Today is a big day for Ginger, it`s been 6 months since her stroke and today she will go back to work. Before her stroke she was and RN at Beebe Hospital in Lewes, DE. I`ve always been so proud of Ginger, after years as a wife, beautician, and mother of three young children she went back to school to get her nursing degree. I admired her courage and willingness to step out of her comfort zone to advance her education and earning potential.
I wonder if she was still a beautician if her health issues and stress levels might have been different? I am so easily side tracked. Ginger pushed herself relentlessly working ridicules hours to provide for her family. As a friend I knew that her health was in jeopardy.
Last night as we talked, she expressed that she was extremely anxious about tomorrow. I prayed that she would get a good nights rest and all anxiety would be replaced with God`s peace and loving mercy
Early this morning I prayed again for my wonderful friend, I`m sure this day will be a day of accessment and evaluation of Ginger`s abilities. She began today knowing that patient care was out of the question, but just where would she fit in! Paper work, charts, filing, maybe, maybe not.
It is my prayer that whomever she works today with will be kind, patient, considerate and non-judgemental. She`s come a long way in 6 months!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
All praise and glory to God the Father for her healing and recovery thus far.
Psalm 103:1-5 Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefit-who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desire with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle`s.
Fly like an eagle, what do you think Gin? I love you!!!!!!!!!!!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
HONOR THE GIFT Day 181
It`s not even 10am and I`ve already done some mighty powerful praying. After our wonderful experience on Sunday at Dover Downs, Lori and I made a commitment to meet early AM and start a our day together in prayer.
Romans 8:26-27 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit interceded for the saints in accordance with God`s will.
Praying your way into a new day, holding onto the hands of a friend is such a GIFT from God. Although, lacking human touch, early morning phone connection prayers, also get the job done. I encourage you to connect to that special friend!
At 7:30 am as Lori exited to begin her work day, I remained in prayer working my way down the somewhat lengthy page of names and scribbled notes on my prayer list. Lovingly and compassionately I focused on each face as I lifted friends, family and concerns to my Heavenly Father. I thank God for the GIFT of intercession!
I made my way to the computer believing that I had already experienced the joy of today`s blog. Guess what? God redirected my actions. Checking email, I learned that my friend Gina`s sister-in-law, Melissa only one day after her 36th birthday, was called Home to Jesus earlier this very morning.
Melissa was diagnosed with cancer just a year ago. Friends and church family have reached out to Gina in comfort and support during this year. This brings to mind a special time that Gina and I shared on a bridge in Maine this summer while on a mission trip. Oh," No He`ll Never Let Go," I love you Gina! I thank God for the GIFT of friendship.
I learned early in life the valuable benefits of reaching out in love and support to friends in need. As I knocked at Gina`s front door, I was prepared to listen, love and pray. Thank you, God for the GIFT of valuable life-lessons and the willingness to share.
Honor the Gifts.
Matthew 7:24-26 Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.
Thank you, Father for the Rock, Amen!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Romans 8:26-27 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit interceded for the saints in accordance with God`s will.
Praying your way into a new day, holding onto the hands of a friend is such a GIFT from God. Although, lacking human touch, early morning phone connection prayers, also get the job done. I encourage you to connect to that special friend!
At 7:30 am as Lori exited to begin her work day, I remained in prayer working my way down the somewhat lengthy page of names and scribbled notes on my prayer list. Lovingly and compassionately I focused on each face as I lifted friends, family and concerns to my Heavenly Father. I thank God for the GIFT of intercession!
I made my way to the computer believing that I had already experienced the joy of today`s blog. Guess what? God redirected my actions. Checking email, I learned that my friend Gina`s sister-in-law, Melissa only one day after her 36th birthday, was called Home to Jesus earlier this very morning.
Melissa was diagnosed with cancer just a year ago. Friends and church family have reached out to Gina in comfort and support during this year. This brings to mind a special time that Gina and I shared on a bridge in Maine this summer while on a mission trip. Oh," No He`ll Never Let Go," I love you Gina! I thank God for the GIFT of friendship.
I learned early in life the valuable benefits of reaching out in love and support to friends in need. As I knocked at Gina`s front door, I was prepared to listen, love and pray. Thank you, God for the GIFT of valuable life-lessons and the willingness to share.
Honor the Gifts.
Matthew 7:24-26 Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.
Thank you, Father for the Rock, Amen!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Directions to Heaven`s Gate Day180
Saturday while at Kent Island United Methodist, I took the opportunity to inquire about their monthly Healing Ministry Service. I have felt something, somehow, someway, I guess lead by God, to a passion for this ministry. I know that they have a Healing Service the 4th Sunday of every month, but to date I just haven`t made it.
I spoke to a sweet little lady that seemed to be the one person welcoming crew. She assured me that it was indeed a wonderful ministry and it has brought enormous peace and healing to many though out the year. Her face lite up in pure delight as she gladly shared the success of this ministry.
I could feel the excitement and joy rushing through my veins. Five years ago, if someone had mentioned a healing ministry to me I probably would have yawned and said oh, that`s nice! I sure am glad that God slapped the moths out of my heart and brains! I like the way that I think now, thank you, God.
I assured this pleasant lady, I think her name was Joan, but I wouldn`t bet the ranch on that, that I would look for her when I come to visit their healing service.
As I sat waiting for the seminar to begin, Betty found me and handed me a flyer and invited me to attend an overnight Healing Retreat weekend. Really, was I in the right place at the right time, or what. Of course ,I know that`s no co-inky-dink, I know who`s in control.
Sure enough this Friday night at 6:00 pm I will graciously join the ladies from this amazing ministry at Heaven`s Gate, 7316 Solitude Road, St. Michael`s, MD. With an address like this, I told my husband that if I don`t return home he`ll know where to find me. I`ll meet him at the Gate!
Joel 2:28 " And it shall come to pass afterward, That I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your old men shall dream dreams, Your young men shall see visions.
Do you think heaven is right here in Maryland?
I spoke to a sweet little lady that seemed to be the one person welcoming crew. She assured me that it was indeed a wonderful ministry and it has brought enormous peace and healing to many though out the year. Her face lite up in pure delight as she gladly shared the success of this ministry.
I could feel the excitement and joy rushing through my veins. Five years ago, if someone had mentioned a healing ministry to me I probably would have yawned and said oh, that`s nice! I sure am glad that God slapped the moths out of my heart and brains! I like the way that I think now, thank you, God.
I assured this pleasant lady, I think her name was Joan, but I wouldn`t bet the ranch on that, that I would look for her when I come to visit their healing service.
As I sat waiting for the seminar to begin, Betty found me and handed me a flyer and invited me to attend an overnight Healing Retreat weekend. Really, was I in the right place at the right time, or what. Of course ,I know that`s no co-inky-dink, I know who`s in control.
Sure enough this Friday night at 6:00 pm I will graciously join the ladies from this amazing ministry at Heaven`s Gate, 7316 Solitude Road, St. Michael`s, MD. With an address like this, I told my husband that if I don`t return home he`ll know where to find me. I`ll meet him at the Gate!
Joel 2:28 " And it shall come to pass afterward, That I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your old men shall dream dreams, Your young men shall see visions.
Do you think heaven is right here in Maryland?
Friendship Day 179
Has God ever put in smack- dab in the middle of something and you have absolutely no clue why you`re there? Several years ago God lead me into a friendship that prompted thoughts ,why me God, are you sure God, and what I`m to do God?
Was God testing my faithfulness and obedience; was He using this as a time of teaching and nurturing for my spiritually growth? Sure seems that way to me! I fastened my seat belt, pulled it tight and prepared my heart for this incredible journey.
As evangelist Steve Wingfield writes in his book, The Friendship Book, friendship is not something that must be contrived. We were created by God to be friends. As surely as we are born with the natural tendency to rebel against God, we are also born with a desire to have a relationship with him. We are incomplete spiritually unless we are reconciled to our creator. The divine friendship factor affects all of our earthly relationship.
Thank you, Mr Wingfield I believe I understand! God`s uses our one of a kind personalities and gifts to love and reach out to others. Opening the doors of our hearts and minds to share life lessons and hardships that we have endured. This may require us to remove cob webs from our past, exposing us to buried hurts and pains; knowing that God is in control and we are not!
God wants us to freely relate to and LOVE one another, while doing so drawing closer to Him. Does enduring pain and suffering in the midst of friendship draws us closer to the likeness of our savior, Jesus Christ? If we desire to please God He will faithfully, consistently and lovingly direct direct our steps.
Over the past several years I have prayed with and for this very special God-given friend many, many times; I with faithfully and loving continue to do so! Thank you, God for blessing me with this love and friendship!!!!!!!!!!!!
Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
Was God testing my faithfulness and obedience; was He using this as a time of teaching and nurturing for my spiritually growth? Sure seems that way to me! I fastened my seat belt, pulled it tight and prepared my heart for this incredible journey.
As evangelist Steve Wingfield writes in his book, The Friendship Book, friendship is not something that must be contrived. We were created by God to be friends. As surely as we are born with the natural tendency to rebel against God, we are also born with a desire to have a relationship with him. We are incomplete spiritually unless we are reconciled to our creator. The divine friendship factor affects all of our earthly relationship.
Thank you, Mr Wingfield I believe I understand! God`s uses our one of a kind personalities and gifts to love and reach out to others. Opening the doors of our hearts and minds to share life lessons and hardships that we have endured. This may require us to remove cob webs from our past, exposing us to buried hurts and pains; knowing that God is in control and we are not!
God wants us to freely relate to and LOVE one another, while doing so drawing closer to Him. Does enduring pain and suffering in the midst of friendship draws us closer to the likeness of our savior, Jesus Christ? If we desire to please God He will faithfully, consistently and lovingly direct direct our steps.
Over the past several years I have prayed with and for this very special God-given friend many, many times; I with faithfully and loving continue to do so! Thank you, God for blessing me with this love and friendship!!!!!!!!!!!!
Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Shirts, Tucked In Day 178
As a group of middle-age women, one of our most difficult task, as volunteers was to tuck in the shirts that the raceway provided. Most of us stopped tucking shirts in, many pounds and many years ago! But together in love, support and suck um up undies we`re painfully following instruction.
Race Day is big news in Dover, wide-eyed and in amazement, first timers to race day, took in the frenzied excitement of this huge event. We were assigned to work in the hospitality tent that hosted 1600 members of The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. That`s a lot of people under one gigantic tent, with long serving tables on both side of the tent, we are to work the serving buffet that will satisfy these hungry appetites.
We were greeted by Brenda our supervisor,(with her shirt tucked in),eagerly we listened for instruction; she shared that she too was a little anxious about all her assignment. Lead by the Holy Spirit we offered to pray for her, circle-up ladies!
Together in the spirit of Jesus we fulfilled our duty as His hands and feet. The loud upbeat music brought smiles of joy and whimsical dance step to our souls, joyfully we preformed our serving task. The people that patiently waited in long lines for service where greeted by caring smiling servants!
As the day come to a close, with sore feet and backs we continued working until our assignment was completed. Brenda called me aside; she introduced me to Cathy Hedrick, Corporate Relations Specialist, for the group that we were hosting. It is the habit of the her organization to make an in-kind donation to one of volunteer groups that have volunteered their services, however this years they had chosen to make two such donations.
In amazement, Brenda informed me that our group was chosen to receive this addition donation for our services; with Holy Spirit goose bump I humbly acknowledged this additional gift.
Proverbs 16:15 When a king`s face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.
As we walk in the favor of our Mighty God what an awesome place to be! Thank you, God! Amen
Reflections Week 25
Week 25, that`s real close to half of the year. Who would have ever thought that this project would survive, I`ve certainly had my doubts. It`s obvious that God is in total control of my blog adventure.
Exactly what will become of this project is not totally clear, but I will faithfully follow Him, and not worry!
What a busy week, Rick`s knee surgery, Eloise`s funeral, Evangelism Seminar, Robbie`s wedding; I have a burning desire to witness and share. Thank you, God!
Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in a man`s heart, but it is the LORD`S purpose that prevails.
Exactly what will become of this project is not totally clear, but I will faithfully follow Him, and not worry!
What a busy week, Rick`s knee surgery, Eloise`s funeral, Evangelism Seminar, Robbie`s wedding; I have a burning desire to witness and share. Thank you, God!
Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in a man`s heart, but it is the LORD`S purpose that prevails.
Non-Stop Day 177
Have you ever have one of those days when you go nonstop from sun up to sun down; that sums up my Saturday, September 25th. I left the driveway at 7:30am to attended an Evangelistic Seminar at Kent Island United Methodist Church an hour drive from home.
The seminar was just where I needed to be, speakers Dr. Robert Coleman and Evangelist Steve Wingfield, at times seemed to be speaking only to me and not the other 100 or so people in the sanctuary.
As I listen and took notes, both speakers affirmed that I am on tract. I guess that I struggle with lack of self- confidence, I am in constant need of affirmation to continue this walk of the evangelist that is erupting from deep inside. God knows the plans that He has for me; why do I question?
Unfortunately, I had to leave the seminar mid-day to continue my busy Saturday. I left with feelings of confidence and assurance that the way I think, the way I act and the way that I yearn to live my life, is in line with God`s plans and purpose for my existence.
Home to pick up Rick and off to Bethany Beach to attended Ginger`s son, Robbie`s beach front wedding. Yes this is the same BFF Ginger, that I dearly love and mention often, as she recovers from her stroke that she suffered from in March.
Robbie, yes I still call this 30 some year old man Robbie; and I share a special God-given bond. We are and always will be in recovery from our addictions. Just 3 short years ago Robbie was held in bondage deep in the pains of his addiction.
By the grace of God I was able to share and encourage Robbie to diligently search and seek a life of sobriety. I thank God for my small part in Robbie`s accomplishments. I thank God for his wife Roxanna, that he met in recovery, I pray that together they will both continue a life of sobriety and a willingness to pay it forward!
The wedding was picture perfect, however I did face one unexpected difficulty. Ginger looked radiant, as she visited each table, welcoming each and every guest with warm loving kiss. She said, "this is what I`m supposed to do".
We sat at a table with 2 couples that where friends of Roxanna`s family; as Ginger graciously welcomed and offer kisses I witnessed looks of surprise and reluctant acceptance of Ginger kissy welcome.
As Ginger continued on her quest, I over heard my table mates say to one another, I wonder what she has in her drink(at this dry reception). I gracefully defended my wonderful friend .
As a society we are so quick to past judgement on one another. I thank God that He put me in just the right spot at just the right time to defend and protect my Best Friend Forever, Ginger!!!!!!!!!!!!
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.
Amen, I love you Ginger.
The seminar was just where I needed to be, speakers Dr. Robert Coleman and Evangelist Steve Wingfield, at times seemed to be speaking only to me and not the other 100 or so people in the sanctuary.
As I listen and took notes, both speakers affirmed that I am on tract. I guess that I struggle with lack of self- confidence, I am in constant need of affirmation to continue this walk of the evangelist that is erupting from deep inside. God knows the plans that He has for me; why do I question?
Unfortunately, I had to leave the seminar mid-day to continue my busy Saturday. I left with feelings of confidence and assurance that the way I think, the way I act and the way that I yearn to live my life, is in line with God`s plans and purpose for my existence.
Home to pick up Rick and off to Bethany Beach to attended Ginger`s son, Robbie`s beach front wedding. Yes this is the same BFF Ginger, that I dearly love and mention often, as she recovers from her stroke that she suffered from in March.
Robbie, yes I still call this 30 some year old man Robbie; and I share a special God-given bond. We are and always will be in recovery from our addictions. Just 3 short years ago Robbie was held in bondage deep in the pains of his addiction.
By the grace of God I was able to share and encourage Robbie to diligently search and seek a life of sobriety. I thank God for my small part in Robbie`s accomplishments. I thank God for his wife Roxanna, that he met in recovery, I pray that together they will both continue a life of sobriety and a willingness to pay it forward!
The wedding was picture perfect, however I did face one unexpected difficulty. Ginger looked radiant, as she visited each table, welcoming each and every guest with warm loving kiss. She said, "this is what I`m supposed to do".
We sat at a table with 2 couples that where friends of Roxanna`s family; as Ginger graciously welcomed and offer kisses I witnessed looks of surprise and reluctant acceptance of Ginger kissy welcome.
As Ginger continued on her quest, I over heard my table mates say to one another, I wonder what she has in her drink(at this dry reception). I gracefully defended my wonderful friend .
As a society we are so quick to past judgement on one another. I thank God that He put me in just the right spot at just the right time to defend and protect my Best Friend Forever, Ginger!!!!!!!!!!!!
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.
Amen, I love you Ginger.
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