tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12016596648429323682024-02-06T22:51:09.291-06:00Hope for the Heart: Thirsty? Stop in for a drink of living water!Refreshments from my heart to yours!drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.comBlogger213125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-5093470546423032612018-02-28T14:42:00.000-06:002018-02-28T14:42:53.939-06:00Are You Thank-full?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgeNvmgs8ClVNzA9xfz1GkDti6012_31Aurimi5xH-r9jQdjiocPfstPr44zjn4iBJlD7H_c6QHM8HWfunfEagI0ZWnm0TnP82tz_U3TlY0qRsuwz1dX2EAAfcwpMADzyh-h_IsNOhQahQ/s1600/83_kitty_gliding_406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="292" data-original-width="400" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgeNvmgs8ClVNzA9xfz1GkDti6012_31Aurimi5xH-r9jQdjiocPfstPr44zjn4iBJlD7H_c6QHM8HWfunfEagI0ZWnm0TnP82tz_U3TlY0qRsuwz1dX2EAAfcwpMADzyh-h_IsNOhQahQ/s320/83_kitty_gliding_406.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This morning my spiritual director, Bitsy, read a clip from a book, The Art of being Thank-full. It was teaching the power of being intentionally thank-full, as we go. It really smacked me in the face!<br />
<br />
My morning, from wake up to my arrival here, at our spiritual direction group, has been "full" of hindrances and grouchiness, on my part.<br />
<br />
First, when I woke up, my eyes puffy, then I got on the scale, and I had gained weight on my diet! Then my husband popped off at me.<br />
<br />
Then, on my way to group, a train was blocking the way, so I made a U-turn, and every direction I tried to go, there were traffic issues! I saw three different drivers swerve and almost collide, and another one towards me!<br />
<br />
My thoughts about all of this was mainly, "Good-Grief!"<br />
<br />
As Bitsy read from her book, I saw a totally different picture of my morning. <br />
<br />
I woke up with puffy eyes, and I was thankful that I was able to lay in bed for 15 extra minutes with a cold pack on my eyes. It felt GOOOD!! Thanks, Jesus! Then my eyes could see! Thanks, Jesus!<br />
<br />
When I saw the train, I was able to make a "u-ie" and it made all the construction workers laugh! Thanks, Jesus!<br />
<br />
Then 4 accidents didn't happen! Thanks, Jesus! And all the red-lights gave me more time to rock out with Bob Dylan! Thanks, Jesus!<br />
<br />
And even when Jack popped off, he did it with words that made me happy, because You, Jesus, were showing me that You are opening his eyes to something I have been praying about! Thank You, Jesus!<br />
<br />
WOW!! I am TOO excited!!! 😁 And, Oh Yeah! The weight I have gained has made me appreciate others who have struggled, so when I am thin and beautiful, I won't be "all that!"<br />
<br />
Ha! Ha!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-60349215209359948082018-01-05T15:25:00.000-06:002018-01-05T15:31:46.143-06:00Breath to Breath<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ngZFgrSu0DMD8sIByFtda9riw-hlygeK3sHHaMyaeamCKcwvV5GNKNdrg1vAxepbePOMyqDdSNoKM3Zxw4GGbMwiTJ-qge7_vlqRkaTjHR4_GouiHnh6766bsEkjCx46Ut54LHlhs4QM/s1600/IMG_1759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ngZFgrSu0DMD8sIByFtda9riw-hlygeK3sHHaMyaeamCKcwvV5GNKNdrg1vAxepbePOMyqDdSNoKM3Zxw4GGbMwiTJ-qge7_vlqRkaTjHR4_GouiHnh6766bsEkjCx46Ut54LHlhs4QM/s320/IMG_1759.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>B</b>ring
yourself to Me.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>R</b>each
out with all your strength,</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>I</b>n
Me all Hope is found, </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>N</b>ever-ending
Life,</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>G</b>od's
mercy on the Tree.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>B</b>reathe
in My never-ending Rest.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>R</b>ealize
the Life I have placed in you.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>E</b>verything
I am is in you.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>A</b>ccess
is yours.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>T</b>rust
in Me.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>H</b>eaven
is in each breath.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>T</b>enderness
is under My wing.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>O</b>aks
of righteousness grow eternally in that safe place, and sing.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>A</b>bsolute
Love, absolute Life, absolutely</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>L</b>istens
to each breath, and</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>L</b>ifts
you into the Land of perfect affection.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>A</b>n
affection</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>S</b>o
deep it can never be removed.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Y</b>ou
are Mine.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>O</b>ceans
demonstrate mystery of My love.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>U</b>nder-currents
are strong drawing you deeper.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>G</b>o
with the currents, as I release you</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>O</b>ut
to ride the waves of Joy, crashing over others, drawing them deeper,
too! </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;">by
Anna Marie Sheffield</span></div>
<div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;">2017</span></div>
drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-69114384782912330852017-06-04T10:17:00.000-05:002017-06-04T10:17:04.514-05:00When Love Comes Down<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO3N5V4w9VX8LlQ-lQHrMocMYyv084xfe03YhW3U6lU8-ybyIrYAlXXLDcH1r94xUWV4KgL-Id9-D3jIxNh8UcFiJu0g0unizUz6enTtWH1jivGRFg56VwKXJivPbzdtOR38P_DNABfnyy/s1600/IMG_2001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO3N5V4w9VX8LlQ-lQHrMocMYyv084xfe03YhW3U6lU8-ybyIrYAlXXLDcH1r94xUWV4KgL-Id9-D3jIxNh8UcFiJu0g0unizUz6enTtWH1jivGRFg56VwKXJivPbzdtOR38P_DNABfnyy/s320/IMG_2001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Longing.<br />
Longing.<br />
Longing.<br />
<br />
God are You real?<br />
God are You there?<br />
God, I want to know You.<br />
<br />
Silence.<br />
Silence.<br />
Silence.<br />
<br />
Walking.<br />
Wondering.<br />
Weeping.<br />
<br />
Is this life all there is?<br />
What's the point?<br />
I would be better off dead.<br />
<br />
Searching.<br />
Seeking.<br />
Suffering.<br />
<br />
Who are these people?<br />
Joy filled...<br />
Happy to see me...<br />
<br />
They love Jesus.<br />
Jesus, are You real?<br />
Is it true?<br />
<br />
Daring.<br />
Asking.<br />
Choosing.<br />
<br />
What is this feeling?<br />
Holy Spirit?<br />
Total explosion!<br />
Fire!<br />
Power!<br />
Rushing River of total Release and Fullness!<br />
I have no words!<br />
Tears gushing out!<br />
What is this language pouring out of me?<br />
Total adoration!<br />
Love I have never known before is enveloping me, owning me, I have been Reborn!<br />
<br />
Overflowing!<br />
Overflowing!<br />
Overflowing!<br />
<br />
God, You are real!<br />
God, You are here!<br />
God, You want to know me!<br />
<br />
Singing!<br />
Whispers!<br />
Knowing!<br />
<br />
Skipping!<br />
Hearing!<br />
Loving!<br />
<br />
I am Yours! <br />
<br />
drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-10034925137179404632017-03-23T05:57:00.000-05:002018-01-05T14:59:40.141-06:00Hearing God By What We See!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAA9xCo1F3vyvkBf8ke_T53AWcd0z3GruyUFObZdf3dGg209_xGcA8QVLkJaD_dmYXHmr7QYCtHL2nv4LcyXJI_durGFXQ5NeImIkO2n5-bTgOPTCIOT6yG5PQhwNAYQBgSEZDce_RxWaK/s1600/FullSizeRender%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAA9xCo1F3vyvkBf8ke_T53AWcd0z3GruyUFObZdf3dGg209_xGcA8QVLkJaD_dmYXHmr7QYCtHL2nv4LcyXJI_durGFXQ5NeImIkO2n5-bTgOPTCIOT6yG5PQhwNAYQBgSEZDce_RxWaK/s320/FullSizeRender%25281%2529.jpg" width="220" /></a></div>
<br />
Our healing center, Christ Healing Center, in San Antonio, Texas, has started another gathering for healing of the soul. We call it Creative Collective. We soak, listen, create, share, and together express the heart of Jesus to one another.<br />
<br />
Yesterday, I brought my collection of magazines, glue sticks, scissors, poster board, and a listening heart to the group. Each one there had their own creative moments. Two were musicians, two were writers, two were doing visual art, and one (a teenager) was worshiping artistically in her nap!:)<br />
<br />
At the end of our time, we each shared what our creatives had spoken to us about connecting with God and each other.<br />
<br />
I began with a Lectio Divina reading of the healing of the paralytic in Mark 2. The words that stood out to me were from Mark 2:5.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"Son, your sins are forgiven..."</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
With those words ruminating in my heart, I perused through the magazines for pictures that called out to me. I cut them out and glued them to my poster-board card. Then, I asked God to reveal what He is saying to me about myself. Here is what I got:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I am one who is God's son. He forgives me over and over.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
He is saying,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"Don't look back except to restore all in Truth.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I AM coloring your world. You no longer have to be black and white. Reach up towards the Son. Go higher! There are mountains you <u>will</u> climb.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Sing a new song. There is a new melody for your life!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Looking up, you will soar and be transformed!"</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I love it! I receive it! And, I release this blessing over all who read it! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> </i></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-12521113988072249012016-10-07T13:56:00.001-05:002016-10-07T13:56:30.223-05:00Just Hanging Out With God!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDLFB7E0gGp_lI6xziTsiLzrLWhiZIAs6O4jAKeG4cL7Wp6pcotc8ryeS9iJuRF0reDC3k2fhHGQsxOKLk8AoCYJ2xPcI6TVXpXj-jDrf8TZu_5MQSkVlNfhS1lYFvz8XveQD8Vz5PqF_r/s1600/energy-fruit-tree-heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDLFB7E0gGp_lI6xziTsiLzrLWhiZIAs6O4jAKeG4cL7Wp6pcotc8ryeS9iJuRF0reDC3k2fhHGQsxOKLk8AoCYJ2xPcI6TVXpXj-jDrf8TZu_5MQSkVlNfhS1lYFvz8XveQD8Vz5PqF_r/s200/energy-fruit-tree-heart.jpg" width="186" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Seek the Lord early in the morning.<br />
Seek Him while He may be found.<br />
Make straight His path.<br />
<br />
Lord, I come to You right now.<br />
I dedicate my life anew,<br />
This day to You<br />
<br />
Take it.<br />
Fill it.<br />
Use it!<br />
<br />
I empty my <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDT5_NSNzVJ9tgbKSodtvS0UWgAN46hm_ZvN_bfuBAvhfB55pNAim4MEmeC2FGKLQLh-yPfp5dkIZZAtrqm2WsRkMjpsrIgxGsInmYGbd7kWhf-bkp_4tqViE2chN1K_fLkfnxl_3AA34D/s1600/beating-heart.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDT5_NSNzVJ9tgbKSodtvS0UWgAN46hm_ZvN_bfuBAvhfB55pNAim4MEmeC2FGKLQLh-yPfp5dkIZZAtrqm2WsRkMjpsrIgxGsInmYGbd7kWhf-bkp_4tqViE2chN1K_fLkfnxl_3AA34D/s1600/beating-heart.gif" /></a>of everything, making room for You, my King!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Especially, take my doubts and fears.<br />
They've crept in there throughout the years.<br />
<br />
Let me see only Your Resurrection,<br />
My heart and soul turned in Your direction.<br />
There is my Hope!<br />
There is my Joy!<br />
There is my Life!<br />
<br />
All creation screams out the Truth of Your Resurrection!<br />
Resurrection is Truth!<br />
<br />
Unless a seed falls to the ground and dies,<br />
It cannot bear fruit!<br />
Jesus, I know where my seed lies,<br />
I hope to see the fruit with my own eyes! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-13486969651638636222016-03-05T10:09:00.000-06:002016-03-05T14:03:23.104-06:00I Matter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirEW6yK7WgxG2t4VbIJMZU8VhkLk8PqdrRiCv8hH8wcR1LBHbT1zUWe7Uhyhi1U5uyZVCtf4Jl7DmPTeh-vFI1v8Yq_82lLPxogK2_qib_C19AkgngBoJnH4R0P_DFcJwOtB2JIz5PcCaX/s1600/world-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirEW6yK7WgxG2t4VbIJMZU8VhkLk8PqdrRiCv8hH8wcR1LBHbT1zUWe7Uhyhi1U5uyZVCtf4Jl7DmPTeh-vFI1v8Yq_82lLPxogK2_qib_C19AkgngBoJnH4R0P_DFcJwOtB2JIz5PcCaX/s400/world-web.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I matter.<br />
I am an artist.<br />
I have created a painting,<br />
A painting that inspires mankind.<br />
<br />
I matter.<br />
I am a farmer.<br />
I planted the seed that grew.<br />
A seed that became the plant,<br />
That was made into a fiber that became a canvas<br />
For the artist to use, to inspire mankind. <br />
<br />
I matter.<br />
I am a lumberjack.<br />
I invested years in a tree,<br />
A tree that I harvested<br />
That became lumber,<br />
Lumber shipped on a train to be used in the future, to inspire mankind. <br />
<br />
I matter.<br />
I work long difficult hours<br />
Laying railroad tracks.<br />
Railroad tracks that will change the world.<br />
Tracks bringing lumber, and goods<br />
For others to use, to inspire mankind. <br />
<br />
<br />
I matter.<br />
I am a carpenter.<br />
I take the wood from the train,<br />
Form and fashion it into a frame.<br />
A frame on which the canvas is stretched<br />
For the artist to use, to inspire mankind.<br />
<br />
I matter.<br />
I am a cuniculturalist.<br />
I raise rabbits.<br />
Rabbits that are used to make glue.<br />
Glue that prepares the canvas for the paint,<br />
Paint that the artist will use, to inspire mankind.<br />
<br />
I matter.<br />
I am a teacher.<br />
I open the curtains to reveal the wonder in the world,<br />
Wonders that inspire the artist to create.<br />
Wonder the artist displays, to inspire mankind.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-77130998114591934562015-10-05T09:11:00.002-05:002016-01-31T05:39:03.808-06:00A Morning Meditation?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmGE0QjufoxgAiZMCK55diIH-p_rzRPFI3WhaQiZsFFDkqgjqQEDnbYmJMqtQZIzumHZGNw5iZ7KT9p_IebJkItfp0H2s2bplD-JsxHlGX47O6ux8TK2D6lXzIUVbJ8L3v7ZQxijmbZs8Y/s1600/singing+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmGE0QjufoxgAiZMCK55diIH-p_rzRPFI3WhaQiZsFFDkqgjqQEDnbYmJMqtQZIzumHZGNw5iZ7KT9p_IebJkItfp0H2s2bplD-JsxHlGX47O6ux8TK2D6lXzIUVbJ8L3v7ZQxijmbZs8Y/s200/singing+bird.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The morn was dark<br />
With silence deep,<br />
When I awakened from my sleep.<br />
<br />
The air was cool,<br />
And soon I heard<br />
The single song of one small bird.<br />
<br />
Its praises sang out,<br />
Sweet and clear,<br />
"Awaken friends, the Lord is near!"<br />
<br />
Another voice rang out,<br />
Its song was loud and deep,<br />
"Oh for Pete's sake, Charlie!<br />
It's 3'oclock in the morning!<br />
Go back to sleep!"<br />
<br />
And so, we all went back to bed,<br />
These little birds' songs in my head.<br />
I had a smile upon my face,<br />
While Jesus whispered in my ear,<br />
"See you later, my dear..." drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-60729339807438184662015-09-01T15:47:00.001-05:002015-09-01T15:49:40.137-05:00Is the Answer Blowing in the Wind?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhfP98ZaFEhfVkNdpyqfCFch5l5s_MWcXRHUoXnEpFhaX9EZBs2HIjS_7ykXObDwEtxH20dnN8Cb1YV7mn6lpugxDFttUxKhT0I5KqXqnGxgbK5g1TGmqg_4oWlsdF1XRpoRqdR_qSlMEL/s1600/blowing-leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhfP98ZaFEhfVkNdpyqfCFch5l5s_MWcXRHUoXnEpFhaX9EZBs2HIjS_7ykXObDwEtxH20dnN8Cb1YV7mn6lpugxDFttUxKhT0I5KqXqnGxgbK5g1TGmqg_4oWlsdF1XRpoRqdR_qSlMEL/s320/blowing-leaves.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The wind blows.<br />
I feel the movement on my skin.<br />
I feel the tickling of my hair, as it moves<br />
As in a dance with the breeze.<br />
Peace.<br />
<br />
The wind blows.<br />
I hear the rustling of the leaves.<br />
I hear a whisper in my soul<br />
Saying, "Come and dance with Me<br />
In gentle ease."<br />
Trust.<br />
<br />
The wind blows.<br />
I see its power as it moves the fallen leaves from here to there.<br />
I see them dance and twirl in joy.<br />
They show me life continues,<br />
On and on.<br />
Hope.<br />
<br />
Another season starts!<br />
<br />
Blessings, Anna Marie<br />
<br />drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-53971391016077229492015-05-24T09:04:00.000-05:002015-05-24T09:04:47.192-05:00 Want a Smile?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXWHzvWLF-kfvNozsJpVz1eRDyc_TNTHA7VZlYcbPLq-6zacmrfrfg4iAlqa42viFAbNAUHsvWgsY-rueSvPxTXGbiVLEkawXoWd4yD8UT9VIJcfCEphzUFuyUqCHsa_fxP_mieA8kLLa6/s1600/roflol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXWHzvWLF-kfvNozsJpVz1eRDyc_TNTHA7VZlYcbPLq-6zacmrfrfg4iAlqa42viFAbNAUHsvWgsY-rueSvPxTXGbiVLEkawXoWd4yD8UT9VIJcfCEphzUFuyUqCHsa_fxP_mieA8kLLa6/s1600/roflol.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Don'cha love to read a rhyme?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It lifts my heart up every time!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It makes me want to laugh and dance, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sometimes so hard, I wet my pants! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The giggles start,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The giggles roar, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And soon I'm rolling on the floor!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm feelin' good, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm feeling fine,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Though some may say,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've lost my mind!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ahhhhh! That was Goooood!</div>
drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-52449975202825571312015-05-21T11:20:00.000-05:002015-05-21T11:22:55.148-05:00Dance With Me?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqsItWIAKvLSQp-9WnNnhP5acpi0djAvl1NxuEx0P8GWcMJcLBE_lfFKUerqTw7GlNUGqDj9fYbHw0peQ5rQ8eMyuS7aXaX9zxJ0C1nzW-uC9x9RcwF5QwULNRU1nV9C6TVe0PPSCKqVyC/s1600/10411782_10205536092354553_5689975603018423836_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqsItWIAKvLSQp-9WnNnhP5acpi0djAvl1NxuEx0P8GWcMJcLBE_lfFKUerqTw7GlNUGqDj9fYbHw0peQ5rQ8eMyuS7aXaX9zxJ0C1nzW-uC9x9RcwF5QwULNRU1nV9C6TVe0PPSCKqVyC/s320/10411782_10205536092354553_5689975603018423836_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Dance With Me?<br />
<br />
<br />
Dance in the sunshine, <br />
Dance in the rain. <br />
Dance when you're happy, <br />
Dance in the pain. <br />
Love always fills us,<br />
Love always smiles. <br />
Come with me, friend...let us dance for awhile!<br />
<br />
Dance on your troubles,<br />
Dance on your joys.<br />
Dance for your daughters,<br />
Dance for your boys.<br />
Love is the answer,<br />
Love is the key.<br />
Come with me, child...let us dance and be free!<br />
<br />
Dance with intention, <br />
Dance on the fly.<br />
Dance when you're laughing,<br />
Dance when you cry.<br />
Love is the journey,<br />
Love always wins.<br />
Come with me, stranger...let us dance and begin!<br />
<br />
Blessings, Anna Marie<br />
<br />
P.S. Miss watching you dance, Mom! I know you are dancing in Heaven!<br />
<br />
<br />drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-55796773383570041952015-05-08T08:27:00.000-05:002015-05-08T11:54:43.200-05:00Can We Really Love Others As Jesus Loved Us?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7JqgFO8nVk_h-OIJPbfqEs_Yy0tUFmnbCgfuhzl45C9pZKN6NiNzM6d3Vt6jdEl4W_XOJNApSZd07amgS5G70cfgj83VjeYztzzHBNSfkvznD81G60qNAAXspNM_p53LmAIgLoab9wSQF/s1600/Eye-of-God-Helix-Nebula-NGC-7293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7JqgFO8nVk_h-OIJPbfqEs_Yy0tUFmnbCgfuhzl45C9pZKN6NiNzM6d3Vt6jdEl4W_XOJNApSZd07amgS5G70cfgj83VjeYztzzHBNSfkvznD81G60qNAAXspNM_p53LmAIgLoab9wSQF/s320/Eye-of-God-Helix-Nebula-NGC-7293.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Credit">Image Credit: NASA, JPL-Caltech, Kate Su (Steward Obs., U. Arizona), et al.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>John</b> 15:12 NKJV</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Do you ever get stuck on one verse of Scripture? </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I do. John 15:12 is one of my favorites, and no matter how many times I ponder it, I always get something new. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Jack and I have a dear friend, Sharon Billins, an awesome woman of God who says, "Behind every verse of Scripture, there is an entire library in Heaven!" I love that! She is so right. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Today, as I did a little search, I learned that the words "have loved you" have a rich meaning through the tense of the original language. In the Greek, the word is agapao. The tense of the verb is the aorist tense. According to Strong's Concordance this is the definition of it: </span><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">"The aorist tense is characterized by its emphasis on punctiliar action;
that is, the concept of the verb is considered without regard for past,
present, or future time. There is no direct or clear English equivalent
for this tense, though it is generally rendered as a simple past tense
in most translations." (http://www.studylight.org/desk/interlinear.cgi?ref=42015012)</span></blockquote>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Jesus was not just the Son of Man, He was the Son of God. He always was, always is and always will be. His loving us did not stop after His ascension. He is always with us, always loving us. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So, I asked Him for more thoughts on the ways He loved, loves and continues to love us; and how do we do the same to one another?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Immediately, the passage from Mark 4:11 blared in my head! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>"To you (speaking to His disciples) it has been given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God..."</i> NKJV</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As His disciples, we love others when we reveal the mystery of the kingdom of God to them. How do we do this? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We have to go deep! We have to stay over our heads in the River of God, receiving fresh revelation from Him every day. And we share the love as we live in Koinonia! That is the Greek word for fellowship, community, communion. It's Family! God's Word is alive and active, because He is the Word. He is always with us, and is always revealing the mystery to us. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Let me share an example of what I mean. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Recently, the Lord gave me a revelation of the kingdom of God, the kingdom that we, as children of God live in, as the endless and ever-ascending spiral of God's glory in the universe! I shared this with my friend, Terry Deckard. She got so excited, because instantly she saw the DNA of God! It was her revelation that added depth to my revelation! We wooped and hollared with joy! And in that moment, we were loving one another as Jesus loved us! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This Love cannot end, it cannot die, it cannot be broken. God's DNA is perfect! And He gave it to us through Jesus! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So my dear ones, I hope you are feeling loved right now! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Blessings forever! Anna Marie</span><br />
<br />
PS And the love continues! I posted this blog piece on Facebook, and another good friend jumped into the Koinonia river!<br />
Brad Witt added, "<span data-reactid=".62.1:4:1:$comment10205456696249700_10205456765771438:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1"><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".62.1:4:1:$comment10205456696249700_10205456765771438:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body"><span class="UFICommentBody" data-reactid=".62.1:4:1:$comment10205456696249700_10205456765771438:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0"><span data-reactid=".62.1:4:1:$comment10205456696249700_10205456765771438:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0.$end:0:$0:0">We
are God's children with His DNA... DNA is a molecule that encodes the
genetic instructions used in the development and functioning of all
known living organisms... look at it as Dead Now Alive :) "</span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-reactid=".62.1:4:1:$comment10205456696249700_10205456765771438:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1"><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".62.1:4:1:$comment10205456696249700_10205456765771438:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body"><span class="UFICommentBody" data-reactid=".62.1:4:1:$comment10205456696249700_10205456765771438:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0"><span data-reactid=".62.1:4:1:$comment10205456696249700_10205456765771438:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0.$end:0:$0:0">Thanks Brad!! </span></span></span></span><br />
<span data-reactid=".62.1:4:1:$comment10205456696249700_10205456765771438:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1"><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" data-reactid=".62.1:4:1:$comment10205456696249700_10205456765771438:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body"><span class="UFICommentBody" data-reactid=".62.1:4:1:$comment10205456696249700_10205456765771438:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0"><span data-reactid=".62.1:4:1:$comment10205456696249700_10205456765771438:0.0.$right.0.$left.0.0.1.$comment-body.0.$end:0:$0:0"><span class="emoticon emoticon_smile" title=":)"></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-59411453415295519172015-03-14T09:32:00.001-05:002015-03-14T18:29:26.646-05:008 Ways to Stay Alert and On Fire!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9stQwS8ehLdypACg6OhX1rhVhDtKFODpvXuDlLXkWJLToYppVL1PrgE-cRwrsjjcf_16A9nYeVwHw_QDIaH69_VrrDvxFQyNe2-0mh_bqSJRzW05xJlb-j8ooPsKj8HeKIzhO-Ec5_4M/s1600/crazy+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9stQwS8ehLdypACg6OhX1rhVhDtKFODpvXuDlLXkWJLToYppVL1PrgE-cRwrsjjcf_16A9nYeVwHw_QDIaH69_VrrDvxFQyNe2-0mh_bqSJRzW05xJlb-j8ooPsKj8HeKIzhO-Ec5_4M/s1600/crazy+me.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="indent">Mark 13: 36-37 The Message</span><br />
<br />
<span class="indent">"You don't want him showing up unannounced, with you asleep on the job. <span class="versenum"></span> I say it to you, and I'm saying it to all: Stay at your post. Keep watch."</span><br />
<br />
<span class="indent">The challenge was on. My spiritual director asked our group, "How do you stay awake. and recognize the Spirit breaking into our lives at this time?" </span><br />
<br />
<span class="indent">She had just read the entire chapter of Mark 13, of Jesus' warning of the signs of His return, and things to watch for. I was meditating upon the words and her question. It was a difficult question for me. I had to examine my heart, and I wasn't sure I was awake! </span><br />
<span class="indent"><br /></span>
<span class="indent">When I get stuck on spiritual matters, I look at the issue from a natural perspective. How do I stay awake in the natural? Immediately, driving and getting sleepy popped in my head. What do I do to stay awake? This got me going, and I was excited to see the revelation the Lord gave me through it.</span><br />
<ol>
<li><span class="indent">Pull over and switch drivers</span></li>
<li><span class="indent">Stay active</span></li>
<li><span class="indent">Drink coffee</span></li>
<li><span class="indent">Do not overindulge with carbs</span></li>
<li><span class="indent">Stimulate mind</span></li>
<li>Conversation</li>
<li>Sing out loud at the top of your voice</li>
<li><span class="indent">Get proper rest</span></li>
</ol>
<span class="indent">Mulling over this list gave me some helpful insights I would like to share. God speaks to me through dreams and pictures symbolically. The first thought I had was of the car. Vehicles represent our lives or our ministries. Every thing in my list represents something important to me in staying awake spiritually. So here we go:</span><br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><span class="indent">If I am at the wheel, I am in control. A sleepy driver can be deadly. Let Jesus take control. He never will fall asleep at the wheel! </span></li>
<li><span class="indent">Stay active. For me this is clear, be intentional to do the Father's will. Get up and go! "Go in My name!" Just studying and thinking about His words can lull you to sleep. Doing His words is thrilling! Sharing my testimony, and watching someone come to Jesus because of it, gets my motor going! Seeing God heal someone, as I lay hands on them to pray, is indescribably awesome! </span></li>
<li><span class="indent">Drink coffee. This symbolizes drinking deeply of Living Water, first thing in the morning. Living Water is full of life! It flows from the throne of God and fills us and overflows us as we spend precious time with Him. Jesus spent His first hours of the day with Father God. He was filled, and energized, and given His marching orders for the day. </span></li>
<li><span class="indent">Carbs represent the pleasant words of God. They are the encouraging and kind words. They are delightful, but only feeding on them, can lead to a contentment for the status quo. We need the difficult sayings, the words that provoke us. Easiness can lead to a "live and let live" attitude. The Word tells us if we see someone heading down a path that leads to death, and we do not warn them, their blood is on our hands. This is a tough saying. Words like this wake me up from my comfortable slumbers, and challenge me to go.</span></li>
<li><span class="indent">There are many ways to stimulate the mind. There are multiple scientific studies on the human brain. One of the methods that is used to increase memory and recall is to involve other senses as you think. Smell has a huge impact on our memory. Thinking of this, I am reminded of the scripture that says, "Taste and see that the Lord is good." Psalm 34:8 How do we taste another person? Kissing comes to mind. I have never once fallen asleep when kissing my honey! Intimacy definitely keeps us awake! See. How do we see? To see is to perceive with the eyes. Seeing is intentional. Staring into space is not seeing. Closing our eyelids is not seeing. When we focus, we can see such detail. Seeing in the Spirit, can involve all our senses. Some see by what they know, some see by what the hear, some see by what they feel, and on it goes. Another interesting way to stimulate our minds is to turn all the pictures in our view upside-down. The instant they are upside down, our brains goes into alert mode and we begin to notice small details about them and this carries into our day. I have found that when I get into the Word and look at familiar passages from a different perspective I get new revelation. I perceive things I never knew before. Spending time with one word in the original language can give enormous revelation. And that is super energizing! </span></li>
<li><span class="indent">Conversation. We were created to be communicative beings. God said in the beginning, "It is not good for man to be alone." He is all about relationship. When we converse with others it can be very stimulating. We receive more revelation together than we do alone. Every time I have shared about the deep things that God has shown me, the people that are listening get their own revelation, and together we go to greater heights. I have never fallen asleep in a conversation where all are actively engaged. I have fallen asleep when listening to someone dominate the conversation. Because that is not conversation! That is a lecture. </span></li>
<li><span class="indent">Sing out loud at the top of your voice. When I am on road trips, especially when I am by myself, I sing along with praise music, with all I've got. I stay so energized! Once I was driving through north Texas singing with all my heart and soul. I was pulled over by a police officer. He politely said to me, "M'am, do you realize you were speeding?" I answered, "Well, I was singing!" He laughed and said, "Well there you go!" He let me go with a warning, and a smile. That day I drove 13 hours and never got tired! When I praise God with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength, I am empowered!</span></li>
<li><span class="indent">Get proper rest. There was a reason God made the Sabbath. He made it for us. It was for a refreshing. When we do not rest, and we get behind the wheel of a car, we can become a dangerous weapon. We can cause extreme harm. The same goes for our lives and ministries. Burnout is huge in our society. I am sharing a link at the end of this piece on ten effects of sleep loss. All of them have spiritual implications. Read it and give it some thought.</span> There is a time to get alone and just be with God. A time to stop the car, get out and stretch, lie down in the green grass and watch the birds fly overhead. A time to be silent and still. A time to just have fun. </li>
</ol>
Since I began to be intentional to stay awake and alert, my walk with God has grown in ways I could never have imagined. One thing I know, no matter how much you know, how much you learn, how much you get to do with God, There is always more! He is the God who keeps on giving!<br />
<br />
<span class="indent"></span>
Blessings, Anna Marie<br />
<br />
<span class="indent"></span>
<a href="http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/excessive-sleepiness-10/10-results-sleep-loss" target="_blank">http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/excessive-sleepiness-10/10-results-sleep-loss</a><br />
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<span class="indent"><br /></span>drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-26161137522260114722014-06-27T22:23:00.001-05:002014-06-27T22:31:51.167-05:00Reactor or a Responder?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This morning I was having a conversation with a young man named, Ricky Callahan. We were discussing relationships and healing. He was telling me about the moment that redirected him.<br />
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Not long ago, at work, one of his co-workers had a reaction to Ricky's directives as the manager. Ricky found himself stirred up in anger, but he did not reply. He stewed on it all day, and when he got into his car for his hour commute home, he was praying about it.<br />
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Immediately, he heard the voice of the Lord say,"I don't react, I respond."<br />
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I was immediately brought to attention by these words. I began to ponder the differences between the two words. I first thought of "First Responders." First responders go into a bad situation, and bring those involved, out of the situation, into safety, protection, even life!<br />
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One who reacts is in effect, re-acting the bad behavior; in others words, acting out the words, or behavior, or pain in the given situation, by acting with the same hurtful behavior or words. Reactions can cause explosions, disasters, and sometimes the damage can take years to repair. I speak from personal experience.<br />
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I am one who has been guilty of reacting instead of responding. Every time I have reacted, as oppose to responded, I caused a fracture in a relationship, there-by making the situation worse.<br />
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One of the definitions of react, from dictionary.com is: <span id="hotword"><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">to</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">act</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">in</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">opposition,</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">as</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">against</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">some</span> </span>force<span id="hotword">.</span> This immediately brings to mind what happens in opposition. Opposition, if not handled with care and diplomacy can cause irreparable damage. (Or, I should say, only the Blood of Jesus Christ repairs this damage.) Reactors do not need any training to react; they just do it. Reactors operate through fear.<br />
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First Responders are trained. One of the first things they receive training for is CPR, cardiopulmonary resuscitation. <br />
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As followers of Christ, we must train to be First Responders in the kingdom of God. We have the authority to heal the broken hearts, and bring the breath of life into those who are hurting.<br />
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Part of the training, for me, has been letting the Lord heal the areas in my heart that have allowed my to be triggered to react, rather than respond. As He has healed my heart and restored my breath, I have more peace and wisdom for dealing with painful relationships.<br />
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Beloveds, I urge you and myself to receive all the healing and training we can, as followers of Jesus, so that when the assaults and divisions come, we, like our Heavenly Father, respond and thereby bring those in distress into safety and freedom!<br />
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Blessings, Anna Marie<br />
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<br />drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-22529152230265900662014-03-09T19:48:00.005-05:002014-03-09T19:48:49.908-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-90042734141873448772014-03-06T10:46:00.000-06:002016-02-01T18:15:17.816-06:00Crossing the Finish Line!<br />
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Today, I found a journal that I wrote during, and immediately after the
years of fighting leukemia with our son, Stephen. Kicked the stuffing
out of me, for sure. Then I read some words that really undid me.<br />
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After our son passed away, I began running every day with a new intensity. We lived in rural East Texas. I would run for miles and miles, singing "A Mighty Fortress is Our God," over, and over, and over. It is all I sang for one solid year. Even now, almost 30 years later, I can feel the grief of those months.<br />
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It was during that time, I began to run fun-runs. 5ks, 10ks etc. In February of 1987, just months after losing Stevie, my husband Jack and I, and two other friends, Fran and Charles, ran a 6.5 run to raise money for a child that needed a liver transplant. It was a tough run for me, because of the emotions involved, but practically speaking the hills were about to kill me. ( I have lung issues) About half way through the run, Jack took off sprinting! He never ceases to amaze me with his skills. Charles, Fran and I stayed together, encouraging each other, and talking.<br />
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I was getting slower and slower. I wanted to quit. But my running buddies kept encouraging me, "You can do it!" Even though they weren't struggling, they slowed to my pace, and wouldn't let me give up.<br />
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Finally, the finish line was in view. We were the last runners coming in. People were cheering us on as if we were the first ones in! At the last few feet, I stalled, and said," I can't do it," through heaving gasps. Fran and Charles took hold of both my hands, and threw me across the finish line in front of them! <br />
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It was those last words I read in the journal, them throwing me across the line, at the end of my race that undid me today.<br />
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This race we are running can be unbearable at times. We were not meant to run it alone. God put us into community for a reason. We need each other. As we run let us keep our eyes on Jesus, and our hands on our brothers and sisters. We will reach the goal together! The first shall be last, and the last shall be first, and the joy of the finish line will be awesome for all!!<br />
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Thank you to Charles and Fran, and to many others who have grabbed me by the hand and not let me quit. May God grant me the courage, and fortitude, and love to do the same for all those He places on my journey.<br />
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Courage to all! Anna Marie<br />
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Hebrews12:1 NKJV<br />
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<span class="text Heb-12-1"><i>Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us... </i></span><br />
<span class="text Heb-12-1"><i><br /></i></span><span class="text Heb-12-1">Exodus 17:12 ESV<i></i></span><br />
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<i>But Moses’ hands grew weary, so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it, while Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side. So his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.</i><br />
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<br />drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-80648648079821827482014-02-16T13:39:00.000-06:002014-02-16T13:40:54.174-06:00Are You Easily Distracted?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Psalm 39:4-5 NKJV<br />
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<i>LORD, make me to know my end, And what is the measure of my days, That I may know how frail I am. <sup></sup>Indeed, You have made my days as handbreadths, And my age is as nothing before You; Cerrtainly every man at his best state is but vapor. Selah </i></div>
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I have a magnet on my refrigerator that says, "So much to do and so much to distract me from doing it."<br />
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I am smiling as I type these words, because this blog post is a perfect example of that expression. <br />
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I posted this photo of the rose as a point for meditating on the simple beauty of it. The next thing I knew I was "google-ing" roses to learn of their history, which led me to a site at a university in Illinois that explained how to care for roses. This prompted me to go outside to begin trimming my rose bushes, and then I remembered I had left my freshly brewed cup of coffee inside.<br />
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I went inside and to get my coffee, which prompted the thought of telling Jack my new knowlege of rose cultivation. I went back into our back room to tell him, and as we talked, I had the brilliant idea of going to see the Japanese Tea Garden. We decided to go, in a bit.<br />
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I remembered about the blog I was writing and went back to crank it up again. As I began to type, the keyboard went crazy, so I called my good friend and computer guru, Cavan.<br />
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He realized that something called sticky keys had been activated and walked me through the process to disable it. Realization dawned, the cat had been walking on my keyboard again!<br />
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Cavan and I had a good laugh when I told him about the blog post I was writing about getting distracted. Which led to a fun conversation about cats, computers and chickens!<br />
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By this time, my coffee had grown cold so I made myself another, and here I am! I started this little piece at about 10:00am and now it is 1:15pm and I still haven't finished it, or finished cutting my roses, or gotten dressed for our jaunt to the park....<br />
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Which brings me back to my main point. Are you easily distracted? Don't despair, rejoice in the simple moment of beauty all around you. Stop and smell the roses....squirrel!! <br />
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<br />drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-4450353306556010292014-01-26T09:52:00.000-06:002014-01-27T21:12:05.179-06:00Tangles or Tapestry?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Genesis 50:20 NKJ<br />
<i>... you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good...</i><br />
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Have you ever had a peek at God's view of the embroidered tapestry of life?<br />
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Many years ago, my husband, Jack, took an embroidery picture that my mother had made for me, and used it as an illustration for a sermon. As he spoke, he removed the fabric from the frame and turned the back side of it to us. What a mess! Crisscross threads, knots, dangling bits. He said this is what our life looks like to us. So often the events we go through, and the changes of direction that move us seem tangled, knotted up and cut off without explanation. <br />
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Then, he turned it over to show us the completed picture. It was so lovely! He smiled as he revealed to us that this is the way God sees our lives. God has a different perspective than we do. He knows our beginning from our end. We can trust Him to turn every tragedy into triumph, every change of direction into a story of journey. Someday, the knots and tangles will make sense, and we will behold the glory He has wrought in our lives. <br />
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Occasionally, along the way, we do get glimpses of the beauty of the picture. We just heard of a powerful story from our friends in Chile, the Colbys. Their car was broken into and their very important personal documents and sentimental things were stolen. A few days later, after much anguish, someone found the most important things in the woods, and discovered their names. He returned them to the Colby's, traveling many miles to do so, and in return, this out of work man was offered a job. A few days later, the man met Jesus as his personal savior! <br />
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One time, my truck window was smashed, and my radio was stolen. I had to make a trip to Austin from San Antonio that day. Usually, I listened to talk radio or played music while driving. This day, I just prayed. For the hour and a half it took me to get to Austin, my son's face kept coming to me, so I prayed for him all the way. That night, he didn't come home from work on time. Several hours later, he called. He had been involved in a hit and run accident! I knew immediately I had been praying for him for this very reason. It could have been a tragedy! Instantly, I thanked God for those thieves that took my radio, and asked Him to bless them! <br />
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What the enemy meant for evil, God meant for good! Shalom!drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-73291958570583297802013-11-12T07:02:00.000-06:002013-11-12T07:02:11.753-06:00Do You Want Everything?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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1 Corinthians 4:7 NKJV<br />
..<i>.And what do you have that you did not receive?.</i>..<br />
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The other day, my husband, Jack, was sharing a testimony about how he received an impartation from an older man in the Faith. It was a spiritual gift of healing that this man had received from God. It was one of those unusual God moments. The man knocked on our door, out of the blue. He was weeping in the Spirit of God, and he asked Jack for his hands. As he laid his hands in Jack's hands, he told Jack God had sent him to impart the gift of healing that he had been given from the Lord. He did, and then he left. <br />
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As Jack was talking, I thought of the decades that have passed since that day. I began to think about the measure of the gifting that our dear old friend had so freely given, and how long it had taken to be completely activated in our ministry. Suddenly, the Holy Spirit highlighted "what do you have that you did not receive..." with the emphasis on "have" and "not." Now, I recognize that Paul was exhorting us not to be prideful in our gifts, because that is exactly what they are, gifts. But God was reminding me, in that moment, that we have treasures upon treasures of gifts from our Heavenly Poppa that are our beyond measure!! What do we have waiting for us to open and use that we have not received? <br />
<br />
I went back to the root of the word receive. It comes from re- and capere to take, seize. Re- signifies doing something again, or anew. When we receive these gifts from God, we are actually taking back what was originally ours, in the Garden, before the enemy stole them from us. Jesus was beaten and was crucified to restore us, in everything and every way, to God! <br />
<br />
What keeps us from receiving everything Jesus already gave us?<br />
<br />
It is ignorance, lies, and shame.<br />
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Friends, let us cast these aside and press in to the fullness of Christ! Let's come alongside each other and help each other to be healed, and to learn truth, and to grow into the full stature of our dear Lord and Savior! <br />
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<br />drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-75623683230787813272013-10-25T10:14:00.002-05:002013-10-26T03:34:23.245-05:00Pesky Parasites!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk71k8JfA5dUmvsdoS9POCKOkVL7aEmDdooCOrnuYNjvCESjgMnLxN0ovJl-T1IOmbkpphyBxp9-aFwsFk51wiOHsmOQXUPAuLdpaH7pQAoNoAfilCkbpVbNdepIQSr8Chyisk6wPvJq5M/s1600/DSC06791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk71k8JfA5dUmvsdoS9POCKOkVL7aEmDdooCOrnuYNjvCESjgMnLxN0ovJl-T1IOmbkpphyBxp9-aFwsFk51wiOHsmOQXUPAuLdpaH7pQAoNoAfilCkbpVbNdepIQSr8Chyisk6wPvJq5M/s320/DSC06791.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I have to laugh. Jack and I just returned from a wonderful International Order of St. Luke the Physician healing conference in New Zealand. We saw some powerful healings and felt the glory of God round about us. I then spent the next three days in bed, sick with flu-like symptoms. Turns out I had parasites! Within one hour of taking a doctor prescribed dose of turpentine, I was almost one hundred percent better! Oh the irony!<br />
<br />
Parasites are much more pervasive than people realize. The little buggers are everywhere, and very frequently misdiagnosed. I am truly grateful for a doctor that was raised in the country and knows how common they are. I could have been put on all kinds of antibiotics that would not have done anything to solve the problem, and actually exacerbated it. <br />
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As I have been pondering why this happened to me, again, (happened after S. Africa trip, too) I realized that I did not bless and thank God for everything I ate. We blessed the food at our meals, but I was snacking on fruit throughout the day, without even giving it another thought.<br />
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Jesus always gave thanks for the food he ate, and recognized that it came from His Heavenly Father. I am thinking that thanking God in this way is becoming more and more important in our time of GMO's and pesticides and God only knows what other health destroying thing are being added to our food supply. I want to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness, especially as it applies to the food and drink He supplies.<br />
<br />
I totally believe God when He tells us in His Word that we can<br />
<i> <span class="textsearch">drink</span> <span class="textsearch">any</span> <span class="textsearch">deadly</span> thing, it shall in no wise hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. </i> Mark 16:18 ASV<br />
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The key for me, is to walk in faith and be thankful. We have another overseas trip coming up. I will let you know how it goes! drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-77301030471658093892013-09-25T17:35:00.001-05:002014-03-31T13:14:42.715-05:00Virtuous Women, United! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Recently, my friend Nora invited me to Alamo Heights United Methodist Church, here in San Antonio, to hear nine decades of wisdom from nine lovely women. They were asked to review the prior ten years of their lives, and tell us what they knew now that they wished they had known then. It was inspiring!<br />
<br />
I'd like to share the nuggets I came away with.<br />
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<b><i>First, from the 17 year old high-school senior:</i></b> God is there! (Psalm 139:7-10)<br />
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<b><i>Next, from the 20-something:</i></b> Seek God's approval, not man's! (Galatians 1:10)<br />
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<i><b>Thirdly from the 30-something:</b></i> God uses all our struggles for good. We can laugh without fear of the future! (Proverbs 31: 25)<br />
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<b><i>Fourthly from the 40-something:</i></b> Daddy God feels the same about me as I do my kids! He delights in <b>ME</b>! (Zephaniah 3:17)<br />
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<i><b>From the 50-something:</b></i> Change is coming - Don't fear it! The one constant is your identity in Christ! Practice trusting Him in the small things. Love more, worry less! Relationships over rules! <br />
(Matthew 6:25-34)<br />
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<i><b>60-something:</b></i> I do not know as much as I think I do! But this I do know: God loves me, just the way I am! Be intentional with God. God will get you through it! Choose joy! (Isaiah 41:10)<br />
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<i><b>70-something:</b></i> Be thankful! Appreciate God's timing, not ours! (1 Thessalonians 5:18)<br />
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<i><b>80-something: </b></i> Time is a valuable commodity. Less worry,confusion, fear; these are by-products of search for Peace. Be a better listener! (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)<br />
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<i><b>And from the 90+ treasure: </b></i><br />
Give words of encouragement to others. The blessings of old age: Time with the Lord which seemed limited in earlier years, is not limited in later years. There is more time to respond to the needs of children and more time to be involved. To those who are married: Focus on husband after nest is empty. Enjoy each other. Congratulate him on his successes! Stay on the same page with family after grand-kids arrive. (Proverbs 31:10-31) <br />
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For those with daughters-in-law: Laugh with them!<br />
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For those with sons-in-law: Keep your distance! (Laughter ensued!)<br />
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For married sons: Let him be the husband first! <br />
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For those with grandchildren: Stay in touch!<br />
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And finally, "God is good, as I told Him this morning!"<br />
<br />
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<i><b>More wisdom from all the women:</b></i><br />
For married women: Don't forget what connected you to your husband.<br />
Prefer one another.<br />
It's a partnership. I am not always right!<br />
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Be open and allow each other to be who they are.<br />
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Communicate!<br />
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There will be peaks and valleys. Enjoy the peaks, and when you are in the valley remember there is a peak coming! (Psalm 23)<br />
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For those in High School: Find your passion. Learn the hard part: Trust in God!<br />
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<i><b>I would like to add</b></i> that I took the 90+ year old's advice and congratulated my husband on his successes. I wish you could have seen his face light up! I asked him how it made him feel. He said, "Encouraged, affirmed and confirmed. It felt good! Do it more!" LOL, I believe I will! <br />
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Thanks, Ladies!! <br />
<br />
<br />drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-17767057374397104402013-09-19T11:01:00.000-05:002015-05-04T15:40:05.017-05:00More Thoughts on Loving Others...Are We Approachable?<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>John</b> 15:12 NKJV</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.</i></span><br />
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This commandment has me meditating and meditating. What does it mean to love others as Jesus loved me? Today, as I was pumpin' iron at the gym, I was thinking about this Word from Jesus.<br />
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"How do I do this, Lord? "<br />
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"Be approachable, as I am approachable." was the whisper in my head.<br />
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How do we come across to others? Do they feel free to engage us?<br />
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I started thinking about approachability. Who do I feel the safest approaching to ask for directions when I am lost? It is the person who looks me in the eye and smiles. They welcome interaction with their warmth.<br />
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Have you ever met a stranger who was approachable? This person welcomed you into a conversation, valued your input, made you feel like their new best friend? You felt all warm and fuzzy, and as you walked off with someone else saying what a lovely person that was, you found out they were famous?<br />
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That happened to me. I was privileged to meet the woman who helped start the National Alliance, an organization to end homelessness in Washington, and wife of a former White House Chief of Staff. She was totally approachable. We talked, prayed together, laughed together, and I wanted to get to know her better! I remember being so glad afterwards that I did not know who she was at the time, because I would have been tongue tied! <br />
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I know Jesus was like that. He did not announce who He was. He welcomed those who came to Him, as if coming into His presence was the most natural, familiar thing in the world. It says in many places that Jesus looked at them. The transliterated Greek word for 'looked,' in these moments is Horaro. One of its meanings is actually to see, i.e. to become acquainted with by experience. <br />
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He engaged with those who approached Him in such a way they experienced Him. His disciples felt no resistance in entering into a relationship with Him. He did not announce, "I Am God! Follow Me!"<br />
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Rather, He welcomed all who came to enter into a relationship with Him, in whatever degree they were able. It was after this He was able to be revealed as the great I AM. <br />
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So today, I want to be intentional to be approachable; to really look at others around me in such a way they feel welcomed, recognized, known. Hopefully, they will feel drawn to get to know Jesus, too. This will be my act of love for others.<br />
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Join me? drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-83732681005235921702013-08-07T06:59:00.000-05:002013-08-07T07:37:30.454-05:00How Can We Love Others the Way Jesus Loved Us?<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>John</b> 15:12 NKJV</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have been pondering some of the ways Jesus loved His disciples. (We are His disciples if we follow Him) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">How did He love us, and how can I walk this out daily? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I want to spend some time meditating on this. Today's thoughts are these:</span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Jesus was completely submitted to Father God. He faithfully revealed the love of the Father in such a way that He equipped His disciples to continue His redeeming Kingdom life. His love brought them up to His level! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> His love was completely selfless. His yoke was connected to the Father. He offers His yoke to us! A yoke is only used for work. As we go, we are to demonstrate the love of the Father to those around us. If we are yoked to Him, He takes the lead and knows the intended "field" to plow. </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If we take His yoke upon us and bear it without resistance, the fruit of the Spirit would be ripe and plentiful in our going. Love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control would be available to those who are placed in our path. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If we take His yoke upon us and bear it without resistance, the gifts of the Spirit would be manifest when needed. Words of wisdom, words of knowledge, faith, gifts of healings, working of miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, tongues and interpretation of tongues would be activated as needed to bring the Kingdom of Heaven to the earth. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Today I choose to bear His yoke without resistance. I want to reveal the love of the Father to those around me and in doing so, equip them to do the same. As He raises me up to His level, I want to raise others up to that level as well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Today I choose to let the Father take the lead for our path. As I am willing to go, He is willing to be revealed! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Father, in Jesus' precious name I choose You and Your love. Teach me how to reveal You to those we meet! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Blessings, Anna Marie
</span>drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-40173870844107412792013-04-30T06:44:00.000-05:002013-04-30T06:44:41.628-05:00Forgiveness, shall we?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><sup>Matthew 6:14-15 The Message</sup></b><br />
<br />
<i>"In
prayer there is a connection between what God does and what you do. You
can't get forgiveness from God, for instance, without also forgiving
others. If you refuse to do your part, you cut yourself off from God's part." ~ </i>Jesus<br />
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This past week someone hurled poisonous darts at me with his eyes and tongue. Even though I knew this person has serious issues, something rose up in me (I believe it's called the Flesh) and I saw myself as Squire Will Danaher (The Quiet Man) taking out my little black book, writing this person's name in it and then scratching it out in determination.<br />
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I even dedicated my magnetic refrigerator words to this cad. "The screaming purple monkey's tongue aches!" (Yeah, I know...)<br />
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My husband, Jack, reminded me that we have to pray for this soul. My response, "I will not waste my breath! I will ask God to bless him, but God knows I won't like it!" <br />
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Fast forward: Sunday morning, sitting in church, communion time is approaching. Repentance hits me, I lean over to Jack and say, "I guess I have to forgive him?" Jack just smiles. So I did, and asked the Lord to forgive me for taking offense and being unwilling to pray for this person. I asked Him to bless him and heal him. <br />
<br />
Immediately, God downloaded a love for this person. I started laughing and Jack looks at me questioningly. "I just forgave ... and God gave me a love for him"<br />
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I could not quit giggling. I did my part and God did His! <br />
<br />drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-35143587554254684242013-04-27T09:57:00.000-05:002016-01-07T23:03:25.102-06:00Is the Fruit of Our Lips Singing Praise? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Hebrews 13:15 NKJV <br />
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<i>Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to
God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. </i><br />
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The birds are cooing loudly outside this morning. Even though it seems a mournful tune, I always hear a song of praise calling out to Abba God. This morning, as I sat quietly listening to the dove choir, and thinking about prayer, a memory popped into my head:<br />
<br />
It was a Saturday morning. I was 16 years old and vacuuming our living room for my mom. Crash! I spun around to see what had happened, and was dismayed to see one of my mother's most treasured porcelain figurines lying shattered on the floor. The delicate little ballerina was destroyed. The tiny pink and white treasure had been given to my mom as a young girl by someone she loved dearly.<br />
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I began to cry and my mom flew into the room to see what was happening. She looked at the sight and her face showed a moment of pain, but she reached out to me and hugged me, and said,<br />
<br />
"Anna Marie, it is only a thing. You are more important to me than any thing. Don't cry."<br />
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I pondered why that memory would surface in my time with the Lord. I felt like He was reminding me of His love towards us, even when we mess things up. Even when our messes lead to destruction of precious things, He never stops loving us, never stops cherishing us, and wipes away our tears.<br />
<br />
As I remember all the messes I have made in my life, what I really feel is the overwhelming love of my Heavenly Father as He has held me and comforted me and forgiven me. It is a feeling like my heart must explode because it cannot contain all the gratitude and wonder from His heart to mine.<br />
<br />
The birds are still cooing loudly outside...sounds like their hearts must explode, as well....<br />
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<br />drm7.blogspot.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14395346336570900172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1201659664842932368.post-54964872993095971662013-04-04T06:41:00.000-05:002013-04-05T00:05:25.337-05:00Are You on Your Journey?<br />
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<b><sup>Deuteronomy 1:29-33 The Message</sup></b><br />
<b><sup> </sup></b>(Moses speaking) I tried to relieve your fears: "Don't be terrified of them. GOD, your God, is leading the way; he's fighting for you. You saw with your own eyes what he did for you in Egypt;<sup><b> </b></sup><b><sup></sup></b>you
saw what he did in the wilderness, how GOD, your God, carried you as a
father carries his child, carried you the whole way until you arrived
here. But now that you're here, you won't trust GOD, your God--this
same GOD who goes ahead of you in your travels to scout out a place to
pitch camp, a fire by night and a cloud by day to show you the way to
go."<br />
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2013 marks the 40th year of my journey with the Lord Jesus Christ. My husband and I have witnessed extraordinary exploits and extreme tenderness of our God in His people. He has led us through the valley of the shadow of death to the glory-covered mountain peaks of joy and has never left us alone. And yet, if honesty must speak, I still have my moments of doubt, despair and grumbling.<br />
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How can this be? I can only say, I live in the world that is broken and hurting, as well as in the kingdom of God. I have to choose every day, every moment which reality I will walk in.<br />
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This morning I am rejoicing in knowing that my choice more often than not is the kingdom of God. And when I choose poorly, I have brothers and sisters who help me up. As I am approaching the end of my 5th decade of life, I have been recognizing a peace that I know comes only through living and experiencing the journey. My heart is over-flowing with love towards you, my fellowman. You have walked with me on this journey. You have been Christ with skin on for me. And even if you hurt me, I learned humility through the pain, so, thank you.<br />
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If today was my last day in this world, I would want to leave behind this exhortation. Never give up; choose this day to live for Him. Rejoice in Him! He will be with you to the end! <br />
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