a bit of history

tales from the North…

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I’m in Michigan, on holiday with my parents and my little family, celebrating the New Year.

The story goes, as told by my parents, that when I was in kindergarten I was proficient at letting people know what I thought.   I didn’t know how to hide my ideas or feelings at all.

At five, I was prepared to be honest, as far as I knew how.  So – when the kindergarten teacher asked each child what their fathers did at work, I told the truth.  I told Mrs. Wilkinson and the teacher’s aid and all of my peers that my dad went to the bus garage and got dirty.  In all sincerity, that was a part of my dad’s occupation.  He was a pastor, back in the late 70’s, in charge of the bus ministry.  They had a lot of buses that went out weekly to pick up adults and children for church.  My dad was responsible for making sure that all of those buses were up and running – well, along with a lot of other things that he managed for the church.

Needless to say – I’m reminded of the misunderstanding regularly when I come home for visits.  We have a good laugh over it and then the conversation  moves on to other topics, usually other embarrassing things that I said as a child to people that I had no business saying.  I was really good at that back then – I probably still am… But, back to the situation at hand.

I don’t think that my dad ever dreamed that I didn’t know what he did.  And surely, the last thing that he wanted people to think was that he didn’t do anything.  He worked hard – at the bus garage and otherwise.  But, I didn’t know that – I just saw him come home, in dirty coveralls, with really stained hands, talking about being at the bus garage.  I never actually saw him at the garage working hard.

Well – after we relived the story once again, for the umpteenth time, I wondered.  What do my children think I do?  I mean, how do they see my life’s efforts?  Do they just hear me talk about being a believer?  or do my actions convey what I believe? Do they know first hand that I am a Christ follower?

I would like to tell you that I am stellar example and they know exactly what it means to follow Christ because they see my occupation following my heart’s desire.  But, I can’t promise you that is the case.  I’m good at talking.  good at hoping.  good at praying and wishing.

With 2011 here, at my doorstep, I realize more than ever I want my children to see my actions, my life in progress and know beyond a shadow of a doubt what my intentions are, who I’m following and why.

Ephesians 5 says this

v1&2:Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

v8-15For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth)10 and find out what pleases the Lord.

Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. 14 This is why it is said:

“Wake up, sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you.”

15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.

Here where the calendar marks new beginnings and fresh starts, this is my prayer:  That my life will be full, making the most of every opportunity – living so that my children know that I am following Jesus and that they will want to follow Him too.

May it be so!

md

friends and loved ones

have song, will travel

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The thing about traveling with small children is there are always surprises.  Nothing happens the same way twice.  Ever.

We had already been driving 2 1/2 hours, in terrible thunderstorms, when I found myself on the north side of Nashville at 5:30 AM, in the cold, dark, rain, cleaning puke out of my sweet little baby’s car seat.  I was not shocked. Concerned, tired and grossed out – yes.  But not surprised.

It just so happens that not a lot is open at 4:30 AM central time, on New Year’s Day, in the middle of nowhere.  That is why I ended up in a very dirty gas station bathroom, with my baby, Mackenzie – changing her diaper and her clothes and cleaning her up as much as possible.   I felt terrible about the whole situation – my little girl was standing on the cold, icky floor  whimpering – and my mother’s heart was beating fast – wishing I could just blink my eyes and make all of this go away.  But instead, I had a thought.

I sang.  As I tried to get everything done as quickly as possible, I rubbed her back and sang her bed time song, the one that always calms her down.  It worked.  I felt the stress dissipate and she quieted down a bit.  Cradling her in my arms, I whispered the song in her ears, while we watched out the windows and waited for my husband to finish cleaning up the car seat… (He deserves an award for this trip, no doubt!)

Once we were back on the road, with everyone snuggled up under their blankets, my husband continued driving through the sheets of rain, strong gusts of wind and crashes of thunder and lightening.  I haven’t felt that much tension in our car in a long time, just trying to get through the storm.  My heart was racing, praying that God would protect our little car.   And in the middle of the winds and rain, I could hear it.  He sang.

Yes, I could hear the very song that I sing to Mackenzie, resonating in my ears.  Promises of hope and future, assurance of care and protection, reminders of affection and delight for us.  And it was amazing how I felt the tension dissolve into thin air, replaced with peace and calm.

Zephaniah 3:17

The LORD your God is with you,
the Mighty Warrior who saves.
He will take great delight in you;
in his love he will no longer rebuke you,
but will rejoice over you with singing.”

This is what I realized, very early on the first morning of 2011: As much as I love my children and whisper words of love to them – even more, the Heavenly Father is with me all the time, rejoicing and singing over me.  And He isn’t just at home, or just in the church building – He really will travel the miles to be with me, protecting me, delighting in me. His word is beautiful and true – ready and available at a moment’s notice – no matter where or when I need it the most.

Thank you Heavenly Father for expressing your love for me so clearly on New Year’s Day.  Thank you for protecting my family and showing us just how much you care for us unconditionally.  What a beautiful way to start the New Year! amen.

who knows?

Hosanna moment

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Today is a day for packing. We head to Michigan soon, so I don’t have a lot of time here.  But, I thought I’d share as briefly as I can what has happened to me.  Excuse me while I testify.

I woke up this morning, ready to get moving.  I spoke with the Lord in a quick fashion and got on with my day.  First, breakfast for the kids.  Then a trip to Target for last minute vacation necessities. After, I loaded the kids up and made a mad dash for the mountain, so they could spend time with their grand parents and I could pack in peace and quiet.  This is highly important because if I can’t focus, I end up forgetting important things like underwear.

Well, I got back home and put on some packing music.  My husband purchased the newest Israel Houghton CD from Itunes last night and it seemed like a good choice to get me moving.  And it was.  I was bee boppin’ around the house getting things done, making progress.

And then it happened… the last track of the CD came on called “Hosanna.”  The harmonies swept through my heart and I heard the words singing out, praising the Lord.   and my Heavenly Father said, “Excuse me, I would like to spend a bit more time with you.”

There in my hallway, with baskets of clean folded laundry, and suitcases and toiletries piled everywhere – I found myself in a prostrate position, worshipping the God of the Universe.  As tears streamed down my face, I felt His arms of love wrap tightly around me.  His presence was so real and tangible and warm;  I could not move.  Even now, my hands are shaking just a bit with this new and fresh knowledge :

I have a Heavenly Father who is pursuing me.  He loves me.  He will come to a little house in Middle Valley, even when I think I’m too busy so that He can spend time with me.  He is the ultimate lover of my soul.

My gracious Heavenly Father.  I will never forget these moments spent with you today.This is such a refreshing and renewing, energizing and fulfilling experience for making a fresh start into 2011.  I am so glad we’re beginning this new year together.  I love you.

md

Psalm 42: 7-8 (a)

Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls;
all your waves and breakers have swept over me.

By day the LORD directs his love, at night his song is with me…

who knows?

ready or not… here it comes…

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Seriously!  Did you know its almost 2011?  Somehow, I find myself caught off guard by the year’s end.  I know that we have passed by my birthday in October, Thanksgiving in November, my daughter’s 9th birthday, and the entire advent season which ended with Christmas just a few days ago.  Yes, I am aware of all of it – and still I am astonished at the fact.

I am completely unprepared for the New Year.

2010 was quite a year. I started a garden and a blog.  I learned to bake bread from scratch.  I completed the process of potty training my middle child.

Ultimately, in hind-sight, it feels successful, even triumphant. Amid the surprises, between the  joy and sorrow, sickness and health, uncertainty and peace we survived.  God has brought my precious family through another year, and I really can’t take any credit for it at all.  Bless the Lord for His merciful hand working in our lives.

So, what’s my problem?  Well, its almost 2011.  The problem is that I am a planner.  If you know me personally, you know this is true.  I like to plan and make lists and be prepared… but 2011 isn’t letting me.   I have no idea what next year holds. And I don’t like it one little bit.   I think I vaguely remember feeling the same way at the end of 2009.  The whole situation is really exhausting.

I wish I wasn’t such a slow learner.

Being the administrative type that I am really is a cover for one thing.  It sounds good up front, like I’m all organized and such, but the truth is I plan because I’m a control freak and I am not good at trusting anyone with my destiny. Do I know what is going to happen in 2011?  No.  Can I plan for anything and everything that might come up?   absolutely not.  But, I spend a lot of time, at the end of each December trying to figure how I can take charge of the coming year. Man, am I emotionally worn out!

I read this thought somewhere recently: “Exhaustion comes when we take on a responsibility God never intended us to have. ”  This thought is reiterated in Scripture again and again and again – so much so, that I could never quote all of the verses here.  But one sticks out in my mind –

“Cast all your cares on Him, for He cares for you.”

This verse asks me to do the one thing that can relieve my exhaustion and heal my anxieties.  It brings promise of peace if I’ll just surrender.  I need to waive that white flag because I have no idea what He has planned for 2011.  And really, it was never mine to plan in the first place. Only He knows what is coming.   With Him in control there is success, there is help, there is hope, there is victory.  I can rest and rely on the fact that HE is more than ready – and that is more than enough!  Praises be to Him alone!  Amen and Amen!

a bit of history

no death by chocolate

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A weekend or two ago, I was at a cookie exchange with a few friends.  While visiting with my good friend, the hostess, we began sharing war stories.  The discussion was totally inappropriate talk for a cookie exchange – and disgusting.  We were talking about rats.

We found out, during our completely revolting chat that each of us had, in the past, had a mouse that we caught in our houses at one time or another.  My particular account is kind of interesting…

Before Isaac was born, Michael and I came to the realization that we had an intruder and set out to catch it.  We tried everything, to no avail.  The more days that rolled by, and the longer it took – the more brazen he became!  We tried poison, snapping traps and sticky traps.  Nothing.  He was impossible to catch!

Well, as it so happens, it became apparent that our little intruder enjoyed orange cream hershey’s kisses.  Michael prepared to set an irresistible trap.  We got the largest sticky trap we could find and we set it out with the bait in the center of course,  an orange cream Hershey’s kiss.

It worked.  We came out the next morning… and this is what we found.  The tiniest little white mouse was anxiously alternating between trying to eat that candy and trying to squirm his way off of the trap.

Its a bit ironic that I revived this memory at a cookie exchange.

You see, I live this way – like the little white mouse, quite regularly.  I know what one of my besetting sins is: it has to do with self control and overindulging in sweets.  I also know that in the midst of doing my best to live a life of self control, I test myself sometimes.   My personal picture is so similar to that little mouse… trying to get away, but staying to nibble on the bait, on the road to death by chocolate…

Its an ongoing story – even Paul told us of his struggle in Scripture: ( I guess this is my paraphrase)

The things I know I should do, I can’t seem to manage.  The things I should stop doing, I keep on doing anyway…

At this time of year, just before I say goodbye to 2010 and start fresh into 2011 – I’ve been thinking about this little object lesson.  I should probably be making resolutions… I know that there will always be desserts  – or other areas where I’ll need to use self control – I can’t just run away from everything. right?  Is there any help or hope for me in this situation?

I know these two things.  There is the Holy spirit – He is available for discernment – to help me with my choices, to whisper in my ear and help me avoid those deadly traps.   But, the best news of all, my life does not have to end with sin and death… there is mercy  and a promise of forgiveness when I make the wrong choice.

Ephesians 1:3-8

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5 he[b] predestined us for adoption to sonship[c] through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will—6 to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace 8 that he lavished on us.

I can live life, bypassing the traps, avoiding death – because of His grace.  Thank Heavens – there will not be death by chocolate for me!  AMEN!

friends and loved ones · Uncategorized

Breakfast at Susie’s

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A week from today my little family and I will be sitting at Susie’s, a local cafe in Grand Rapids, Michigan – with my parents.  We’ll be having breakfast together, sipping hot coffee, possibly eating chocolate chip pancakes or maybe fresh donuts and life will be good.
That’s this coming week. However, the past week has been a little emotional.  I spent a bit of time being lonely, wishing I could be in Michigan.  Its not that I love Grand Rapids, or anything like that.  No, I never lived there.  Its just that I love a few of the people there. And they love us, too.  I know its equally  hard for my parents – not being with us around the holidays.
There’s something special about Christmas time that makes me want to be with family.  There’s a unique warmth that comes from being with those I love.
For now, the anticipation is building.  In a few days we will load up our little van and drive many miles, over the course of what will feel like a million hours so that we can spend time with my parents, celebrating Christmas together.  We’re just a little bit later getting around to it than everyone else.
In the mean time I’ve been wondering…  Christmas is the time when we desire to be near loved ones the most – to share gifts with each other and make wonderful memories.  Does God feel this as poignantly as we do?  I know He wants to be at the center of our thoughts – I know He wants to be remembered because of His significant gift… but is it more than that?Does He feel that desire for us to be home?  Does He wish that we could spend the holidays with Him?
One thing that I’ve noticed, in my own heart, the last couple of Christmases is that something is missing.  No matter where I am, how we’re celebrating, or who is with us, I’ve felt a void. But, I think I know what it is.
From 1 Thessalonians 4:
13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

14For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

15For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.

16For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

17Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

18Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

I love thinking about the fact that when He comes, maybe He’ll be so excited – He will be calling for all of us with a shout!

In the same way that I long to be with my family over the holidays, I think there’s a small piece of me that is wishing for 1 Thessalonians -so that  I could celebrate with Him.  Even though I can sing carols, and share time with loved ones here on earth, I believe there is a longing in all of us who have been redeemed to see our Heavenly Father – and to be with Him.  I think He made us that way – and I believe He feels that desire too!
No matter how exciting and festive Christmas is, it will never compare to how grand and glorious The Marriage Supper of the Lamb will be one day – when everything will be made right  again.   What an amazing celebration that will be!  Until then – I guess, I’ll share a foretaste of that glory – celebrating with my family here, and in Michigan.   I guess a few pancakes and coffee at Susie’s will do!
friends and loved ones

all the candy canes on one branch…

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Just a few weeks ago, not long after we had finished decorating the Christmas tree, I made a discovery in the living room.  There, about mid-way up the tree, off to the left, all of the candy canes, which originally had been spread out among the branches of the tree, were gathered onto one branch.  All nine of them.

After a few inquiries, I found my son, Isaac to be the organizer.  We had this discussion:

“Isaac, would you like to spread the candy canes back out around the tree?”

“No, mommy, that is not a good idea.”

“Why not?”

“This is how they go- all together- right here.”

“Oh. okay, then.”

And we left it at that.  But, he was right you know.

This morning around 7, I was reminded how right he was.  Standing at my kitchen window, looking out into my back yard I saw an ambulance pull up to an adjacent house, on the street behind ours.  The EMS took a stretcher into their home and they have not come back out yet…

When something like this happens, I immediately wonder, “Do they know Jesus?  Is He their peace right now?  Where have they placed their hope?”  And I have no idea, because I do not know them at all…

You probably were taught the lesson growing up, as I was :  don’t put all of your eggs in one basket.  right?  or for my purposes – don’t put all of the candy canes on one branch.  Regardless – for practical reasons, it does make some sense.  However, in matters of hope and peace, joy and love, my present state or my future, it doesn’t pan out.

Looking out my window, seeing the neighbor’s tragedy I remember – life is fleeting, pain and despair are possible. and there is only one solution. Jesus came, thousands of years ago, so that I would put all of my hope in Him.  He wants me to hang every ounce of it, every bit on Him.

Hebrews 10:22-23 “Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.”

Amid all practical earthly advice, I hope that I never forget where my hope belongs.  I guess all of the candy canes really should go on one branch.  What a great reminder from my son!

who knows?

Christmas uninterrupted

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(originally written, advent season 2009)

Christmas Uninterrupted…

My holiday season has been very busy.   Yes, I have had a lot of activities with not much time for celebration.  I look at the advent season as a way to bring my heart into focus and I haven’t had much time to do that.  But, my self-inflicted busy schedule has come to a halt –  my calendar is clear until we head to Michigan to celebrate with my family.  Well, sort of clear…

As I sit and look at my beautiful tree and sip my cup of hot coffee I have a few minutes to reflect.  Thinking back on Luke’s account of the birth of Christ, the shepherds were just doing their job and the angels interrupted in a glorious chorus.  It made me wonder what would happen in my life.  What would happen if God would interrupt my regularly scheduled Christmas events?

What if when I looked at a Christmas tree, I didn’t see the presents gathered under the tree. Rather I saw it as a symbol : Jesus Christ, the tree of everlasting life.  What if as I gave and received gifts I could be reminded that this is just a small re-enactment of the true gift that was given in Jesus Christ?    And what if Christmas could become a true celebration of His Birthday, instead of a mad dash of selfishness?

I’ve been praying this prayer:  Jesus, please interrupt my Christmas.  That’s it.  Simple.  And he has been, in small ways; In a Christmas song on the radio, or a small meaningful gift – at a Christmas program or recital.  It is happening.  As I sing the words to a favorite carol, He presses the meaning into my heart so that it’s meaning lingers all day long.  Particular words to familiar Scripture passages from the Advent season seem new and fresh – I’ll never read them in the same way again.  His Spirit is truly interrupting my Christmas and it’s the most wonderful experience.  It has brought joy into the middle of my holiday season.

It seems that His work in my heart will continue – it is a forever event.  As I view Christ’s birth in this new way, I see Christmas as a celebration of life – His coming to earth, His death on the cross and His resurrection, bringing everlasting life.  Maybe His work in my heart is not to interrupt my Christmas, but rather my whole life, all year long.

I pray that as Jesus becomes more and more real in my heart, the work He is doing will truly go on and on – Christmas uninterrupted.

friends and loved ones

how to celebrate a birthday…

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A few mornings ago, in the wee hours of the morning, my oldest, Emily came in to snuggle.  She had a bad dream and needed some comfort and a back rub.  I indulged her, of course.  I thought I might get to have a bit more shut eye, but my sweet girl was chatty.

Amid the sleepy conversation, she relived her recent birthday.  We had quite a bash; friends, family, cupcakes, games, balloons, presents and a sea of candy that we are still trying to subdue.  It was just what she had hoped for and was telling me so… and then she asked me,

“Mommy, do you think Jesus is looking forward to his birthday this year?”

She fell back asleep and I was left alone, wide awake to think. And I have to tell you, I’ve been thinking about it ever since.   How does HE want me to celebrate?

What kind of birthday party would He want me to plan? Do I do it up right?  or is He disappointed? Does He like the hustle and bustle?  Does He enjoy all of the blatant commercialism, perpetuated in His name?   I wonder if He is happy with all of the business and fast paced holiday style that ends up leaving Him as an afterthought for a few minutes on Christmas morning?

This morning, I came across a Scripture passage in our advent study, that helped me to organize my thoughts about all of this a little better.  It gave me some perspective on how He might want me to celebrate.

Luke 2: 8-20

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”

From what I can gather, if I have any hope of doing Christmas right, it will include worshipping and praising God, following the angels lead.  I’ll spread the word to those who don’t know about His coming, like the shepherds.  And the most difficult part for me:  I’ll take time to quietly treasure Him and His goodness in my heart, the way Mary did.

From society’s perspective, that does not sound exciting, does it?  But it sounds wonderful to me…  I think He’s telling me that He wants to celebrate by spending time with those who love Him and by me sharing His love with those who don’t know Him yet.  wow.  If I could just follow this model with my own Christmas plans, our family’s holiday season would be so different.

Dear Jesus,

Help me to make this a birthday you’ll take note of – one that will show you just how much we love you.  Its my prayer that you will be blessed by the party we throw for you this year.

amen.

friends and loved ones · in my kitchen

The Cookie Tradition…

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(originally written December 11,2009, but seems to fit my busy day, preparing for a Christmas cookie exchange tonight!)

Baking cookies has always been an important Christmas tradition in my family. It always has been since my childhood. I don’t remember a Christmas where I haven’t been a part of making at least a few delectable treats.

There are a few cookies that bring memories of Christmases from my past. From a very early Christmas I remember a butter sandwich cookie with a mint butter cream frosting, made by my Aunt Belva. She threw holiday parties without parallel; the Christmas that I tasted the butter cookie was no exception. The cookie was cool because of the mint in the frosting, but it melted in my mouth because of all of the butter. I made these cookies a few years back. When I tasted it, it was as if I was transported back in time, standing at the foot of her large, cherry dining room table. It was covered with what seemed like thousands of beautiful Christmas goodies and I could smell all of the wonderful aromas coming from her kitchen.

Another very special cookie is the Christmas sugar cookies that my grandmother would bake. I specifically remember a lot of bell shaped cookies which she decorated with colorful royal icing and tiny silver balls. Oh how those cookies made my taste buds sing!

My grandmother is an incredible baker. She has passed down recipes to my mom, who has passed on a lot of recipes to me as well. A Christmas does not pass that I don’t look forward to making those Christmas sugar cookies. It wasn’t too long ago that I remember making these cookies in the midst of maternity nausea. There is almost nothing that can get in the way of this tradition. I love to bake at Christmas time.

And its not just me – my sister has this baking tradition, too. We love to use old recipes from our family and new recipes that we find. Earlier this month, she called me to say, “Get to the nearest Target, the Christmas Cookie edition of Better Homes and Gardens just went on the stands!” Not one day later my mom called and said the exact same thing. We have all spent time pouring over these recipes and discussing them over the phone. Yes, I think its safe to say Christmas baking is a deeply rooted tradition that we all hold dear.

Its my mom’s fault, really. She is good at baking. Not only was she good at it, she let us explore while teaching us the art of things like a well chilled dough, when to take your cookies out of the oven or how to pick out a new recipe. A lot of who I am today as a baker revolves around my mom’s example.

A love for baking was not all that my mother instilled in me. Without knowing it, my mom was a good example in other ways. From a young age I saw my mother make her love for the Saviour a priority. I saw it in the unspoken, every day things.

She probably doesn’t know that when I was in high school, I used to come downstairs to the kitchen in the mornings, long after she was gone to work and find her Bible and devotional book open to a particular passage. There were many nights I could hear her and my dad pouring their hearts out before the Lord for loved ones in need. These are memories I hold dear from my life in my parents’ home.

A Scripture came to mind today: “Train up a child in the way that they should go and when they are old they will not depart from it.”

Now it is my turn. I have a little eyes watching me at my house. I don’t want to be only a good baker for my children. My prayer is that my children will know what it means to follow Jesus by watching my life. Maybe they will share a love for baking a good cookie with me. But, far more importantly, its my hope that they will treasure the life they can find in Christ.

When my children are grown, I hope that they will have learned to love spending time with Jesus and how to keep from burning the cookies! Mom, if this was your prayer for me, your prayers have been answered! Thank you for your example. I love you.

md

(written December 11, 2009)