his adventures in heaven. Todd and his wife Sonja can hardly believe what their son innocently shares.
As I read this simply written account of Colton`s experience, I had several, aha moments. I revisited something that happened to me in the spring 2007 on board a flight to visit Rick`s sister Jeanne. Chapter after chapter, I found myself looking away from the book, desperately trying to recall the occurrence that happened on board a short flight from Baltimore, MD en route to Atlanta, GA.
I was sitting in the middle seat next to Rick, the hum of the engines invited me into a sweet, sweet nap. However, I knew that I wasn`t sound asleep, I recall hearing all of the stewardess` announcements and the noises of the passengers. But, I wasn`t awake!
Acts 18:9 One night the LORD spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city."
I heard the voice of my dear friend, Jim Mullen who had passed away in September of 2006. Jim`s voice was easily recognized, he spoke in a silly Spanish voice calling me Leen da, as he often did before his untimely death. I couldn`t see Jim, but I heard him saying to me, "Leen da, Leen da, we have to find the gate, we have to find the gate, Leen da, Leen da we have to find the gate." I recall hearing this over and over, I never saw Jim, but I felt his presence.
Jim was the only voice I heard, but I also felt the presence Mr. Bob Bennett, who had also passed years ago. Mr. Bennett was a former boss, on the horse farm where my dad worked. He came to my family`s assistance when my brother Robin was killed. Mr. Bennett and his wife invited our family to church and they were instrumental in having myself, my sister Joyce and my brother Danny baptized.
Again, I couldn`t see Mr. Bennett but I knew he was there, Jim continued, "Leen da, Leen da, we have to find the gate, we have to find the gate." I also felt the presences of one of my childhood pet, Rusty a Chesapeake Bay retriever. I couldn`t see Rusty or pet him, but I knew he was there! Though out the entire vision Jim repeated, Leen da, Leen da, we have to find the gate, we have to find the gate," his words penetrated my soul with the urgency of his message.
The plane was landing, I heard the announcements, I sat asleep-like beside Rick. My eyes were closed but my head was upright; I didn`t want to wake up and leave the overwhelming peace that I felt. I recall feeling more peaceful than I had ever felt in my life! Upon landing, I heard Rick`s voice and felt his hands shaking me. Linda wake up, I recall that I had no desire to wake up, reluctantly in no hurry I left the peace of my journey.
Rick worried that something was seriously wrong with me. As we exited the plane, I felt somewhat disoriented, I was walking but I felt that my feet were hovering about a foot off the ground. As we entered the terminal, I was awake but felt slightly confused, still feeling as if I was walking on air. Once Rick was sure I was alright, he went to get something to drink. I recall sitting there alone praying and slowing repeating the 23th Psalm, by the time Rick returned, so had I.
I recall feeling exhausted for hours but I fully recovered, wondering what exactly I had experienced. Was it a dream, a divine vision and message through my dear friend, Jim? Did this experience have anything to do with my overwhelming desire to share and witness for the glory of the LORD? Thank you, God!
Matthew 7:13-14 Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
Amen............. "Leen da,We have to find the gate"...... I miss you so much, Jim!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Friends Day 319
Ecclesiastes 4:10 If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up.
"Friendship is a way God loves us using human beings.....I see people drawn to you because of the friendship that emanates from you and because they can sense that you sincerely care about them."Stephen Smoker, The Friendship Book." By Steve Wingfield.
During my lifetime, I have met many people and felt that instant soul to soul connection, is this an affirmation of God presences and approval? People come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime, it our job to make the most of these blessings from God. Friendship is definitely something to ponder! Thank you, God for the friendships in my life, WOW! Ponder, to consider something carefully and thoroughly, another one of my favorite words!
I believe that I met Phyllis Davis for a season. Seasonal friendships are a time to share, grow and learn from one another. This friendship had brought great peace, unbelievable joy, much laughter, many tears and it has taught both of us things we needed to learn. In the short 5 years I have known Phyllis, we has loved, laughed, cried and spiritually supported one another. Thank you, God!
After selling their home in Elkton, she and hubby Bobby, will move to North Carolina to be closer to family. Last night I called Phyllis and offered to help her caravan her way to her new home. Once again, God`s timing was perfect, she has been "pondering" her possibilities, desperately trying to figure out how to make this move a reality.
Perhaps, God will prove me wrong (won`t be the first time) and what I believe to be a seasonal friendship, will survive the distance and continue to thrive and mature into a lifetime friendship. Only God knows!
Phyllis and I will forever remain "sisters in Christ," seeking and desiring to serve our LORD. I pray that this move will bring peace, joy and security into their lives. Father God, please bless and keep them safe in your love!
Ecclesiastes 3:11-12 He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. Amen!
"Friendship is a way God loves us using human beings.....I see people drawn to you because of the friendship that emanates from you and because they can sense that you sincerely care about them."Stephen Smoker, The Friendship Book." By Steve Wingfield.
During my lifetime, I have met many people and felt that instant soul to soul connection, is this an affirmation of God presences and approval? People come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime, it our job to make the most of these blessings from God. Friendship is definitely something to ponder! Thank you, God for the friendships in my life, WOW! Ponder, to consider something carefully and thoroughly, another one of my favorite words!
I believe that I met Phyllis Davis for a season. Seasonal friendships are a time to share, grow and learn from one another. This friendship had brought great peace, unbelievable joy, much laughter, many tears and it has taught both of us things we needed to learn. In the short 5 years I have known Phyllis, we has loved, laughed, cried and spiritually supported one another. Thank you, God!
After selling their home in Elkton, she and hubby Bobby, will move to North Carolina to be closer to family. Last night I called Phyllis and offered to help her caravan her way to her new home. Once again, God`s timing was perfect, she has been "pondering" her possibilities, desperately trying to figure out how to make this move a reality.
Perhaps, God will prove me wrong (won`t be the first time) and what I believe to be a seasonal friendship, will survive the distance and continue to thrive and mature into a lifetime friendship. Only God knows!
Phyllis and I will forever remain "sisters in Christ," seeking and desiring to serve our LORD. I pray that this move will bring peace, joy and security into their lives. Father God, please bless and keep them safe in your love!
Ecclesiastes 3:11-12 He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. Amen!
Monday, May 16, 2011
Surrender Day 318
Father God, as I welcome this new day, I surrender this day to you. I pray Father that I will function in your will, that my thoughts and actions will be directed by you, for your glory! Thank you for this new day!
Jeremiah 29:11-13 For I know the plans I have for you, "declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
It took me well over 50 years to surrender my will to the will of God. What took me so long, did I have brain damage? Was I too hard-headed, stubborn, prideful or just ignorant of God`s plans and desires for me. Yes, all of the above; I was held captive by the ways of the world and it`s strangle-hold on my soul, lacking knowledge and Godly wisdom.
But, I was a good person.... never the less, stumbling through life`s up and downs with no true direction! Ecclesiastes 10:15 A fool`s work wearies him; he does not know the way to town. Hum, did I spend years merely lost in the wilderness? Did God send just the right people at just the right time to touch my withering soul, He sure did! Thank you, God!
This weekend, as I once again serve on the Emmaus team, I will humbly share parts of my life`s testimony, in the Fourth Day talk. A talk to encourage and empower these women to walk in the light and the truth of Jesus Christ for the rest of their lives. I pray that by willingly opening my heart and soul, my story will bring witness and glory to our awesome GOD.
Psalm 107:1-6 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the LORD say this---those he redeemed from the hand of the foe, those he gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south. Some wandered in desert wastelands, finding no way to a city where they could settle. They were hungry and thirsty, and their lives ebbed away. Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.
Signed, sealed and delivered, thank you, LORD. Amen!
Jeremiah 29:11-13 For I know the plans I have for you, "declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
It took me well over 50 years to surrender my will to the will of God. What took me so long, did I have brain damage? Was I too hard-headed, stubborn, prideful or just ignorant of God`s plans and desires for me. Yes, all of the above; I was held captive by the ways of the world and it`s strangle-hold on my soul, lacking knowledge and Godly wisdom.
But, I was a good person.... never the less, stumbling through life`s up and downs with no true direction! Ecclesiastes 10:15 A fool`s work wearies him; he does not know the way to town. Hum, did I spend years merely lost in the wilderness? Did God send just the right people at just the right time to touch my withering soul, He sure did! Thank you, God!
This weekend, as I once again serve on the Emmaus team, I will humbly share parts of my life`s testimony, in the Fourth Day talk. A talk to encourage and empower these women to walk in the light and the truth of Jesus Christ for the rest of their lives. I pray that by willingly opening my heart and soul, my story will bring witness and glory to our awesome GOD.
Psalm 107:1-6 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the LORD say this---those he redeemed from the hand of the foe, those he gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south. Some wandered in desert wastelands, finding no way to a city where they could settle. They were hungry and thirsty, and their lives ebbed away. Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.
Signed, sealed and delivered, thank you, LORD. Amen!
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Empathy Day 317
Empathy, according to Webster, identification with or vicarious experiencing of the feeling or thought of others.
Yesterday at Ginger`s mom`s funeral, my feeling for this family was extreme pain and discomfort, in my heart and soul. Aside from the funerals of my own mother and father, this funeral was one of the most difficult that I have ever attended. The intensity of my suffering was beyond what I could have possibly imagined; I was overwhelmed! Was this a witness to Mary`s life and it`s effects on my life! Thank you, God
2 Corinthians 1:5-7 For just as the sufferings of Christ flows over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in comfort.
As family and friends gathered for this earthly farewell, the evidence of Mary`s faith in God and assurance of eternal life was visible; the presence of the Holy Spirit comforted all.
Tears gently flowed, as I saw Courtney and her family join the funeral service, carrying Mary`s newest great-grandchild, born one day after Mary`s death. The legacy of Mary`s life will live on in this precious great-grandchild and many off-spring for generations to come! I can imagine Mary`s smile at the sight of this new baby!
Thank you, God for the blessings and the life of Mary, mother of my BFF! Amen
Yesterday at Ginger`s mom`s funeral, my feeling for this family was extreme pain and discomfort, in my heart and soul. Aside from the funerals of my own mother and father, this funeral was one of the most difficult that I have ever attended. The intensity of my suffering was beyond what I could have possibly imagined; I was overwhelmed! Was this a witness to Mary`s life and it`s effects on my life! Thank you, God
2 Corinthians 1:5-7 For just as the sufferings of Christ flows over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in comfort.
As family and friends gathered for this earthly farewell, the evidence of Mary`s faith in God and assurance of eternal life was visible; the presence of the Holy Spirit comforted all.
Tears gently flowed, as I saw Courtney and her family join the funeral service, carrying Mary`s newest great-grandchild, born one day after Mary`s death. The legacy of Mary`s life will live on in this precious great-grandchild and many off-spring for generations to come! I can imagine Mary`s smile at the sight of this new baby!
Thank you, God for the blessings and the life of Mary, mother of my BFF! Amen
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Jesus, Jesus Day 316
Jesus, Jesus let me tell you how I feel, you have given me your spirit, I love you so!
Today, as I mentally prepared for Ginger`s moms funeral tomorrow, I was overwhelmed with extreme sadness and overpowering tears and grief. Perhaps attending three funerals, in just one week has taken a tremendous toll on my emotional output. Is this overload, what the Holy Spirit was preparing me for on Easter Sunday, when I felt His directions to pray?
Job 32:8 But it is the spirit in a man, the breath of the Almighty, that gives him understanding.
Today in church, as the worship team sang songs of praise and glory to God, the water works began to flow, actually it became more of a flood, maybe even a tsunami. As I held my hands high in the air, in honor of God, the words were hampered by uncontrollable tears, Thoughts of making an exit were replaced with Godly comfort and confidence that embraced my soul. Thank God ,I had plenty of tissues. I was touched by the Body of Christ as friends reached out with hugs and supportive prayers.
The celebrations of Mother`s Day added insult to injury. Memories of my own mother surfaced, only to be replaced, by pain and empathy that I felt for Ginger and her siblings. For me, the death of my mother was one of the most difficult times of my life. The dynamics of our family has forever changed; ushering me and siblings into the oldest generation. An unwelcomed position that required time to sink-in! These same feelings will surface, as I bid farewell to Ginger`s mom tomorrow, laying to rest decades of childhood memories and a generation of love and friendship.
I pray that I will be restored and refreshed so that I can offer love and support of the entire Foley family tomorrow. Tonight, as I was sitting in my favorite green chair praying to God, a movie came on TV. "The Passion of the Christ," really God, more tears, but a feeling of love and renewal and the ability to write this message! Thank you, God.
More prayers and a good night`s sleep will work wonders, thank you in advance, Father God! Amen.
Psalm 18:32-33 It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights.
Today, as I mentally prepared for Ginger`s moms funeral tomorrow, I was overwhelmed with extreme sadness and overpowering tears and grief. Perhaps attending three funerals, in just one week has taken a tremendous toll on my emotional output. Is this overload, what the Holy Spirit was preparing me for on Easter Sunday, when I felt His directions to pray?
Job 32:8 But it is the spirit in a man, the breath of the Almighty, that gives him understanding.
Today in church, as the worship team sang songs of praise and glory to God, the water works began to flow, actually it became more of a flood, maybe even a tsunami. As I held my hands high in the air, in honor of God, the words were hampered by uncontrollable tears, Thoughts of making an exit were replaced with Godly comfort and confidence that embraced my soul. Thank God ,I had plenty of tissues. I was touched by the Body of Christ as friends reached out with hugs and supportive prayers.
The celebrations of Mother`s Day added insult to injury. Memories of my own mother surfaced, only to be replaced, by pain and empathy that I felt for Ginger and her siblings. For me, the death of my mother was one of the most difficult times of my life. The dynamics of our family has forever changed; ushering me and siblings into the oldest generation. An unwelcomed position that required time to sink-in! These same feelings will surface, as I bid farewell to Ginger`s mom tomorrow, laying to rest decades of childhood memories and a generation of love and friendship.
I pray that I will be restored and refreshed so that I can offer love and support of the entire Foley family tomorrow. Tonight, as I was sitting in my favorite green chair praying to God, a movie came on TV. "The Passion of the Christ," really God, more tears, but a feeling of love and renewal and the ability to write this message! Thank you, God.
More prayers and a good night`s sleep will work wonders, thank you in advance, Father God! Amen.
Psalm 18:32-33 It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Ginger`s Mom Day 315
Isaiah 33:2 O LORD, be gracious to us; we long for you. Be our strength every morning, our salvation in time of darkness.
The family was making plans to bring their mother from from the rehab center, when a unexpected high fever sent them back to the hospital, instead. The time that they would have with their 83 year old mother had reduced from months, to just hours. Six siblings and scores of grandchildren gathered at the bedside to bid farewell to their mother and grandma.
Isaiah 55:8-9 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thought than your thoughts."
Fifty years ago, Mary and John Foley moved their young family of six children, yes they were a good Catholic family, from Long Island, New York, to Cecil County, Maryland. I admired the strength and courage it must have taken to leave friend and family to make the bold move. This young city couple bought a farm, an incredible investment that would provide income for decades to come.
What a blessing, our family of five children would now have neighbors just up the road with six kids. Mariann, Jackie, Ginger, Richard, Billy and Donald, a new city slicker friend for each of us and one to spare. Our families soon formed bonds of love and friendship that would last a lifetime.
While Mary was pregnant with their seventh child, the unthinkable happened, 42 year John suffered a fatal heart attack and died in the bedroom of their farm home. The father-less family returned to New York to lay John to rest. I was fearful that I would never see my new best-friend Ginger again. However, Mary brought her family back to Maryland. The farm, a savvy purchase that would allow John to provide for his family, even in his absence! Thank you, God.
Mary and my mom were like sisters, our family's supported and loved one another through life and premature death of brothers, Robin and Billy. Billy died in his early forties, from a fatal heart attack, just like his father! What a true blessing from God, two country families sharing life one day at a time for over 5 decades, and beyond! Thank you, Father God!
John 15:12-13 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
Monday morning at 8:30am Rick and I will join family and friends to bid farewell to one of the most incredible,loving and caring Mothers that I have even know. A mother of great faith, compassion and love that kept her family of seven children together on the farm! There was always room and love in Mary`s heart and home for one more; their house was a second home to me.
Eventhough Mary, married and buried two husbands after her beloved John, to me she was always Mary Foley, the mother of my "Best Friend Forever, " Ginger!
Genesis 45:10-11 You shall live in the region of Goshen and be near me---you, your children and grandchildren, your flocks and herds and all you have. I will provide for you there....................
As I finish writing this, the song "I Can Only Imagine," is playing on the radio! What impeccable timing! Thank you God, yes I can type through tears.... I pray that the siblings and their significant others, of Mary and John Foley will live in love, peace and unity with one another! Never losing sight of the family over stuff and money! God Bless the entire FOLEY FAMILY, AMEN!
The family was making plans to bring their mother from from the rehab center, when a unexpected high fever sent them back to the hospital, instead. The time that they would have with their 83 year old mother had reduced from months, to just hours. Six siblings and scores of grandchildren gathered at the bedside to bid farewell to their mother and grandma.
Isaiah 55:8-9 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thought than your thoughts."
Fifty years ago, Mary and John Foley moved their young family of six children, yes they were a good Catholic family, from Long Island, New York, to Cecil County, Maryland. I admired the strength and courage it must have taken to leave friend and family to make the bold move. This young city couple bought a farm, an incredible investment that would provide income for decades to come.
What a blessing, our family of five children would now have neighbors just up the road with six kids. Mariann, Jackie, Ginger, Richard, Billy and Donald, a new city slicker friend for each of us and one to spare. Our families soon formed bonds of love and friendship that would last a lifetime.
While Mary was pregnant with their seventh child, the unthinkable happened, 42 year John suffered a fatal heart attack and died in the bedroom of their farm home. The father-less family returned to New York to lay John to rest. I was fearful that I would never see my new best-friend Ginger again. However, Mary brought her family back to Maryland. The farm, a savvy purchase that would allow John to provide for his family, even in his absence! Thank you, God.
Mary and my mom were like sisters, our family's supported and loved one another through life and premature death of brothers, Robin and Billy. Billy died in his early forties, from a fatal heart attack, just like his father! What a true blessing from God, two country families sharing life one day at a time for over 5 decades, and beyond! Thank you, Father God!
John 15:12-13 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
Monday morning at 8:30am Rick and I will join family and friends to bid farewell to one of the most incredible,loving and caring Mothers that I have even know. A mother of great faith, compassion and love that kept her family of seven children together on the farm! There was always room and love in Mary`s heart and home for one more; their house was a second home to me.
Eventhough Mary, married and buried two husbands after her beloved John, to me she was always Mary Foley, the mother of my "Best Friend Forever, " Ginger!
Genesis 45:10-11 You shall live in the region of Goshen and be near me---you, your children and grandchildren, your flocks and herds and all you have. I will provide for you there....................
As I finish writing this, the song "I Can Only Imagine," is playing on the radio! What impeccable timing! Thank you God, yes I can type through tears.... I pray that the siblings and their significant others, of Mary and John Foley will live in love, peace and unity with one another! Never losing sight of the family over stuff and money! God Bless the entire FOLEY FAMILY, AMEN!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
New Carpet Day 314
Ezekiel 36:25-26 I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.
For the past 3 days Rick and I have worked diligently to empty 2 bedrooms, in preparation for new carpet that will soon be installed. Years of wear and traffic patterns surfaced as we emptied the rooms. This once pristine carpet has seen it`s better days, time to be discarded and replaced.
Unlike this carpets, when we are worn out and show signs of life`s traffic patterns, we are not torn-up and trashed. As I have shared, many of my personal journeys through out the last year, this is when Jesus does His best work in us! We don`t even have to write him a huge check, like the carpet guys! He does it for free, just because He loves us!
Zephaniah 3:17 The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
That sounds like a plan to me, God will not throw me in the trash, he will work around the worn spots and quiet me with his love. No matter how deep the stains of life have scarred my soul, he loves me just the way I am, he`s singing over me! Can`t get better than that! Thank you, Father!
Isaiah 1:18-19 "Come now, let us reason together," says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best from the land.
Are you willing, to be renewed from the inside out, by your heavenly Father? NO CHARGE, SATISFACTION GUARANTEED......................Amen
For the past 3 days Rick and I have worked diligently to empty 2 bedrooms, in preparation for new carpet that will soon be installed. Years of wear and traffic patterns surfaced as we emptied the rooms. This once pristine carpet has seen it`s better days, time to be discarded and replaced.
Unlike this carpets, when we are worn out and show signs of life`s traffic patterns, we are not torn-up and trashed. As I have shared, many of my personal journeys through out the last year, this is when Jesus does His best work in us! We don`t even have to write him a huge check, like the carpet guys! He does it for free, just because He loves us!
Zephaniah 3:17 The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
That sounds like a plan to me, God will not throw me in the trash, he will work around the worn spots and quiet me with his love. No matter how deep the stains of life have scarred my soul, he loves me just the way I am, he`s singing over me! Can`t get better than that! Thank you, Father!
Isaiah 1:18-19 "Come now, let us reason together," says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best from the land.
Are you willing, to be renewed from the inside out, by your heavenly Father? NO CHARGE, SATISFACTION GUARANTEED......................Amen
Monday, May 2, 2011
Viewing and Funeral Day 313
Psalm 6:7 My eyes grow weak with sorrow; they fail because of all my foes
Saturday evening we attended the viewing for Marshell, hundreds of people waited on hometown streets to offer love and condolences to her family. A life of only thirty nine years prematurely ended, at the hands of an irate husband; what gave this man the right!
For hours and hours, the family stood faithfully, in front of the open coffin that held their precious daughter, sister, and mother, as mourners filed slowly by. Words can not express the grief and pain that I felt for Claire and her family. Total strangers soon shared embraces of disbelief and sorrow.
Sunday afternoon, the family and hundreds of friends gathered for their final farewell. Messages and songs of love filled the room, pouring out love and the peace of God; the presence of Jesus Christ penetrated the hearts and soul of all.
Marshell was buried in a grave at the foot of her pop-pop`s, Marshall (Smoke) Poore`s grave. As God so often does He made this possible. Like many, who are not prepared in advance for their own death, Marshell did not have insurance for burial nor own a burial plot.
Approximated 5 years on a visit to her father`s grave, by chance, Claire met a man at the cemetery. He said that he owned several graves adjoining her father`s grave. He gave her his card and said that if she ever needed a grave to get in touch. Fortunately, Claire stashed the card and knew exactly where to retrieve it, in her time of need. Claire made arrangements and met this gentleman at the cemetery. Learning of Claire`s situation, this total stranger, sold Claire six burial sites for one dollar! Thank you, God!
What a welcomed blessing in a time of grief and despair, there are angels among us!
Psalm 24:5 He will receive blessing from the Lord and vindication from God his Savior.
Please keep Claire and her family in your prayers, how many lives will end prematurely because of domestic violence? By removing God from our society, have we created a God-less, broken generation that has little or no regard for human life. God must shake His head in disbelief.....God will prevail, He is the same yesterday, today, tomorrow and forever! AMEN.
Saturday evening we attended the viewing for Marshell, hundreds of people waited on hometown streets to offer love and condolences to her family. A life of only thirty nine years prematurely ended, at the hands of an irate husband; what gave this man the right!
For hours and hours, the family stood faithfully, in front of the open coffin that held their precious daughter, sister, and mother, as mourners filed slowly by. Words can not express the grief and pain that I felt for Claire and her family. Total strangers soon shared embraces of disbelief and sorrow.
Sunday afternoon, the family and hundreds of friends gathered for their final farewell. Messages and songs of love filled the room, pouring out love and the peace of God; the presence of Jesus Christ penetrated the hearts and soul of all.
Marshell was buried in a grave at the foot of her pop-pop`s, Marshall (Smoke) Poore`s grave. As God so often does He made this possible. Like many, who are not prepared in advance for their own death, Marshell did not have insurance for burial nor own a burial plot.
Approximated 5 years on a visit to her father`s grave, by chance, Claire met a man at the cemetery. He said that he owned several graves adjoining her father`s grave. He gave her his card and said that if she ever needed a grave to get in touch. Fortunately, Claire stashed the card and knew exactly where to retrieve it, in her time of need. Claire made arrangements and met this gentleman at the cemetery. Learning of Claire`s situation, this total stranger, sold Claire six burial sites for one dollar! Thank you, God!
What a welcomed blessing in a time of grief and despair, there are angels among us!
Psalm 24:5 He will receive blessing from the Lord and vindication from God his Savior.
Please keep Claire and her family in your prayers, how many lives will end prematurely because of domestic violence? By removing God from our society, have we created a God-less, broken generation that has little or no regard for human life. God must shake His head in disbelief.....God will prevail, He is the same yesterday, today, tomorrow and forever! AMEN.
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