Tag: songs

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

No One Beside Jesus

A few Sunday evenings ago, my family was on Zoom when my four-year-old nephew, Alex, brought out his Beginner’s Bible. He started going through it page by page, and my sister answered his questions. Alex would point to a Bible character on the cover and then go find them in the book. “That’s David. He was a king. That’s Samson. He was strong.”

Alex has been learning about Moses at preschool, so we heard how he was in a basket in the river because he was in danger. Alex doesn’t understand the rest of the story yet, but it was cute!

Soon, he got to Jesus! He spent several minutes going through Jesus’ life. “That’s him as a baby. There he is with some kids. Why is he on the cross? Who were the robbers?” My sister explained that Jesus didn’t do anything wrong, so he didn’t deserve to die, but the robbers did. The next page showed the tomb guarded by the Roman soldier, and next was the empty grave! 

I could have watched Alex talk about Jesus and his Bible all day. It was precious to see his little heart open up, a great reminder that Jesus is for everyone. The gospel is so simple that even a four-year-old can understand it! Awhile back, I bought him a Jesus Storybook Bible, and I am sure he will be into that one of these days.

Free Bible Book photo and picture

The gospel is GOOD NEWS, but it is not necessarily easy. It can be tough to come to terms with our sin and change our trajectory. Thankfully, with the loving help and conviction of the Holy Spirit, we don’t have to do it alone. Jesus did all the heavy work!

It is vital to know what you believe and why. This includes connecting with God through daily prayer and Bible reading. It means reading Scripture for yourself and wrestling with its meaning. It’s learning about the heart of God.

I love resources that can help! A good concordance or commentary can be really helpful. Learning the cultural and historical context can help you glean more insights you might have missed! I also thought this article was on identifying true and false ‘gospels.’

For the month of October, Desiring God has a special project, Here We Stand, to highlight short biographies of people whose choices and convictions led to the Protestant Reformation. Regardless of your denomination, it is helpful to learn the history of our faith! Who knows—perhaps there is some value if you are Catholic as well!

We have been singing a song lately at church, called “No One Beside,” by Elevation Worship. I have had it in my head for the last three days! The chorus is as follows:

Oh magnify the Lord
Let us exalt His name together
No one beside You, Lord
Honor and praise are Yours forever

Offhand, I don’t know the rest of the lyrics, but you can listen to them here. 🙂

Today, I am meditating on what it means to have ‘no one beside’ Jesus. The entire Bible is about Him! Jesus is the King of the Universe, and all things were made through Him and for Him. Nobody but Jesus died and rose again to save me and give me eternal life and the riches of HIs grace. He alone is worthy of all my praise!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for the gift of Jesus! Help me keep Jesus as the most important thing, first and foremost. In His Name, Amen

Question:  What does it mean to you to have ‘no one beside’ Jesus? How does that impact your life and personal choices?

Task: Take a little time to consider how you can put Jesus first. Also, maybe check out the Here We Stand biographies (at the bottom of the web page)! There will be a new one posted every day in October!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom, Worship

Cornerstone

Lately, I have noticed a subtle shift in my house. It is a good and natural thing, but it has surprised me. I recognized it this week, which helped deal with it. At least for now!

Basically, I have been a little short with Lydia, and it bothered me. She’s a great kid and doesn’t deserve that. I couldn’t figure out the issues until I prayed about it on the way to work Monday.

I think my feelings of frustration were related to a few factors. First, Lydia is growing more independent. So, she wants to have some say in what we do. I also want this for her, but to do that, I need to let go and let her. And that’s complicated sometimes. 🙂

Part of this is related to “puberty brain.” Normally, Lydia is obedient and reliable. But now, she “forgets” to complete tasks or wants to negotiate. That’s fine sometimes, but I put my foot down this past weekend and reset some boundaries. I know this is just the beginning, and communication will morph over the next few years. Again, this is all normal!

Another factor is that I have been the only adult at home for over a decade, which is a lot of responsibility. And, I have expectations about my house and space! Over time, I have taught Lydia to do various household tasks, but if she doesn’t follow through or moves like a sloth, I either have to do it or reinforce it… again. Both take more time and dilegence.

Free Medieval Castle Detail photo and picture

On Monday, I was also nervous about the timing of things at work. I had two complex patients coming on top of my regular patient load. They were expected to come back to back and had a lot of similarities which I needed to keep straight. I lost a little sleep about this, and so I was just a little grumpy with all that on my mind. 😉

Then, before work, I had to remind Lydia to move her shoes after I tripped on them. She knows not to leave them in the middle of the floor. I yelled out of exasperation and had to apologize. It all worked out, but on my way to work, I prayed and asked God to help me readjust… and as soon as I did, He did a little heart work!

On the radio, I heard a few songs, like Tasha Layton’s “Look What You’ve Done.” There’s a line about God tearing all the roots up from our hearts, getting rid of lies and replacing them with His Truth. I envisioned God taking my fears and grumpiness as I soaked up His love for me.

Then, I heard the song, “Cornerstone” by TobyMac. It was a great reminder of what really matters: Jesus. My identity is found in Christ alone, not in if the dishes get done (or if Lydia remembers them or not).

Jesus is my cornerstone, the perfect foundation. My security is found in Him. He is my hope, my joy, my peace. Jesus encompasses all I am, and His expectation is that I walk with Him. His mercy and grace cover all I do. No more, no less.

As Psalm 73:26 says, “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Life can quickly change, and no two days are alike. If we let our circumstances or emotions run the show, we’ll keep spiraling out of control. One minute, we are “happy” when things go our way, and the next, we are losing our temper over towels left in the dryer. Ahem.

We can’t always predict how things will go, but we can run to God, who is our Rock. He is strong and steady, a sure place to land. He is the only thing that matters in the end.

I know the Lord will keep working in my heart and household. I have invited Him in and give Him full reign (sometimes hour by hour!). I am excited to see what Jesus does in me and who Lydia becomes in Him.

So today, instead of getting bent out of shape, I will let God shape me. He is the beginning and the end and knows all things. His plans for me are good and trustworthy! He can use any challenge for His purposes. Nothing is impossible for Him!

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God, thanks for being my foundation, my cornerstone. Thanks for the reminder that I am not in control and don’t need to be! Help me trust You more and let You direct my path. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: Are you relying on God to steady you this week? How has He come through for you lately?

Task: Let God strip away everything that is not of Him. It is painful at times, but worth it! Check out this final song I heard on the radio, which helped tie everything together, “One Thing Remains” by Passion ft Kristian Stanfill.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Words, Worship

Praise Him Anywhere

On my way to work yesterday, I heard the song “Praise You Anywhere“ by Brandon Lake. It’s a good song, but I hadn’t paid much attention to it until yesterday. I sat in my car for a few minutes, thinking about various places I could praise God.

I like to sing in the shower, in the car, and while cooking. I’m sure there are other places I worship God, but I haven’t thought much about it lately. Sometimes, I like to just be quiet and feel His presence.

That said, I don’t have to sing in order to praise God! I often thank God for various things, either out loud or in my heart. I might praise Him for the weather, or a kindness I perceived. I may thank Him for light traffic or meeting someone else’s needs. I pray blessings of over people I love dearly and complete strangers I see as I go about my day.

I love that praise can be a part of prayer, which is just talking to God. I like to check in and pray at meal times, when I wake up and go to bed.

Currently, I am thanking God for sending us less snow than usual. I’m sure we will get plenty of it soon, but it has been helpful for my current role at work. The cold weather is important and beneficial at the same time. There is beauty to be found in every season!

With the winter we’ve had lately, my sister sent a picture of a sun dog. We see them a lot in North Dakota, but she hadn’t seen one for a while in Illinois, where she still lives. It was a praiseworthy thing to photograph!

I love what Psalm 113 says about praise. Here is part of verses 1-3:

Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord, you his servants; praise the name of the Lord.

Let the name of the Lord be praised, both now and forevermore.

From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised.

Praising God doesn’t have to be awkward. Really, it is the most natural thing we can do. If you don’t know what to say or do, start with what you see. Tell Jesus how thankful you are for objects in your environment. Next, move through the other physical senses (hearing, touch, smell, taste, and proprioception). Make it a full-body experience!

Then, tell Him how you feel emotionally. Praise Him for His help, provision, healing, and anything else that comes to mind. If you are struggling, that’s okay. He understands. Praise Him anyway!

We were created for a relationship with our Heavenly Father. Whether you sing or talk, you don’t need fancy words! Just bring your heart!

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God, we praise You! You alone are worthy. Help us praise and worship You with our whole hearts and all of our gratitude. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Where do you like to sing or praise God? Do you find it easy or a bit awkward?

Tasks: As you go about your day, look for ways to praise God. Consider tracking your praises and see how long your list gets! For another great Brandon Lake song, check out “Gratitude.” Praise Him anywhere!

 

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

Finding Grace #406

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 Tree Winter photo and picture

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

This was a fun week full of God’s grace!

Perhaps the biggest “excitement” of the week included a little rock hitting my car on the highway. A few minutes later, I was at a stop light near work and heard a pop as a crack developed across the lower part of my windshield. I called a car repair place and was able to swing by on my lunch break to get a quote. Hopefully, it will be fixed next week!

Later that day, I drove an hour to Pelican Rapids and back again, thankful God protected me and my windshield held up! I went to see a Veteran in a medical foster home, which means he lives with a local family and we go see him there. It was a gorgeous day, and I drove along a scenic byway full of rolling hills covered with a light dusting of snow.

This week, I had a lot of routine health appointments! I celebrated my five-year Lasik anniversary, and my eye doctor said I am doing great! My chiropractor was happy with my back, too. It only needed a few minor adjustments! Lydia and I also had dentist appointments, and everything looks great! I’m grateful for good health!

Today, Lydia and I went to the movie theater for “Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night.” We enjoyed the new presentation and songs. Who doesn’t love Andrea Bocelli?! I was a little tearful at various points, just so grateful for Jesus coming to rescue us from the darkness of sin!

Later, we each got haircuts. I got a trim, but Lydia took of three inches! But, before that, we went to the mall and walked around to kill some time. We loved the bright lights and didn’t even mind the crowd. It felt like a party!

Tonight, we are finally decorating our Christmas tree and doing other holiday activities. It is good to be home after a busy week!

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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 Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom, Worship

O Is For Orchestra

On Sunday, I took Lydia to a show at the Fargo-Moorhead Symphony Orchestra. It was called, “Scotland Forever,” and featured an incredible bagpipe player. We listened to some songs from Braveheart, and a funny Orkney wedding song, and some Gaelic music. We wore plaid scarves and enjoyed ourselves!

I wasn’t clear on the difference between an orchestra and a symphony orchestra, so I looked it up online. Basically, an orchestra could imply different-sized ensembles, but a symphony orchestra is the largest type. It contains all the instruments to play songs with three or four-part movements (aka symphonies).

As I listened to the music, I was also watching the musicians. It was fun to see where the music was coming from. Lydia and I were closer to the violins and percussion, and I tried to anticipate when these instruments would sound.

Over fifteen violinists were playing the same music, yet each one of them played a little differently. Some sat still and just moved their arms. Others moved their whole bodies to the music! It was fascinating!

At one point, a percussionist had a little wooden block and hit it just once during the whole song. The other instruments built to this part, which was the climax before the next movement. It’s sooo simple, but the song would have been missing something without it!

Then, the percussionist returned to waiting until the next instrument was needed. He waited a long time, as did other musicians (like the oboe player with a solo… who knew?!).

The conductor was excellent. I’ve seen him before, and he is fun and engaging. He stands on a podium so he can see everyone, and they can see him. As he organized the musicians, he beckoned them to each play their part on time and then rest until it was their turn again. Some instruments played for most of the song, while others only had a tiny part. Yet, each was important, and the conductor included each one.

Timing is key with an orchestra and also where God is concerned. Listening to the music, I envisioned God as the conductor skillfully orchestrating our lives in concert with His master plan.

Each of us has an important part, but often, we compare our roles to those sitting next to us or those with different skills or tools/instruments.

God is both the Master composer and conductor. He can see all of us from His greater perspective, but He also knows the plan because He created it! In life, He organizes all our songs and steps if we pay attention and let Him.

We don’t have to feel bad if everyone around us has a bigger or more active role. Perhaps God is saving your effort for the most impact. Your part may be tiny, like a triangle, or maybe it is much more grand, like a cello. But, without you, it would be incomplete.

As lovely as the orchestra music was on Sunday, I am reminded that God’s plan is even more perfect and beautiful. We can trust Him to orchestrate our lives because He loves us so much!

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God, thanks for the gift of music. Help us understand the skills and tools You have given us and make the best of each opportunity. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you play a musical instrument? If you could be an instrument in the orchestra, which one would you be?

Tasks: Pray about your current role (whatever/wherever it is) and ask God to help you see the big picture. Pray for wisdom to know when to jump in and when to rest. Be sure to keep your eyes on Him and listen to Him.

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

Rush Hour

Rush hour in Fargo is, well, nothing compared to say Chicago or Minneapolis! In the big cities, you could be in traffic for over an hour and barely move. I don’t think I could handle that on a regular basis!

In contrast, you may drive for fifteen to twenty minutes in Fargom yet typically keep moving along. But you still need patience, especially when people try to rush ahead or cut in traffic on the highway.

Yesterday, I spent some time running errands after work. I decided to skip the busier route and went through town. I still hit some traffic, though not as many vehicles switching from one lane to the other. Funny how the other lane always seems to move faster!

I am just as guilty as others trying to get home after a long day or move on to the next activity. But yesterday, I just took it easy and enjoyed the ride. Even so, I was home within eleven minutes after finishing my errands.

Free Traffic Cars photo and picture

I thought about how a spiritual “rush hour” might go. Now, often, God’s timing is much slower than ours. He is never early, never late, and always right on time!

Second Peter 3:8 says, “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” God’s timing is unique, but so are His purposes for us.

So as I sat in traffic and watched other people, I wondered how often I rush to move closer to God or hurry up my routine to spend time with Him. I don’t usually have a lot of wiggle room, so I have to set aside time diligently and even invite Jesus to come with me.

Do I speed up and ‘switch lanes’ to get to Him?

Do I readjust my schedule and rush to Him, or do I rush through my time with Him to move on to the rest of my day?

Every day is a little different, with a morning and evening rush (traffic, and often at home). But ideally, we should be excited to spend as much time with the Lord as possible. I am challenged to rethink my daily routine, and I hope you are, too!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for these little insights into the spiritual world. Help us throw off everything that entangles us so we can run toward You.  Help us keep You as our main priority. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How can you focus on God in your travel time? Do you like to sing and worship God; pray for your day or others; or listen to a podcast or audiobook about spiritual matters?

Tasks: Listen to God’s word through the YouVersion Bible app. Or, tune your car radio to KLOVE or your local Christian radio station (in Fargo, that’s Life 97.9 FM). If you have SiriusXM, check out The Message. Several of these have phone apps, as well!

 

Posted on in Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Prayer, Wisdom

V is for Viola

After a couple of rough weeks (on and off), this week held a few grace-filled surprises! Last week, I was overwhelmed with decisions, partially because I had very little information. This week, I got a few more details.

Soon, I will have to make decisions for and with Lydia, who will attend middle school in August. There will be general registration, course schedules, and filtering through electives.

This week, we learned more about the music option. Previously, they have offered choir, band, orchestra, and general music, but I had heard they discontinued general music for the next school year.

I was hoping for an easy out (such as general music) because I don’t know how it all works. I was never in band or orchestra for a few reasons, including that I generally have no rhythm! So, on top of everything else, it wasn’t a decision I wanted to make.

Free Violin Viola photo and picture

Well, Monday was the day to try some instruments after school. On my way to pick up Lydia, I said a simple prayer. I asked God to direct our path and make our way clear. I decided to have an open mind, ask good questions, and support Lydia. I went in faith and with expectation!

When we walked into the middle school, we were surprised by how big it was! Lydia was both a little excited and nervous. Thankfully, we ran into a friend, and she pointed us in the right direction. First hurdle down!

Next, we navigated down a long hallway. The first sign we saw was for general music, followed by orchestra, and further down the hall, band. We walked into the first open door: Orchestra. Many people were sampling instruments, and at first, we didn’t know where to go. Then, an eighth grader ran over, introduced herself, and invited us to try her violin. She did a great job explaining all the nuances of her instrument.

Then, a little joking occurred between her and some friends. The friends said Lydia “had” to try the viola because it’s “better” than the violin. “The violin is popular and likes all the attention, but the viola is a team player. It works well with all the instruments!” These girls were very attentive, and one talked for about twenty minutes nonstop, answering all my questions. It was so helpful, and her passion was notable! I was blown away!

I had Lydia try the cello, but she wasn’t that interested in the bass. When I asked her what her favorite was, she said she liked the viola! We went to the band room, and immediately, Lydia said it was too loud for her. I made her walk around and check out the instruments anyway. At my prodding, she tried blowing into the mouthpiece of a flute. But, eventually, we went back to trial the violin and viola again. I wanted her to be sure.

Free String Family Violin photo and picture

We had the violinist play a short song, and I remembered how the beautiful soprano instrument can evoke both happiness and sadness for me. I felt a lump form in my throat and told myself not to cry. 🙂 Then, the three violists offered to play together. Their alto sound was surprisingly rich and soothing! It was a noticeable difference in my emotions, and Lydia said it was better for her tinnitus. Wow.

We thanked everyone and met the music teacher. She confirmed there is no general music option next year; thus Lydia has to choose an instrument or be in the choir. She also explained the basic rental process and gave me a heads-up about a few upcoming dates, so I know what to expect. She said they don’t grade based on how well a child plays, but rather on other in-class assignments. I was very pleased with the whole experience, which gave me peace of mind. Thank you, Lord!

At home, we found a video further explaining the differences between the violin and the viola. The more we learned, the more we thought the viola sounded like a good fit for Lydia. She doesn’t like the spotlight but is warm and supportive. She works well with others and is happy in the background, though she can lead as needed. The next day, I saw her watching more videos about the instrument!

Regardless of the instrument she chooses, Lydia must commit to practicing regularly, at least for sixth grade. Although we still have a little more time before deciding, I am glad God answered my prayers and gave me peace. I love seeing Lydia’s excitement for the next big step, and I know she will rise to the occasion. 

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God, thanks for helping us this week. You are so gracious and kind. May our decisions bring you glory as we move forward with grace and joy! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Did you play an instrument in school? Did you keep playing it over the years, or do you wish you did?

Task: If you have any good advice when choosing an instrument, please let me know!

Posted on in Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Worship

Perfectly Loved

Do you have a favorite song right now? Currently, I love “Perfectly Loved“ by Rachael Lampa (featuring TobyMac).

I recognized her name but couldn’t recall where I might have heard of her. After a quick online search, I realized I have her first CD from years ago! This is a new song, however.

The tune hits those emotional notes, and the message is spot-on. Every time I hear it on the radio, it speaks to my heart. Here are some of the song lyrics:

“Ooh, even when you were runnin’
Even when you were hidin’
Never been a moment that you were not perfectly loved
Whеn you barely believеd it
When your eyes couldn’t see it
Every single moment, you’ve always been perfectly loved”

Free photos of Heart

Later, the lyrics mention being “perfectly human, made from the dust” which just makes me so grateful for all that God has done in me and through me.

The song is a good reminder that God knows our flaws, faults, and failings, yet He loves us anyway. God knows our shortcomings and meets us right where we are. He invites us to join Him in His work, but He knows our limitations and covers them with his grace.

God knows our weaknesses, yet He empowers us with His strength. He never gives up on us, even we give up on ourselves. He is always cheering us on!

“God loves us the way we are, but too much to leave us that way.” –Leighton Ford

I don’t know about you, but I find all of this very encouraging. Whatever we are going through, God already knows. He’s right here with us, extending me grace and also mercy when needed. He stretches us and prompts us to grow, but He doesn’t leave all the work up to us. Thank You, Lord!!

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God, thanks for loving us no matter what. Thanks for walking with us and carrying us when needed. Also, thanks for the gift of music; may our lives be a sweet symphony to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What is your favorite song currently on the radio? Do you prefer to sing in the car or in the shower?!

Task: Listen to “Perfectly Loved” and let it marinate in your heart and mind!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

Sweet Relief

This week, I had a simple medical test/procedure. It was fairly straightforward and, as such, almost not worth mentioning. But, I wanted to share a little of my experience in case it benefits someone else… 

In short, I have had mild gut issues over many years. I had similar issues as a kid, in college, and before/after Dave died from colon cancer. I don’t know if my symptoms are related to internalizing stress or my Hashimoto’s thyroid disease, an autoimmune disease I have had for twenty-five years.

Indeed, I mentioned my concerns to my doctor after Dave’s funeral, but then talked myself out of further testing when she offered it. I was really emotional at the time and didn’t want deal with it. I don’t recommend that avoidant approach, however!

Earlier this year, I got my back in better shape and realized my gut could also use some help. I had gotten so used to the discomfort that I just assumed it was normal.

To clarify, my symptoms are somewhat normal… no overt signs of disease. But, some people are just more sensitive than others, and I tend to have gut discomfort when others don’t (even when we eat the same foods). The gut is known as the ‘second brain,’ so when it is not functioning correctly, it can impact quite a lot of other things!

Free photos of Manzana

Well, this year, I again spoke up at my annual physical in May. This time, I requested a referral to gastroenterology. I appreciated that both of the providers listened to my concerns, though I was still a little nervous.

In June, we decided to do some more testing, which occurred this week. The prep was less than glamorous, but the results were “pretty darn good” to quote the doctor running the test! 🙂

Leading up to the test, I kept my focus on Jesus and took on His peace, which is freely given. He is the Source of my life and strength, so it is always wise to trust Him.

On the day of the test, everyone was extremely friendly and helpful. They were so kind and knowledgeable that it put my mind at ease. I was able to relax and go with the flow. It was a much different feeling than when I waited for Dave’s test results all those years ago.

When the doctor introduced herself, she agreed it was good to get tested since autoimmune diseases can often run together. I briefly mentioned my concerns, especially since Dave had zero symptoms at his colon cancer diagnosis. (Mine was a test to rule out a wide variety of potential illnesses!) She was so compassionate, and I was glad I chose her to do the test!

Free photos of Fruit

I still have those mild symptoms – and a follow-up for potential next steps – but ALL my results came back clear! I don’t have celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, an ulcer, micro-colitis, diverticulosis, H Pylori, cancer, or anything else. Whew, I am so relieved!! It is still possible to get a generic diagnosis (like IBS or a food intolerance), but I can’t self-diagnose those things. Thankfully, we ruled out all the major red flags!

My hunch has been that it just will come down to paying more attention to my food choices and how they affect me. I already do this to some degree; as a Registered Dietitian, it’s right up my alley. Fiber and water are key! But, even though I eat well and enjoy most foods, my gut may think differently.  😉

Other good strategies will include ongoing stress management to lower chronic inflammation; continuing my exercise routine, so my gut runs well; and getting adequate sleep to restore my system each night. This is easier said than done, but I am committed to doing the work it takes to feel good consistently.

Professionally, I always tell my patients: “You are your best advocate, and you know your body best.” Today, I am thankful I was brave, despite my earlier fear. I am glad I advocated for myself, and I am grateful for the good results. We only get one body, and we have the privilege of caring for it, as a Temple.

All in all, I wanted to praise God and to share a little— but not too much– with you about my health journey (a.k.a. my Forty-Year Tune-Up)! Also, I want to give a shout-out to the three women doctors and their staff who have helped me.

Thank you for reading and celebrating with me!

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God, You are so gracious and merciful!! Thanks for protecting me and giving me peace of mind. May I continue to make healthy choices that honor You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What part of this post resonated with you? Do you need to advocate for yourself or someone else?

Tasks: Listen to “The Healing“ by Blanca and Dante Bowe. Sing out your praises to God! He is Jehovah-Rapha, the God Who Heals.

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom, Words, Worship

Christmas with The Chosen

This past Sunday afternoon, Lydia and I went to the local movie theater to see “Christmas with The Chosen.”  I told her we were voting with our dollars in support. But, I received so much more. It was so good, and I am still thinking about how much I loved it.

The first hour (of two) was primarily a mix of classic Christmas songs with a few new ones. There was a variety of contemporary singers from several backgrounds. I didn’t expect that much singing, but I enjoyed seeing people worshiping God on the big screen! That was a first!

Nativity Scene, Crib, Barn, Joseph, Maria, Silhouettes

Here are just a few of the highlights for me:

Phil Wickham was the opening singer. I love several of his songs and even had one of them as my morning alarm sound (before I put my old phone in the microwave!). On-screen, he somehow reminded me of my neighbor boys (in the future grown-up), both in appearance and style. When I think of him now, I will remember to pray God’s blessings in their young lives.

Brandon Lake’s song, “Gratitude,” is a new favorite. He sang about praising God when we have nothing else to give. Such a timely message. As he sang, I thought: “There are probably a number of people in my life who have never seen a man worship like that.” It was a powerful song, done in a way that is uncommon.

I loved seeing Matt Maher in the lineup. He is so funny and full of joy, yet his lyrics bring a certain gravity, unlike many other artists. For instance, the lyrics to his song, “Lord I Need You” are hanging up next to the mirror in my bathroom. After Dave died, I didn’t always have the words to convey what I felt, but that song was a reflection of my heart. I loved seeing Matt dance and have fun while singing and playing his guitar. To me, it was a portrayal of Jesus (both man and God) being full of life and love.

It was fun to see For King and Country, Jordan Feliz, the Bonner family, Maverick City Music, Caine, We Are Messengers, and more. In all, I loved seeing many different ages, cultures, and skin colors represented. Young and old, that’s how Heaven is going to be. The Kingdom of God is for everyone.

Christian, Picture, Historical, Bible, Christianity

There were four amazing monologues by actors in the show. I don’t know which I loved more. Each was so well done.

One of the monologues was about Israel’s history and the darkness, oppression, and isolation they felt under Roman rule. God had been silent for four hundred years, so there was little hope left. Then, Jesus came.

Another actor discussed Shalom, God’s peace, which is transcendent of our circumstances. It is a wholeness and a rightness, that only He can bring. Only Jesus makes the Shalom of God available.

The actual portrayal of Mary and Joseph in the nativity story is one I will be thinking about for some time. The show highlighted their love for each other but also was very real. (Example: Joseph had to clear animal poop out of the way so Mary could lie down.) It was scary and awkward at times for these mere humans, but they were willing to let God work His plan in them and through them.

Some of the movie was related to the birth of Christ, and other scenes were set in the future (after Jesus ascended back to Heaven). The cinematography and storyline were just right. It was fun to see some of the regular characters again and meet some new ones!

The show was overwhelming in the best way possible. I enjoyed showing Lydia a new way to experience God and worship Him! In all, I highly recommend “Christmas with The Chosen” in the theater if you can squeeze it in before Friday (December 10th). Otherwise, it will soon be available the free app!

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God, thanks for a fresh Christmas perspective; it’s all about Jesus! May we honor all He is to us and for us. In His Name, Amen

Questions: Have you watched The Chosen? (There are two seasons so far, with more to come!) Have you been to the movies lately?

Task: If you haven’t already checked out The Chosen show, download the app today! (Android or iPhone) I hope seeing Jesus in a new way will bring you comfort and peace this season.