Category: Kindness

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Personality, Wisdom

Sprinkles, Leaves, and Kindness

A couple of Sunday mornings ago, we were preparing for church when Lydia had an ‘accident’ in the kitchen. She was not hurt, but when she reached up into the cupboard for the cinnamon-sugar shaker for her toast. In a flash, Lydia touched a small condiment container full of tiny sprinkles, which immediately crashed out all over the counter, sink, and floor.

“Mo-ooooom!” Lydia yelled. She needed help.

I was still getting ready for the day but rushed out to see what happened. I was a bit angry when I saw sprinkles in every direction, but tried to stay calm and just started cleaning up.

It took about twenty minutes to move aside (and rewash) a few dishes on the drying rack, shake off a package of English muffins, and clean out the toaster. Yes, sprinkles were EVERYWHERE.  I found them on the stove, under the blender, in the sink, and on the floor.

Of course, this made us a little late to church, and honestly, I was still a little upset. I felt Lydia should have seen it coming and been more careful. Similar ‘accidents’ have happened in the last few weeks, where she drops something because she wasn’t paying attention.

But mostly, I was annoyed that I ‘always’ have to clean things up. A parent’s job never ends! Lydia helped, but I did the majority of the work because I could see more of the mess.

Now, Lydia is fairly conscientious, as am I. A touch of discipline usually goes a long way for her. Thus, I have to manage my emotions, so she doesn’t take them to heart. I can’t prevent all the world’s problems, but I can prevent her from taking on my anger or drama and turning it into fear. Been there, done that!

We talked about it on the drive to church because we needed to clear the air. I’m so glad we did because we had a good time worshipping God together!

Later that day, Lydia and I took went on our Autumn Adventure. I took a cute picture of her throwing up some leaves in the woods. It was like a ‘ticker tape parade,’ and I loved seeing the joy on her face. Then, we went to eat and had a fabulous time.

Now, I could have let the stress of the morning stop us from having fun. But, I extended grace to Lydia, and it made all the difference. In other news, I found more tiny sprinkles all throughout the week. 😉

Well, you may have heard the saying, “Throw kindness around like confetti.” To me, that implies an abundance of generosity and goodness toward others. It also implies celebration. But, I never thought about it in the context of parenting! 😉

Truthfully, kindness isn’t the same as being nice. It’s loving someone enough to tell them what they need to hear, or show them tough love.

So… last night, when I was writing this blog post, guess what I found in the kitchen. Yep, a solitary white sprinkle! This time, I just smiled and moved on.

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God, thanks for Your lovingkindness, which knows no bounds. You are always quick to forgive and extend us grace. Help us share Your love with everyone we meet; may kindness spread just like sprinkles… everywhere! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: How can you ‘throw kindness around like confetti’ today?

Task: Here’s a simple double-check for you: Make sure all the lids are tight on all your pantry and refrigerator items. You’re welcome. 😉

Posted on in Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #344

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Free photos of Harvest

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This was a busy but relatively calm week!

Work was fairly quiet. I had plenty of patients and tasks to do, but I had a little more time in between each thing. I don’t know if I was more productive or not, but I certainly felt more productive because I actually got things done! It felt good to finish most of my work, as I was a bit behind the last few weeks!

On Tuesday night, my friend brought her month-old baby over! We were able to chat and give them a change of scenery. The baby had been crying all day and not sleeping well. Then, Lydia and I both enjoyed holding her, while my friend ran a quick errand. She’s still adjusting to taking the baby around town… there is so much to prepare for! Of course, the baby slept the entire time for us! 🙂

Speaking of babies, on Wednesday night, we volunteered at church. I have helped many times over the years, but Lydia is just easing into it. As a parent, I see that she’s at the point of needing to serve or risk being bored with church. We signed up to help in the 3 to 5-year-old room but ended up filling in for the 4 to 23-month-old room. It was not quite what Lydia expected, but she adjusted. One little girl attached herself to Lydia, who was the only one who could calm her down! In addition to playing with the toddlers, I changed three dirty diapers and wiped several snotty noses. It’s been a while since I did that!

Today, we did our normal Saturday chores, but mostly we just relaxed. I made some delicious vegetable beef soup. I used low-sodium V8, ground beef, frozen mixed veggies, and a few seasonings. I’m looking forward to having leftovers for a few days!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #342

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Free photos of Autumn leaves

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This was a busy but good week! We celebrated the first day of fall with some cooler temperatures. The colors of the leaves are starting to pop!

This week’s highlight was talking to my neighbors (new and old). I offered Lydia’s old jacket to my new neighbor for her daughter. It was a special moment, and I gave her a hug. She and her husband both thanked me a couple more times. Another neighbor had an important medical appointment, and I was glad to hear her good news. I’m really grateful to live in this community.

This week, Lydia and I both noticed Dave unexpectedly coming up with ‘random’ people. I had two people ask about my personal details, one Veteran and one nurse. I politely answered, and they were apologetic and kindly offered support. I appreciate the opportunity to talk about Dave and the Veteran especially identified with my loss. Then, Lydia had younger kids at the Y asking her what happened because one of our neighbors was talking about it. I don’t think they meant any disrespect, but it put Lydia on the spot.  I think it turned out alright, though it is still a little strange these conversations all happened in one week!

For my work week, I had a lot of fun teaching an inaugural class called “Eating to Reduce Pain and Inflammation.” We are affectionately calling this “ERPI” and hope this series is a turning point for our Veterans. Sometimes cutting back on unhealthy foods, or adding healthy ones, is not that exciting. But, we have found that pain is a big motivator in making healthy changes!

On Thursday, I picked up Lydia and her friends from Biogirls. It is fun to be the driver for a bunch of girls and listen to what they are talking about. There was a lot of laughter!

Really, Lydia had an exciting week all around. On Tuesday, she celebrated a friend’s birthday. She and others were invited to surprise the girl at her house and then stay for treats. Then, on Friday, Lydia took a school field trip to the planetarium!

Today, I was on-call for work. I did not have to go in, which is always a nice surprise. Either way, we had family come to visit and stay with Lydia just in case. It’s always nice to have company!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Immigrant Introductions

Lydia rides the bus to school each week, and I am grateful the bus stop is in front of our house. I, along with a few other parents, stand out there with the kids to make sure everything goes well. I don’t really worry about Lydia, but I do enjoy using that time to catch up with some of the neighbors.

Recently, I noticed two new kids running to get on the bus, a boy and a girl. It happened to be pajama day at school, so the little girl had a cute pink robe. It provided warmth and looked cozy on the slightly cooler morning!

A few days later, the father joined the kids at the bus stop. I introduced myself to him, as well as the kids. I will have to work on learning the kids’ names; I couldn’t quite make them out, even after I asked them to spell them. But, smiles go a long way in these instances. 🙂

Thankfully, their dad had a name I recognized right away. It was similar to some of my other African friends’ names, representing a character quality or similar word in English, such as Courage, Boldness, or Blessing.

Free photos of Children

The father is a specialty nurse at a local hospital. Originally from South Africa, they just arrived in America less than three months ago. I look forward to hearing more about their journey, and I was quick to welcome them. But, I also put myself in their shoes. 

I offered to help, if they need something as they acclimate to their new surroundings. I also asked if they were ready for the winter. The father said he had “never set foot on snow.” I don’t think he fully understands just how cold and windy winter will be!

Winter is just around the corner, and I want them to be prepared. I asked if he needed help finding snow gear. I swapped phone numbers with him and sent some links/pictures of snow pants. I also listed other items, such as hats, gloves, and snow boots. He was grateful.

I wouldn’t normally mention that after just meeting someone, but it seemed important to make sure this family has the heads-up. Lydia and I did this a few weeks ago because I know how fast the season can change and don’t want to be caught off-guard.

Earlier this week, I wanted to check in with my new neighbors yesterday at the bus stop. The kids are doing well, but the dad was at work. Thankfully, today, I met their mom! Talk about perfect timing!

We made introductions, and I asked her about the snow pants. 🙂 I invited her in to show her what I meant. When I opened the closet door, I saw Lydia’s old coat from the last two years! I was so happy because I thought we had donated it, and it was still in good condition! I offered it to her, and she was so sweet and grateful. She quickly understood what I meant about snow pants and coats needing to be thick.

We also exchanged numbers, and she wrote down her kids names so I could see them and pronounce them correctly. I answered some questions and asked if they had found a church, a grocery store, etc. Thankfully, they have been able to find a place to worship and shop!

It is fun to learn about different cultures, welcoming foreigners and making new friends. Sometimes there is controversy if we should allow certain immigrants to come to the United States. That’s beyond the scope of this post, and while I don’t have all the answers, I can certainly help my neighbor. That’s always been important to Jesus.

Of course, it is wise to be cautious; we don’t have to help every person we meet. Though, in this case, I felt comfortable, and it seems like the right thing to do.

I am interested to see how it all plays out and will let the Lord lead me as I try to be a friendly face to these new friends. I want to learn more of their story!

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God, thanks for my new neighbors and the opportunity to show them kindness. Help me be a good witness to them, as they acclimate to their new home and country. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you enjoy meeting people from other countries? Do you have any fun stories to share?

Task: Open your eyes to see the people around you. Be willing to speak up, ask good questions, and help out if the Lord leads you.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom

Comfort Zones

I read a quote this week by Pastor Levi Lusko, and it said, “Comfort zones don’t keep your life safe, they keep your life small.” Wow. As someone, who often prays for God’s protection and safety, this spoke to me!

As Lydia starts her last year of elementary school this week, I am thankful for the (relative) status quo of this year. It is bound to be a transitional time, but still, more of the same. Some of her friends were redistricted to a different school, but Lydia got to stay where she’s been. I am glad for her, but also helping her understand how others may feel.

I can foresee some changes on the not-so-distant horizon (also known as middle school next year). But, we will address those needs when they come. For now, I am going to enjoy each moment that Lydia (still) hugs me in front of her friends. Each moment she laughs at my jokes or tells me all the things I am doing well and that she’s proud of me.

Those are all good things, and far be it from me to rush into the next season. At the same time, I don’t want to run away from challenges. Not all problems are bad, if they push us to be our best!

Recently, Lydia and I have been discussing growth. Physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Growth means many things, but I think about beating stagnancy with learning, serving, and giving. If nothing changes, nothing changes!

Growth is possible when we lean on God and trust Him to bring us through. If we fight the growing process or drag our feet, we just prolong the test. As Joyce Meyer once mentioned the Holy Spirit lets us repeat the test as many times as it takes to get it right! Of course, the sooner we “get it,” the faster we can get on to new things!

If we are wise, we will use both comfort zones and challenges to draw close to Jesus.

Even with things staying mostly the same this school year, we still have plenty of opportunities for growth. Each day has its own challenges and troubles, and some days we are just glad to stay afloat. I am really grateful Jesus is with us!

You know, praying for safety is good, but perhaps it is better to pray for God’s will be done in each season and situation. There is always something to learn. We can’t expect life to be easy, but we can ask and expect God to show up and fight on our behalf.

Again, if you are in a comfort zone, that may be just fine. But if you’ve been there for a while, God might just be calling you to grow. Don’t be afraid; He is with you. Lean into His grace and let Him lead you to greater things!

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God, You are so good! Thanks for leading us with love and kindness. Don’t let us stay stagnant, but help us lean into Your grace during each challenge. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you in your comfort zone? Are you needing to trust God through a challenge?

Tasks: Start each day with Jesus! Be grateful for when the days are calm and even-keeled, and be grateful when life rocks your boat and challenges arise! Be willing to grow and be stretched!!

Posted on in Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

Forty-Year Tune-Up!!

Woohoo! In a couple of days, I am celebrating my fortieth birthday! That sounds a little crazy because I still feel like I am twenty-five!

My thirties started off with Dave being sick and then dying, so the majority of that decade was dedicated to processing my grief and making sense of my new life as a widowed, single mom.

I learned how resilient I am and what it means to cling to Jesus. I quickly realized there are no shortcuts when it comes to emotional healing. You have to put in the effort, be willing to accept help, and let God carry you sometimes. The only way through is through.

One big part of processing my grief was writing about my journey here. So thanks for reading, praying, and cheering me on! I appreciate you all.

I also spent a significant amount of my thirties writing and editing my book, Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward. It was a labor of love, and I am proud that I finally pulled it off! I am beyond pleased with how my book turned out, and I really appreciate the continued support and feedback. Thank you!!

In short, my thirties were rough at times, but I learned to roll with the punches. God was reliable and gracious. He lead me to higher ground and has let me help others through their grief. I can’t thank Him enough!

Free illustrations of Watercolour flowers

Over the last year, I have been learning how to take better care of myself. This is an ongoing thing, which includes continuing to chase seven or eight hours of sleep, exercise consistently, and eating well. That’s all great currently, but in a couple of weeks things will shift again as we acclimate to the new school schedule. That’s life, right?!

This year, I went to the doctor for my toe (of all things, lol!). Later, I went for my routine physical and a couple of new tests. I found a chiropractor I love and now have a lot less pain, too! It’s like I have had a forty-year tune-up! 🙂

Really, I look at it as setting myself up for success. Not everything can be prevented, but I want to do what I can. That said, you can do ‘everything right,’ and something wild comes from out of left field. But, we can learn to trust God no matter what.

While I have been working hard, I have also been learning to rest more in God’s grace. Thankfully, He is patient with me! I am excited to see where He leads and how He continues to provide for me. He has never let me down!

Lately, I find myself smiling and laughing a lot. I have found joy in clarifying my priorities. It’s a balance of finding ways to care for myself and others, including Lydia. This also includes letting go of what doesn’t serve me anymore and not taking myself so seriously!

Over these last few weeks, I have enjoyed looking back and seeing God’s faithfulness. I am grateful for the Victories He has given me over these forty years, and especially the last ten years. He is so good!

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God, thanks for an amazing forty years! This is just a flash of time to You, but You are so kind to let me walk with You. Thanks for taking care of all that concerns me. Help me walk with more grace and joy in this new decade! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How has God been good to you so far this year? What Victories do you see?

Tasks: Take a few minutes to reflect on how far God has brought you in the last few months or years. Write it down so you can remember it! (It’s easy to forget otherwise!)

Posted on in Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom, Worship

As Close As You Want To Be

Three separate, somewhat random sayings came to me yesterday morning while I was getting ready for work.

You are only as close to God as you want to be.

If you want what they have, are you willing to do what they did to get it?

Comparison is the thief of joy.

Free photos of Flowers

Here’s the short backstory: I was thinking about a picture I saw recently filled with some great people I don’t know very well… Well, this is off to a good start, right?!

Even though I have tried to get to know them better at various times, we just run in different social circles. I’m sure it’s nothing personal, and they are kind when we happen to run into each other. They are just busy serving God and going about their days, as am I. 

Still, for a split second, I started to compare my walk with God with how I perceived theirs must be. Perhaps they pray more or read their Bible more… If I were more spiritual, maybe I could… 

STOP. Thankfully, I nixed that game before it got out of hand!

While each of the three phrases is noteworthy on its own, yesterday, they somehow all seemed to converge together. For me, they felt like a personal reminder, or perhaps a timely challenge. So here goes!

Free photos of Rose

You are only as close to God as you want to be. God is never far from us, though sometimes we feel like He is nowhere to be found. The good news is that’s simply not true. Our emotions can change quickly, but the Lord is always faithful, steady. Nonetheless, connecting with God takes time, effort, and intention. Thankfully, He is infinitely patient and wise. Yes, God makes Himself known to those who seek Him and want to know Him.

Gut check: Are you just skimping by on quick, little prayers and random online Bible quotes, or are you really digging deep into God’s Word? Do you come to Jesus several times a day, or just on Sunday mornings? Do you run to Him first, or as a last resort?

If you want what they have, are you willing to do what they did to get it? This one could be a bit convicting, though it doesn’t have to be. Perhaps those people are praying more than me or reading their Bibles more than me. That’s wonderful… if it’s true. I really can’t know for sure, and I am not responsible for them. Besides, I don’t know all the sacrifices they have had to make!

I am only in charge of what God has put on my plate, and I can rest in that freedom. When I consider all that is, well, He must think I am pretty capable. I don’t have it all together, but neither do the people in that photo. The little I know them, I’m pretty sure they would agree.

Gut check: I can only do my best, but am I actually doing my best? Or could I do better? Spiritually, how does this look? Am I willing to sacrifice more, or do I need to be content with my resources and limitations?

Free photos of Dahlia

And finally… Comparison is the thief of joy. This adage is so true. Thankfully, I caught those thoughts and bent them toward making me better, not bitter.

Of course, life isn’t automatically easy for anyone. Perhaps the grass is greener on the other side because they are watering the grass. Or, perhaps God decided to bless them with rain, so they could focus on other things He has asked them to do. Both situations require a decent amount of God’s grace, plus a good deal of faith and a whole lotta elbow grease. 

Gut check: Am I spending adequate time with Jesus, letting Him be my all in all? Am I being obedient and walking in peace? Or am I getting sidetracked with sin and/or envy? 

Ultimately, I don’t have to compare my life or walk with Jesus to anyone else’s. I just need to stay close to Jesus and walk humbly with Him, grateful for where I am at this moment. He is so good and has good things in store for me!!

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God, thanks for all the wonderful ways You have blessed me. Help me not take You for granted, but put You above all else. Help me have a good attitude, think the best of others, and do what you have called me to do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Which of those phrases stood out to you today? How can you apply them in your life?

Task: If you are feeling far away from the Lord, reconnect with Him this very moment! He draws close to those who draw close to Him (James 4:8). Don’t delay; just come as you are!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #334

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This felt like a short week!! Several parts were out of our normal routine, which made time fly by. Overall, it was a good week, and I just rolled with everything. I’m always grateful for all the ways God takes care of us.

On Sunday morning, we arrived home around 3 a.m. from our family reunion. After sleeping in a bit, Lydia got up and carpooled to camp! She had a lot of fun!

I was off work on Monday, as a planned day to get things done. I was able to organize several parts of my house, which felt amazing. I cleaned up the office/overflow room, and I moved some things around. It was so nice to have a whole block of uninterrupted time to focus! That doesn’t happen very often!

I worked a couple of normal days and then a couple of partial days. Lydia got sick, so I was able to take some sick leave to be with her. I was glad for the flexibility to take some time off and for great coworkers who could cover for me. It was good for me to have some time to rest, too.

Indeed, it was a funny work week, as I was also on-call today after previously swapping with someone! A coworker kindly offered to go in for me, if needed. Thankfully, Lydia was feeling pretty good, so I was able to work when I was called in, after all.

 The weather was beautiful this week, and I enjoyed the sunshine and blue skies! It has been a beautiful summer, and I am trying to absorb as much of it as I can!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

Comfort Amid Grief

Sometimes you are in the right place at the right time, and sometimes, that place is church! This past Sunday, I had a God moment at church that I want to share with you.

About a year ago, I met a woman and her husband. They had been watching online through much of COVID, but I met them the first Sunday they decided to “try out” our church in person.

They were really sweet, and I was glad to meet them. Flash forward to the present, and the husband’s dementia has progressed. He is now in a nursing home, about an hour and a half away. His dear wife visits him every other day, though he does not fully recognize her.

I have encouraged this wife whenever I see her; she has become a friend. Though my experience was with cancer, I know how it feels to be a caregiver and decision maker in an end-of-life situation. Watching your beloved spouse decline is difficult, and I have been cheering her on.

So, when I saw this lady on Sunday, I stopped to greet her after the service. She was so happy to see me and shared how she had been struggling. I affirmed her statement that she is already grieving, though her husband is still alive. I agreed with her sentiment that she hopes he “goes soon” rather than have this continue over months or years. (Either way, we know he is in God’s hands and that his suffering is not in vain.)

I listened while my friend conveyed her lack of motivation. In these challenging times, I confirmed it is normal to need to get groceries but feel overwhelmed leaving the house; or, to finally prepare a meal but have no desire to eat it.

She mentioned she keeps forgetting about a support group at the VA (where I work), and I coached her with some tips. Marking her calendar in advance, while she is thinking about it, might help her not feel surprised whenever she gets a same-day reminder.

I also offered to help connect her with someone at the VA who could help guide her through the funeral and cemetery details (when the time comes). As she talked it through, she started to smile, and I could see her burden was lifted a little.

I gave this dear woman a big hug, and she just fell into my arms. I prayed for her on the spot, and she just melted in surrender. Not that my words were so deep, in fact, they were rather simple, but she felt seen and understood. She said it was just what she needed.

We only talked for a few minutes after the service, but it felt like a God-ordained moment for both of us. I am grateful He has used my story and experiences to help and guide others along the way.

I was reminded that we don’t JUST go to church to worship God but to be His hands and feet. My friend said, “And to think, I wasn’t even feeling up to coming today. I was going to stay home and watch online. But now, I am so glad I came.”

2 Corinthians 1:4, NLT, says that God “comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”

During the well-timed sermon, our pastor mentioned this all is like a game of tag. God comforts us…and then it’s our turn to comfort others with the peace, strength, and grace He has given us. Tag! You’re it!

So, don’t discount your story or experiences. God can use all your pain, grief, and life’s ups and downs to make something beautiful… if you let Him!

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God, thanks for my friend. Would You please encourage, strengthen, and comfort her? Please meet her needs (spoken and unspoken) and remind her of Your grace and love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you seen God at work in your life story? Have you seen Him use your pain and grief in someone else’s life?

Task: Listen to this song! God will never fail you, no matter what.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Personality

Radiant

This week, I have found myself laughing and smiling a lot. I don’t know that it is related to anything in particular, just lots of little things!

For starters, I had some great conversations with friends and family. The weather has been beautiful, and I noticed some lovely flowers in bloom. I took advantage of some good sales and had some fun memories pop up on social media. I am feeling strong after a couple of good weight lifting workouts… and, hey, I have had a good hair week thus far (#priorities). 😉

I have had some noteworthy patient interactions and received compliments on my skills! Also, one of my coworkers parked next to me, so we walked in together one morning. We have the same first name, and we sometimes joke that two Natalies are better than one! It’s just one of many fun things that have happened at work so far this week!

And, a couple of patient cancellations and no-shows gave me extra time to finish my work. Whew! Then, that gave me mental space to focus on some other things.

As I have had a little more time to reflect, the word RADIANT popped into my mind. Now, maybe your first thought is related to Charlottes’ Web, but I think of God’s glory, goodness, and grace!

Speaking of smiles and the word RADIANT, in a quick follow-up from last week, have you seen the pictures from the James Webb telescope?! Wow! I am in awe!

For me, the pictures are glorious examples of our Creator’s majesty. 1 Corinthians 2:9 says, “…’No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.'”

Colossians 1:16-17 (NLT) says, “for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see—such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through him and for him. He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together.”

Imagine what Heaven will be like!

I am sure God is tickled to let us in on this ‘secret’ of the universe… showing off His handiwork! You know, He has a wonderful plan, yet most of it is far beyond anything we can fathom. It’s mindblowing to think we only know a small part of all God is doing in this vast universe. Yet at the same time, He is right here with us. 

Psalm 34:5 says, “Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.” Some days are tough, sure. But with Jesus, we always have a reason to smile! We can trust Him, and because He is in control, we don’t have to worry. Let Him show you His power and might. The one who plays with the stars like baubles holds you even closer!

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Wow, God, I am in awe of Your radiant majesty! Thanks for showing us a little more of who You are this week. Help us walk with smiling joy and excitement knowing You have good things in store! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What is your favorite picture from the James Webb space telescope? (I love the depth and color of the Carina Nebula, but pretty much all the rest, too!)

Task: Check out this worship song from Hillsong United, “So Will I (100 Billion X).”