The SACC Write Sisters

2012-01-22T21:16:00.000-06:00

CRASHING WAVES

written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

James 1: 6

"But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt,

because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea,

blown and tossed by the wind."

Tossed about on a deadly sea.

Waves threaten to devour me.

Luring, pull of the powerful deep

My soul it longs to steal and keep.

Waves crashing with deadly force

Confused and frightened----I'm off course.

The ocean's deafening pulse beats

As it lurches, grabs and retreats

Grabbing, pulling, consuming me

With no desire to set me free.

Waves scream in devilish delight

As it swells and crashes, it blocks my sight.

Salt sprays hiss and sting

....As demons of the deep squeal and sing.

Covered with this world's mossy slime

I stand accused of sinful crime.

On slippery rocks, I cannot stand

I cry out for the Father's hand

As I'm being grabbed and swept away

With faith-filled hope....I pray.

"PEACE, BE STILL"...I hear Him call

As demonic waves retreat and fall.

He's saved me, once again

From the crashing waves of sin.

He scoops me up in loving arm

Rescues from waves of harm.

He places me on peaceful sand

Holding me...so I can stand.

Reminding me of my place.....

He whispers,"CONTINUALLY SEEK MY FACE."

"NEVER RUN AHEAD OF ME...

OR BE LURED BY THE CRASHING WAVES OF THE SEA."

2012-01-22T21:13:00.001-06:00

TREASURE

written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

(Matthew 6:21)

("For where your treasure is

there your heart will be also.")

Where is my heart's treasure ?

What truly gives me joyous pleasure ?

I have 5 children, I treasure and love

and 8 grandchildren, blessed from above.

I treasure beautiful places

And the love found on precious faces.

Blessings I ponder when I sit alone

In the peaceful silence of my home.

A scrapbook of memories I treasure

Of people, places and things of pleasure.

I greatly value being mother and wife

....But true lasting treasure is not of this life

The greatest treasure I've known....

The love and sacrifice Christ has shown.

I treasure God's mercy and grace

And the love as I seek His face.

I treasure the blood He freely gave

Just so my soul...He could save

I treasure His words written in red

And every truth and promise He said.

I treasure His wisdom, strength and hope

As He gives me courage to live and cope.

Humbly I fall at the foot of the cross

I treasure being found.....and no longer lost.

2012-01-21T15:17:00.002-06:00

TREASURE
written by Jerry Woods

Matthew 6:21

What be a treasure ??

Pirates plundered for it

Kings demanded it

Peasants dreamed of it

Criminals stole for it

Men all seek it.....

Be it wealth or fame.

Your heart will always be true to the

greatest we have to gain

An eternal life for all to attain

So as you dream and search

listen to the heart which will always proclaim

O dear soul, why experience pain

when treasure of earthly gain

holds not an ounce of weight in Heaven's

measure of life's wealth or fame.

Put your heart in control

and your mind at rest

for all who know Jesus can attest...

I have the treasure of life.....in a soul at rest.

2012-01-19T06:52:00.001-06:00

ALL THINGS

written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

("And we know that all things work together for good

to those who love God, to those who are called according to Hispurpose.")

Romans 8:28

All things work together for good.

Don't let the trials of life be misunderstood.

A baby dies while still in the womb

Or a young child dies much too soon.

Empty arms and a Mama cries

As hope for tomorrow dies.

.....but, that child is nestled in angel wings

Cradled and rocked as Heaven sings.....

If they had lived and walked and breathed

In God they may have never believed....

Choices may have led them away

To eternal Hell on judgment day

.....Perhaps God saved them....by taking them away

So forever with Him, they would stay.

Cancer attacks young and old, rich and poor.

It randomly enters many a door.

In fear and disbelief, we tremble and cry

We cling to God....and ask, "Why?"

....."We cling to God"....that's the key

Using even cancer to bless you and me.

When suffering is ushered in....

So too is joy from Him.

A child lays in a hospital bed

And a father falls to his knees...and bows his head.

In desperation, a Daddy will go

To a God he's never taken time to know.

His very first trip to the cross

And he is lead and not lost.

A child's illness has blessed and saved him

.....Now all in Christ will win.

A flat tire on the interstate

Nerves on edge because you're running late.

....But perhaps...God is using this delay

To keep you out of harm's way.

Tho many trials we don't understand

God is orchestrating and perfectly planned.

There's a "Heavenly reason", we can be assured

For every delay, hardship or illness endured.

Doors close on hopes and dreams

......Not always the tragedy it seems

God has a greater joy in store

If you'll just walk throguh a new door.

....For which He has given you the key

You'll be blessed....It's His guarantee.

Feel His nudge and move along

To write new chapters and sing His song.

We are often used by the Potter's hand

For His purpose....glorious and grand.

Life is not always fair

But Christ promised, our burdens to bear

....So "All things work together for good"

According to God's plan, just as they should.

2012-01-19T06:50:00.000-06:00

SEARCH ME

writtenby Donna (Ensign) Woods

Searchme, test me, know me

Sothat I may be blessed and free.

Calmmy fears

Anddry my anxious tears.

Shieldme from Satan's attack

Guidemy feet----keep me on track

Searchme God and know my heart

Witheach new day I start

MakeYour ways, my ways

Throughall my earthly days.

Guardmy tongue from bitter sin

Replacingsin with praise again.

Blessthe work of my hands

Accordingto Your awesome plans

Searchme, test me, know me

Sothat I may be blessed and free.

The Good News by Joyce Schafer

2012-01-09T18:40:00.002-06:00

Luke 2:10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. Ibring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.

You got the job.

I am getting married.

It is a girl.

The biopsy showed no cancer.

It is a boy.

She came through thesurgery fine.

I love getting good news. It makes me feel positively “gitty”. So I can only imagine how these shepherds felt when they received THE goodnews. I am sure they were afraid even though the angel told them not tobe. Then to realize that they were chosen to hear this good news from anangel sent directly from God, their reaction had to go way beyond “gitty” tofeeling completely blessed. It also was probably a humbling experiencefor them. I know if an angel came to me directly from God, I would feelunworthy but I also hope that I would overcome this feeling and appreciate thegreat honor being given to me.

But, wait, I think I am given this greathonor. When I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal savior this was theBest News I could have been given. I was given eternal life and I wasgiven someone to help me through all the struggles here on this earth.

Even though I was not one of the shepherds the angel visited on that firstChristmas. I am the Christian that Jesus visits every day of my life andthat is truly The Good News.

ISAIAH 40:31 by Tabatha Ludington

2012-01-09T18:38:00.001-06:00

Well it's that time of year and I've finally been hit by the bugwe all know and love called the common cold. My head is pounding and I don'tseem to have the energy to do anything, and yet I still manage somehow. As amom, I'm not allowed to put life on hold everytime I feel bad. It is days likethese that I am thankful for my faith and for friends.....

specifically my Lord Jesus. My walk with Him seems so new eventhough He has been with me forever.

Isaiah 40:31 remindsme that when I am weak I can call on the Lord and He will give me strength. Imay not feel like soaring or running right now but I can walk and not befaint...I can still hug my kids and hear their troubles....I can still cook forthem and share with others....I can still read His word and know He is with mein all of it. Every day and in every way He is our hope and our strength andall we can do daily is say thanks and return His love the best we can.

Wait by Donna (Ensign) Woods

2012-01-09T18:34:00.002-06:00

"butthose who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wingslike eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not befaint."

Isaiah40:31

Hurry up !!!.....and wait.

A moment to pray....to hesitate.

To wait upon the Lord...

Where all my strength is stored.

Not one step shall I take,

Nor one decision make.

Upon the Lord....I shall wait.

His direction, I anticipate.

To God alone the future in known

Therefore, I shall not go alone.

On eagles wings high above

.....Lifted up with God's love

Upon the Lord, I shall wait

Andwith Him....I celebrate.

TIME AFTER TIME.....FEAR NOT Donna (Ensign) Woods

2012-01-09T18:32:00.000-06:00

LUKE2:10

Time after time......I've prayed.

Each time the Lord says,"Be not afraid"

Doubts in my eyes have shown

My haunting fear of the unknown....

When I stand and tremble in fear

My Father God draws near.

As I curl up at His feet

He whispers, soft and sweet:

"I've listened each time you prayed

I've come, so you needn't be afraid."

In the dark valley of burden and care

He whispers,"I'll walk with you there"

"Be not afraid of the future planned

I'll give you strength to stand."

"If you crumple as pain draws near,

Remember....I know each tear."

"When firey trials are glaring hot

Peace, be still, and fear not."

"As mountains loom before you....

My courage will help you through."

"So rest....in peaceful sleep

As I will guard and keep."

"I'll hold you close....both day and night.

Remember.....your battles....are Mine to fight!!!"

THE SHINING by Glen Rosborough

2012-01-09T18:29:00.002-06:00

A star arose over the place where Jesus lay

A great light accompanied the angels when they announced Jesus'birth.

Jesus said,"I am the Light of the world."

The Light of Jesus shined into a dark world.

As Moses' face revealed the Light of God

So our faces will reflect the Light of the world.

And everything about us will be out in the open.

Nothing will be hidden as we display the radiance of God in ourliving.

And people will be drawn to the Savior because we are reflectingHis Light.

The world tells us there is no glory in living for Jesus.

The Bible tells us the only glory we need is what we give toGod.

When we glorify God our lives become glorious.

Thanks be to God who reveals everything we need for salvation

Andthus we become Children of Light.

"Who Do I Think I Am?!?!" written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

2011-12-31T16:43:00.001-06:00

Who do I think I am ?

Just a broken piece of glass

With a jagged, dirty past.

A vessel....useless and broken

Healing words unspoken.

Who do I think I am ?

A vapor, a fading mist

Of only dust, I consist.

A wilted petal tossed in the wind

......Broken....for I have sinned.

Who do I think I am ?

I stand condemned and all alone

As I make my way to God's throne

Rejected, hated I crawl in shame

I hang my head, accept the blame.

My life...unclean, unclean

Hide my shame so it won't be seen.

Who do I think I am ??

I have no right

To stand in God's sight

No right to speak His name

....Not with my sin and shame.

No right to crawl before His throne

...Or expect mercy to be shown.

WHO?? Who do I think I am ??

Christ has spoken

To His child, dirty and broken....

A gentle voice soft and still

Speaks with love, my heart to fill

"You are My child

For whom I suffered....and smiled.

You are Mine....All Mine !

I've loved you since the dawn of time."

I feel His mercy, compassion's touch !

....And He loves ME so very much !!

I am sinner...Forgiven

It's not for this world I'm livin'

I am a work of art !!

With the Spirit of God...Living in my heart !!

Who ? Who do I think I am ??

I am a Princess !! Daughter of the King !!!

It is for Him that I sing !

Who do I think I am ???

....A tiny piece of God's perfect plan....

And you....What about you ?

Are you dirty and broken too ??

Who do you think you are ?

With shame behind each scar.

A closet filled with ghosts of the past

Gaping wounds to forever last...

You too are a child of the King

With a mighty song to sing...

Who ? Who do you think you are ??

Autumn Memories by Theresa Zuber

2011-12-31T16:39:00.002-06:00

Memories of childhood drift past like falling leaves
Autumn cool – jacket weather – corn stalks stacked in sheaves
Mountains of brown leaves piled up to the sky
Perfect for running – jumping – or tossing way up high
Hayrides on starry nights filled with lots of laughter and talk
Shoes crunching noisily on a long slow walk
Picking up nuts that have fallen from the trees
Checking winter weather cutting persimmon seeds
Sitting round a campfire roasting “dogs” and s’mores
Listening to the firewood pop, crackle and roar
Apple cider, football games and pumpkins all around
Fall is filled with blessings – every sight and every sound

Burst into Song by Theresa Zuber

2011-12-31T16:38:00.003-06:00

Do you enjoy watching the Disney movies where they burstinto song as they express their emotions? I know they are kinda corny, but ILOVE them! There is just something endearing to me as these characters pourtheir feelings and thoughts – perhaps longings - into music and share them withthe world. Or maybe they sing a plea to the heavens or just put a voice to theirthoughts to comfort themselves.

Before you discount the merits of such things – let’s do alittle review!

After crossing the Red Sea on dry ground: Ex 15:1“Then Moses and the Israelites sang this song to the Lord: ‘I will sing to theLord, for he is highly exalted. Bothhorse and driver he has hurled into the sea.”

After the foundation of the temple in Jerusalem was laid: Ezra 3:11 “With praise and thanksgiving theysang to the Lord: ‘He is good; his lovetoward Israel endures forever.’ And all the people gave a great shout of praiseto the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid.”

The entire book of Song of Solomon is a love song. Here is one example: Song ofSol 1:15 “How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how beautiful! Your eyes aredoves.”

The next passage is Mary rejoicing as she shares with hercousin Elizabeth the news of her pregnancy. Although the passage reads Mary “said” the heading is “Mary’s song”. Luke1:46-49 “And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices inGod my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. Fromnow on all generations will call me blessed, for the Might One has done greatthings for me – holy is his name.’ “

Perhaps if we are living biblical lives we should burst intosong a little more often! Do nothesitate to use the gift of music to express your love, your gratitude, yourlongings and fear to the Almighty God – Creator of music and to others to shareand encourage them! See you Sunday!

A Child's Fear written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

2011-12-31T16:35:00.002-06:00

A CHILD'S FEAR

written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

I had a very vivid imagination as a child...

During the day, I laughed and played and smiled.

But when bedtime came in the dark of night

My heart and mind trembled in fright.

I imagined witches and bats lurking behind attic door

....And under my bed awaited more.

I ran and jumped into bed

Before they could grab me, I covered my head.

Evil little monsters with claws and fangs.

Blood thirsty creatures awaited in gangs !!

In the dark upstairs and all alone

The wind became a demon's moan.

The brush of branches from a tree

Became demonic beast, taunting me.

I often lay facing my dresser mirror

...So I could see my entire room....filled with fear !

In my closet, lived a ghost

I think I feared it the very most!

I imagined it floating around my bed

My heart consumed with dread.

Horrific and long was sleepless night

Heart pounding in my ears of fright.

On fearfull nights while laying in bed....

A single prayer played in my head..

I whispered it over and over till I fell asleep

Because some how I knew it would protect and keep.

Even as a child, the Lord's Prayer was power

To comfort and protect in my fear filled hour.

Though wretched demons surrounded me

...Threatening to torture and devour me...

God sent angels to guard over me....

From chains of fear to set me free.

I knew demons were close, but could not touch

Because Father God loves me much !!!

And now....I'v learned...The Bible says the demons are real !!

Their sulfer breath I often sense and feel

They still taunt and threaten to destroy

Laboring to steal my joy....

But I peacefully sleep all night long.

God replaced childhood fear with His song....

As angels stand guard around my bed

The Lord's promise plays in my head

Reminding me...there's nothing to fear....

For He Himself....stands very near.

What am I Thankful for This Year? by Joyce Schafer

2011-12-31T16:30:00.003-06:00

This year I want to give God thanks for the Quiet Times in my life. My world has too much noise in it. At work, I listen to computers humming, doors opening, coffeemakers dripping, cars honking, fax machines beeping, radios playing, phones ringing, people talking and trains whistling....
Then I come home to a washer running, dryer tumbling, oven timer ringing, dishwasher washing, microwave dinging and telephone singing. Notice I said nothing about radio or T.V.----there are some things I can control.
I can also choose to take breaks in my noisy day to spend quiet time with God.....in the morning at my kitchen table with my Bible, in the middle of my day at the park and in the evenings in my comfy chair journaling about my day. I spend this time being thankful for the blessings and asking forgiveness for the things I did wrong. I also pray for others and for wisdom ( I need a lot of that ) In dealing with the challenges in my life. Most importantly I give it all to God. Sometimes I take it back but He knows that I am a work in progress so allows me to give it to Him again and again.

He truly does lead me to quiet places and restores my soul and for this I am truly thankful.

God Knows by Vaneta Andrews

2011-12-31T16:21:00.003-06:00

God knows what we need ...

Roses from a loving Dad,

BYOC (Bring Your Own Chocolate) party with friends,

Seeing the "Harvest" after much prayer,

Mission Work,

Random flowers at a graveside,

Frequent chats with a new friend,

Bonding of a small group,

Preacher being close by when needed the most,

Clean house & car,

Massage, hairdo & back adjustment,

Prayer Shawl crocheted and prayed over by prayer warriors,

Visits and prayers from very special friends,

Anonymous financial support when times were tough,

Parents moving close by,

AND ...

A SAVIOR!

Some of these things happened just a couple of weeks ago. Some a few years in the making. The most important one - A SAVIOR - over 2,000 years ago.

God knows what we need AND He knows when we need it. Matthew 6:8 "Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him."

Praise God He knows what we need, when we need it, and He is willing to give it to us. Never stop looking to God for what you need and never stop seeing what He has given, is giving and will continue to give you. There are many promises scattered throughout the Word of God including Luke 11:9-10 "⁹ “So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. ¹⁰ For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." (see Luke 11:5-13)

Mary Mary written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

2011-12-31T16:19:00.000-06:00

MARY MARY

written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

Mary, Mary

Who is this Child you carry ?

The Baby that you hold...

The Word of God foretold.

As you wrapped Him with loving care

In the stench of stable air....

No pillow for His head

As you placed Him in a manger bed....

Did you hear angelic host..

When you needed strength the most ??

Mary, Mary,

Who is this Child you carry ?

When the shepherds came that night

To gaze upon miracle's sight

What went through your mind?

Did you know salvation was now defined ??

Who is He ??

Who shepherds hurried to see ?

Did you know He'd bear the cross ....for humanity ??

Your precious first born Son

.....Did you feel blessed to be the chosen one ?

This Child who nestled in your arm

The one you'd shield from harm...

Did you know He actually came to save you....

...........And all of us too ???

Mary, Mary

Who is this Child you carry ?

Did you see His Eastern Star

That guided Wise Men from afar ?

Who is this Child you hold

Receiving incense , myrrh.....and gold?

As the Magi worshiped your baby boy

...Was your heart filled with anxious joy ?

Did you ever question or doubt

Or in fear and anger cry out ???

King Herod feared Him and sought to destroy

......Your precious baby boy.

What did you think when Joseph said "we must go"

In the back of your heart....did you somehow know.....

Did you understand the prophesy ?

God's plan for eternity.....

As you watched your child run and play......

Did you know what He would do one day ??

Mary, Mary

Did you know our cross....He would carry ?

What was it like to raise God's Holy Son?

Who held who.....when day was done ??

Christmas-the Gift of Love by Joyce Schafer

2011-12-31T16:16:00.002-06:00

God gave us the ultimate gift of love when he gave us his son to live and die for us.

This Christmas season, I have seen the true meaning of Christmas-LOVE- in our community. I have seen the outpouring of LOVE in the donations to Toys for Tots, Homefront, World Vision, and Food Pantries. I have witnessed people coming together to make Christmas brighter for nursery home residents, single mothers, cancer patients and their families. I think God is truly working in the hearts of the people I know. It seems like anytime a need is mentioned, the response is an overwhelming “What can we do to help?” Then most importantly these words are put into action.

The Christmas season is bringing out the best in us and my hope is that this feeling of giving, compassion and love follows through in 2012. What a wonderful year it will be if we LOVE each other the way God wants us to do. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Thanksgiving written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

2011-11-20T15:55:00.001-06:00

THANKSGIVING

written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

Reasons to give thanks.....every day.
1000 gifts along the way
Thankful for blessings...yours and mine
Sprinkled through sands of time.
Blessings great and small
Thanking God for them all....
Thankful for family and friend
Sunshine and rain the Heavens send.
The seasons of each year
...For laughter....and even the tear.
A home for safe and restful sleep
Knowing the Lord shall guard and keep.
Homes for comfort and pleasure
Creating memories for hearts to treasure.
Thankful for turkey and country hams
Pumpkin pie ....and candied yams....
Family, food and fun...
Kissed by falls gentle sun.
Along river's edges we meander
Drinking in Autumn splendor.
So much beauty all around....
Wrapped in aroma, sight and sound.
Thanking God for His love so pure
And the many trials He helps us endure.
Whether life is painful....or happy and sweet
It's time to give thanks at the Lord's feet.
Living in the land of "milk and honey"
....Blessings are not about wealth and money.....
It's about joy only the heart can know
And feeling loved wherever we go.
Knowing we are never alone
God hears each prayerful moan
Remember.......His Son suffered and died
for you and me.
We have much to be thankful for
.......don't you agree ???

On My Way to 1000 Gifts by Donna Ensign Woods

2011-11-20T15:37:00.001-06:00

We were recently challenged to give thanks for the life we already have.....

by Ann Voskamp's book One Thousand Gifts

to unwrap the gifts God has already given to us. Whether we are having an amazing day or whether we are in a dark, lonely valley of dispair and heartache.... God gives us gifts in every situation.In giving thanks for the life we already have.......we find the life we always wanted. Accepting what God gives with a thankful heart

The challenge was to list 1000 gifts......this is a small sampling from our lists.

*"Give thanks in all circumstances for that is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" 1 Thessalonians5:18
* God, Jesus, His grace, His mercy, His love, His forgiveness, Salvation and Eternal life.
* I'm no longer lost, but found. My sins have been forgiven and I've been set free ! Thank you Jesus
* Gently holding the tiny cup of "His Blood" between my finger tips....watching my own pulse beat...
tiny ripples in "His Blood"....Communing....my heart beat....His Blood...my sin....His Salvation..
my temperal...His Eternal....my failure...His Forgiveness...my punishment.....His Sacrifice....
* Thankful for my husband and sons and the joys and opportunities each day with them brings.
* God's world is beautiful. Thankyou, Heavenly Father, for the natural wonders you surround us with. * Earth, sun, moon, mountains, water, trees, flowers, wind, air, animals, plants, pets .....
* Wonderful husband, good friends, sons and daughters, grandchildren......family.
* True friends......who lift you up....when your heart's wings forget how to fly. (love that quote)
* Broken pieces......Broken glass, Torn cloth....Shattered dreams, broken hearts...and God's ability to make something beautiful out of all those broken pieces (If we are willing to give them all to Him)
* God Moments. Opportunities to encourage a fellow traveler along the dusty roads of life.
* Home made rag dolls......gifts from Merle Kinder......sweet memories.....
*I'm so grateful for the good health my family and I enjoy.
* A baby's laugh is the sweetest sound.....You can't help but smile when hearing it.
* Thankyou Heavenly Father, for loving me. * .....even though I don't deserve it.
* The joy and peace that blankets a God-loving Christian family...when life isn't fair......
* The words of poetry God gives my pen.
* His promises, His plan, His timing, His unfailing love.
* Music to my soul....rhythm of the rain...sounds of laughter....song birds at sunrise....old hymns...cricket serenade....distant rolls of thunder....hypnotic waves.....the symphony of nature
* The memories of yesterday, the gift of today, the hope of tomorrow......
* I'm thankful for my job and the good people I get to work with every day. I am so blessed !
* My old tattered large print Bible, notes scribbled, highlighted verses, wrinkled and tear stained.
* The American flag and everything it stands for....and everyone who is willing to "stand" for it.
* Peace, solitude, quiet time to write, to think, to pray.........to listen
* Corn on the cob....butter dripping......... red, ripe, juicy watermelon.....and chocolate !!!!!
* The ability to work, walk, talk, see and hear......huge gifts I often take for granted
*Missionaries......who go where no one else will....full of compassion, energy and a message to share.
* Maddy.....cancer-free, tumor-free........God's mercy and answered prayers.
* Kisses for chubby baby cheeks and lots of baby slobbers !
* Tears. .....for the past, about the past, from the past...rich, salty, stinging tears. Tears of pain, tears of suffering and loss. Tears of relief. Tears of sweet joy. Happy tears. Tears of regret.......Healing tears.
* Necessary endings......Unlock doors to new beginnings. New pages, new chapters.
* Good-bye hugs and I Love yous
* Sunday morning Church. Paises and prayers. Standing on Holy ground. Bare feet. Exodus 3:5
*Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105

This is just a small sample of our 1000 gifts. We pray this will encourage you to "unwrap" your gifts every day, and begin your own list of gifts.

The Circle written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

2011-09-14T21:48:00.000-05:00

Standing, ready to fight

Teeth clenched. Jaws tight.
While the accused whimpers in fear,
Knowing pain and death is very near.
The circle closes in.....
Upon the judged one lost in sin.
Rocks ready----weapons of death,
To torture till the final breath.
Hearts pounding.
Accusations resounding....
Condemned by man and here to die.
Tears of the lost, beg and cry.
The accusers circling, ready and waiting...
Blood thirsty rocks hesitating....
Circling like animals around the kill
Thirsting for blood to spill.
Sweat glistening in anticipation
Tears pouring in desperation.
Feet stirring clouds of dust
Hearts filled with disgust.
The accused curled on the ground
Desperate pleading with every sound....

Where are you, in this circle of death ??
Holding the rock ?...Or taking your final breath ??
Where are you ?
What are you about to do?
Hurl rocks with a blood thirsty cry?
....Or are you the one about to die ?

What have we all become ??
To Satan's lie have we succumb ??
Drop your rocks and walk away !!
Fall to your knees and pray.
If you're on the ground.....stand !
This is not what God planned.
Get up, and sin no more.
Walk through tomorrow's door.
God's people don't belong in the circle !!
....Not casting rock and stone
Or cowering all alone.........

Rock Solid and Steady by Donna (Ensign) Woods

2011-08-17T05:20:00.000-05:00

Will you be ready?
Rock solid and steady....
When we hear the voice proclaim
...will you rejoice ? Or cower in shame ?
Trumpet call of God .....pulsating the soul of man
It's then too late to make a plan.
When Believers rise from their earthly grave
To join Christ and those He died to save.
Their earthly bodies decay
They eagerly wait ...for the Lord's Day
Will I be ready?
Rock solid and steady...
When Christ returns for all to see
...Will He smile...when He looks at me ???
With the Archangel's loud command
Will I have the strength to stand ??
Glorious excitement filling the air
Will I be ready to join Him there?
All eyes will be on Him
Whether we are saved...or lost in sin...
What will He see ???
When He looks at you and me?
Sinner. Forgiven. All dressed in white.
Or will He look away from the disgusting sight ??
Will you be ready??
Rock solid and steady....
Believers raised who have fallen asleep
As Christ stood guard to protect and keep
The alive in Christ. Forgiven and free
A glorious day for believers to see
A family reunion in the sky
Never again a tear to cry.
Will you be ready?
Rock solid and steady...
When He comes today....

Will He lift you up ...........Or send you away....??

Trust written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

2011-08-15T08:51:00.000-05:00

Recently, Madison, my 4 year old granddaughter, went shopping with me.

It was a miserably hot day, like we have had so many of this summer.

Seeking as much mercy from the heat as possible,

I parked the van at the far end of the parking lot,

under a tiny little shade tree.

As we exited the cool comfort of the store,

we stepped out of the comfort zone into the blazing furnace-like heat.

Maddy immediately slipped her tiny little hand into mine.

She boldly announced that she was walking all the way to the van with her eyes closed!

I glanced down, and sure enough, her eyes wer squeezed tightly shut,

pony tail bouncing with every step,

face turned up toward the sky

with a beaming smile on her precious little face.

She walked confidently, with big steps,

keeping stride right along side of me....

absolutely no hesitation, no fear...in total trust.

I said,"Oh Maddy do you trust ME to lead you safely ??"

"Do you trust ME to protect you from moving cars?...

and to prevent you from running into parked cars?"

"Do you trust ME to catch you if you stumble and start to fall????"
She smiled even bigger, turning her head towards me,

eyes still tightly closed and said,"YEP!!!"

My heart flooded with an emotion that no words can describe !!!

....For her to trust my love so completely, without doubts...

without fears...without hesitation...

To boldly and confidently take one step after another....

without "seeing" where she was stepping...

Not knowing what dangers or obstacles may block her way

or threaten her from the left or right....

My heart danced a joy only a mother or grandmother can know....

....And somewhere deep in my soul, I heard my Father God whisper....

"Take MY hand and trust ME as fearlessly as Maddy trusts you..."

My heart skipped a beat, as I recognized the voice of All Creation...

and I realized, once again, God was using a little child to teach me.

I was not leading Maddy....SHE was leading me !!!!

So many treasured lessons we learn from a child !!

I guess that is why God reveals His secrets to little children....

Why He wants us to come to Him as little children....

Why a little child will lead them...lead us...lead me.

Because only a child can trust with all their heart....

The harder I try to teach my grandchildren about the love of Christ....

the more THEY teach ME about the love of Christ....

".....Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them,

for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these....

I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom

of God like a little child will never enter it."

Mark 10:14 & 15

More Than Just Words..... by Vaneta Andrews

2011-08-02T07:25:00.000-05:00

“God, sometimes you give me words that I never dreamed I would have. You give me a way of saying things, a way of putting my/your thoughts together that just amaze me.”

That was a conversation I had with God today. His reply … “it’s about more than just words! It’s about the heart! When your heart is in tune with mine nothing is impossible.”

Matthew 19:26 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

So why do we let our hearts get hard? I guess because we gradually start letting the world creep in. We gradually stop listening to Christian music, stop reading the Word, stop fellowshipping with other Christians, stop going to church, stop praying and yet we wonder where is God?! Did you notice I said WE gradually stop … I didn’t say anything about God going anywhere. He was, He is, He always will be right there knocking on our heart’s door wondering why we won’t open it and let Him back in!

Revelation 3:20 “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.”

So the next time you wonder where God is or why He left you to handle a tough situation alone remember … you are not alone and God is not the one who left. Stop to listen to the knocking at your heart, open the door and receive the fullness of God’s blessings!

Lord, Thank you for never leaving us, never forsaking us and never giving up on us!!

Guide written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

2011-07-26T12:19:00.002-05:00

Oh dear Lord, Please lead and guide

...Especially when I just want to hide.

Guide the passions of my heart

With each new day I start.

May YOU choose my every word

As my heart is touched and stirred.

Direct my daily path....

Allowing me to live and laugh

Guide the work of my hands

To honor all your plans.

To obey without asking "Why?"

Amidst shadows of tears I cry

Open my heart to receive

In all my faith to believe.

Release my grasp....when you take away

Still giving thanks as I pray.

Guide my feet to the perfect place

Where I can see....Your face.

May I? Can I? Will I? by Julie Short

2011-07-11T10:41:00.000-05:00

I loved the game “Mother May I’ as a child. I learned the difference between Can I and May I. I know because I work in Early Childhood, that I learned many other things while playing the game. I learned impulse control (to stop and think first before I acted.) I learned the difference between big and little, counting, and social skills.
In today’s Oswald Chambers devotion (July 9^th,) he wrote that believing and serving God is a choice, a decision. It’s not can I serve the Lord or can I believe, It’s will I? Will I accept that I can do nothing good apart from God and that I can do all things through Him who gives me strength?

Philippians 4:13

I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

So when I think or say “I can’t do this or that”, what I am really saying is I won’t allow God to do this or that through me. Am I willing to step aside and let God work through me? He Will, if I allow Him.
In the game, “Mother May I” if you ask “Can I?” instead of “May I?” you lose your turn.
“Can I?” is asking, am I able?
“May I?” is asking for permission.
We are asked as Christians “Will I?”
Will I continue to pick up and carry boxes of discontent, arguing and complaining, whining, anger, judging others, self doubt, worries, toxic guilt, or I should have, boxes and if so how long will I carry them?
OR
Will I choose not to pick them up and choose to do all for the Glory of the Father?

WHERE OH DEATH written by Donna ( Ensign) Woods

2011-06-23T09:00:00.000-05:00

Where, Oh death, is your final threat ?

I fought a good fight....the goal has been met.

So very tired, I grew fragile and weak...

I anxiously waited for the Lord, I did seek.

In calm silence, I closed my eyes...

And saw a multitude of angels fill the skies...

It's time !...It's time !....The Lord was calling my name....

Oh death !!!....What a blessed...awaited gain !!

No more suffering or pain to entwine...

Replaced by peace, not subject to time.

Where, Oh death, is your labored sting ??

In the arms of Christ, I hear angels sing.

In the radiant glow of Heaven's glorious light....

Oh such wondrous reward for my earthly fight !!

He opened wide His arms to lovingly embrace...

As He wiped all tears from my face.

The jaws of death could not hold onto me

But set me free....for eternity.

Where, Oh death, is your fatal bite ??

In the arms of Christ....I HAVE WON THE FIGHT !!!!!!!!!

A Poem from Sara

2011-06-20T14:00:00.000-05:00

Often times as we reach out to love and encourage others.....

we are the ones that receive the greatest encouragement.

A POEM FROM SARA BENTON

Spring has come with hopes of sun; instead, it just brought rain.

And still the winter doldrums stayed with all my aches and pain.

Then one day in the mail, there was an envelope bright.

Someone who prays and cares for me had decided a note to write.

Their words were welcome with encouragement, showing God's love that day.

And then, an added message---they knew it was my birthday !

The next day, a few more cards appeared in the mail.

Lavendar and pink and yellow and green; spring colors did prevail !

And then the cards did "grow" like seeds from a garden flower.

The blessings were multiplied, showing more of God's love and power.

Oh, what joy they bring me that the Son was shining through,

That God is again blessing me from the card that came from you !

Please keep your blessings growing as seeds you planted here and there

To many others who are in need: It's God's love that you share !

........and once again Sara Benton has multiplied blessings.....

and returned them to us.....

As she dances on streets of gold.....with our Savior's hand to forever hold.

Lesson Plans by Susan Shull

2011-06-15T08:56:00.000-05:00

Some people are born teachers. A few days ago, many, many of us gathered to pay our last respects to one of those people, Sara Benton.

Sara was one of those individuals whom everyone seemed to know. Friendly and easy to talk to, she was interested in people. Having taught kindergarten for 34 years, she influenced lots of Jasper County children and parents. Perhaps her teaching really began when she retired and shared her battle with illness through her email updates and amazing encounters with those God put in her path.

I’ve been acquainted with her for years and years, but at her memorial service, I discovered that I didn’t really know her. The minister who preached her funeral came to the podium with a stack of Sara’s journals. Her service consisted mainly of his reading her own words to us-words declaring her love and trust in the Lord. What an amazing testimony of His enduring love and care, and of her faith during her struggle with a hateful disease!

Sara’s words convicted me of my judgmental spirit. When am I going to really surrender my sometimes mean-spirited ways and realize in my heart and head that I’m not responsible for other’s actions, and I don’t know what is going on in their lives? I want to love people without judging them. I’m worthy of judging no one.

Sara attended our church and played the keyboard in the praise band, but she was not there every Sunday. I found out at her funeral that she played the piano not only at SACC and Plainfield churches, but at many different churches. Because of this, she was able to influence and be influenced by many different Christians. She was able to use her long battle with cancer to share what God was doing in her life with numerous people. She wasn’t afraid to do that. We saw the proof in a packed church with a diverse group of Christians gathered to pay their respect.

It was obvious that this lady poured out her heart in her journals, and the outpouring was a good one. Our words can demonstrate a heart filled with love or hate, and hers showed her love of the Savior, even when she didn’t understand why she was experiencing the challenges of this life.

I’m sure many were touched by what they heard. I pray those words will lead someone to take the step that will change his/her life forever and accept the free gift of salvation. I am sure that was one of the goals of Miss Benton’s last lesson plan.

Thank you for the example, Sara. We will miss you.

Kneading by Julie Short

2011-06-09T07:09:00.000-05:00

I was reading Oswald Chambers My Utmost for His Highest devotion book this morning. He wrote about being obsessed with God. It has crossed my mind, since I am very good at obsessing. I have trouble letting things: distressing thoughts, feelings and worries, go. I work to pound them like a baker kneads bread. I add lots of “should haves” and “what if’s.” I pound myself up and down until I am exhausted.

But what if I worked as hard at giving up the worries of this world and focused on my relationship with God? What if all my thoughts and feelings were focused on loving and kneading God into every fiber of my life?

Deuteronomy 6:5

Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.

The Fog by Donna Ensign Woods

2011-05-24T08:00:00.003-05:00

In the midst of fog---so eerie and dense

I desperately cling to the fence.

Afraid to risk letting go

Stepping into a future, I do not know.

Imagination plays endless trick....

Mind tortured by fog so thick.

Clutching the fence....familiar and sure

Fearful of dangers I might endure.

Beyond the fog, I hear a voice call

"Trust Me, I won't let you fall"

Frantic, I search the fog for Him

Through my eyes cloudy and dim.

I struggle desperately to see

From where the voice calls to me.

Uncertain if I can stand

.....Should I reach out to take His hand ?

Is the danger lurking where I cannot see ?

...Or is it really closing in on me ??

In reality is my fence a dangerous ledge ?

Am I slipping from a jagged edge ?

...Or am I consumed in a cavern deep

Beneath mountains narrow and steep....

Do I stay?....Or do I go ??

.....Safety of this fence is all I know

The fog so painfully dense...I cannot see !!!

But I feel the Lord is nudging me.

Do I let go and take His hand....

Forever trusting what he has planned ?

He promised I have nothing to fear

....How I wish the fog would lift and clear.

It grows thicker the longer I wait

Why Oh why....do I hesitate ??

To a worthless fence I cling

Instead of trusting my Savior King !

Cowering in the fog....clinging to the fence

....It simply makes no sense !

The moment I trust and let go....

Glorious blessings I will know

Each day......a step of faith

Do I cling to the fence ?

....or leave this place ?

Disney World and Heaven by Joyce Schafer

2011-05-23T07:33:00.001-05:00

I recently had the privilege of experiencing Disney World through the eyes of a child-not just any child but two of my granddaughters. I saw the way their eyes sparkled when seeing the beauty of the light parade and the smiles that life- size Mickey and Minnie brought to their faces. It made me think that this is how I will feel when I first see heaven. Instead of cobbled streets there will be streets paved with gold and instead of pretend characters and electric lights, we will get to see the real thing in God and Jesus and the Light that will be shining will take our breath away. It will truly be a magical time. Disney World might be advertised as the happiest place on earth but I guarantee you that compared to Heaven it will be a pale comparison.

Jesus reprimanded his disciples when they tried to turn the children away because he knew that little children see things so much clearer than adults. Adults tend to spend their time doing what is expected of them while a small child actually experiences life more honestly. If they are hungry they eat, if they are sad they cry, if they are happy they radiate joy, and they are so capable of giving unconditional love. I am sure this is why Jesus said we need to become like a little child in order to enter the gates of heaven. Just as a little child is totally dependent on their mothers and fathers for everything, we need to be totally dependent on our heavenly father to satisfy all of our needs. As adults it is so hard to give up control but it is so necessary to achieve Peace and to realize our ultimate goal-HEAVEN.

Mark 10:15 I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.

Use It or Lose It by Tana Lemay

2011-05-19T18:05:00.000-05:00

Why do we always want what we don’t have? Some of us may wish we looked different – taller, shorter, curly hair or straight, blue eyes instead of brown. We dream of bigger homes, immaculate lawns overflowing with lush plantings, sleek shiny cars, or exotic vacations. Then there are the God-given gifts – longing for the ability to sing beautifully, to teach wisely, to provide hospitality effortlessly, or to give generously. Why do we spend so much time, effort and energy pursuing the impossible, and as a result, bypassing the possible?

We can find the answer in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3). Adam and Eve had everything they needed in abundance. And yet, when Satan pointed out the forbidden to Eve, doubts arose in her about God’s goodness and she longed for the one thing He denied her. In her longing, she cast aside all she knew about God’s generosity and provision and reached for the forbidden, seeing only its external beauty which hid the evil within.

And so today, we find ourselves doing the same as Eve, forgetting our many blessings and gifts in pursuit of things that won’t satisfy, but only increase our longing. In Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus shares the parable of the talents. In this parable He explains that we are to use our talents effectively and in doing so will receive an increase of what He has given us. Our ability to use our talents will grow as we use them in service to Him. Likewise, if we don’t use them, they will be removed from us.

Do you know what your talents are? Are you using them in service to Him? If you don’t know, ask someone-family, friends, your minister or teacher. Pray for guidance. Then step out in faith and do what God has asked of you.

⁶ In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. ⁷ If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. ⁸ If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.

Romans 12:6-8 (NLT)

Rest by Julie Short

2011-05-17T07:09:00.000-05:00

Do we even know what “to rest” means anymore?

Always Thinking

Re-thinking

I should have………

Pre-thinking

What if?

And "why's" sprinkled through Like chocolate chips melting and solidifying our despair. If I had only been better, things would have turned out differently.

We might as well take a seat grab a glass of cold milk and eat the cookie.

Then with God’s wonderful mercy and grace, blowing like a fresh spring breeze, we can rest in His words, His Promises.

Matthew 11:28

I Turn the Page by Susan Shull

2011-05-16T05:14:00.000-05:00

In just a few days, I will turn in my keys and walk out of Jasper County Junior High, never to return as a full-time teacher. I have loved being around kids for the last 20+ years, and, of course, like most educators, I think the subject I taught is the most important one. However, I have felt compelled the last couple of years to put down my library books and do something else. I have to admit though that it is a little scary.

I really want to follow God’s plan for my life, so that played a huge part in my decision to retire early. However, there have been some really unusual occurrences during the last two years that had me waffling between retiring or staying on. First, our economy took a free fall, then earthquakes, tsunamis, nuclear disasters, and now what seems like rain for 40 days and 40 nights. All of these horrible events had me quite worried about the financial state of our world. Then I realized that surely God wouldn’t go to those lengths to tell me to keep teaching 8^th graders another year. Even I’m not that egotistical! Everything that happens across the globe isn’t about me.

So, I am trusting that God has a plan for me and have submitted my resignation. I’m packing up my room and will soon say good-bye to my 8 hour a day job. I’m trusting God to show me what He wants me to do next, and I pray that I’m wise enough to listen.

God, Spiders, and Hippopotamus by Joyce Schafer

2011-05-14T06:50:00.000-05:00

“Gamma, there’s a spider in my barn” my little granddaughter tells me and hands me a Kleenex to take care of her problem. Sure enough there is a spider in the toy barn but you about need a magnifying glass to see it. She knew regardless of the size of her problem, her grandma would deal with it. I am reminded that our Lord wants us to bring all our problems to him whether they be the size of a tiny spider or as big as a hippopotamus (a word we love to hear her say). ….but do we? If you are like me, you have no trouble praying when something major like a serious illness or accident happens in your family or among your friends. But do you remember to pray when you can’t find your car keys, you have a headache, you have trouble falling asleep or when you are being pulled in ten different directions? God wants to help us in these situations as well as the major problems of our lives.

I am a “recovering workaholic” I am trying to slow down, pray first and then let God help me make the right choices and guide my feet, my hands and definitely my mouth throughout the day. Years ago when I was helping my husband farm, my prayer to God was “Please don’t let me do anything stupid today.” My prayer today is “When I do something stupid please help me to laugh about it.” I figure with all the troubles in the world today we can all use a good laugh---even God.

A Child's Fear by Donna Ensign Woods

2011-05-09T07:22:00.000-05:00

I had a very vivid imagination as a child

During the day, I laughed and played....and smiled

But when bedtime came in the dark of night

My heart and mind trembled in fright

Witches and bats lurked behind the attic door

....And under my bed awaited more.

Evil little monsters with claws and fangs

Blood thirsty creatures....awaited in gangs !!

In the dark upstairs and all alone

The wind became a demon's moan....

The brush of branches from a tree

Became demonic beast taunting me.

I often lay facing my dresser mirror....

So I could see my entire room----filled with fear !

In my closet lived a ghost...

I think I feared it the very most.

I imagined it floating around my bed

As I quickly covered my head.

Horrific and long was sleepless night

Heart pounding in my ears of fright

On fearful nights while laying in my bed

A single prayer played in my head

I whispered it over and over till I fell asleep

Because I somehow knew it would protect and keep.

Even as a child, the Lord's Prayer was power

To comfort and protect in my fearfilled hour.

Though wretched demons surrounded me

Threatening to torture and devour me

God sent angels to guard over me

From chains of fear, to set me free.

I knew demons were close, but could not touch

Because Father God loves me much !!!

And now....I've learned the demons are real

Their sulfer breath I smell and feel.

They still taunt and threaten to destroy

Laboring to steal my joy.

But I peacefully sleep all night long

God has replaced my fear with His song.

As angels stand guard around my bed

The Lord's promise plays in my head.

Reminding me there's nothing to fear...

For He Himself stands very near !!!

The Mom Song with lyrics

2011-05-08T08:01:00.000-05:00

Empty Spaces by Julie Short

2011-05-05T16:56:00.000-05:00

Recently, I began to pray for God to pour me out and fill me up with Him. I catch myself thinking “less of me more you, God.” I felt good about this, and I kind of puffed up, “Look at me I’m allowing God to pour me out.” I guess I thought it was like pouring out a glass of water and filling it with fresh cold lemonade.

I find myself relating to Peter when he told Jesus, “Just don’t wash my feet. Wash all of me.” Like I am telling God, “Go ahead, pour me out. I’m ready.”

Well I thought I was ready, that was until the pouring out process began. My real ugly selfish stuff that I had filled myself up with began to surface. Answered prayer, but as it surfaced I began to see how big it was, how full of selfishness I actually am. I began to think if God pours me out, there won’t be anything left. I thought I will crack and smash to the floor like an egg falling from the kitchen counter, hitting the floor and exploding into a mess of goo and goop that needs to be discarded.

My haughty hopes dashed- maybe this pouring out process wasn’t such a good idea after all. I shared my dismay with a dear friend and she began to explain her thoughts using (of all things) an egg. She asked me if I ever blew out an egg at Easter. I said no, so she explained the process of gently poking two holes in the egg one at the top and one at the bottom. She then explained how the thick yoke actually comes out the tiny hole.

Hope again, while God is gently blowing out my selfish gunk he is filling the empty spaces with his love, mercy, grace and the Holy Spirit. So when my selfishness begins to be emptied out, I won’t crash to the floor, but will be filled with new life, as I read God’s word and pray.

I wonder if that’s what we all fear, the empty spaces, to different degrees. I feared the empty space of being poured out because I had filled my life with self-doubt, self-pity, with my-self. I believe there are many things we can fill the empty spaces of our lives up with. Some fill the emptiness with food, some fill it with stuff, some even to the point of hording, some use drugs and alcohol, some fill the emptiness with being busy, some work, details, perfection.

The only way we are truly able to fill the empty spaces is by allowing God, to fill us up by giving him our ugliness, repenting, being baptized and following Him.

SCARS written by Donna (Ensign) Woods

2011-05-03T20:28:00.001-05:00

As I slowly stirred the soup bubbling on the stove, I noticed Maddy, my 3 1/2 year old

granddaughter. She was very deep in thought....too deep for a small child. I could see the

anxiety on her precious little face,

as she rubbed her hand over the long, rough scar on her tummy......

The scar that is a constant reminder of the huge cancerous tumor that nearly took her

life when she was only 13 months old. She is too young to remember that horrifying

time in her life that was filled with pain and fear....

but she knows that her tummy doesn't look like other kid's tummies.

After a few moments she raised her shirt and looked at the jagged scar.

She then looked up at me and said,"Grandma, is my belly pretty??"

I nearly choked with emotion as I exclaimed,"Maddy, your belly is BEAUTIFUL !!!"

Her face lit up as a big smile made her blue eyes dance ! Delighted, she ran into the

family room to check on her sleeping baby dolls.

Everything was suddenly perfect and right in her world again.

Tears rolled down my cheeks as I turned my attention back to the bubbling soup.

Maddy's scar IS beautiful !

A beautiful reminder of the miracle that saved her precious little life.

A beautiful reminder of God's awesome mercy.

A beautiful reminder of His answers to our desperate, pleading prayers.

A beautiful reminder to be thankful every day.

Jesus has scars too.....beautiful scars !

On His head...to remind us He is our Savior and King.

On His hands... to remind us of His love...

As He spread them wide to show us just how much.

On His feet...to remind us to walk with Him.

In His side...to remind us He is beside us always.

Beautiful scars.

Maddy's scar reminds us of the miracle that saved HER ...

Jesus' scars remind us of the miracle that saved US...

"Yes Maddy, Your belly is beautiful !!"

Resurrection Sunday by Theresa Zuber

2011-04-21T07:21:00.000-05:00

Fluffy baby chicks in shades of sunny yellow, snow white bunnies with soft pink noses, beautiful baskets filled with pastel eggs and an assortment of other fun surprises including...... Chocolate!!! These are just some of the symbols of Easter - at least symbols to the world.

What are our symbols of Easter?

The rugged, splintered cross against a stormy sky.
A crown made of sharp, protruding thorns covered in blood and tangled with strands of hair.
Spikes - long enough to fasten flesh and bones to wood.
Tear-stained faces of family and devoted friends; eyes red and swollen from grief and pain.
A borrowed tomb carved from a rock where they laid his lifeless, battered body - lovingly wrapped in clean linen cloth.
That same tomb - EMPTY! Our Savior - the sacrificial Lamb - has overcome death and He is alive!!! This is our symbol.

Celebrate our greatest hope this Resurrection Sunday. Jesus is alive, therefore we have hope of eternal life as well. Join us as we worship King Jesus.

(John 11:25-26) "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?"

As I Raise My Hands by Julie Short

2011-04-19T07:19:00.001-05:00

Am I constantly about “My Father’s Business?” So immersed in, focused on, God, not wanting to be distracted by the world. I must not be here on earth for me, living MY life, but be a vessel God can

Use for His Kingdom.

I sometimes raise my hands in church, I thought as a surrender to God.

But, what does surrender mean? Doesn’t it mean giving up one’s self? According to the dictionary: To yield to the possession or power of another.

There have been many times in the last five years that I have said, if I had a white flag I would surrender.

I often wanted to surrender to the pain and agony of death of my daughter Kyra. I wanted to give up

Saying I can’t take the pain anymore.

So am I at a place where I am willing to totally give up myself, my dreams, my wishes, to give up me?

Only then will I be able to receive God when I raise my hands. Yes, this week I heard God say, raise your hands and receive me that I can live through you. Wow, I must be emptied out, I must surrender me, surrender all, only then can I receive God. I now see that we are pipe lines that God can use from heaven to pour out His mercy and grace, pour out His love. But He can only use me if I am empty; if I allow me- selfishness to clog me, the pipe- then God cannot use me. It is only when I surrender all

And receive God and allow Him to flow through me can I truly be what God intended.

I now see that when I raise my hands, I empty myself out and receive God, He then flows through and out into the world for others to see, experience.

My attitude must go,

Attitude according to the dictionary is: a manner, disposition, feeling, position, etc., with regard to a person or thing. Tendency or orientation.

Attitude according to God’s Word: Philippians 2:5 Your attitude should be the same as Christ Jesus.

I often find myself thinking and saying I need an “attitude adjustment”

Orient: To adjust with relation to, or bring in due relation to surroundings. To familiarize with new surroundings or circumstances. To direct or position towards a particular object.

I wonder if my attitude is based on my attempt to hold tightly onto myself. I can’t put into words how

The thought of raising my hands to receive God has affected me. Why can’t I give it/me all up and surrender all?

I think there are moments in the last few months that I have. I think it is a continual process; I continually die to self, give up self, surrender self and all to God. Only in those moments can I truly receive God and all He has to pour into and through me.

Why is it so hard to give up myself, it’s not like it has served me well?

Apart from God, I am broken, wretched, so why would I want to hold onto broken and wretched, when I

Can have unfathomable peace and joy?

It’s like I am holding onto me and I am a dead decaying carcass and I am protecting me screaming it’s mine and you can’t have it. Who would want it? God sent Jesus to die so he could remove the dead decaying carcass that is stopping up His pipe. He paid for us to free us to have victory over death. Yet, I continue to hold on. Yuck, what’s up with that?

I wonder if my bad attitude is a reflection of my holding onto a smelly decaying carcass. Would my attitude change if I surrendered the smelly carcass to God?

On Being a Woman by Donna Ensign Woods

2011-04-18T07:32:00.001-05:00

No greater role on Earth

Than being a woman of worth.

Walking with God each day

Praying for guidance along the way.

Being a woman is tough !

Filled with duties, trials.....and "stuff"

Heartache....Joy...Delight.......and Fear.

Forever to Christ, we draw near.

On wings of prayer, we lift,

In faith we wait for answer and gift.

Our bodies deliver the next generation

....Each with God breathed destination.

Pray, without ceasing for each child

Who stole our hearts each time they smiled.

So hard to be patient and trust,

In a world filled with evil unjust.

Falling to our knees, we pray...

For each child who has wondered away.

Fighting a battle that can't be won

...Except through the power of God's Holy Son !

Encouraging them, when hearts are breaking...

Even when our own soul is shaking.

Reassuring them with gentle smile

When you are crying on the inside, all the while

Running a multitude of races

Seeing the future...in innocent faces.

It's tough being a Mother

...As we love and encourage each other.

We struggle to guide and teach

...From our "soap box" we often preach !

But, for our children we defend and fight

With a mother bear's vicious might !

God placed tomorrow at our breast

Entrusting us...with His precious best.

We did not give birth in the stable...

But our hands....rock the cradle.....

Wear and Tear by Julie Short

2011-04-03T17:47:00.000-05:00

I took the beautiful wrapped box and carefully opened the gift. Inside the wrapping lay a beautiful handmade pillow. I smiled at my Grandma and said “Thank you so much!” I hoped she would know how much I would cherish the pillow she had made with love.

I slept with the pillow every night. I took the pillow with me on all my overnight trips. Many, Many months passed and I went to visit my grandma. I brought my cherished pillow with me. I didn’t understand the look on my Grandmas face when she saw the tattered and torn Pillow. I thought she would be able to tell how much I valued and cherished the pillow by how I used the pillow, but that is not the look my Grandma gave me.

Twenty plus years have passed. I now realize what my Grandma may have thought when she saw the tattered and torn pillow. I now understand the disappointed questioning look on my grandma’s face as she stared at the pillow. “Why didn’t you cherish my gift? Why didn’t you take care of the pillow keeping it clean and protecting it from daily ware?

Oh how I wish I could tell her “Grandma I did cherish the pillow, I loved it that is why I used it.” If we cherish, value a gift what do we do with it? Do we use it or put it away? How do we cherish God’s word? Do we put the bible up, careful not to allow wear and tear to touch the precious gift? Do we use it every day, carry it with us always and strive to live by God’s spoken word?

Sometimes I feel tattered and torn. I often look at my life like grandma did my pillow. I question why such wear and tear, why such hardship? Why was I not cherished?

Now I finally see:

“Oh how God loves and cherishes me!”

“Oh how God Loves and cherishes you!”

All for the glory of God our Father!

Worship Spotlight 3/21/11

2011-03-23T07:12:00.001-05:00

I have friends who are runners; some have even trained for marathons. I say they have “trained” for it because you don’t just go out and run 26 miles and expect to finish the race. First they make the decision to run; then after they succeed at some distance running they plan to work toward the goal of competing in – and hopefully finishing – a marathon. It takes planning, dedication, discipline and time.

When it comes to your walk, your work, your worship – have you set goals? Where do you want to be 6 months from now when it comes to your relationship with God, with others in your church family, with regard to your level of commitment and service? What about your level of worship? Just like those who run, we must train ourselves to become what we desire to be. It will take some thoughtful pondering and searching to truly evaluate ourselves. “Where am I at spiritually?” “What is my level of knowledge of scripture?” “Where do I feel God calling me?” “How do I feel led to serve?” “Do I struggle to let myself surrender in my worship of the Lord of heaven and earth?” “What can I do to work toward those goals?”

Just like marathon running it takes planning, dedication, discipline and time to fulfill these dreams we have for ourselves and our church. But it starts with each one of us striving to be more today than we were yesterday. Will you look back at the end of 2011 and say, “This is the year that I really grew!” or will it just be more of the same? You have what it takes! Now, what will you do about it?

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (CEV) “ ²⁴You know that many runners enter a race, and only one of them wins the prize. So run to win! ²⁵Athletes work hard to win a crown that cannot last, but we do it for a crown that will last forever. ²⁶I don't run without a goal. And I don't box by beating my fists in the air. ²⁷I keep my body under control and make it my slave, so I won't lose out after telling the good news to others.”

This is a Good One by Susan Shull

2011-03-15T18:34:00.001-05:00

What's That in Your Hand? by Theresa Zuber

2011-03-14T19:25:00.001-05:00

After seeing the burning bush that was not consumed by the flame and hearing the voice of the Almighty God speak to him – Moses still was not convinced that HE could be a part of God’s plan. (Exodus 3 & 4) “What if they don’t believe me? What if they don’t listen?” Moses asked God. Seems like a valid question. “Okay God – I hear your plan – but what if it doesn’t work – then what?” You see, Moses realized that he was not a public speaker. He had not been leading his tribe around and making big decisions. He had left Egypt because of conflict – so what made God think that he, Moses, was the man for the job? Confronting Pharaoh with this request to free the Israelite people seemed like an ill-fated plan. So, when Moses questioned God, God simply asked him a question – “what is that in your hand?”

Then God proceeded to show Moses that He can use whatever it is we have for His greater purposes. Whether it is a staff that he turns into a snake (Ex 4), or a slingshot he uses to slay a giant (1 Samuel 17), or the jawbone of a donkey (Judges 15), some bread and fish (Matt 14), a fishing net (Luke 5) and the list goes on and on.

So my question to you is – what do you have in your hand? A hammer? A musical instrument? A Bible? A plate of cookies? A telephone? Don’t assume that you haven’t got the words or the wisdom or the talent to do great things. All it takes is a willing heart and some faith! God is able.

Eph 3: ²⁰ Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, ²¹ to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

Worship Spotlight by Theresa Zuber

2011-03-11T16:15:00.000-06:00

When visiting other churches I have often noticed that numerous people take
notes during the sermon. I have thought – “that’s a good idea. We should
encourage OUR congregation to do that.” You see, I learned long ago at a
work seminar, that writing helps us remember the content. Rereading (also
reading aloud) helps to use different parts of our brains to assimilate the
information – thereby increasing the likelihood of remembering the subject
matter.

What subject matter is more important to our daily life – our eternal life-
than God’s Word as it is proclaimed and explained to us! How often have you
pondered a scripture mentioned but could not remember where it is found? How
many times does a phrase or a scripture strike a chord with you – but if it
is not noted, slips away – forgotten.

*Psalm 119:133 “Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule
over me.”*

*
*

I must say that although I thought it was a good idea – I only began doing
this myself recently. However it has helped me to focus more, to remember
more and to capture those scriptures or phrases that God wants me to ponder
over. I know there are already a few at SACC that take notes – thank you for
your example. I want to challenge others to join in. Did you know that you
can worship God as you listen to a sermon? *Psalm 119:97 says “Oh, how I
love your law! I meditate on it all day long.” *What could please him
more? Sounds like worshiping to me. You see, it’s not about the music.

Seek Him – and he will be found*. *

*
*

*Jeremiah 29:13 “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your
heart.”*

*Psalm 119:58 “I have sought your face with all my heart; be gracious to me
according to your promise.” *

Thankful Thursday!

2011-03-10T17:12:00.001-06:00

Thankful Thursday

2011-03-10T16:51:00.001-06:00

I am so thankful for a heavenly father who loved us so much he sent his only son to die in our place. It is a gift there for the taking. I hope you enjoy this beautiful song by Chris Tomlin.

Worship Spotlight by Theresa Zuber

2011-03-05T10:47:00.000-06:00

How do contentment and worship work together? Are you content with your worship? Or do you wish it was more? Or different? Ah…. It’s sort of a trick question. You see – worship is not about YOUR level of contentment, comfort, desire. Worship is about the Creator, the Almighty, the Holy One. Worship is about giving glory and honor to the King of Kings. When we worship we should take the focus off ourselves and our desires and preferences – and totally pour our attention on the all-deserving Lord of Heaven and Earth.

Our corporate worship is a time when we come together to lift our praises in unison – giving our adoration to Him who is worthy; to the God whom we were made to worship. It’s a time when we as a church can stand together to say we acknowledge who He is and what He has done for us – unworthy as we are.

So where does contentment come in? When we are in a place of contentment in our lives, it allows us to more freely pour out our love, our thanks, our appreciation, our adoration, our all-out surrender of our desires – in exchange for His desires for us. Without distractions of worldliness – we are more free to worship Him rather than focus on ourselves.

The God who has no beginning or end, who holds the universe together, who is mysteriously three persons in one God – this AMAZING God wants YOU-all of you: your worship, your attention, your friendship, your obedience, your life. Being a Christian is not about Sunday mornings. God wants a deeply personal relationship with you – every day. The best way to prepare for Sunday is to make every day a day of worship.

Luke 6:45b “For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.”

Bless Others, Bless Yourself by Susan Shull

2011-03-03T05:24:00.002-06:00

Walking with Christ is the most interesting journey! The Lord amazes me time and time again with the blessings of the Christian life. Those blessings often come at unexpected times and from unexpected places. For me, they have often come because others have stepped out of their comfort zones and taken a leap of faith.

Donna Woods has been journaling and writing her prayers for years. These written prayers are a legacy to her children and grandchildren of her Christian life. A few years ago, Donna listened when God tugged on her heart and taught an Introduction to Journaling class on Wednesday nights at church and began organizing journaling retreat.

I thought the cabin sounded really interesting and I like to do new things, so I signed up, never intending to really do anything with it. We headed to Olney on a wintry Friday afternoon and stayed in an adorable cabin in the middle of the woods. We were only a few miles from home, but it seemed as if we were states away. We talked and ate, talked and ate, and eventually settled in with our journals. Donna introduced many types of journaling and then we grabbed our brand new notebooks and pens and began. We put our prayers to paper, following the acronym ACTS- Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supposition. The words flowed and we wrote until our fingers were about to fall off, and I loved it!

God was also speaking to Julie Short during this time. Julie had discovered after the death of her only child, Kyra, that writing was one way of coping with horrific grief. While attending a Christian writer’s conference, Julie began to sense a need to encourage others to use their words for God’s glory. So, as the journaling class ended, a writing class began, using Write His Word by Marlene Bagnell as our guide. We have been writing ever since.

What fun this has been! Each of us has grown in our individual Christian walks, and we have bonded in a great way. We are learning that words-even our words-can have an impact on others. Each of us has been through some typical and not-so-typical life experiences, and we hope to use the lessons we have learned to help others. We know first-hand the comfort, solace, and encouragement that a sincere word can bring.

None of us may ever write a bestseller or even write something that is read by more than a handful of people. That isn’t the important thing. Perhaps our story will encourage others who are feeling a nudge from above to step out and use their talents. Just one or two people can bring so much joy to the lives of those in their sphere of influence. I am so grateful to Julie and Donna for enriching my life.

Don’t cheat others out of the good things God may have for them by being afraid to follow his nudging in your life. You may be the person God uses to start the snowball that changes everything for an individual or the world. One thing we know for sure, Christ has given the Body of Christ the gifts needed to overcome the “wisdom” of this world.

Maybe God will use you to write something that will make a difference to men and women searching for meaning in all the wrong places. Don’t hold back your gift from those God is waiting to bless when you share what he has given you.

For Such a Time as This by Donna (Ensign) Woods

2011-03-01T07:24:00.002-06:00

I was created...for such a time as this.

A God-given moment...I shall not miss...

So many times God said "NO"

When a different direction, I was to go.

Rocks that made me stumble and fall

Because...flat on my face...I could hear Him call !

...Preparing me, so I wouldn't miss

Such a time as this.

He often allowed my broken heart.

To give me strength for a brand new start.

No such thing as "coincidence" or "luck"

...As I wade through life's mire and muck

...Equipping me...so I will not miss

Such a time as this.

Injury, Illness and Disease...

To toughen callouses on my knees

All part of God's wondrous plan

...A stairway to Heaven for mortal man.

For such a time as this

I do not want to miss.

Those fiery trials I must endure

Result in blessings...I can be sure.

...A beggar on the street...

Pricks my heart and moves my feet.

The cries of a friend in need

Provides the soil to plant a seed.

God prepares me...so I will not miss

Such a time as this.

All things work together for good

...In God's time...just as they should.

Creating a detailed history

For a perfectly planned destiny.

For such a time as this

I do not want to miss.

Though Satan labors to destroy

...He can never touch my eternal joy !!

He can never stand between God and me

...Or remove the blood that set me free...

My Savior's feet, I kneel and kiss

...For such a time as this !!