Easter and "The Jesus Story"

For the last 3 Easter seasons, our family has been involved in our church's production of "The Jesus Story" - a play showing the ministry, death, burial and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Although the involvement has been primarily on the part of Dave and myself, this year Emily decided to take a part in the ministry too. 

I'm not a forefront person when it comes to these type of productions. I prefer to be in the background. So, my "position" has been in the area of backstage small props. Of course, it only seemed natural to have Emily join us as a part of that crew. Although very willing to help in small props, after the second performance of the play, Emily told me that next year she did not want to be backstage but out on  stage as a part of the crowd. I was in no way disappointed with her desire to go from backstage to on stage but I admit I was surprised.

Other than school programs, where the kids practice during school time, Emily has shown no desire to be a part of any program. Her last "formal" program was a Christmas program at our church, and although she enjoyed being in it, she told me she wouldn't be doing it again because there are just too many practices. I've learned with Emily not to push her. When it comes to sports, programs, activities, we've always been of the thinking to have the kids try it once  and then let them make the decision regarding the next time. So, yes, I was suprised at her declaration of wanting to be "in" the play next year.  And, yes, I did inform her that it would involve practices she would need to attend. 

As the following week of performances occurred, Emily continued to tell me of her plans for next year. Our last two performance were going to be the next Thursday and Good Friday. When I was cleaning up from our perfomance the Sunday prior, Emily came running to me all excited saying she was going to be in the play. Of course, I said "next year" because I've only heard her tell me this now a thousand times. She replied "no, Good Friday". I was like "what?" Well, Emily expressed her desire to a dear friend who knowing Emily saw how much she wanted to be a part of the crowd and was going to see about making it happen this year. What was supposed to be a possible Friday performance turned into Thursday and Friday performances and let me tell you Emily was over the moon. 

Of course, she asked me a million questions about details before that first performance but once she was in that make-up chair she was no longer thinking about me. 

Thankfully she had friends who were already in the play that could guide her throughout the scenes she was invloved in. I can't tell you how much my heart swelled when I caught my first glimpse of her from the sidestage. This is my girl! She is a part of a huge ministry telling the Good News of Jesus. There is nothing like that moment when a parent sees their child serving their Savior. 

Well, Emily loved being a part of the onstage crowd and is making plans for next year and just so you know she is "okay" with all the practices she will have to be a part of. 

It is so amazing to be a part of a ministry for the furthering of the Kingdom of God but it is even more amazing when your children desire to be a part of it too. Matthew did his part selling DVD's of one of this season's early performances. 

Of course, the biggest "thank you" goes to Emily's Aunt Debbie (my sister friend) who saw the desire and excitement of a young lady and did what she could to make her desire a reality! 

Our little girl has come so far and nothing makes it more special than seeing her want to walk the path that God has for her. 

This Easter season has meant so much with the growing of our kid's in their faith. Our prayer is that God will continue to touch their hearts and move them in the direction He desires for them. 

As always, thanks for stopping by! 

Garbage In, Garbage Out

This year has started a whole new way of living for me. 

As I've mentioned before, I've been exercising each morning with a group of sister-friends (they are more that just girlfriends). We have set and been praying and encouraging each other through our 30 days goals. Even more importantly we've started doing the online Bible study "Made to Crave" offered through Proverbs 31 Ministries. 

You see I'm working on improving the health and well being of my physical body but more importantly I need to and am focusing on the health of my spiritual life. As a Christian, I know that my body, my life are not my own. 

You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. I Corinthians 6:19b -20 (NLT)

God paid the ultimate price, the death of His beloved Son, so that I may be made clean through the shedding of His blood. It is my desire, to bring honor and glory to God by being used for His will in the plan He has for my life.

The reality (not excuse) is that I'm still a sinner and each day I struggle with the temptations of this world but the more time I spend in God's Word and in prayer I realize that I can be MORE through the power He has bestowed on me through His Son. In the learning of how to be MORE, the Holy Spirit has been convicting me on certain areas of my life that need to be changed.

Most of us are familiar with the saying "garbage in, garbage out." To me, it means that if something of inferior quality is put into something, the result will be a product of inferior quality. Well this applies  to every area of my life. If I eat donuts all day, the result will be a growing waistline. If I fill my mind with questionable information, then my mind will be filled with questionable information. Whatever we take in - body, mind, spirit - will ultimately be reflected on the outside through our words and actions.

The first part of the verse mentioned previously says this:

Don't you realize that you body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God. I Corinthians 6:19a 

and again the last part of verse 20

So you must honor God with your body (NLT) 

Imagine if someone you greatly admired said they were coming to visit your home. I'm sure there would be a mad rush of activity to make your home and family "acceptable" for that person's arrival. How much more should our bodies/lives be acceptable for the Holy Spirit to abide in us. 

So, this brings me to a big change I've made. You may not seem it as big but I do. 

Since,  I was very young I've had the kind of imagination that can create story lines. I remember being in my room, drawing a house plan on a piece of paper and acting out a whole story in my head (hmmm, I guess we know where Emily inherited her imagination). Needless to say, I like watching television because lets face it is mini stories. But television has changed over the years and the most popular style of show now is reality TV and I'll be honest in telling you that  I've been sucked into watching these too. I could give you a list of what I've watched but that isn't really that important. Let's face it most of these shows thrive on showing us the train wrecks occurring in these people's lives via bad behavior, cursing, treating people badly, gossiping, etc. When I first started watching them, I felt okay about it I know what "not to do". However, toward the end of last year, I started to think about this a little more. Why do I want to watch a show that thrives on the chaos of someone else's life? What do I gain from that? Why do I want to watch people hurt each other intentionally? Why do I want to hear the language that comes from their mouths? Then, I applied it to my home. If someone came in the room would I turn the channel? Would I want my children to watch it with me? Would I want those people I love to act the way they are? My answer was "no". So, why was I filling my mind with it?

You see I'm a "real housewife" living in the state of New Jersey but I want to be known for the love and respect I have not only for others but my God. Sooner or later, filling my mind with this information would start showing up in my life and I don't want that. 

So, the first of the year I stopped watching reality TV. I'll be honest it hasn't been easy! It's like any other thing you try and give up, like chocolate, hard to do. There are times when I've turned on the TV, nothings on and as I surf the channels I see a marathon is playing but in the moment I ask God to give me the power to not give into the temptation. 

This is an area that I've personally had to change and each day I'm feeling convicted in other areas of my life. What I have to remember is that I need to keep the garbage out so that which is good can permeate and be seen through me via my actions and my words. Will I do everything right? Absolutely not! But I will measure those things I bring into my life to what God ask of me in His Word. 

And now, my dear brothers and sisters, one final things: Fix your thoughts on that is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable, Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.  Philippians 4:8 

You see I want to be able to have a heart filled with Him so that my life, my words, my actions will be pleasing to Him. 

As always, thanks for stopping by!

A Surprise Read

By now you either know from experience or just from reading my blog that I have a wonderful, creative, imaginative, funny son! 

Matt can be very predictable. He loves to be home and prefers not going anywhere (he is a true homebody), no matter how much homework he is given it is always "so hard" and seems to take forever, when it comes to topics that interest him he will impart his knowledge on you whether you want to hear it or not......oh and he loves his Xbox, DS and Kindle (for games of course). 

Last Friday when I went to pick up the kid's from school, I noticed that Matt's teacher had posted the classes persuasive essays on the wall outside their classroom. 

I have to say for a split second I experience a moment of panic. Oh, what is my boy going to try and persuade people of. The thoughts were whirling in my head: revolt against homework, play Xbox all day, never go to school. 

Imagine my surprise when I read the title "Church is Fun". Oh, did I fail to mention how much Matt loves God. Most of the time his love of God is heard in his prayers but this was in written form and the picture he drew was priceless.

According to Matthew, this is why "Church is Fun":

"I want you to come to my church. First, you'll learn about Jesus. You will learn how he died, suffered and how he paid the price for us to be free.

Second, there will be games in Sunday School. There are going to be races. There are snowball fights made out of paper and ball games. I hope you could come to my church."

When I read this, I was overwhelmed by how much our church has effected my son. He knows the real reason for going - Jesus - but as a kid he relates to the the fun part of church. You see not only does Matt attend Sunday School but also Upstreet which is our children's church. Upstreet is run by a wonderful man, Joe Hegedus, who has a heart for teaching our kids about Jesus. We are so very thankful for all he does to expose our kids to God and His love for them.

So, my panic was replaced with joy. God is in Matt's heart and mind and is someone he wants to share with others. This essay is a small glimpse of that fact.

Oh, if you would like, you are always welcome to come to our church. After all, "Church is Fun."

As always, thanks for stopping by!

5 a.m.! Are you Crazy?

If you know me personally or follow me on Facebook you know that I've become very regimented in the last 3+ months when it comes to going to the gym. Yes, I'm at the gym weekdays at 5 a.m.

You see I've gone through several workout cycles in the last 6 years. During that time, I've had gym memberships and utilized two excellent personal trainers! Sadly, I'm a bit of an extremist when it comes to meeting goals. Working out and a strict diet is an area where this extremist cycle once again reared its ugly head. When I wasn't able to attain a happy medium of working out, eating healthy and just living, I gave up thinking I couldn't make it work. 

It was just before my birthday last September that God blessed me with the inspiration of a good friend, who has become more of a sister in these last 5 months. Her name is Jen. She attends my church, is a mother of 4 young children (2 of which she is homeschooling), an amazing wife, tends to her parents and is a child of God! This is only a mere snippet of who she is, I could go on and on. Jen started on a weight loss journey last year first tackling the area of food and then exercise. Each week at church, I saw her shrinking in physical size but growing in, what I would say, peace and contentment. 

For many years, I've always wanted someone to work out with. Last August, just before my 46th birthday, Jen had started walking and working out in a local park with a group of people from our church. I can't tell you if I asked her or she offered for me to come along but needless to say on my birthday I  found myself walking my town's track early Sunday morning with one of the people from the workout group and planning to meet Jen and the other's the following day. This began our journey.

Now, in the summer the sun is up nice and early and due to work schedules a 5 a.m. workout session was the plan. Up until mid-October Jen and I were walking the park. As for the gym, I joined it first knowing that I didn't want to stop the workout I had become accustom to the last month. I remember the morning I told Jen I had joined the gym. I was afraid our time together was going to be over but no, the next day Jen told me she had gone ahead and joined the gym. We did have a few more walks in the park but as the temps changed we took our work out into Blink Fitness!

I can't tell how it happened but slowly we assembled a group of ladies joining us in our early workout regiment. These ladies are Angie, Jen, Kim, Adina, and just recently we've added Serina, Jenny and her mother Jen. Yes, that makes four Jennifer's but they are all unique and beautiful individuals. 

As we have been working out together these last few months, our personal relationships with each other have been growing. Our greatest common bond being our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We are daughter's of the King and sister's in Christ. We try to encourage and motivate each other to press on. 

Its funny though because our little group of "Blinkers" were becoming known. Okay, so I post every morning that I am at the gym. Why? To encourage others to work out too. But those post seemed to be creating conversations everywhere I was going. These conversations made me start thinking about our group and its purpose. I knew what we were about and how we were encouraging and helping each other beyond just the physical aspect of working out but as Christian's were we showing what our true purpose is?  Yes, we were growing together but in my heart I was feeling that God desired us to be MORE. 

This pricking from God to be MORE was solidified when our group was brought up in a devotional time on New Year's Eve. It was in a good way. We are at the gym at 5 a.m. and not every day are we jumping up with joy to get out of bed at that time to workout even though we know it is to our benefit. As Paul talks about "pressing on" in the Christian walk, even when all is against us, we are pressing on to get to the gym. During this devotional time, I was able to let others (church family) know how this group is so much more, how relationships are being developed and we are encouraging each other not only physically but spiritually. Although I have to say, I was a little "caught in the headlights" when we were brought up in this devotional, I thank that person because I think God was using him to say, "be MORE!!"

As God was working on me, He was working on Jen too, who was away visiting family for two very longs weeks (we really missed her). It may have been the first day she was back with us, that she asked me as we were on the treadmills alone. "what do you think of us as a group doing an online Bible study together?" I was all for it, this is what God had for us to be MORE, and so when the others joined us we proposed it and it it was a unanimous "yes". 

This week we started the "Made to Crave" Bible study being offered through Proverbs 31 Ministries. Before this started though, we set 30 day goals that we can encourage and pray each other through. 

The reason I am writing all of this is to tell you how blessed I am that God put Jen and each one of these wonderful sisters in my life. You see with their help and encouragement, God is helping me to grow closer to Him and be used in the way He desires. These relationships are open, honest and transparent and I praise God for that too. We are growing daily, praying each other through the  circumstances we face. Through these ladies, God is showing me what His family is like and I am so grateful and blessed.

So, although getting up to be at the gym isn't always fun, I know when I get there my sisters are waiting for me and that right beside us is our Father God. 

As always, thanks for stopping by!

Home ..... Family ..... Need I Say More

On a recent trip with my friend Debbie to our favorite store, Hobby Lobby, I found and had to purchase this "plaque". It says, "Family ties are precious threads, no matter where we roam, they draw us close to those we love and pull our hearts toward home."

This is my desire for my children when it comes to our family/home. That when they are older and have families of their own their hearts will always have a special place for the home we provided. 

According to Webster's dictionary, home as a noun is defined as 1) the place where a person lives 2) a family living together in one building, house, etc. 3) a place where something normally or naturally lives or is located. When you look at this definition, it seems a little cold. Home is just a place where someone lives BUT home is so much more. Home should be a warm and inviting place. A place where you can be yourself and be loved unconditionally. A safe haven. 

I have to say that in the last year, my goal has been and still is to change the atmosphere of our home. For it not just to be the place where we live, but the place where we come to be loved, encouraged and accepted. 

I love our house. It is not overly big, it is just right for our family of 4 (okay, 5 counting Mr. Jingle). Dave has always given me free reign when it comes to decorating and being a bit on the OCD side our home has order (yes, I am one of those everything has a place kind of people). Our home is a building that provides specific human needs for our family - shelter, warmth, protection, etc. But what about the emotional needs of our family? Shouldn't our home definitely provide for those needs?! 

My idea of home changed dramatically after I read an article written with regard to how "home" is regarded by a child with special needs after a day of controlling themselves in the classroom. In the article, it spoke of how this child is expected to withhold and control the tendencies they naturally experience throughout their day. They hold themselves in check making sure what they are doing is "acceptable". When they come home, they need to come to a place that allows for them to be themselves. No longer needing to be "on guard". Whether it be in the form of a period of quiet time or busyness, they need time to decompress from that constant need of staying in check. When I read this what came to my mind is a safe haven.
Our families need to have a place to come and decompress after a day of being out in the world - kids from school and activities and adults alike from the workplace and other responsibilities. We all need a soft place to fall. Now, don't get me wrong this doesn't allow for family members especially children to become disrespectful and run rough shod over everyone in the home. The boundary of respect is a must but there should be that ease of being able to come home and just be quiet, maybe spill your guts, check out for a few moments, whatever it may be....time to regroup and know that that is okay.
My desire is for my husband and kids to know that when they are home they are loved and accepted for who they are at all times. Yes, behavior, especially with the kids, will dictate the peacefulness of the home but they will know they are always loved!
Bearing in mind this idea of our home being a safe haven, one of my goals going forward is to react less and listen more. As it says in James 1:19 "You must be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry." (NLT)  I tend to be quick to speak and when a certain tone is used quick to get a tone (angry) myself. My desire is to really listen to what I am being told, setting aside tones, to truly be able to help and encourage the one I am speaking with. Now, please understand that if it is one of my children their tone will be addressed but only after we've address the heart of situation at hand. Another verse I want to keep in mind is Proverbs 19:24 "Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." (NLT)  How many times I myself have been hurt by words spoken to me. I pray that the words I use with my family will be ones that uplift, encourage and contribute to their well being.
A home can be just a building but I pray that never be the case for my home. I pray that it is always a safe haven for my husband, children and anyone who enters through its doors!
As always thanks for stopping by! 

Just a Little More Time

I think we can all agree that we wish we had more time in each day. I know I have thought this a great many times and that is only this past week. 

What would I use more time for? Well, do you want the short list, or the long list? Okay, a few things I could do with more time: read the books I keep buying, blog everyday instead of sporatically, study God's Word more, cook better meals for my family, bake for family and friends (I don't want all those sweets in my house), send out written notes & cards, craft, play games with my kids, work on 2000 piece puzzles (great childhood memory), spend more time with friends, ...... You get the idea! MORE, I would do more!

However, what I've come to realize is there will never be more time in a day. Even when we gain the one hour for daylight savings, it still doesn't add "more time". This realization brings me to a much more important realization and that is I need to be a good steward of the time I do have in each day.

I'll admit I'm guilty of being a time waster. I can get distracted from what I have planned and then the next thing I know the day is half over and its time to get the kids from school which starts phase two of my "normal" daily routine. The sad thing is that the distractions are not things on my list of what I would want more time for, they are mindless distractions, ones without real benefit. So, my request for more time seems to be a little foolish when I'm not even using the time God has already granted me appropriately. These "mindless distractions" are definitely an area I have to work on and put before the Lord to draw upon His strength to keep me from these time wasters. 

Also, I know that "my time" isn't truly my time. My purpose in this world, in my family, in my church is for God to be seen and glorified. Yes, from the cleaning of my floors to the reading of His Word all my moments in life are to show His love, His mercy and His grace.

You see here in is where the real dilemma lies and where change needs to occur. I can make a plan for my day but I have to know and realize that what I plan may not be the plan God has for me in that same day. Also, instead of making a plan by myself, my plan has to be made with God, opening my heart for His divine appointments. 

Yesterday was one of those days where "my plans" got interrupted but God used it to show me a lesson. As most of you know, I go to the gym at 5 a.m. to get in my morning workout. Well, yesterday was like any other morning until I reached my car to go to the gym. I have a remote starter so I had the car warming up which of course keeps the doors locked until I get to the car. I noticed that instead of the headlamps being their normal brightness that they were dimmed and thought that was strange. However, I had the car serviced the day before and determined maybe they had changed the setting. Then as I sat in the car, I noticed on the passenger seat a Christmas card I had received out of its envelope, a gum packet, a wrapper, a store card for a key fob......my heart dropped, I opened the storage unit between the front seats and sure enough the GPS was gone. Yes, someone had entered my car and took what they felt they needed. UGH!!! Robbed! but I knew I was partially to blame. I had apparently left the car unlocked making it accessible to this person. I walked back into the house to tell Dave who in turn told me to just go to the gym and we would deal with it when I got back. Thankfully I took his nudge, went to the gym and was greeted by my good friend, Jen, who listed to my tale of woe. 

This new "development" was going to mess up my plan of spending the whole day working on an upcoming bulletin board. But when Dave asked me, "can you get to the station to file a report?" I knew I had to have the right attitude about this. You see God did not bring the person to steal from me to teach me a lesson, He is not a perpetrator of evil. He did however want this moment for me to show how I would react to this being done and the consequences of someone doing evil to me would bring to my plate. I told Dave I had nothing really planned for the day other than working at home and I would get it done. Even in the moment I was saying it I felt no resentment for having to do this. My plan was going to be interrupted by this event but I was "okay" with it. I truly feel God was pleased with the way I reacted and blessed me for it. How was I blessed? You see our home is located on a corner and there was a lake of ice water that collected on our side street. A police officer just happened (hmmm, just happened?) to be patrolling our area, saw the ice patch and was going slowly past our home. Dave went out to tell him what had happened and he came into our home, took the initial report and started the paperwork so that all we need to to is fax it to the police department when completed. You see, I believe God was pleased with my reaction and kept me from having to step out and lose time on my bulletin board project. And can I tell you I accomplished so much on that board in this one day.

You see the truth is we don't really need more time. We need to put our time in God's hands, His timing is always perfect! I can make my plans but I need to lay them before Him each day asking Him to lead me where He wants me to go and being open to His divine appointments. Is this easy to do "no", because lets face it we are selfish people BUT God never promised us easy. He did however promise that He is always with us and that "for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)

So, don't be looking for more time, it will never come. Make the time God has given to you count and draw upon His power so that you may use it in a way that pleases and brings honor to Him. 

As always, thanks for stopping by!

Taking Life "Up a Notch" in 2014

Happy New Year!

It is hard to believe that another year has past but I've learned in my advanced age of 46 that time just keeps moving faster and faster each year. Long gone are those days of being a child when Christmas and my birthday seemed like forever to come. 

I'm not one for making resolutions when the new year begins. Why? Mainly for self preservation. You see when I say I'll do something I get very tough on myself when I don't follow through. Yes, I do think about what I'd like to work on or change in the year to come but I've learned life can throw curve balls that take me away from my original plans. And sometimes those curve balls are more of a benefit  to my life than sticking to what I thought I should be doing. 

This year God has been working on me in the weeks before the new year to reflect on what is truly important as 2014 begins. Nothing solidified this more than the message my Pastor, Eric Dammann, preached this past Sunday. 

You see this is the year my focus needs to be on bringing my spiritual life "up a notch". Yes, I am a Christian. I believe that God sent His Son to die on the cross for me, a sinner, and that through Him, and only Him, I have eternal life. I also believe that He has a purpose for my life that will bring Him all glory and honor and praise. My life is not my own, it is His. 

As a believer in order to know God more, know what He has for me and "understand" and weather the storms that may come my way, I need to be in constant communion with Him reading His Word and praying. God has given us the Bible as an instruction book for life and through salvation I have the power of God within me. I just need to draw upon what He has freely given. 

So as I start 2014, I'm focusing on these 4 things to move into a more mature/closer relationship with my God and in closer unity with my brothers and sisters in Christ. 

1.) Read God's Word - not only for individual devotions but reading through the Bible in one year

2.) Joining a Bible Study - being open and transparent so that I can be encouraged and held accountable 

3.) Memorizing Scripture - so when those curve balls start coming, I can draw upon God's power through the Word I have hidden in my heart

4.) Praying without ceasing - calling out to God at any time, anywhere

What I love about God is how He reveals to me what I need to be doing and how He gives me confirmation of the path He wants me to take.

You see last night God had me at the home of a fellow brother and sister in Christ where we had a devotional in the hour before the year was drawing upon us and at the stroke of midnight we were praying in small groups. God in His wisdom knew that I needed to start my year in this fashion so that I could rise this morning with a new song in my heart, one that before anything else drew me to His Word and time with Him.

Now, I know that each day there will be obstacles sent my way to deter me from my focus on my relationship with God, but I know I can draw upon His power for strength and I praise Him for placing in my life sisters who stand along side me in faith encouraging me daily to continue in my walk with Him.

You see this year I choose to be bold in my faith, to speak what God speaks to me and I pray that in what He is teaching me I can be a testimony of my Father's love and grace!

As always, thanks for stopping by!

Disorderly Realization

As most of you know, I'm a woman who thrives on routine and schedules. It is my comfort zone. 

For the last 4 months, I've been thriving on a routine/schedule of the gym at 5 a.m., kids to school, house or bulletin board work during school time, a Friday afternoon craft class, school sport practice or games for Emily, homework, dinner, bedtime, repeat. The weekends tend to have their routines too but we do it together as family - one of the best "routines" (or I would say blessings) is the time we spend at church on Sunday with our church family.

Last Friday changed everything!! Friday was the last day of "routine" for the next week and a half with Christmas break beginning for my kids and the start of the Christmas holiday activities. Routine is basically out the window with the kids being off and Dave taking a few days of vacation during the holidays. For most people this would seem like a welcome change, but for someone like me it throws me into an abyss of confusion. 

Already the housework has been put on a slight hold as trying to keep things "clean" with kids afoot seems impossible, laundry piled up (but thankfully is now under control), dinner has not been planned as a day off here and back to work the next makes meal planning a little crazy, and a trip to the food store for a full week of groceries seems long over due. My sleep seems to be being effected by this change as a few sleepless nights have fallen upon me which in turn has effected my workout routine - falling asleep at 3 doesn't mix well with rising at 4:30. 

Today I was asked lovingly by a very good friend "what is going on with you?" I explained briefly the routine conundrum but told her I am truly trying to embrace what is happening. Yes, this is not my comfort zone at all but there has to be something that I am to learn or be blessed by in the midst of this state of "discomfort". 

Her question made me think a little more this morning as I was getting ready for the day. Where has some of my joy gone? You see for the last 3 months very little has stopped me from my workout routine, a routine that has given me a lot of joy - joy of being with friends, getting healthy and stronger. Yet, for the last few weeks it has been a bit of a struggle to get going and more so this past week. Excuses are being made to not go, etc

In the conversation with my friend, she suggested I use the rest/quiet time I'm experiencing to set new goals. But what I had to think of first is what has changed over the time. You see it didn't take long for me to pinpoint the problem. Its been something I've know has been changing and not for the better. You see 4 months ago a part of that same routine was after I was blessed to workout my body, I would come home and "workout" my spiritual body by doing devotions, praying and reading God's Word in those quiet moments before the kids had to get up for school. I have to be honest and say that the last month that has not been in my routine. I started getting busier earlier in the morning, trying to fit in tasks before the kids rose. 

My heart knows that this is where the source of my conundrum all starts. When I am not in tune with God, my life as organized as it may seem to others becomes a mess. God has been speaking to me through the messages of our pastor regarding living the life God wants us to live but how can I do that if I do not every day "check in" with him and find out what I am to do. 

Its funny how God knows just how to get your attention in order to bring you back to where you NEED to be - in His will. For me, it is taking my order and making it disorder.

Now how do I know this is the case. Because God confirmed it today when I picked up the devotional "Jesus Is Calling" by Sarah Young. You see there He did teach me there was something to learn in this "rest" period of disrupted routines. 

Here is the devotional:

"I am preparing you for what is on the road ahead, just around the bend. Take time to be still in My Presence so that I can strengthen you. The busier you become, the more you need this time apart with Me. So many people think that time spent with Me is a luxury they cannot afford. As a result, they live and work in their own strength - until that becomes depleted. Then they either cry out to Me for help or turn away in bitterness. 

How much better is it to walk close to Me, depending on My strength and trusting Me in every situation. If you live in this way, you will do less but accomplish far more. Your unhurried pace of living will stand out in this rush-crazed age. Some people may deem you lazy, but many more will be blessed by your peacefulness. Walk in the Light with Me, and you will reflect Me to the watching world." - Isaiah 64:4; John 15:5; Psalm 36:9

You see God confirmed that the time I spend with Him is far more precious and brings His order to my life which results in want I want and that is to reflect and be a testimony for Him. 

So even though my life of order and routine won't return until everyone is back to their respective schedules, I know I can bring a new order, a better order, one that will give me more joy than anything else by spending more time with my God. 

Another thing I learned from this whole day of "revelation" is that God has blessed me with a few friends, sisters who can call me out in love, make me accountable for my actions, listen and encourage me to be the best me that God wants me to be. For that, I am so very grateful.
As always, thanks for stopping by! 

An Divine Idea

The ideas I get for bulletin boards come in multiple forms. It could be a picture, a graphic, a verse or song that triggers an image, etc. No matter how they come I know that it is God who gives me the idea and the ability to make it come into existence on the board.

It was March 10, 2013 Sunday morning service. Our pastor was doing a series "Journey to the Cross". I remember growing up there being an evangelistic tract with a picture that had man on one side, God on the other and the cross as the bridge between. Of course, through the years, I've seen variations of this theme. That morning in church on my sermon notes, I sketched this idea for a possible upcoming board. 

Toward the end of summer I knew a new board would need to go up soon, so I took out this sketch along with a few other ideas. I decided (well, God chose) to make this sketch "come to life". So, I asked one of the elders from our church if he could give me some verses I could use on the board regarding man's condition, Jesus' payment and God's feelings toward man. He returned his copy of my little sketch with quite a selection of verses. 

This is the result of that idea and little sketch.

Now, for a brief detour of thought. I always like to give details regarding the materials used for the boards in case someone has the desire to recreate them. For this board, I used pieces of left over black, white and red bulletin board paper. On the red portion, I layered red cellophane that would be used for wrapping gift baskets. 

The title words, man and God, along with the verses were cut using my Cricut cutter.

The cross is an element I used on two other bulletin boards at the church. It was crafted by a gentleman at the church using balsa wood that was stained. On the cross, I layered pieces of parchment paper and wrote portions of the verse from John 14:6 "I AM the way the truth the life" in bronze metallic sharpie. I aged the edges of the parchment using a brown stamp pad and dauber. 

Now to get back on track. When showing the condition of man and how we need to come through Jesus to have access to God, many familiar verses come to mind John 14:6; John 3:16, etc. What I appreciated was that the elder, who gave me the verse options, gave me verses I had never even thought of in this context. 

The verse used for man is Ephesians 2:1 "And you were dead in trespasses and sins". The verse used for God, when I read it,  I knew it was meant for this board. It is I John 3:1 "See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God..." Why I felt strongly about using this verse is how the "see what kind of love" refers back to the cross and the bridge Jesus' death has made for sinful man to a pure and holy God allowing us to be His children. Although a simple board in in elements, it's message speaks in volumes.

Now I know that all of these ideas and the execution of these boards are a gift that God has bestowed upon me in order to bring Him glory. I don't need verbal affirmation that this was the right board at the right time. But let me tell you, God knows when to speak to me in order to affirm that He is working in me and through me. This "idea" came to mind when our former pastor, who only just retired at the end of September, was still our Shepherd. The board was completed and up last Sunday and do you know that our new pastor's message related to every part of this board. As God spoke through him, God spoke to my heart, not only of this amazing gift of love, Christ's death, that allows me to be His child but also that I am using the talents He has given me for His glory. I pray that I will continue bring Him glory through this ministry. 

As always, thanks for stopping by!

91,663 Steps

As of today, I have intentionally walked an extra 91,633 steps.

You see for the last year, my 45th year, I have been in a struggle with my body. I've always heard that as you get older maintaining your weight is more difficult and that what you did or ate before doesn't seem to work anymore. I was sure I would defy this BUT one year has proven this to be true, at least for me. 

Sadly, my workouts had become less and less. I would get into a routine but would quickly be diverted from it due to a project, traveling, etc. - you get the idea! 45 was my year for exercise excuses. This is somewhat ironic because of how dedicated I was just a year or so before not only getting to the gym and doing additional training but following a very strict eating plan (okay, the eating plan was more a beginning eating plan that needed to be adjusted over time.) If you know me well, you know I'm either all in or all out, I'm very rarely an in the middle kind of girl. 

Because I can be an extremist, finding a happy medium has been a struggle and let me tell you my scale has not been a friend lately....it has been a foe! I know, I know, I shouldn't be "hung up on a number", "muscle weighs more than fat", "you still look the same" etc.  But here is my confession, I have always struggled with how I look. It goes back to my early teens like it does with so many girls. No, I am not going to give details because that really isn't important. I just want you to know that this self-esteem issue has been a life long issue. Now, I am a Christian and I know God makes no mistakes. I also know that I am "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14). Because I not only know this but believe it, each day I have to turn this insecurity over to God. Why? So it doesn't keep me from doing what He has planned for me in order to bring glory to Him. So, with His help, I'm working on this "struggle" trying to make exercise and eating well part of a healthy lifestyle and not a fad for a number or an acceptable look to others. 

There is a group from my church who started an early morning workout program and my one friend, Jen, is a part of it so I thought I would join in. On Thursday, August 29th, I met up with Jen at 5a.m. (yes, that is a.m.) and we did our first speed walk together. This started a whole new exercise plan for me. Now, before I go any further I have to tell you that Jen is my inspiration. She has been losing weight the smart way through diet and exercise and is a great encouragement to me. Jen is beautiful through and through and I am so proud of all she has and continues to accomplish. 

Okay, so on my birthday, Sunday, September 1st, I started my "new year" off by walking 6 miles and keeping track of the extra "steps" I'm taking toward being healthier. Out of the last 19 days I have walked 11 of those days. I do take the weekends off although occasionally I will walk early Sunday morning before church. Also, I did for one week join the church team for their strength training workouts, however, being at the park at 4:15 a.m. was hard for me so I decided to stick with my walking routine for the time being.  I'm a morning person but blame my age, I'm too old to be getting up before 4 to workout at 4:15. At least that is what my mind and body are telling me.

Getting up and walking at 5 has also allowed for me to make my spiritual life healthier too. By the time I come home from walking, I have 30 to 45 minutes before the kids start getting up for school. The quiet allows me to focus accordingly on what God is showing me in His Word and in the devotional I use. Sadly, before this routine it was easy to say, "I'll do it once the kids are at school" or "a little later in the day" which would most of the time result in me not spending time with God that day.

One humorous "revelation" of this early morning routine is that our bunny has proved to me that somehow he has to have canine blood in him. We always joke how much Mr. Jingle is like a dog, well how is this for proof? Each morning when I return home, I open the door of his cage (which is in Matt's room) to let him out. Jingle meets me in the living room and assumes his place in front of the patio door waiting to be let out. Jingle runs a few laps around the enclosed patio, running up the stairs, in the door and slides across the living room's hardwood floor. The first time he did this, I had to laugh. I though he just didn't know his speed coming in and would never do it again. Well, no, he proved me wrong.  He does this "routine" 4 to 5 times, then heads into the kitchen to get his morning meal of fresh veggies. I tell you it is like having a dog.  Even now with the mornings being cooler, Jingle still likes to go out. 

All in all these first 19 days of my 46th year have proven that I can get back to a balanced routine of exercise, healthy eating and daily spiritual nourishment. Now they do say it takes 90 days to make something a habit, so I pray that the cooler weather coming won't deter me and lead to excuses. Thankfully I have friends to keep me accountable in both area of my life - physical & spiritual. 

As always, thanks for stopping by!

Hiatus - OVER!!!!

Wow! I never imagined how hard it would be to write this first returning blog post.

As I type, my mind is bombarded with the many activities, ups, downs, personal revelations, etc. that have happened over the last two and a half months. I have so much to say and yet it can't all be done in this first post. So, that being the case, I ask that you bear with me as my future posts will not only be regarding current events but some will revert back to things that have already occurred.
One main event that occurred during my hiatus was my 46th birthday, hence the cupcake picture. I don't need a birthday cake for the occasion but I do require a red velvet cupcake from this particular cupcake store. So very yummy!!!
I have to laugh at the fact that I have been telling people for a while I am 46 while only 45. As I get older, I just seem to want to say I'm older than I really am......I have no idea why!!
There is the saying "with age comes wisdom" and I have to say that I totally believe this to be true. If I had only know the things I know today even just 5 years ago, life would have been a little less complicated, or I should say I wouldn't have made life so complicated.
I've grown in so many ways. One area is that I have learned to be less regimented and just open to what is suppose be. I've previously confessed my love of lists. There is nothing wrong with having lists but when you live by lists you tend to get so caught up on making sure everything gets crossed off you miss the little blessings along the way. I truly believe God has been trying to show me this truth for several years now. As I start this new year, I've made the conscious decision to still have my lists but listen for the divine appointments God places in the midst of my "to dos". Yes, laundry, cleaning, cooking, homework help and all the other "mundane" and even "fun" things of every day life are important but when you feel God is calling you to maybe spend time with someone who needs to talk, be in his Word, or in prayer, those every day things need to be put aside. I truly feel that I have missed out on a few blessings He intended for me because I was too busy with my lists and my plans.
Another thing I've come to learn is that being in God's will is putting my life in His hands each day. Turning each moment and day over to Him to be used for the furthering of His kingdom.
I've also learned and continue to learn about how God's timing is perfect. At the end of August, Dave started a permanent employment position. This was after almost 2 years on a consulting position which he took a few months after being at his job for 11 years. We knew from the very beginning God would provide, we trusted Him to bring about the job he wanted for Dave. One thing we prayed was that God would allow for him to work locally (Dave has always commuted either by car or mass transit at least an hour each way). The consulting job Dave took was still a long commute but it provided for our needs. Now I don't want to give you the illusion that in the last 2 years I haven't had moments of stress regarding this matter. When I would feel anxious I knew I had to take it to God, trusting He knows what is best and would bring that about for our family. It was and still is every day a matter of stepping out in faith. The job that Dave got is just 12 minutes from our home. God truly blessed us with the desire of our heart. We needed to trust that He would bring it about and He did in His time. I have to continually remind myself that God's timing is so much more important than mine and over the last 2 and a half months He has shown me this many times.
Well, I could go on and on about the things I have and am learning but that would eliminate more posts so I will end by saying I only pray that I will continue to live each day for Him, keeping my eyes and ears open for the divine appointments He has for me and my family. They won't always be easy or comfortable, but He hasn't promised me that. I do know though that I will be blessed and more importantly He will be glorified.
Thanks for stopping by! (My new post closing line)

To Jump and Trust!

My kids are always teaching me life lessons, sometimes small and other times huge, and they don't even realize they are doing it. 

I loved watching the kids at the pool last week and the trust they had to jump in and know that the water would protect them and they would pop back up to the surface. Yes, at first they hesitated on both the diving board and slide knowing that the water was 10' deep. But even with that knowledge, they wanted the experience, the fun of sliding down or leaping into the water. Oh, if we could only do this in life! Take the leap, not really knowing the outcome but trusting that all will be as God has planned for us. 

Many times I get in my own way of what God has in store for me because I look at my portion of the "big picture" which really isn't that big of a view. I make decisions based on my limited view and don't put them before God asking "is this what you want for me?"

Recently, I gave someone a piece of "advice" regarding this exact issue. The circumstances of finances is dictating choices to be made even though the person has the desire to do two things - two things that are the desire of their heart and have nothing to do with unneeded wants. I expressed to this person that they should take the matter to God in prayer. They know that finances dictate a choice but express to God the desire to do both. If it is something God wants for them, He will provide. Its a leap of faith. I truly believe this. God tells us to bring our needs before Him and that He will give us the desires of our heart when our desires are in line with what brings Him glory. Whether this individual will lay these choices before God I do not know, but I pray they will.  

Funny how when you speak a promise from God to someone else, He whispers to you "are you listening to what you said?" 

Anyone who knows me, knows I do not like driving in the rain, especially down pours. Well, the forecast for my return trip from Tennessee was not looking too good - a lot of rain along the eastern coast.  As I went to bed the night before, I was talking with God. I told Him you know how much I do not like driving in rain but I also know and trust that you will bring me through whatever lies before me. My circumstances (the weather) looked bleak but I stepped out in faith that God would bring me through. Now I didn't ask Him to make the weather change for me, I just asked that He would guide me through it, no matter what the weather. There are many times I want circumstances to change but I'm realizing the trust and learning from God doesn't usually come when the circumstances are changed but when the circumstances are hard and not to our liking. We miss the blessing of the moment or the joy of an answer to a prayer for something we thought for sure would never happen.

I left that morning in rain, trusting God that this is what He had for me and that there is a reason, even though it is not something I "liked". About an hour into the drive, the sun broke through for a moment but went gray quickly and I was okay with that. I took it as a sign just letting me know "I'm here". It rained off and on, but never a downpour until we reached Roanoke, VA and the for the rest of the trip there was no rain, first cloudy, then sunshine until we reached our home. 

So, from this I learned that I need to have more faith in putting those "unchangeable" things (big and small) before God. Leaping in faith that He has everything under control, that He will give me the desires of my heart, when they are in line with His will for my life. Also, I need to look for the blessings along the way, on the journey. Those signs that show me He is working and I need to just keep walking in faith and trust. 

Today, I am thankful for the lessons He teaches me everyday, through His Word, His whispers and even through my children who show me many times the lessons He has for me that they have accepted in their childlike faith. To jump and trust!

Soaking In the Son

Yesterday, we experienced our first full day of vacationing here in Florida and it was a glorious day!!

The resort we are staying at has its very own water park and that is where we spent the first few hours of our day. 

Yes, once again I'm the official photographer of our vacation but this is a vacation I plan to experience as well as document. I think I shocked the kids when the first thing I did was join them riding the lazy river. I have to admit my vantage point is usually from a lounge chair and not in the "thick"" of the activity BUT I vowed this vacation would be different. Now that the kids are older, I'm realizing that soon I will blink and they will be in college, I've made the decision to be a participator and not just on the sidelines watching. Of course, when I went under the double waterfall and got pummeled by gallons of water, I had a moment of wishing I had stayed on my lounger.  

At the water park, they also have a splash zone, this I chose only to observe from a safe distance. The kids enjoyed running around the zone spaying water guns at each other but they were drawn back to the lazy river and spent the rest of the morning going with the flow of the current. Oh, they also have a slide that goes into a grotto on the lazy river. The kids, including Dave, really loved that!! Matt actually did it more times than Emily which surprised me.  

Ahhh....vacation!! We are so very blessed that each year we are able to take time as a family and just enjoy being together and where we are. 

As I was sitting on my lounge chair in between lazy river rides, I took some time to take in the beauty of my surroundings. My eyes were drawn to the palm tree directly in front of me and at the slight sway of a few palms even though the air around seemed to be still and hot. The palms seemed to be whispering. 

If you didn't look close enough you wouldn't notice their movement. In that moment, I thought of how God speaks to us and works in our lives. 

You see the evening before and this morning we were receiving updates regarding a very special boy, Jordan, (I grew up with his dad and aunt in NY) who was having a double lung transplant. Jordan has been on the transplant list for over 8 months and temporarily relocated with his mom and brother to Houston while his dad travels back and forth from his job and their home in North Dakota. This was Jordan's 5th attempt at receiving a transplant. Jordan and his family have been an amazing testimony of God's love and the plan He has for each and every one of our lives. Today we are rejoicing that Jordan has come out of the surgery well and he is in the beginning steps of recovery.

Oh how God cares for us but so many times we are not listening or we are doing our own thing outside of His plan. As I saw the palms swaying on that tree, I was praying for Jordan and also being shown what I need to be doing and that is listening for the whispers of God. The whispers meant for me but I allow life and its craziness to drown them out. So many times I want shouts from God and I "want it now" but God surely doesn't give us what we don't need and he doesn't go by our time table. So far on our vacation, I've seen God working in whispers (the nail in our tire, Matt's upset stomach) and in shouts (Jordan's new lungs). I'm so blessed that God never takes a vacation that He is always working everywhere, in every situation.  Is how He working always how or what I want? No!! But then this life I live is not meant for me but for Him and bringing Him glory through everything I do the big and the small. 

Today is a new day!! A day I choose to enjoy my family soaking up the Florida sun BUT also a day I plan to be soaking in the Son, listening for God in the whispers and praising Him with the loud shout of my life, a living testimony of His love and grace.  

Enjoy your day whereever it may take you!!

Kid's Baptism

Here is a small video of the kid's baptism on Sunday, June 9, 2013

Choosing to Be a Reflection

The month of June is special to Dave and I in that its the month our children, Emily and Matt, were born. 

Today this month became even more special in that Emily & Matt were both baptized today. "Proud" is not really the word that I think of when I reflect on their decision to make their belief and salvation through Jesus Christ public. When I think of being "proud", I think of a contribution being made to result in an outcome. Dave and I have nothing to do with their belief in Jesus as their Savior, it is all a God thing. Yes, we believe in God and Jesus as our Lord and Savior and they know this, we take them to church, we do our best to be examples of God's love and show them how to live a life that brings glory to God but when it comes down to it it is only God who can touch their hearts and bring them to Him. 

So, the word that would better describe how we are feeling today is blessed. Blessed first that God gave them to us. Do they drive us crazy sometimes? Oh yes!! But we wouldn't have it any other way. Blessed that God has touched both their hearts and they have accepted Jesus as their Savior. I have been truly blessed that God gave me the opportunity to help Matt take the steps to accept Jesus. Now, today we are blessed to have been able to watch as our children chose to make their acceptance of Jesus as their Savior and their desire to follow Him public before our church family and friends. 

It is a blessing to not only have them as our children but to have them as our brother and sister in Christ. 

It all Starts with a Thought

Lately, I've been being asked how I come up with the bulletin boards I've created. As with anything "creative", it all comes from a momentary thought or idea. Some boards are based on a preset idea or theme but the majority that have been made are without direction. Of course, seasons may dictate the direction in which my mind wanders. The most recent bulletin board I did was spring themed. Above is the sketch that was produced while talking out the concept with my creative sidekick, Deborah Cabrera, who is also very creative and talented. To make some of the elements, I will sometimes look at photos or clip art images to accurately reproduce them. Here is the end result from the above sketch.

One thing I've learned is that when an idea comes to mind I must get it down on paper in some form. Recently, while in church, I had two ideas come to mind.  One has to do with being on a journey and the other came from a statement made by my Pastor regarding broken vessels. I quickly sketched these ideas on my sermon notes paper. 

Most of the time these small sketches are enough to start the creative wheels turning and ultimately the idea morphs into something more than the original sketch. There are times though when I do have to do a more detailed sketch of the idea to make sure that it will be able to work the way it is planned. Also, I do this to keep from wasting product while making the finished board. Right now, I'm working on a board that is suppose to look like stained glass and I found it necessary to detail sketch it so to avoid any paper waste and additional frustration on my part. I still need to color in the tiles according the color tones of the paper I have decided to use. This will keep me from having the same color being next to each other. 

When it comes down to it though, my ability to create these boards are a result from the gift God has bestowed on me. When I was a teenager, I remember drawing up floor plans and making room scapes with the intention of being an interior decorator. Then, in college, I chose to pursue communications and enjoyed writing.  While married, I got into stamping and creating cards and with the birth of my children came scrapbooking. Then, I settled in to doing crafts for my home and friends. All along God was showing me my abilities. 

In August of 2010, I got asked to help with the creating of a few bulletin boards at my church and since then God has been blessing me with ideas and honing my talents to take the bulletin boards to a new level. Here is one of the first boards that I helped create.  

I consider these boards my offering to God. He has blessed me with this gift and He gives me great joy in creating these. My prayer is that these boards minister to those who see them - a tool that will help them draw nearer to God. In the past year, I've been praying (along with my dear friend) that God would take this creative effort to where ever He wants it to go. My desire is to be in His will bringing glory to Him. God has blessed me with another church that I'm creating boards for along with the opportunity to make a few for my children's school.  

Another way that God has blessed me is with the viewing of these boards via this blog and also on Pinterest. It gives me personal joy to be able to share these boards and have others desire to create them and spread the message they have. 

God is truly showing me that this is the path He has for me at this time and I want to be wholly in His will so that He can use me as He desires. 

Tacos = LOVE

Today is a day to celebrate LOVE!!  

I don't find loving my family and friends difficult but the area I struggle with most is loving/accepting myself as I am.

This isn't something I like to admit, I know this is personal weakness. After all, I believe I'm made in the image of the God who created man and He makes NO mistakes. Also having accepted Him as my Savior, I'm His child.  

Oh but that personal struggle of lack of self esteem, taking too much time to focus on my shortcomings and not on the purpose of my life which is to be in the will of God, I wish I could change that. 

Today I choose to LOVE myself.....not in a haughty, prideful way but in the assurances I have been given by my God in His Word.  He has created me just as I am....He knew me before I even existed and He made me, Me!! He loved me enough to send His Son to die for all my sins. Because He loves me this much, how can I not embrace the way He has made me, the talents He has blessed me with. He has blessed me with an amazing husband, two amazing children, extended family and friends who are family to me!!  He allows me to fellowship with and be encouraged by my church family. When I look at this and so much more, how can I not feel love, love for my God, my family & friends, my church family, others and myself.

Today I choose to LOVE. Today I decided to show myself an act of kindness or love if you want to call it that. I treated myself to my favorite lunch - Taco Bell Crunchy Taco Supreme with Salsa Verde. This may sound silly but love can be show in the most simplest of ways.  

I encourage you to show LOVE today. It can be something so simple....as simple as a favorite food.  Most of all show LOVE to God by spending time with Him. In doing so, you will receive LOVE right back!! 

Rainbow ...... a Promise

Once again, we are under the threat of a serious storm hitting our area of New Jersey. It seems to be coming a common occurrence - last year Hurricane Irene came to visit and we had an October snow storm around this same time. 

We are personally blessed that in our town where flooding does occur due to the river running through it our home is located at the top of a hill. However, not only does the heart of our community lie in a flood zone many of our friend's homes in different towns are in flood zones. Many who suffered great loss during Irene.

We stand in the promise and comfort that all things are in God's hands. Yes, we have anxiety and give that over to God but we prepare for what may come and pray that if it is in His will to keep it from effecting us He will do so.

Today, we took the kids to a fall festival at a large park. Both kids chose different rides so I headed to the swings with Emily, while Dave went with Matt to the bumper cars.  As I was standing there watching Emily, my eyes were drawn to the sky and right above me was a rainbow. What made me smile was that the rainbow was upside-down so it looked like a colorful smile. As I looked closer in the sky, I saw another fainter rainbow mirroring this one a slight distance away and a few more peeking out from areas where sun was shining through the cloud cover.

Taking in this beauty what came to mind was how God used that rainbow as a promise.  The rainbow was God's sign to Noah as His promise to never flood the earth again. Now do I think this means this storm won't come, not necessarily. In that moment and even now, I have the comfort of God in my heart. He knows what we are feeling right now, He knows what we will go through and through it all He will be right there with us. Good or bad. He is all we need to make it through each day, each minute, each second.  

So no matter what comes, God will be with us.