personal development

In a vivid portrayal of lessons learned from nature, the article discusses how young chickies are transitioned into their new living space amidst the challenges of inclement weather. The piece beautifully intertwines the spiritual lesson of trust and reliance on God’s care with the tangible act of moving. As the chicks gradually adapt to their new environment, the narrative reflects on how humans, much like these creatures, can sometimes resist moving out of their comfort zones. Drawing a parallel to biblical teachings, the article emphasizes that God offers us a safe haven and rest, just as the mother hen shields her young under her wings.

This reflective message serves as a reminder of the peace and protection found in trusting God, encouraging readers to embrace change, no matter how uncomfortable it might seem. Through this story, we are invited to draw closer to Creator God and demonstrate trust, confident that in doing so, we are aligning ourselves with God's plan for thriving health.

To what will you give your time, energy, passion, and creativity?

 

Can I challenge you to sit before the Lord and ask HIM what His vision is for your 2024? Where would He have you to dedicate your most valuable commodity; your TIME? The evidence of your devotion to His call and purpose for your life?

 

Friend, maybe it is time for a NEW DREAM?!

 

Psalm 126

When the Lord brought back his exiles to Jerusalem,

it was like a dream!

We were filled with laughter,

and we sang for joy.

And the other nations said,

“What amazing things the Lord has done for them.”

Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us!

What joy!

Restore our fortunes, Lord,

as streams renew the desert.

Those who plant in tears

will harvest with shouts of joy.

They weep as they go to plant their seed,

but they sing as they return with the harvest.

 

Have you endured seasons of grief, tears and weeping? Perhaps you are still in their midst now. Psalms 126 tells us we can continue to plant seeds, even during the struggles. I would suggest this is a bold move of belief. We don’t plant if we don’t believe that one day there will again be a joyous crop to harvest. Our ACTIONS demonstrate that we know our feelings aren’t the end all, be all of this SEASON of life. Darkness lasts for the night. But JESUS… His JOY comes in the morning!

 

Feelings are real but they aren’t necessarily true. Are you allowing them to hold you captive and keep you from planting seeds for the future. Or are you calling upon the Lord to give you new strength, courage, and the capacity to continue planting so that in His timing you are prepared to bring in a jubilant harvest?

 

Time and time again in my weakness, He has been my strength. He has brought me back from dark places. He has given me laughter, joy, and song. And I know He will do it for you, too, sweet friends. Just get in His presence. Let Him speak His love, light, and Truth over your situation.

 

He is lovingly waiting for you.

 

So ask Him what He would have you to value and to be about in 2024. What are the most important things for YOU to invest your time in this year?

 

**hint… it will first be Him. And the rest? Well, the rest is, as they say, gravy.

 

Matthew 6:33

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.

In a recent blog post, Luke 6:27-36 is examined to shed light on the concept of loving one's enemies. The author reflects on the challenge of getting close enough to love those who have a beef with you, emphasizing that physical proximity isn’t necessary. Instead, the act of blessing and praying for these individuals is highlighted as a way to respond to them. The post also examines the idea of not demanding things back when they are taken, expanding the concept beyond physical possessions to include dignity, respect, love, and kindness. The author suggests contemplating lending these qualities to those who do not offer the same in return. Overall, the post encourages a thoughtful and compassionate approach to dealing with opponents or difficult individuals.

Vacant. Empty. Impotent. Frivolous. Unfulfilling.

Is this the only Christmas you are experiencing?

Brian & I took an evening to go & gloriously wander through the vast array of lights (over 5 million) this week at Garvan Woodland Gardens. From the alabaster Chinese lanterns, to the origami cranes and the ethereal woodland fairy floating amongst the stars over circling mushrooms, we were absolutely moved to playful, childlike wonder.

We crossed the moon bridge from where we caught sight of a massive water dragon, swam through lighted jellyfish, meandered through elaborate snowflake lit forests, marched past wooden soldiers, and snuck around lighted elves “throwing” gifts into the back of Santa’s sleigh.

We walked past an extravagant train display with multiple models, including Santa’s line, Thomas & even the Polar Express, blowing through tiny, softly lit, snow draped villages & over truss & bridge. 

So much festivity! And yet somehow, something was missing. My heart was searching back through all we’d artistically experienced, cataloging each display… where was He? 

My heart now began to ache. Where was He? Had we missed one little corner, even a tiny nook of a nativity?

Oh! Look!! The octagonal pavilion! Why that would be splendid! An absolutely idyllic Nativity scene with its open Timbers & yes, I could now see simple strands of falling star lights hung under the eaves. How like a shepherd who’d heard an angelic choir & now set off to discover the proclaimed Messiah I became! My step quickened, perhaps the indescribable gift will be snuggly tucked here! 

Like a child on Christmas morning eager for her gifts, I peeked past the crafted wooden pine trees of aesthetically pleasing alternating heights in hope of finding the Holy Family & their traditional entourage; a shepherd (perhaps 2), a lamb, donkey, ox, & three wise men holding their gifts.

My face fell. Nothing. How?! This place was sheer perfection for a simple station to pause & reflect, yet despite the vacancy, apparently there was room in neither the inn, nor even the stable here at Garvan.

The ache in my heart continued in stark contrast to the teens with their friends giggling & draping themselves over & around a splendidly posed & inviting Santa figurine on a bench for that perfect photo worthy of their social platform of choice.

My heart was moving beyond ache & into heavy. The experience was enchanting & yet… hauntingly empty.

Meaningless, meaningless one Ecclesiastical writer had surmised. Yes, I share your sentiment, fine sir. I am amused & entertained, but where is the source that will remain with me when all levity of life has dissipated? These diversions are at best fleeting.

I am reminded of the ponderings of wise men, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.” Matthew‬ ‭2‬:‭2‬ ‭

Yes. Where?!? And I’m reminded not of something that I saw, but something that I’d heard as we watched the whirling & twirling acre of animated lights surrounding the easily 2 story main Christmas Tree.

“O come, O come, Emmanuel,

And ransom captive Israel,

That mourns in lonely exile here,

Until the Son of God appear.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel

Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free

Thine own from Satan's tyranny;

From depths of hell Thy people save,

And give them victory o'er the grave.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel

Shall come to thee, O Israel.”

This. THIS is what Christmas brought to us; Freedom from Satan’s tyranny. Has this reminder ever been more needed in our war torn world?

And I wonder, is anyone else listening?

Don’t get me wrong. Garvan Woodland Gardens is absolutely stunning. But what has brought  me lasting peace is better represented in this field a short distance away.