Category: Wisdom

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

It’s Gonna Be Okay

The week after the Spring time change (DST) is always a little rough. I didn’t feel it was off to too bad of a start, until I stayed up late two nights in a row working on a project and completely lost track of time! Thankfully, I felt fine, but I was moving slooow. Whoops!

Then, yesterday morning, Lydia slept in through her alarm! We each have our morning rhythms, which is more apparent when the timing gets off. Thankfully, I have built in extra time in Lydia’s schedule, so she wasn’t really too far behind like I was.

When our morning routine gets off, I have learned to roll with it. These are the days where I don’t do the extras. That means I skip the lathering shower pouf, use the lotion that takes less time to soak in, and don’t try anything new (think makeup and hair products)!

On those days, I don’t skip breakfast, but I may grab something portable or forgo the milk in my coffee. One reason I have trained myself to drink it black… sometimes, it’s necessary!

Yes, there are days when it seems everything is just “off” or something dramatic happens. This song, Into the Sea, by Tasha Layton, references Psalm 46:1-3, which says:

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.”

I have been singing and humming about mountains falling into the sea all week, but yesterday, it made me think. What does it mean by ‘mountains falling into the sea?’

We don’t have mountains in Fargo, which is pretty flat. But, I have seen avalanches and glaciers calving online! And, practically speaking, this is a great picture of everything literally falling apart.

When the ground starts giving way beneath us, God is there to catch us!

Another line that stands out in that song is, “Only good things come from You.” I am reminded that chaos is not directly from God, but He will turn it into something good.

Because He is good… that is, goodness is a part of His nature… He can’t help but use my circumstances for His glory and my good. Of course, this isn’t just to make sure I get to work on time. But, rather that I stay in tune to His timing and follow His lead.

With Jesus on our side, it will always turn out well for us. That doesn’t mean we won’t have challenges, but He is with us and for us! With confidence, we can trust Him and say, “It’s gonna be okay!”

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God, You are good! You sustain me when life is uncertain. Thanks for being my safe place. Thanks for staying close. Be my strength and hold me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions:  On those crazy-busy mornings, would you rather be late and do everything well? Or, do you have a back-up plan to save time?

Tasks: Crank up the sound and listen to the song, Into the Sea, linked above in pink. Then, listen to this song, “Safe Here,” by the same artist! Sooo good!

Posted on in Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

Coming or Going

Lydia and I are coming off a three-day weekend, thanks to Presidents Day on Monday. 

We had considered traveling to Arizona to see family over the weekend, but a few weeks ago, I changed my mind. I had already adjusted my work schedule and traded on-call dates, so that wasn’t the issue. Also, I could have taught my class online, if needed. Basically, I was starting to prepare but didn’t have peace.

Yes, I really wanted to go, but there were several things holding me back. Some reasons were practical, like Lydia missing three days of school, not wanting to fly during COVID, or possibly having to quarantine.

Driving wasn’t really an option this time either. Arizona would be a twenty-five hour trip, one way, with me doing all the driving!

Certainly, Arizona would have been fun, but I still had a sense of hesitation. I could not place my finger on it (besides potential weather issues or having to plan ahead while already feeling time-crunched). In the end, I made the decision to stay home and was glad.

Turns out, maybe God just wanted me to rest!

As it was, Lydia and I had a really relaxing and restorative weekend. Sure, we did a little cleaning and laundry and projects, but we also slept in, worked on a puzzle, watched movies, played Monopoly, cooked some delicious food, and more.

It was just what we needed! I know Arizona would have been worth it, too, and I was bummed to say no. But, with so many variables up in the air, it seemed wise to hold off.

Most people would love to head South at this time of year. Especially in the Midwest right now! Other states are having historic cold snaps, but the brutal temperatures are just our normal winter weather in Fargo. If anything, we’ve had an easy winter… perhaps one reason why I don’t feel the need to escape!

Ironically, two other friends flew to Arizona and loved relaxing in the heat! From their beautiful pictures, it was just what they needed, too!

I’m grateful God leads each of us differently. He may tell some to stay and some to go. He may ask others to speak up and others to stay quiet. The Lord gives and takes away. He loves us in equal measure but will use our unique traits as He sees fit.

We don’t have to feel bad or feel afraid of missing out on life. As long as we are paying attention to Jesus and doing what He says, we will end up where we need to be.

Whether we are coming or going, we can trust Him! He knows exactly what we need!

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God, thanks for leading us and providing for us. Thanks for bringing us restoration and peace as You watch over us. May we bring You glory whether we are coming or going! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you enjoy the blustery winter weather? Do you have any upcoming travel plans? How do you see God blessing you today?

Tasks: Conserve your energy. Instead of feeding negativity, look for what’s going well. Trust that God has you where He wants you!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Bring Your Tough Questions to Jesus

Yesterday, I watched a Bible Project video about “emet,” that is, God’s faithfulness and trustworthiness. I love these videos! Interestingly, the next video in the series says that Exodus 34:6-7 is the most repeated and re-quoted text by Biblical authors. Wow!!

I also heard a teacher from Read through the Word say, “If you can’t quite see God’s faithfulness in your own life, look for His faithfulness in the lives of others… both in the Bible and people you know.”

So, naturally, God’s faithfulness is on my mind this week! That said, it can sometimes be difficult to see faithfulness when you are in the midst of trials or emotional upheaval. But keep looking… It’s there!

Also, earlier this week, I was texting with two different ladies at the same time. One is very close to me and the other I have never met (a friend of a friend). They are both going through the early stages of severe grief, though their losses are different. Neither felt up to talking on the phone, so texting was their preferred option.

I wish I could take away the pain these ladies are feeling, but I cannot. It will take a fair amount of time and effort to process their intense grief. I’m available to help and listen, but I cannot heal their hearts on my own. However, I can point them toward God’s faithfulness. If they draw close to Him, He will be there strength and everything they need.

After my late-husband, Dave, died in 2013, I certainly had a lot of questions with few answers. I chose not to be mad at God, but still I wondered what our relationship was supposed to look like. I was understandably confused and disappointed.

Back then, another friend simply encouraged me to keep bringing those questions to God Himself. She validated my feelings and challenged me to not give up. Her words resonated with me as she reminded me that God could handle all my emotions. All I had to do was keep coming to Him. It was a breath of fresh air!

My daughter, Lydia, is quite resilient, but even so, she does tend to go through periods of mourning for her dad. Her grief is different than mine, and I cannot always shield her from pain and loss. Though, I can to create a safe space to discuss what’s on her heart.

Recently, Lydia showed me a paper from church where the children were asked to write down questions they would ask God. I don’t know what the lesson was about, but on the top of her list was this question: How is my dad doing?

While I hate that she has to bear such loss, I am glad she feels good about asking God tough questions. (She also asked what God’s favorite color and food were, so I don’t think she was too upset on that day.)

Bottom line: Our doubts and fears can yield a deeper faith as long as we bring all of those questions to Jesus, instead of turning away and trying to cope on our own.

Whether we come to God in anger, confusion, sadness, disappointment—or even with joy and gratitude—we are changed in the presence of Jesus.

He can handle our deepest concerns because His grace knows no bounds. It may be slow progress, but eventually, we will be on level ground again.

Don’t give up when you don’t get the answers you want. Just keep asking and trusting. God will make everything right in due time.

I’m grateful He knows our hearts better than we do!

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God, thanks that we can bring all our tough questions directly to You. Thanks for Your unmatched grace and faithfulness. Please speak words of comfort and healing; Lord, give us Your peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you find yourself weeping with those who weep? Or are you trying to bring surface (quick and superficial) solutions to deep and lasting grief?

Tasks: If you don’t know what to say to someone who is grieving, perhaps don’t say anything. Instead, show up for them. Be available even just to sit and listen, or help with difficult task. Finally, listen to this song, “God Help Me,” by Plumb.

Posted on in Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

Living Amid the Shadow of Death

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” –Psalm 23:4, ESV

On Sunday morning, my cousin’s precious 12-year-old son (Ethan, her only child) was tragically killed in a snowmobiling accident in Ohio. Please keep his parents and all of my family in prayer. There are no words to describe the collective heartache.

Moreover, lately, I have been aware of other people’s equally difficult losses, too. Whether loss of life due to COVID, other health issues, or even more senseless tragedies, death and destruction seem to be everywhere these days.

In times like these, I think of all my loved ones who have already passed on. It is comforting to imagine Ethan being greeted by my grandparents, two aunts (one of which is his grandmother), and my late husband, Dave. Often, it brings me comfort but sometimes, I have to stop before my grief gets the best of me.

Yes, grief is extremely painful at times. But while I am very aware of the so-called reality of Death, I am also very aware of the ultimate reality of Eternal Life and even the joy found in living in the here and now.

When I can’t wrap my mind around all of the sadness, I take all my thoughts and feelings to Jesus. He is the Source of Life, and He helps me sort out all my problems, emotions, and doubts. He relieves me of those burdens and gives me a lighter load.

But even though Jesus conquered Death (and Sin) when he rose from the grave, we still deal the pain and darkness of it every day. We, as Christ followers, place our hope in God’s eternal wisdom and plan, even we don’t understand it. We mourn differently than those who place their hope in earthly things.

Yet, how do we keep living amid the shadow of Death?

**The ideas that follow are not so much “tips” as they are reflections. Each person handles grief and loss in their own unique way. Nonetheless, I hope these thoughts point you in the right direction, towards Jesus, who will make everything right someday.**

First things first, we draw closer to the Light of Jesus. A shadow is not a shadow without the presence of light. So, in Jesus’ presence, we keep the shadows in perspective.

Similarly, we recognize that Death has lost its power. A shadow constantly shifts shape, but there is no hint of darkness or changing in Jesus (James 1:17). God is God over the shadows (2 Kings 20:9-11). When we look to the Cross of Christ, we will see death for what it really is. Only temporary.

Next, we celebrate the lives of those we love and are missing. We talk about them and share memories of them. We honor them as we place one step in front of the other, living a full life and making the most of our time. Life is so short…but God’s grace is abundant.

We recall that God does not bring tragedy and pain upon His children, but He helps us in our struggles and does not leave us in the valley on our own. He collects our tears and won’t waste our pain. Yes, He promises to use these horrible circumstances for His glory and our good (Romans 8:28).

Finally, we understand God is not surprised by tragedies or twists in our life story. If we are willing to trust Him, He will even use our story to help bring healing to someone else. We can choose to keep moving forward with Jesus.

He is the God of all comfort and peace.

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God, we thank You for the gift of Life. Lord, You are the King and You reign over death. Will You help us to trust You more when we don’t understand? Please bring Your peace and comfort, Lord. Give us courage and strength as we keep moving forward. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: In the midst of tragedies, where are you placing your hope and trust? Have you asked Jesus to meet you in the midst of your pain?

Tasks: Listen to the song, “Valleys Fill First,” by Caedmon’s Call. Remember to take all your pain, sorrow, and grief to Jesus! He loves you more than you can even imagine.

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

Led By Peace

This week, I was reminded about the importance of good communication. Basically, this comes down to saying what you mean, and meaning what you say.

Recently, I called someone to check in after receiving a strange text message. How I read the text was not at all how it was intended!

I hoped it was just a misunderstanding, and I was willing to let it go. But, through prayer, I felt the Lord calling me to be brave and do the ‘difficult thing,’ that is not take the easy way out. I am so glad I did!

Yes, I could have just made assumptions and avoided the conversation. But, I took initiative to reach out and clear the air. I accepted what was said about me because that was somewhat true, yet I was concerned about the implications. I simply wanted clarification, not necessarily an apology. 

The relationship is important to me, so I want to preserve it. I am willing to give the benefit of the doubt, but it’s also good to make sure we are on the same page.

Often, we are willing to put up with relationship drama because we want to avoid conflict. I used to be like that more, but I have learned to address things before they fester.

How many times to we let these minor issues become major barriers in our relationships? Or worse, how often do we stay offended and let ourselves be distracted from what’s really important? Do we hinder ourselves from accomplishing greater things because of petty issues?

True peace isn’t the absence of conflict; it’s knowing Jesus is with us in the midst of it all. Additionally, it’s following His plan to resolve our issues, not trying to bring our own resolution. Instead of jumping to conclusions, peace means we rest in God and let Him take care of us!

At the end of the day, it takes courage to speak up and resolve issues before they escalate to conflicts. It takes maturity to believe the best about someone when you are hurt. That doesn’t mean you need to be a doormat or allow drama. Know the difference!

Really, there is no single right answer for each of our problems. Each of us may come to different conclusions based on our personalities or other factors. That’s okay!

But either way, we need God’s wisdom to know when to let things go and when to speak up. As long as we are in tune with what He is doing in our lives, we will know the right path to take. He will lead us, and we can follow the path of peace.

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Father God, thanks for all You do for me. Thanks for helping me walk Your path of peace and for giving me strong relationships. May I be a good friend to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you one who avoids difficult conversations or runs into them head-on? How do people generally respond to your approach? Is it effective or can you tweak it a bit?

Tasks: Take some time and evaluate the significant relationships in your life. This may include friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers. Be willing to make changes, if needed, including having difficult conversations you may have been putting off.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

What You Make of It

“Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t – you’re right.” Henry Ford is given credit for this quote, and he was known for his ingenuity with cars and assembly lines. I’m sure he knew what he was talking about!

In my opinion, this quote isn’t just for accomplishing tasks or becoming successful. It also applies to our attitudes. Life is often what you make of it!

In America, the Land of Opportunity, this is especially true.

Whether you like it or not, today is Inauguration Day! Regardless of how you think or feel, it is a part of our American democracy and process. History is being made, and that is worth celebrating!

Over the next four years, we are in for something different. Good or bad, time will tell how it all shakes out. But, we can be sure God already knows. And, we know that He loves each person, whether they are leaving the White House or coming into it.

While the American political administration is changing hands today, God never changes. In fact, our American ideals (such as freedom, justice, and independence) originate with Jesus. His perfect plan still stands.

In the meantime, we have work to do. In fact, it will take all of us working together.

I’d love to say the next four years will be easy, but I’ve been around long enough to know that’s likely not true. We may not like all that happens or agree with choices made.

You may be thrilled or unenthused about the change in administrations. But, how you spend the next four years is up to you. You have a choice to make between GRRR or GRACE.

Your attitude will largely determine how you experience the next four years. Regardless of who you voted for, it’s your make or break moment. The outcome is up to you!

I am walking into this with hope and humility.

I am praying, and I am doing my part. I will respect the authority of our government, and I will trust that God will use all of this for good.

I will not expect things to change overnight, but I will be patient and keep praising God.

I will not stir up strife, but I will be a peacemaker and spread joy. I will show grace to those who think (or vote) differently than I do. Ultimately, I represent Christ.

In short, I will keep on keeping on! I will continue living well and making wise choices. I will continue looking out for those in need. I will do my best to bring change and have difficult conversations. I will remain open-minded and find the good!

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Father in Heaven, we need Your help and guidance. Lord, have mercy on our nation and protect us. Draw us close to You and heal our hearts. May we follow after You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you plan to watch the US Inauguration? Do you know anyone in the National Guard who is there today?

Task: How you approach each day is so important. Regardless of whether you are happy or upset today, consider flipping the switch. Choose the joy that comes from trusting God!

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

GRRR or GRACE?!

How are you doing this week? There is a lot of heavy stuff going on.

With all the drama and anger and angst in recent days (amid real, practical concerns), I can’t help but think we might be missing the point. Are we playing into the Enemy’s hand, helping him reach his goal of distracting everyone from what’s really important?

May we be wise as serpents and innocent as doves (Matthew 10:16).

We are called to stand for justice and freedom, among other things. But we need to do it the right way, with love, respect, kindness, mercy, grace, and “salt.” If we’re not careful, we will only be a resounding gong and drag the Name of Jesus through the mud.

Now, I am not telling you to be silent if God Himself is telling you to speak up. But we are still only messengers, instruments of grace. Our goal should be to bring people to Jesus and let Him sort it all out.

Also, I am not telling you to disengage or ignore what is going on. The Spirit of Antichrist is on the move. But this is nothing new. It has been foretold for thousands of years. Yes, current events play into it, but this is only the beginning of the end.

It will get worse, and I am simply asking you to be wise. Each of us was born into the modern era for such a time as this. Ask God what His purpose and plan is for YOU.

You don’t have to think like me or do what I do. I am just asking you to truly look at all sides of each issue and understand what is at stake. Be willing to have difficult conversations, without losing control of your emotions. Don’t be cocky or insincere.

Boldness looks different for each of us, but compassion is always in style. Instead of telling someone how they should react, ask, “What is God telling you…?”

Perhaps that will be the most productive conversation you have today!

Soooo… Are we living with a spirit of GRRR (yes, just like it sounds), or are we living by God’s GRACE?! As you can probably imagine, GRRR is based on our physical and emotional reactions, our preferences. GRACE as you may recall, is God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.

A spirit of GRRR is just that. Walking around grumbling and complaining, not really adding anything of value but detracting from the main issues. Getting stuck on petty arguments (having to be right) and getting upset when things turn for the worse. Feeling stress and anxiety for things that are outside your control.

A spirit of GRACE means relying on God to get you through. Trusting that He is with you and for you. Acknowledging His presence and provision. Praising Him, God even when things get tough. Keeping your focus on Jesus, not all the noise. Knowing you don’t have to have all the answers because He is all you really need.

Jesus is the source of all grace and truth. We were bought at a price. We are dead to our own desires and alive in Christ. His agenda is what matters, not ours. That is, loving people sacrificially and drawing them to Himself.

Before you click share on that hot-topic article, THINK through these questions:

Are we making the most of our time, becoming like Jesus?

Are we extending the benefit of the doubt toward those who disagree?

Are we accepting responsibility for being the change we want to see?

Our Sovereign Father cares for us. He has not abandoned His children or left us to fend for ourselves. He will enable us to endure. Let’s show His lovingkindness to a hurting world.

Life is short. Live it well.

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God, thanks for Your love and grace. Lord, have mercy on our nation. We need You! May we live to bring glory to You. May we spread your joy and peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What about today’s post spoke to you? Are you living with GRRR or GRACE?

Tasks: Next time you read something that sets you off, ask yourself why. Notice your emotional response and what it does to you physically. Take 15 deep breaths and see if your heart rate goes down again. Pray before responding, if you respond at all.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

A Path Forward

While last year, 2020, was a bust for many reasons, it was not all bad. For some people it was their worst year in recent memory, but that does not mean nothing good happened.

Each person deserves to feel and grieve however works best for them. The important thing is to actually deal with those emotions in healthy ways. If you’ve lost a loved one or a job or an important opportunity or event, it’s 100% normal to be sad or upset.

But, don’t toss aside what remains.

Whatever happens, God is holding you. Draw closer to Him, so He can help you get through it. Where there seems to be no way, He will make a path for you.

I did not make any resolutions for the new year. There are so many potential opportunities to make changes, but it seems most people try to do too much all at once and then quit. Instead, I have found making small, sustainable decisions can lead to long-term habits and success. Being consistent helps!

This year, I am reading through the Chronological NLT Bible again with friends. I really enjoy the materials from Aaron at biay.org, but this year, I am adding another resource, too. A journal and videos from Read thru the Word by Word Up Ministries.

Reading the Bible is a daily habit worth cultivating. In His wisdom, God’s Word has something new for us each time we read it. There’s always something to learn! The Bible was not meant for us to keep it on the shelf!

This week, I was reminded we don’t read the Bible just to learn nice lessons or learn about self-improvement. We read to learn Who God is and understand His character. This helps us understand His love and goodness.

When we know the heart of God, we can accept that His ways are higher than ours. We don’t have to get bent out of shape when our circumstances change, or are about to change. Trust in the Lord!

Each journey around the sun carries new opportunities. We only have so much time on this Earth, but each day is a new chance to cling to the Lord and all of His promises.

What are you bringing into this new day, or new year?

You could take fear, anxiety, and worry. You could also pack in some anger, bitterness, and resentment. Those are a little heavy, but somewhat understandable.

Or, you could bring faith, joy, peace, and gratitude with you! These are a much lighter load, and by God’s grace, they will give you the boost you need to keep moving forward.

The stakes are higher than ever, but we can trust God is in control. Let Him show you how to make lemonade on His terms. He’s got this.

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God, thanks for bringing us through many trials and troubles. You are so faithful and good! Help us trust You for greater things. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Do your goals, plans, and dreams fill you with faith, joy, peace, and gratitude? Or, are you stuck because of fear, anxiety, worry, anger, bitterness, or resentment? What are you going to do with this knowledge?

Tasks: As you are setting up goals for the year, remember to run your plans by God first! Trust Him to take care of you regardless of ever-changing circumstances.

Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Prayer, Wisdom

Jesus AND Science

NOTE: I know many people are on the fence about the coronavirus vaccine. I decided to gather some of my thoughts here, as best I could, to document and explain why I chose to receive the vaccine. If it helps you decide one way or the other, great! No pressure here. Each of us must make our own decisions. Thanks for reading!

A couple of days ago, on Monday afternoon, I received the Moderna COVID vaccine at work. By the time I stood in line for it, I was excited and totally at peace. I didn’t receive the injection on a whim or without purpose. I did my due diligence!

Like many people, I was originally hesitant when I first heard about these vaccines. Why inject something if it isn’t necessary? I started by praying about what to do.

Then, I read many articles online and filtered through just as much misinformation. I realized without the vaccines, even more unnecessary deaths will happen. In the process, I found some really good resources.

For instance, I have found deplatformdisease.com quite helpful. It takes scientific information and makes it accessible to the general public. It explains the disease process and other things, like what antibodies and antigens are, in simple terms.

I also appreciated learning more about Operation Warp Speed, a collaboration between the US Department of Health and Human Services and the US Department of Defense, among others. I am amazed at how everything came together for this all to be successful. To me, it’s God’s hand at work giving scientists the ability to create vaccines and work together. I don’t see vaccines as a threat, but rather a great blessing.

In particular, I loved learning what happened behind the scenes. The researchers were already working on a similar coronavirus vaccine and were able to transfer their energy and resources accordingly. Due to the magnitude of this illness and its crippling effect on society and the economy, those in charge were able to cut through bureaucratic barriers, too. Thankfully, increased funding helped focus their efforts on finding a solution sooner.

With an abundance of volunteers, the first COVID trial started in March! Normally, each trial would conclude with review and more research before the next one would start. But, this time, they did the review and extended research concurrently while planning for each of the next phases. Genius!

Instead of taking 70+ months, the vaccines took about fourteen months to complete and get approved (on an emergency basis). To the public it may seem rushed, but actually, it was not. No corners were cut in the vaccine trials. In fact, multiple vaccines (similar, yet distinct) and the huge number of people in the trials makes the numbers even more reliable.

I think of it like this: If I were to host a party, I would have to prepare by completing several different steps in order. I would think about the menu and who to invite. I would look for recipes and do a quick inventory of ingredients. Then, I would go to the store, purchase everything, go back home, unpack everything. Then, I would have to wash, chop, and cook, the ingredients, not to mention plate all the dishes, set the table, clean the house, and answer the door.

Now imagine if I already had several recipes in mind and already had the supplies on hand. Wouldn’t that speed up the planning process? And, if I asked for help, my guests could each bring a dish, leaving me to focus on other important details. So, perhaps I spent just as much effort on the overall party, but I found several ways to save time and got others to pitch in. No cutting corners, just using my resources wisely and efficiently!

It is heartwarming to see relief and tears of joy when those at highest risk get the vaccine. That said, the vaccine may not be for everyone. If people have severe allergies, they should weigh the pros and cons and discuss options with their healthcare provider. There may be other factors, as well. Each person should choose what works best for them.

For me, all of the information (and prayers) lead me to take a step of faith. I refuse to live in fear, so I let God lead me. I trust Him to protect me either way, but when He provided the opportunity through my job, I decided it was good timing.

A couple of months ago, my parents each contracted COVID despite taking all precautions. My dad had a moderate case, while my mom’s health turned more severe. It was quite scary when she could barely catch her breath on the phone!

During the recovery process, my mom told me, “Do whatever you can to avoid this.” I have not sought my mom’s opinions about the COVID vaccines, but her advice rang true.

All this time, I have been going to work and sending Lydia to daycare. I’m so grateful for that stability, but we do have increased risks of getting sick. As a mom, I was happy to take the vaccine and minimize my chances of bringing home COVID to Lydia.

Sure, if we were to get sick, we’d probably be fine. But, there are no guarantees.

At the end of the day, we each have a decision to make. It’s not just “vaccine or no vaccine,” but how shall we live and move forward?

Our decisions continue to affect others, so it makes sense to lovingly protect as many people as we can. Wash your hands, wear a mask, keep social distancing, etc. It has been a difficult year, and while there is still work to do, these vaccines feel like light at the end of the tunnel. My sore arm feels worth it!

As we step into this new year, I’m praising God for giving us humans the ability to reason, understand the world He made, and create timely solutions to complex problems!

Yes, we can celebrate both Jesus AND science!

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God, thanks for providing for me and and keeping me safe. Help me to be wise and considerate toward others. Give me confidence to go against the grain when needed! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you enjoy reading about trending topics in science or do you avoid them altogether? Have you researched the pros and cons for your current health choices?

Tasks: Review some of the pink links in the post above. Discuss options with your healthcare provider. Don’t forget to pray about next steps ahead of time, so you are prepared to make the best decision for yourself and your family if/when the time comes. God bless you and keep you safe!

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Worship

Glory to God in the Highest

Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” This is part of the Angels’ song and message to the shepherds when Baby Jesus was born. Lydia and I read that verse this week for Advent.

Then, on Monday, the winter solstice, we got to see the ‘great conjunction’ of Saturn and Jupiter. Apparently, this is the closest they have appeared in hundreds of years. We did not have a telescope but relied on my pair of binoculars, which I keep in the car.

I did not take any pictures, but it was really special just to take it in. I’m just glad we didn’t miss it. The weather was clear and I didn’t forget!

At home, Lydia and I ate dinner and discussed what we saw. A little while later, we happened to read that verse in Luke, and it took on new meaning for us.

Glory to God in the highest heaven: I explained how when we are on an airplane we are within Earth’s atmosphere,  far, but not too far away.

Next, we have the higher levels of our atmosphere, where the International Space Station orbits. Then, there are stars and planets in our solar system, followed by other galaxies, quasars, black holes, and who knows what else.

Humans have been looking toward the skies for millennia, wondering what is ‘out there.’ Thankfully, technology has helped fill in some of of the gaps.

In fact, the Hubble Telescope, one of the most famous space telescopes, recently turned thirty years old. It was launched in 1990, and I have enjoyed the many images over the years. In college, I even had many of them posted on my bedroom walls.

I love how Psalm 19:1-6, says, “The heavens declare the glory of God;
    the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
2 Day after day they pour forth speech;
    night after night they reveal knowledge.
3 They have no speech, they use no words;
    no sound is heard from them.
4 Yet their voice goes out into all the earth,
    their words to the ends of the world.
    In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun.“

Taking Luke 2:14 (above) into account, “the highest heaven” seems sooo far away. Yet, God is not unapproachable or unavailable. He is right here with us. Emmanuel.

This week, as we celebrate Jesus’ birth, maybe you just aren’t “feeling” it. Yes, it’s been a tough year. But, that’s exactly why Jesus came. To bring comfort and peace and restore joy. Therefore, we can focus not just on presents, but on His presence. Keep looking up!

Jesus came through perhaps a gazillion light years (way more than we can comprehend) to save us from sin and set us free from death. What a savior!

Yes, the God of the Universe humbly volunteered to rescue His people and bring us back into relationship with Himself. As high as the Heavens are above the earth, so great is God’s love for us (Psalm 103:11). No one loves us like He does!

Clearly, Jesus didn’t just go the extra mile. He stepped across time and space to show us just how much He loves us! Thank You, Jesus, and Happy Birthday!

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God, we glorify You and magnify Your name! May we bring You honor and understand Your great love for us so we can share it with others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: Did you get to see the planetary phenomenon this week? If so, what did you think?!

Tasks: Check out the Hubble Telescope site. Look through some of the classic images and give God praise. Remember: He loves us even more than all of those celestial bodies combined!