BitterSweet

Matter of Perspective...

2008-10-05T14:16:00.010-04:00

Now, I'm not exactly Kenny Rogers' biggest fan, but I have always loved this song and the great 'twist' at the end. It's not only a sweet little song about a boy playing some baseball, but about life and how you look at it. And today, playing with Emery, I was reminded of it so thought I'd share...

"The Greatest"

Little Boy, in a baseball hat

Stands in the field with his ball and bat

Says I am the greatest player of them all

Puts his bat on his shoulder and he tosses up his ball

*
And the ball goes up and the ball comes down

Swings his bat all the way around

The world's so still you can hear the sound

The baseball falls to the ground

*
Now the little boy doesn't say a word

Picks up his ball, he is undeterred

Says I am the greatest there has ever been

And he grits his teeth and he tries it again

*
And the ball goes up and the ball comes down

Swings his bat all the way around

The world's so still you can hear the sound

The baseball falls to the ground

*
He makes no excuses,

He shows no fears

He just closes his eyes and listens to the cheers

*
Little boy, he adjusts his hat

Picks up his ball, stares at his bat

Says I am the greatest; the game is on the line

And he gives his all one last time

*
And the ball goes up like the moon so bright

Swings his bat with all his might

And the world's so still as still can be

And the baseball falls, and that's strike three

*
Now it's supper time and his mama calls

Little boy starts home with his bat and ball

Says I am the greatest; that is a fact

But even I didn't know I could pitch like that !

Is he not just the cutest?

But, don't be fooled by the cute little face...

He's a natural born athlete, that one!

Look for him on the pro circuit in about 15-20 years!!

There's no tellin' what kind of damage he could do if his aunt could actually pitch the ball !!

This life is not my own...

2008-10-01T22:21:00.003-04:00

"...we are beginning the process. Please pray for us as we are navigating a whole new venture and need loads and loads of wisdom to get from here to there. We are really enjoying the process and have gotten to know some super people along the way. We know that if this is something we are supposed to be doing that it will happen, and if not, not. There is a lot of freedom that comes with knowing that your life is not your own."

Wow. I don't know about any of you, but these were the words I needed to feast on tonight. In the search of 'the right home' for me and being so confused and frustrated and overwhelmed w/ it all... this last sentence just penetrated right to my heart, bringing the comfort and reassurance that I've been needing. The reminder that this life is not my own, just so long as I belong to Jesus. Whew! There is definite freedom in that thought! Thank you, Anita (Renfroe) for that reminder!

2008-09-30T23:00:00.013-04:00

Meme

* some things change... some things don't *

One could never participate in too many 'Meme's' and sweet Shana just passed this one along to me ~

So here goes......

Rules: Each player answers the question themselves.
At the end of the post, the player then tags 5 people and posts their names, then goes to their blog and leaves them a comment letting them know that they've been tagged and asking them to read your blog. Let the person who tagged you know when you've answered the questions on your blog.

10 years ago I:

1. Had just broken my engagement to my then fiance
2. Was working at Blue Willow Inn... (who knew I'd still be there!) : )
3. Took line-dance lessons w/ Jodi and Michelle : ) YEE- HAW!
4. Thought John Michael Montgomery was 'the bomb' ; ) (What ever happened to that sweet dimpled boy anyway...?)
5. Wasn't sure what to do w/ my life (still trying to figure that one out!)

5 things on today's "to do" list:

1. Get the transmission fluid changed out in my car
2. Get brake light fixed on said car
3. Pay rent
4. Do bible study homework
5. Find some GAS!!!

5 snacks I enjoy:

1. Chocolate... anything
2. Peanut Butter crackers (just ask Savannah) : )
3. Lay's potato chips (especially bbq flavored)
4. Cookies
5. Ice Cream

5 things I would do if I were a millionaire:

1. Right now... HOLD ONTO IT! : ) (all but 10 %, of course...)
2. Give to the charities that most touch my heart
3. Trade in my (dented) car for a hybrid (or at least something diesel-operated) : )
4. Buy a decent home
5. Pay off my medical bills

5 places I have lived:

1. Ottawa, Illinois
2. Sheridan, Illinois
3. Covington, Georgia (at home w/ folks)
4. Demorest, Georgia (at college)
5. Covington, Georgia (in apartment)

5 jobs I have had:

1. Babysitting
2. Walco (don't ask...)
3. Mental Health Dept. (surprisingly, not as a patient as a result from aforementioned Walco!)
4. Stanley-Proto Tools
5. Blue Willow Gift Shop

The rules say I have to tag 5 people.
So I'll tag:

1. Jodi
2. Dianne
3. Luanne
4. Lydia
5. Michelle H.

Infinite Grace

2008-09-29T16:25:00.010-04:00

Infinite Grace 2008

Well, got back from our 3rd annual Women of Faith weekend... and it was amazing as usual.

I only wish I could share more of it with you.

It's always a bit overwhelming to be able to relay every nourishing nugget we are fed there through the Women of Faith 'porch pals'. But, this year, it's especially difficult for me to share because unfortunately, I don't think I actually retained much of it!

Don't get me wrong.

I was blessed every second of the time spent in that arena. And as previously mentioned; I laughed. I cried. And felt God tugging on my heartstrings with each and every single one of those precious speakers and singers.

Unfortunately, however; due to the medication I had decided to start taking Friday (w/out thinking about it), I observed half of the conference through closed eyelids! I could've just curled up and fallen asleep right there in my seat. It didn't occur to me until Sunday that that was probably the reason. (Up until that point, I just figured it was due to the high altitude of our seats!) : )

Thankfully though, I did take a couple of notes during the pre-conference Friday, so I am able to share SOMETHING of the experience with you all. And how it still spoke to me, despite my semi-comatose state... : )

Okay, let's see... my complete notes from Patsy Clairmont (Friday morning)... *drumroll*

1. Condemnation -vs- Conviction
2. "God has not forgotten you."

Tada!!

Okay, now let's see what I picked up from Jan Silvious, later that day... *drumroll*

1. "Do what you can or have to do. And leave the rest to God."
2. "Pray this prayer: 'Lord, I give everything I know of me to everything I know of You.' "

So, there you have it, Folks. My lengthy notes from an entire weekend of amazing speakers. Aren't you glad you had me to attend so I could now impart such wisdom for you on my blog?
Had I known I wouldn't retain the rest of the conference, I might've tried taking notes then, too! But, just trust me. It was an incredible weekend. One that may have momentarily bipassed my mind, but has left definite tracks on my heart. : )

Now, what still managed to speak to me, through my haze of remembrance was this...

No matter how long you wait to actually make the effort to 'pick up where you left off,

God is always there waiting... and on the same page.

You know the part I had mentioned from Patsy's being : "Condemnation -vs- Conviction" ? I had just read that same thing in my Priscilla Shirer book "Discerning the Voice of God" Wednesday night of last week. The book I've had since May. I had picked it up in searching for some kind of peace and guidance about being in the housing market, feeling very pressured and overwhelmed by the whole thing. And Priscilla sweetly pointed out that "There's a difference between God's convicting voice and the Enemy's condemning voice. Condemn means to consider something worthy of punishment. Convict means to bring something to light in order to correct it." (Almost verbatim of what Patsy then spoke Friday.)

And the part that spoke most to me about my situation: "The Thief's voice, unlike God's voice, threatens and intimidates on the basis of fear: 'If you don't do this, you'll be sorry!' It may order you or try to force you to do things. It is often urgent and pressing, sermonizing and demeaning: 'Do this now! If you wait, all will be lost!' " She reminds me that nowhere in the scriptures does God rush anyone into anything. He'd rather 'patiently and persistently give us clarity before requiring obedience'.

Whew!

Reading that by Priscilla already made me feel much better, but then to have Ms. Patsy reiterate?... well, every little reinforcement helps.

And Patsy's sweet story of how she came about "God has not forgotten you." - well, that was just sweet and very encouraging. (Too long to include here, but I do actually remember that part, so maybe I'll share that one later down the line...) : )

Then, Jan Silvious got up to speak and began speaking on the story of Moses, being placed in the basket, and ending up in the Pharoah's palace...

On the way into the city Friday morning, Mom and her friend, Pam had just been discussing what they had been going over in their new bible study class on Wednesday mornings... and I bet you can guess what the topic of discussion had been for them... Moses, in the basket, ending up in the Pharoah's palace...

On the same page...

And her prayer of surrender just struck a real chord with me. And it's a great reminder for when I feel so buried under all my stress.

Oh, yeah. And she stated that modern science has proven that a large % of physical problems start in the mind... I can attest to that, for sure. But, good to know I'm not alone in that. : )

Then, Saturday, their guest speaker was Max Lucado. It was a real treat to get to hear him speak. I had only read his books until now, but have always enjoyed them. But, the parable that he had used in demonstrating God's love for us was that of the prodigal son.

Before I picked up Priscilla's book last Wednesday, I picked up John MacArthur's "A Tale of Two Sons" Tuesday night after bible study. The more indepth look at the parable of the prodigal son.

So, there you go!

I may not always be as in-tuned as I'd like to be, but at least I know that when I am plugged in, He's always right there with me! : )

And, indeed, He truly does live.

And if you ever doubt this, just watch Nicole C. Mullen sign this song while singing it in person. The chills that it brings to your skin and the tears it forms in your eyes will be all the proof you need. : )

Infinite Grace

2008-09-23T22:17:00.010-04:00

You know, it's so funny... in "Stepping Up", we just wrapped up going over Psalm 126 - the very scripture that Sheila Walsh used to sum up the Women of Faith conference from last year...

I thought of the Psalmist's words in Psalm 126:2: Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy.

The 2008 Women of Faith conference in Atlanta is now just 3 days away and I can't wait!

This will be our 3rd year going and every year is just amazing.

You laugh.

You cry.

Sometimes, with Anita or Luci, you laugh until you cry!

Totally, a 'chick' weekend.

: )

But, oh so good for the soul!

And I just found out that Stephanie from over at 'Notes from the Soul' is going, too! How exciting to be able to share in it w/ another blogger! So, I was just wondering if there happened to be any other fellow Women of Faith out there attending WOF in the ATL this weekend?

2008-09-21T17:23:00.004-04:00

You can take the kid out of Georgia,

but you can't take Georgia out of the kid...

Jodi and Jeremy have been in Disney World this weekend with the kiddos and sounds like they're having a great time. She finally posted about it yesterday and I just had to share this part, if you hadn't already visited her blog:

...We found out later the nap idea wasn’t such a good one. Our dinner reservations ended up being at 9:00 last night. Savannah fell asleep on the way there and Emery was so hungry by the time we got to the restaurant that he stopped, turned to the bus driver and said, “Esscuse me, Shir. Could you take us to ‘da Waffle House?”

Now, is that not just the cutest thing EVER? That kid cracks me up. Wish I were there w/ them... but, can't wait to hear more about it when they get back!

2008-09-20T21:45:00.017-04:00

"Rock the Vote"

Alright... I haven't mentioned MercyMe in like 5 posts, so... : )

In their latest post:
http://mercyme.org/blog/2008/09/19/choose-our-next-single/
the guys are looking for feedback on which song to make their next single. And if you're like me, you're ready for an opportunity to vote where there's actually something exciting to vote for (!) so, here's your big chance to get in on the excitement!

The choices are:

~ Goodbye Ordinary
~ Alright
~ My Heart will Fly
~ Finally Home

I think they're all Alright, so it's hard to say... (although you may have already picked up on my personal favorite of the selections given). : )
But, honestly, the more I listened to my cd today and really thought about what I could hear being played on the radio... I would love to hear "Time Has Come"! - It's not one of the choices given, but it's upbeat. It's catchy. And also a great motivational anthem of sorts and a great reminder!

Oh, well. I would love to hear any of them on the radio. So, they can't go wrong. : )

Check 'em out for yourself... http://www.mercyme.org/listen/playerwimpy.swf

And go ROCK THE VOTE ! ... Alright ?

: )

2008-09-16T23:01:00.014-04:00

"One Life"

I don't know how many of you are familiar with '33 Miles' ('What Could Be Better' & 'Thank You'), but if you haven't checked them out, I would like to encourage you to do so.

They released their Sophomore album today, and I love just about everything on it...

I hope you enjoy it, too!

Check 'em out!

http://www.33milesonline.com/player.php

2008-09-11T08:34:00.008-04:00

Where were you?

... Do you remember the moment in time when our nation actually came together?

Let's pray it doesn't take another 9/11 to open our eyes to each other and to be able to acknowledge our Heavenly Father.

Patriot Day 2008

Let us not forget...

not only the lives lost, but the lessons learned.

2008-09-07T23:25:00.018-04:00

Where do I go from here?

Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow. (Ps. 25:4)

I must say... I find myself truly struggling these days. More and more.

It really is no wonder that I have internal problems. I can literally feel the war going on inside of me. Knowing on one hand that it best just to let go and let God... yet on the other (very stubborn) hand, holding on with everything I've got. All but paralyzed with fear.

You see, in 2005, I started thinking I had it all figured out. The direction for my life. The meaning behind all that lead up to that point. God. Myself. You name it. I had it figured out.

Or so I thought.

Then - my wake-up call. In the form of the 'straw breaking the camel's back'. And more or less overnight, my life (as I knew it) and all my 'answers' came crashing down around me. I was devastated. For more reasons than one.

But, now upon reflection, I believe the most detrimental one being that of feeling betrayed by God.

After all, it was just then that I had really begun searching for Him and hungering for Him. And feeling as though He were truly leading me.

It was such a contradiction. One, I'm sure that has been experienced by many: The very One who could have spared you from such heartache is the only One who can save you now. Thankfully, He's plenty big enough to shoulder any brutally honest feelings you might be harboring. Even toward Him.

So... as time went by and I held onto Him as never before... I began to see Him move in my life, in so many ways. He lead me to a church home where I still find myself blessed to this day, on a regular basis. He's spoken to me through countless books (and blogs) and speakers... He's helped me to grow and develop in ways I never would have imagined 3 years ago.

And, for that, I am truly indebted. And though I wouldn't want to go that road again and even as troubled as I find myself today, I am so grateful for the place it's all brought me to.

However. As much as He's proven Himself for me, to me and even through me... I still just can't seem to shake that initial distrust in Him. And you better believe that I am more than ashamed to say that. After all He's done in my life to show me His love and mercy. How could I not trust in Him completely and with complete abandon?

I only share it now in hopes that it will serve, in some way, to loose the chains. I really don't know what else to do.

I know He's pulling me. Prompting me. Inviting me to lay it all down at His feet. The good and the bad. The hopes and dreams for tomorrow as well as any hurts from the past. Ready, willing, and more than able to sort through it all and make beauty arise from the ashes. (Is. 61:3)

And I know the sweet release that comes with that. I've given it all to Him before. I just wish I knew what it will take this time, to relinquish this stubborn hold on all that I insist on carrying myself. In the name of self preservation. Only to bury myself and guard myself against the very One Who wants to uncover me and finally let the light truly back into my life.

And here He remains... patiently waiting. For me to let go. For me to finally lay it all down. So He can then take me by the heart and take me by the hand and lead me down the path where I belong.

If only it were as easy as it sounds.

“I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24)

2008-09-05T01:08:00.003-04:00

Who knew Looney Tunes was so INTENSE!?!

2008-09-01T12:54:00.012-04:00

"Natural stressors such as sun (temperature and glare) ... vibration, and noise may affect your judgment..."

(PWC Safety Course)

Well, there you go.

I knew there had to be a very viable reason that I would just go up to Bart Millard and introduce myself. (Seeing as that is SO not in my nature to do!) Thankfully, he remained very gracious and did not have me hauled off (in the paddy wagon). And actually even let us get a quick picture before heading off for their signing...

* You guys were so great. I apologize once again for nearly assaulting you! We were just cooling off in the courtesy tent and dreading heading back out into the blazing sun where our seats were... and I just never expected you all to pull up right in front of us. I guess I must have lost my senses... I blame the sun. Five hours of broiling in the Georgia heat can have that affect. Thank you for understanding...

Oh! And great job performing, too! : ) You guys are truly gifted.

Now I would like to just take this opportunity to abdicate my roll as SLOB of the month to the next one, though you are probably fearful of doing that any more, on account of creating more crazed fans! And who could blame you! Certainly not this crazy SLOB. *

2008-08-28T22:45:00.009-04:00

Goodbye Ordinary!

You got that right!

I don't know how many of you noticed, but Bart, from MercyMe, commented on my post about not receiving my special c.d. from them. And he kindly informed me that another would be on its way. Is that not just the coolest?

Lo and behold, it came today! And, folks, I just gotta tell you... a better album, you'd be hard-pressed to find! EVERY SINGLE SONG on here is just absolutely AWESOME! And I'm not just saying that 'cause mine is special! : )

I've compiled a playlist of all the songs off this album... I hope they don't mind, but really and truly in order to enjoy it over and over, you'll have to stay on my blog all day... so, go get your copy TODAY! You will be so glad you did!! (But, until then, by all means you can just stay on my blog to your little heart's content...) : )

Now I'm even more excited about Celebrate Freedom this weekend! I can't wait!! Just over a day away now... and counting!! YAY!

2008-08-24T13:00:00.013-04:00

Passing Along...

...'singalong'

I don't know how many of you are familiar with Phil Wickham, but if you haven't heard of him, I would like to encourage you to check him out. And, now is the perfect chance to do so.

He's just put together a new album that is now available to anyone and everyone absolutely F R E E !

And, if you're like me, that's right in your price range!

I finally downloaded the set on my iPod last night, and let me just tell you; you will be blessed by this gift.

For more of a background on this project, you can let Bart tell you all about it.

But, to go straight to your F R E E download of amazing music, just check out: Phil Wickham's 'singalong' page, and be prepared to WORSHIP !

THIS JUST IN...

Now, Bart's offering some free downloads of 4 songs off his original Hymned album, too! Woo-hoo! Go check it out!

2008-08-20T21:10:00.014-04:00

He gives and takes away...

As many of you know by now (and are probably sick of hearing about), on August 1st, I was selected as MercyMe's first ever, blogger of the month. And, as many of you know by now (and are probably sick of hearing about), I was THRILLED! I never win anything!! (That's what everyone says, I know, but in this case... it's true...) : ) But, I was just so tickled and honored by that. And was just beside myself that they would send me an autographed c.d. as a way of thanking me for sending so many folks to their blog.

And I have anxiously awaited it every day since then.

Then, finally I get a call this morning. Evidently, the mailer containing my treasured c.d. got stuck in someone else's mailbox, in an entirely different neighborhood... and whoever checked this other mailbox discovered my mailer, addressed to me - empty.

I just thought: "Alright, God... You testing me?"

I was SO crushed! I mean, here's the sweetest gesture from some of my favorite bloggers AND singers and I was robbed of it.

...for the most part...

But, then, there was an overwhelming thought that kept interfering with my selfish, carnal thinking...

"Just wait a minute. What if this could be used in some way to honor God?" (well, actually, it was probably more like: "What if this could be used in some way to honor ME?" - coming from God - 'cause I mean, let's be honest... I was just thinking: "I hope this guy goes down! I hope he gets a flat tire in his get-away car or something!")

But, the thought of the possibility of goodness coming from it kept pushing those thoughts aside. And, you know, before long, I could feel myself almost getting excited about the many possibilities.

I mean, certainly, he/she could've just ended up pitching it in the trash. Or selling it and getting some money for it. Who knows.

But, what if... God used it to speak to someone. Either the person who heisted it or the one whose hands it ends up in?

What if... their lives are changed by the very words of those wonderful songs? Songs like "I Know" ~ speaking into their hearts:

I know, I know that God is able I know,

I know that He still reigns I know,

I know that love has found a way.

No matter what it is you're going through

Even if you think you're far beyond where hope can see

I know there is a hand that's reaching out for you

Because He did the same for me

It wasn't that long ago when my own world fell apart,

It fell apart and everything here inside of me said to let go,

You must let go

I found myself crying out to the One who knows my heart,

He knows your heart and holding tight to the few things that I know

I mean... Imagine! If God could speak those words into the heart of someone who needed them today! WOW! And, I know He can!

I just feel like He wants to use this in some way. In which case, I am even more honored and excited to have been selected by Him.

I feel as though He had His hand in this. And He wanted me to know that. For one thing, what are the chances that whoever took it would take it out of the envelope and not just take the whole package? And then, what are the odds that the person who found it would actually take the time to call?

Then, after just thinking, over and over: 'Well, He gives and takes away'... I walked into the shop this morning and the first song that came on the radio... "Blessed be Your Name"!

It was like He was right there saying: "I know. I know you were excited to get that c.d. I know that it meant a lot to you. I know how disappointed you are to hear that you won't get it now. BUT, I also know who took it. I know why they took it. And I know their heart. I know you don't see the bigger picture, but I know you know that I do. And I know that despite your disappointment, you're willing to trust my bigger picture... and actually find a little joy in the possibility. And, in that alone, I am honored."

And for that alone, it was worth it.

Whether they choose to receive the blessing or not.

I have.

2008-08-15T22:09:00.009-04:00

Love Letters to my Fellow Citizens

(Pardon me while I VENT)

Dearest 'Professor Smarty-Pants':

I called your home the other day to inform your lucky bride that her special ordered piece had arrived at our gift shop. She was not at home, but you can imagine how relieved I was when you informed me that you were 'more than capable of taking a message'.
(phew!)
Because, you know, we just so often get so many on the other end of the line who are completely unable of doing such a thing. You truly are gifted, my friend.
I then continued on to explain the reason for my call - the special ordered wall piece had come in.
To which you questioned: "What do you mean, 'wall piece?' "
To which I kindly reply: "Well, it's a rather large decorative metal piece with a rooster on it to hang on your wall."
..."Oh" you briefly responded.
"Anyway" I continue... "Let me give you the number so she can call us back... it's 770-464..."
when you break in to inform me that that is not the number that was listed on your caller i.d.
I, then, in turn patiently reply, "Well, no Sir, that would be the corporate number from our main office, seeing as I've called you long distance. Those must go through our main circuit."
..."I see..."
(yeah)
"... so could you say that number again?"
"Certainly, Sir. It's 77(o)..."
to which you reply: "You mean zero... it's not an 'O'."
(you are kidding me)
Gritting my teeth now, I say "You are right, Sir. It is a zero... and indeed not an 'O'.
At which point, I feel certain you must've regained some semblance of pride. After all, what a great save after the caller i.d. faux pas.
By this point, I am then able to actually complete my message. And you, being much happier (and feeling much more superior) reassure me that you will get the message to your lucky lady.
And, I have no doubt that you will.

Dear 'Our Lady of Entitlement':

Though I have not had the pleasure of speaking with you (as of yet)... You, our suave lady, took it upon yourself to call and ask to have a cookbook sent to you... free of charge.
(why, now, is that?)
Well, you inform us that you had shopped with us the other evening and in purchasing one cookbook, had planned on buying a second one as well, but had been told that that was the last copy in the store.
(Did you not just pick it up off of the pile we have at the register?)
And, even though you had planned on purchasing two the other night, you now expect the second one to be shipped completely free of charge.
(you are kidding, right?)
To that, you are told kindly that we will be more than happy to ship you a second copy for the same price everyone else pays (!!!) or you are more than welcome to go pick up a copy at your local Borders with no shipping...
To which you reply "Hmmmmph! Does this mean you won't call the owner and ask him what he thinks you should do?"
"Sure. We'll ask the owner and see what he thinks. And call you back."
You reply sweetly: "Thank you."

Update: Checked the records. The only sale of cookbooks at night this week, was one night, when somebody bought two copies.
So, sorry, lady. Either way, you're case doesn't hold water.
And the owner?... Yeah, I'm pretty sure he'll see our side...
So sorry.
Better luck next time!

P.S. ~ Maybe the old Professor could help you in the future. He's a pretty clever fellow!

Love,

Jessica

2008-08-05T22:42:00.007-04:00

"Hymned Again"

Order your copy today

(...well, actually next Tuesday)

As reigning S.L.O.B. I feel it is my duty and honor to help get word out on Bart's latest endeavor. Both musical and personal.

His older son has juvenile diabetes and so he has developed "Imagine A Cure" as his fundraising campaign. And, with his 2nd Hymn cd releasing soon, he got together with iTunes and iTunes actually has allowed him to pre-sell his cd and let a portion of the proceeds go to his cause. So, I would like to just encourage you to check out this video segment and pre-order yours today! What a great impression it would make to the big guys over at iTunes to have a huge pre-release of a hymns cd!

And I just know it'll be a great one.

Thanks!

2008-08-04T12:09:00.011-04:00

Where Does Your Seed Lie?

"And when many people had gathered together and had come to Him out of every city, He spoke by a parable:
"A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the wayside, and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it.

And some fell upon a rock, and as soon as it had sprung up, it withered away because it lacked moisture.
And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it and choked it.
And other fell on good ground, and sprang up and bore fruit a hundredfold."
And when He had said these things, He cried, "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear!"
And His disciples asked Him, saying, "What might this parable mean?"
And He said, "Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the Kingdom of God; but to others in parables, that `seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.'
Now the parable is this: The seed is the Word of God.
Those by the wayside are they that hear; then cometh the devil and taketh away the Word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.
The seed on the rock are they that, when they hear, receive the Word with joy, but they have no root: they for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.
And that which fell among thorns are they that, when they have heard, go forth and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.
But that on the good ground are they that, in an honest and good heart, having heard the Word, keep it and bring forth fruit with patience." (Luke 8:4-15)

Have you ever noticed those little seedlings coming through the crack in a sidewalk? or breaking through a stony surface?

I don't know about you, but it just does my heart good to see these little sprouts shooting out of seemingly inhospitable surroundings; determined to forge their way through the most challenging circumstances. What an encouragement to those of us who find ourselves between a rock and a hard place, right?

Well, today I was led to the scripture in Luke where Jesus tells the parable of the farmer scattering the seed. And He tells us "The seed is the Word of God."

We have been given such a precious gift from our Father! The very 'mysteries of the Kingdom of God'! To any of us who has a willing heart, He wants to share His wisdom and truth with us!

But, we must not only have a willing spirit... we must actually plant that seed. Deep within us. And nurture that seed, to help it to flourish and grow and eventually produce a great harvest in our lives.

Don't get me wrong. This Seed is in no danger of falling away due to neglect. It has the inherent ability to cut through; to penetrate even the harshest environments. And withstand ages of neglect.

It is 'living and active.' (Hebrews 4:12)

The question is: Will this Seed get the chance to flourish and thrive in your life? Or will it merely survive, in spite of you?

"The Word is Alive" by Casting Crowns

(Push pause on playlist before viewing)

2008-08-01T23:13:00.007-04:00

OH MY STARS... !

First, a visit from Patsy Clairmont... and now this!

I just found out that I am the first official S.L.O.B. of the month over at MercyMe's blog!!! Is that not just the coolest?!? They hadn't even said that they were going to start doing that and then, I go on to read that it's little ole me!

And not only do they tell me (and everyone else) that I'm 'awesome' but they want to send me an autographed copy of their latest cd!!

So, thanks to Bart and the Gang over there at the mm S.L.O.B.! You guys are the best.

And, to any and all of you who must've gone on over to visit their blog on my account... (and here I thought I'd only reeled in little Savannah) ... Thanks!

Woo-Hoo!

* It may just be my computer... I don't know... but I can't seem to open their blog other than through my google reader, so if you can't get to it either, please allow me to 'share' this little nugget of a post. : )

Hey everyone. I just wanted to introduce another feature here on the SLOB celebrating the fine individual that sent the most people here from their blog. As a monthly installment to our community here we feel it’s important to recognize those that are making this place what it is. In addition to telling everyone how awesome this person is we’d like to offer each SLOB OF THE MONTH an autographed copy of our newest album.
So ladies and gentlemen I’d like to introduce you to our first official July 2008 SLOB OF THE MONTH, BitterSweet Jess. Congratulations, BitterSweet Jess, we really appreciate you sending all those people this way. Email your info to us at blog@mercyme.org and we will get your signed CD in the mail.
Now the race is on to find the SLOB OF THE MONTH for August.

Tell your friends.

-bart