Friday, December 31, 2010

Peace

So 2010 is about over.  It has been a good year.  This is probably the most peaceful I have ever been in my entire life.  These are some of the things I am learning:
  • to rest in Abba's arms
  • to trust He is in control no matter what the storm is around me
  • to release my children - we raised them to love the Lord, not it is in their hands - God does NOT have grandchildren
  • to claim the promises in Psalm 139 - I AM beautifully and wonderfully made
We are so excited about where God is leading us in 2011 - He is good, He is in control and He loves us.  Who could ask for more?

Sunday, December 26, 2010

Busy, Busy December

What an amazing month this has been.  God is so good to us. 

On the 11th of December we had the privilege of serving in south Phoenix - bringing Christmas to folks who have so very little.  With David's friend Carlos we were able to share with so many families the love of Jesus.  We were so proud of David.  He brought about a dozen of his friends to help out.  God's hand is on David.

The following week we were faced with a major decision.  Jay phoned us - he and his girlfriend broke up - he had no where to live.....  After some deep prayer and discussion David put is best - how can we help others and not help our own family?  Of course God confirmed our decision one evening when Brian and I read 1 Timothy 5:8 - "If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever."  Thank you Jesus.

Christmas has been a series of get togethers with family and friends.  We are so blessed, having our children together and all of them are doing good. 

Christmas Eve Brian, David and I served two services at church.  David in his normal spot - kindergarden to third grade.  Brian and I were in the preschool - so much fun.  Little Addie who was there for both services has the biggest crush on Brian. He will make a great grandpa in God's time!

Today was sad though.  David and I went to Tasha and Sprae's home to clean the backyard.  They are moving to Tennessee.  We are going to miss them something fierce, especially Zeke.  Our love and prayers are with them. 

We are so excited to see where God takes us in 2011.  God is good to us.

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Stocking Stuffing

For about eight or ten years we have had the pleasure of being involved with Americans for a Better Tomorrow.  This Christian organization gives families a hand up - not a hand out. 

Today was the stocking stuffing.  We stuffed 1,200 stockings with candy, coloring books, crayons, popcorn,  a stuffed animal and a book about Jesus.  For some children - this is the only Christmas they will have.  They will be given out next Saturday at the Family Fun Fest. 

My friends Cutter (7) and Tanner (5) went with me today.  This two guys worked their behinds off.  To get there we drove through some pretty run down areas  -  I had the opportunity to explain some of the stockings may go to children who live in these houses.  What a privilege to share this experience with my young friends.

At times like this - sitting in my beautiful home, listening to Christian music and children playing, our tree lit, our bills paid - I am most blessed.  My heart aches for my brothers and sisters who have less - but in reality, their joy comes from Jesus - the peace in their eyes....perhaps we are the ones who are missing out.

God is very good.