| Friday, July 20 |
| The Worth of A Woman |
One Flaw In Women
By the time the Lord made Woman, He was into his sixth day of working overtime..
An angel appeared and said, "Why are you spending so much time on this one?"
And the Lord answered, "Have you seen my spec sheet on her? She has to be completely washable, but not plastic, have over 200 movable parts, all replaceable and able to run on diet coke and leftovers, have a lap that can hold four children at one time, and a kiss that can cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken heart -and she will do everything with only two hands."
The angel was astounded at the requirements. "Only two hands!? No way! And that's just on the standard model? That's too much work for one day. Wait until tomorrow to finish."
"But I won't," the Lord protested. "I am close to finishing this creation that is so close to my own heart. She already heals hers elf when she is sick AND can work 18 hour days."
The angel moved closer and touched the woman. "But you have made her so soft, Lord."
"She is soft," the Lord agreed, "but I have also made her tough. You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish."
"Will she be able to think?", asked the angel.
The Lord replied, "Not only will she be able to think, she will be able to reason and negotiate."
The angel, noticing something, reached out, touched the woman's cheek. "Oops, it looks like you have a leak in this model. I told you that you were trying to put too much into this one."
"That's not a leak," the Lord corrected, "That's a tear!"
"What's the tear for?" the angel asked.
The Lord said, "The tear is her way of expressing her joy, her sorrow, her pain, her disappointment, her love, her loneliness, her grief and her pride."
The angel was impressed. "You are a genius, Lord. You thought of everything!
Woman is truly amazing."
And she is!
Women have strengths that amaze men.
They bear hardships and they carry burdens,
but they hold happiness, love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take "no" for an answer if there's a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel; cheer when friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they think here is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail to show how much they care.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideals.
Th ey give moral support to their family and friends.
Women have vital things to say and everything to give.
THERE IS ONLY ONE FLAW IN WOMEN:
THEY ARE NOT AWARE OF THEIR WORTH.
Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly.Labels: Bible Nuggets, Church Family, Pearls, personal |
posted by Marsha @ 7/20/2007 06:03:00 PM   |
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| Tuesday, May 22 |
| Reflections and Promises |
Since Mother's Day, I have had many opportunities to observe the young mothers of our church family, listen to my own three daughters (in-laws included in the number) talk through their present day 'mothering' experiences, converse with my "Mothers" as I reflect on their wisdom in childrearing, and meditate upon biblical examples of both great and inappropriate matronly figures. The most thought provoking lessons I have learned about motherhood/mothering has not come from the above sources but rather from their offspring - the blessings of GOD - the children!
I learned from a very visible (and cherished by other adult women) lady's kiddos that they can see Mom for what she doesn't say and that superficial 'agape' and concern is just skin deep. They are learning firsthand by her actions that when one does not meet her expectations it is acceptable behavior to ignore the problem (person) away and just not deal with it. How very sad that type of adult behavior is because how is the person wronged (ignored into oblivion) suppose to know that this Mom has issues that involve her past. The kiddos see it and think "Mom does it so when my friend isn't "qualified" in my eyes, I don't have to be a friend with him." True AGAPE toward another would meet, discuss, express emotions and pray with the other. (I must mark my book of THINGS TO DO - approach with love and kindness this lady...see how I can help if she wants help. And pray - pray that she will do what Jesus did with the woman taken in adultery...forgive her and love her enough to help her not to sin again.)
I watched as several young mothers rejoiced with two of our other young mothers who were trimphant against severe fleshly trials. One mother was able to conceive and is about to deliver her first child after three consecutive miscarriages. How truly blessed the fruit of her womb will be as she brings daily happiness into her young parents' lives causing the sorrow of lost children to only a dim remembrance! The other single mom was able to adopt not only the first child she began caring for (as a result of abuse from biological parents) but ALSO this little daughter's brother who is just a month old! Jewels in her crown and a grand inheritance indeed! (I will add these young mothers to my prayer list that their futures will be transformed with many more awesome acts and answers of their personal prayers to the FATHER!)
As for my own daughters, the eldest (DiL) along with my son made the decision to assist her unwed sister in Atlanta who is due in September. She'll be there to financially assist for at least a year providing relief for a very stressed sister as well as work toward gaining that ever necessary experience in her chosen field of employment. Selflessly, my son has agreed to the arrangement as he knows he must finish as many courses at his college before he redeploys to Iraq. The college town is within an hour's driving distance of Atlanta and so they can be together throughout the week and weekends until he leaves. And while he's away, my oldest will have the comfort of being with and helping out her sister. (Again, pray for sister, daughter and son to be aware of each other's spiritual, emotional, and physical needs in such a world as this.)
MY daughter out west will be coming home to Dixie in two weeks. Hubby (my only SiL) will be deployed in early August to AL Asad. He will make ready a house/home while he's here so that his girls (daughter and their two daughters) will have natural and church family to care for them in his absence. My daughter is pregnant with their third. This will also give me a chance to 'get to know' their second daughter (my third grandbaby) who was born out there - a treat I'm really looking forward to whole heartedly experiencing! I will be able to reconnect with my longest known granddaughter AND be able to assist my daughter with the girls during the pregnancy. (Remeber to thank GOD daily for my son who is willing to sacrifice for his country and unconditionally loves my daughter and their children enough to give me such a priceless gift - time to watch, play, and grow with his family.) MY daughter's sweet and undying love for her family has rubbed into the grain of character in my second granddaughter - she (g-daughter) expresses her undying admiration and LOVE to her Daddy daily - and almost daily to her Mimomma and Granddaddy when she can get ahold of the phone!
My youngest daughter (who is married to my oldest son) gave my life regeneration with the birth of our fourth granddaughter. What a treasure to actually hold the newest when she was less than 15 minutes old - something I will hold in my heart forever! She allows us to tend to her oldest (my oldest granddaughter who is actually a 'step' in reality but more and more precious each moment she spends with me) daughter. I was able to see the tenderness Mommy taught her as she remarked while holding new baby sister, "I love you, I have always loved you, and I will always protect you because you are my baby sister." That's hearfelt agape that is learned by example and practiced through experience with your own mother! (Ask GOD to protect the tenderness of this family and to grant me the precious gift of my granddaughter's tender, sweet heart - to love others just because we are 'related' in HIS eyes.)
This concludes part one of Reflections and Promises - look for part two tomorrow night!Labels: Children, Church Family, grandchildren, personal, prayer requests |
| posted by Marsha @ 5/22/2007 12:42:00 AM |
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| Saturday, April 21 |
| Weekend Reflection |
 I'm going to try to do WR, too, but please be mindful and my meds make me mindless!
Sunday was a shocking start to a wonderful week as my Ebenezer returned to Dixie to further her USAF training. Made me feel 'homesick' for the banks of the Wabash as well as for Heaven! Monday was spent catching up hubby's books at the new shop. While there (a retail specialty firearms shop) the news began to pour in about the V-Tech killings. At home, I readied the house for Ladies Class at my home.
I taught the Ladies BIble Class on Tuesday a.m. in my home. We studied how to overcome disappointment and frustration - personally a much needed lesson. Lesson powerpoint presentation can be accessed by clicking here. That evening I recieved a call from by best little Vallie-Girl. She was reminding me that she's coming to Dixie soon for an extended visit.
I crashed Wednesday - rested mostly and worked on quilts. (I'm a textile artist of sorts, Thanks Grandma Eva!)
Having trouble remembering Thursday- I did "GO" and invite others to "Come and See."
Friday began with Bible Reading Class and ended with a much anticipated phone call from my beloved physical brother about his return to the Great SHEPHERD's fold. Thank YOU, LORD, that YOU hear my little prayers. YOUR loving kindness endures forever! Cameron came in late to spend the weekend with Hubby and me (Air National Guard weekend.)
Saturday was spent doing for others - two quilts cut and one top fully pieced together, ceramic houses glazed, photo albums covered, caught up some websites.
No wonder I'm soooo tired, but it's a good feeling. Tomorrow, our LORD's day I look forward to meeting with other saints and renewing my covenant with my SAVIOR. Also, I can hardly wait to GO-AND-SEE...the fields are white with harvest. LORD bless our spiritual family's efforts over the last several weeks preparing for the spiritual feasts of this upcoming week!Labels: Church Family, Pearls, personal, weekend reflection |
| posted by Marsha @ 4/21/2007 09:20:00 PM |
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| Thursday, April 19 |
| Thankful Thursday |
I am thankful for my Mother-in-Law Betty D. She's been the "Naomi" in my life since March 21, 1975. Today, my Naomi frove me to my UAB Neurological and Cardiographic appointments - with a smile on her heart and encouragement adorning her lips. She's at an age where I should be caring for her - very blessed she is to have such great health! Yet, she tenderly and carefully tends to my physical needs and spiritual endeavors just like Naomi did for Ruth in the Old Testament. Thank you, Betty D! You are appreciated MORE than you'll ever know! Agape, Labels: Church Family, Pearls, thankful thursday |
| posted by Marsha @ 4/19/2007 09:45:00 PM |
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| Wednesday, April 18 |
| No Languor Know - For Betty |
For Betty B-
These words now have even more precious meaning than before - I hope they do for you, too!
Rock of Ages
Rock of ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure,
Save from wrath and make me pure.
Could my tears for ever flow,
Could my zeal no languor know.
These for sin can not atone;
Thou must save and thou alone:
In my hand no price I bring,
Simply to thy cross I cling.
While I draw this fleeting breath,
When my eyes shall close in death,
When I rise to worlds unknown,
And behold thee on thy throne,
Rock of ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in thee.
Music by Thomas Hastings
with lyrics by Augustus Toplady 1776, 1832Labels: Church Family |
| posted by Marsha @ 4/18/2007 11:59:00 PM |
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| Sunday, April 15 |
| A Little Taste of Heaven?! |
A few moments before the breaking of bread to renew my covenant with my LORD ALMIGHTY, Sara quietly slid down the pew to sit next to me! Joy overwhelmed me and tears trickled down my cheeks...I recovered as quickly as possible with an enormous hug - not wanting to let go!!!
Who's Sara? She's a younger Christian lady from the Midwest (now), the wife of a now-retired captain USAF (he is young in the FAITH but zealous in works for our LORD,) the mother of two beautiful and wonderfully curious sons, and a captain herself in the USAF (her reason for 'showing up' for this morning's worship service). She's all that - but TO me, she's my EBENEZER (1 Samuel 7:11-13)
I first met Sara soon after her hubby was transferred south by our government, and she was able to move their two young sons (the baby just three months old) and household goods to his duty station here. Hubby sat in front of us his first worship as he was seeking a home church; how fortunate for me! (That still remains their "reserved seat" among the saints at our congregation.)
I, at the time, had just been 'put to pasture' due to this bloomin' PD, was feeling the anxieties of an empty nest, and truly was on the verge of depression. You see, I was "going to teach children until I was 108." After 26+ years in the trenches and at 49 years young, I couldn't continue to train and love children from 'the floor' of the classroom where I usually ended up every morning (for two years - I was just not letting go and letting GOD) after meds for Parkinson's took affect. (Also, "I never got sick," I used to retort. So, how could this be? Parkinson's Disease - not me!) Equally significant was the lack of noise and bustle in my home of my beautiful young adult children. I was empty, lonely - too quiet for me. I hadn't understood the meaning of Hab. 2:20. They didn't need me (my perception) as they were starting their own little families - three weddings, one divorce, and one more marriage in less than three and one-half years.
It was then that Sara, Hubby, and sons took up residence on the pew at the church building in front of me...how blessed I was! Their liveliness in and dedication to the LORD's work breathed freshness into me - renewed my soul for two years. Then, Hubby retired from military service to take up a new position/job in northern Midwest. He whisked my Sara, my stone of help, and family back to his home state. I was stronger emotionally at that time - still sorrowful that they left Dixie. I knew, however, that when called upon each in HIS Kingdom need to be about the LORD's business. They had to walk right through those doors of opportunity to be salt and light as Sara had been to me and our surrounding community.
Additionally, I had begun to donate time at my school as a volunteer at least once a week. I was feeling stronger physically although still experiencing 'drop attacks'. With adequate rest, I was able to 'get out' and begin a new hobby as a ceramist (ASAD). AND I had become Mimomma to two of the sweetest, most innocent granddaughters with the promise of another beautiful grandchild on the way. But, I always looked forward to our brief encounters with my 'church grandsons' and their parents - Barnabas (Hubby has become an encourager to my Hubby and me) and Ebenezer!
I have missed Sara and Hubby and boys; I love them like my own children! Sara was a stone of help sent to me by the CREATOR to carry through the camps of "Philistines" by her gentle, nurturing spirit. I realized (and anticipated) that some day soon she would return briefly (for school as a student at the base and then later to teach war college classes as an instructor) as she did today. I just lost track of time I guess. What a beautiful gift today - a little taste of heaven. Just when I needed my Ebenezer - there she was again!
How good I felt as joyful tears swelled in my eyes and dripped down my cheeks! Immediately I thought of one of my Mom's favorite hymns, "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing." Oh, how wonderful one will feel throughout eternity to be able to raise individual stones of help (Ebenezers) in praise to our FATHER!
LORD, help me to become an Ebenezer for some one else today, tomorrow, and each day YOU give me on this earth. Give me time and opportunity to enjoy my Ebenezer while she's here for her classes. And please please, Dearest FATHER, protect her lovely family with love, mercy, grace, and peace while she's away from them!
Amen
COME THOU FOUNT OF EVERY BLESSING
by Robert Robinson(1735-1790)
1. Come Thou Fount of every blessing
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace;
Streams of mercy, never ceasing,
Call for songs of loudest praise
Teach me some melodious sonnet,
Sung by flaming tongues above.
Praise the mount! I'm fixed upon it,
Mount of God's unchanging love.
2. Here I raise my Ebenezer;
Hither by Thy help I'm come;
And I hope, by Thy good pleasure,
Safely to arrive at home.
Jesus sought me when a stranger,
Wandering from the fold of God;
He, to rescue me from danger,
Interposed His precious blood.
3. O to grace how great a debtor
Daily I'm constrained to be!
Let that grace now like a fetter,
Bind my wandering heart to Thee.
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,
Prone to leave the God I love;
Here's my heart, O take and seal it,
Seal it for Thy courts above. Labels: Challenges, Children, Church Family, Pearls |
| posted by Marsha @ 4/15/2007 04:10:00 PM |
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| Monday, September 11 |
| Golden Wedding Anniversary |
This weekend I attended a very special commemoration! Nine couples from our church family celebrated by renewing their wedding vows - each with MORE THAN 50 YEARS of marriage to the same person! That sadly has become the exception instead of the norm for our generation and times. I hope that my husband (of 32 years) and I will be able to physically make the 50 year milestone.
These couples offered words of wisdom for continuing marriage in spite of the odds.
1. Never let the sun go down on an argument.
2. Never entertain the word D-I-V-O-R-C-E in thoughts, vocabulary, or actions.
3. Remember to tell your spouse "I love you." before turning out the lights to sleep through the night.
and 4 - the most important - include GOD in all your plans, thoughts, prayers, etc....START YOUR MARRIAGE WITH HIM as HE is the author and creator of marraige anyway!!!
Congratulations to:
John and Betty
Neal and Barbara
C. A. and Delores
John and Betty - part 2
Dan and Ollie
Joe and Sarah
James and Helen
Owen and Ann
Jess and Pat
And THANK YOU for your enduring examples of love, and stamina to beat the odds!
Labels: Church Family |
| posted by Marsha @ 9/11/2006 12:43:00 AM |
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