Make Me More Far Sited

When the view in the foreground of my life becomes consuming, I miss what blends into the background of my day. I become very near sited. Making me and my busyness the focal point can get quite monotonous. 

Gods depth of focus is filled with nuances of the people he loves. If I ask him he will put a twist in my schedule that will shift my perspective outward. As I place his lens over my eyes he encourages me to zoom in so I can better pinpoint the needs of people around me. When he prompts me to engage in the life of another, I need to do what he asks. Then I can watch in amazement, not because of anything I've done, but as a result of his grace for the lost.

The Lord replied: "Look, and be amazed! You will be astounded at what I am about to do! For I am going to do something in your own lifetime that you will have to see to believe." Habakkuk 1:5

Find Your Spot

"Every Christian has been positioned by God to be Christ's ambassador to the people she sees every day." -Ron Hutchcraft

ambassador-an empowered messenger

Momversation Over Coffee

The eight ladies around the coffee shop table weren't familiar with each other a year ago. When they first met for coffee they held their cups close in uncertainty. Nine months later the coffee cups sit, almost forgotten on the table, as the conversation flows. Maybe they never imagined that they would connect with moms in their neighborhood, and yet a God they may not even know caused an intersection of their lives right when they needed it most.

They've gotten together with the kids, but this time of uninterrupted interaction is so uplifting. They realize that they aren't alone in the often overwhelming world of motherhood. They laugh together now as they recount stressful experiences with their children. They encourage one another with confidence. 

Conversation about the kids is prevalent, but they don't forget to ask the imperative question, "How are you doing?" Not forgetting that the role of mother is one of many they fulfill, they prompt each other to endure, despite their exhaustion. Being together accentuates the poignant and often humbling attributes of being a mom. Recipients of support, they return home as better moms and wives. They 'get' each other, and this energizes them for what's ahead.

Do you believe God can use you in a scenario like this? I am convinced he can, because this is the process he's begun in my life. I want to be a willing participant in the next paragraph of the conversation.

When I think of the wisdom and scope of his plan I fall down on my knees and pray to the Father of all the great family of God. Ephesians 3:14

Entourage

Count Me In by Leeland

When I rise in the morning who or what do I follow after? I've learned that what this world has to offer is emptiness compared with the God who loves me. He chose me before I made my entrance onto the planet. His compassion for me is beyond what my mind can comprehend. I want to be found often in His company, because that is where I find delight. His inclusion of me in the transformation of another human's life is exhilarating. Isn't the job of an entourage to make the one they follow look good? As I follow the right leader, my prayer is that others will lay down this life, and chase after the God who is worthy.

Not Withholding What I Need

He doesn't abstain from giving comfort when my eyes are puffy from crying. He doesn't refuse to be my friend when I pout in a corner. He doesn't suppress his guidance when I pull out my own map. He won't hold back his love from me when I seek another's applause. He won't deny that I have sinned, but his voluminous grace covers me with an abundance that I can't even fathom.

Keep A Look Out

"No matter how alone you are, there is always someone, somewhere, waiting to meet you. Just look and you will find them!"

Quote by Yoshitomo Nara in The Lonesome Puppy

Intentionality

I am experiencing a desire to reach out to non believing moms that I've never had before. It's a little strange and exciting all at the same time. Early in 2007 I would have to admit I had a real lack of concern or interest in the lives of other moms that I saw on a regular basis. But I realize now that it wasn't a mistake that I kept seeing the same mom at my local park, or sat next to the same mom at story time every week. 

God began to set off an explosive realization that he is at work in the lives of women around me. I began to have a desire, even a longing, to be a part of his pursuit of moms. Now let me reiterate that this is a God-sized desire, because I feel exhausted just keeping up with my close friends and family. He was going to have to give me the energy, and wherewithal to meet and build relationship with moms that I had previously walked right past.

I'm learning to leave enough margin in my day to slow down and pay attention. It doesn't take much to strike up a conversation with another mom. I can sympathize with chasing a toddler, dodging a soggy cracker, or trying to calm a seemingly possessed three year old in the middle of story time. When I identify with the stressed mom next to me it opens up a wonderful connection. I can then invite her to meet at the park again, or go out to lunch after time at the library. As I get to know her story I learn how to better pray for her. The Lord will help me be aware of when I need to say a word, or when to keep quiet. I want to be fully available, and intent on his plans for this mom that he is in hot pursuit of.

Each of you are a daughter of the King, and because of him you are more than qualified to make a connection with the moms around you. I hope to encourage and invigorate you. The Lord has not only gifted and called us, but he has equipped us to make an eternal impact.

For because of our faith, he has brought us into this place of highest privilege, where we now stand , and we confidently and joyfully look forward to becoming all that God has had in mind for us to be.  

Romans 5:2

Don't Refrain From Connecting

A restraining order was issued. Regardless if he misunderstood or not, he was guilty. As soon as she sat in the witness stand, the tension in the room mounted. Seven years and three kids later, what had gotten them to this point? To the point where twelve strangers were deciding the legal action in the next step of their divorce process. 

After seeing a map of their neighborhood, as People's Exhibit B, I wondered if any Christians lived in the vicinity of their home? It may be a strange 'What if', but I think the question is a vital one. What if a child of God who lived next door from this couple had done more than wave before the garage door closed? What if another young mom had connected with this woman in the witness stand, and just listened to her? What if a young dad in the neighborhood had invited the defendant over to watch football? We can't rewind the events of this particular situation, but God may want you to bring his light into the scenario of a broken life. This broken life so precious to the Lord, whom also happens to be your neighbor.

He heals the broken hearted, and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3

No Assemblyline Required

"You aren't an accident. You weren't mass-produced. You aren't an assemblyline product. You were deliberately planned, specifically gifted, and lovingly positioned on this earth by the Master Craftsman. In a system that ranks the value of a human by the figures of his salary or the shape of her legs, let me tell you something: Jesus' plan is a reason for joy!"

Quote from The Applause of Heaven by Max Lucado

Remembering

Peace is seeing a sunrise or sunset and knowing whom to thank.

I was reading through an old book of quotes that I used to write in and came across the above statement. It's reassuring to know that even when I am a less than perfect parent, my Heavenly Father is a professional at what he does. The same hands that paint the rising and setting of the sun pat me on the back in encouragement, and draw me close with love. His hands calm mine when they get too busy, and give me the strength to let go of the things that don't belong to me in the first place.

Barrier Breakdown

I've been learning a lot lately about the barriers to sharing our faith with others. When I am scared I can always find a convincing reason to isolate myself and my faith from the world out there. This is the exact opposite of what God has called me to do. 

I want my love for the Lord to be so prevalent that it spills over into my conversations with others. I talk about my husband, my daughter, and my interests easily. But I don't want to leave out my Saviour and my God. He is more than worthy of raising in the context of discussion (relevant). He is applicable to the point at issue (pertinent). I want him to quicken my heart for his most precious possessions, that being the people he has placed around me. When I do show a love beyond myself, then He is the one in full view, and that is a sight to behold.

Let me live that I may praise you. Psalm 119:175a

Elisabeth Elliot Quote

"We can't do everything, but can we do anything more valuable that invest ourselves in another?"

Display Of His Wonder

Rush Of Fools-Wonder Of The World

The love of God in our lives is a marvel. When I call him a wonder I announce my admiration, and stand in amazement and awe. 
I want to give Him special prominence, and not hide what he's done in my life. My salvation and my song become a work of art put on public display.

He has bestowed favor on my life as a token of His love. This doesn't mean life will always be easy, but I have a hope when the going gets tough.



I want to be like a child with a secret that can't be kept. As long as these lips can form words I will speak of his unconditional love. "I'm about to burst with song: I can't keep quiet about you. God, my God, I can't thank you enough." Psalm 30:12

Nancy Leigh DeMoss Quote

"God does not stand by at a distance, demanding our obedience. He blesses us by allowing us to be a part of accomplishing His purposes. He calls us to follow, empowers us to serve, and then blesses our obedience."

Quote from Seeking Him by Nancy Leigh DeMoss

Truth On A Pillow

Remember with me the adorable ring bearer in a wedding. He looks proper, and somewhat uncertain. He leaves his shoe prints on the petals left by the flower girl. He's nervous yet excited as he anticipates his approach. His role is so important as the bearer of the ring, still nestled in a little white pillow.

Let's replace the ring with God's truth and hope. Let's realize that our hands hold the pillow.

We have the privilege of being truth and hope bearers to the moms around us. We can be the harbinger of God's love and healing power. When he gives us a nudge into the life of another, let's seek to transfer the message on the pillow into their very hearts. 

How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace with God and bring glad tidings of great things. Romans 10:15b

Spiritual Spectacle

Are you sometimes exhausted by, or possibly fed up with the drama in people's lives? It's as though a gate was left open and lions skulk right through. I watch, aghast and horrified as they rip through the lives of people around me and take them away to devour them. My hand flutters at my brow in concern, while secretly I am hoping that someone else will take the responsibility to help them. Someone else with more time, wisdom and the actual desire to be of service.

Is this a clear picture of how I view people in my circle of influence? With a lack of concern, care, interest, or energy? In other words, do I view them with indifference? Sitting in my judgement seat I watch the sad drama unfold, and do nothing. The evil one with all his lies makes introductions to a hopeless life, and thinking they have no other option, they concur.

Do you remember who helped you meet Jesus? Maybe they stuck with you when you were stubborn or rude. When they didn't know the answer to a spiritual question you had, they admitted it, and then found out. I am so thankful that my mom lovingly guided me into the arms of Jesus. It's been an exciting journey. But I would've never taken the first step without her.

Let's ask the Lord to help us get past our spiritual inertia and take steps toward the people he wants us to impact. You and I may very well have the privilege of ushering them into an intimate relationship with their Heavenly Father. Then all drama will break loose in heaven as a sinner is saved. We will have had a vital part in a spectacle of a spiritual sort. God's work in our life will bring transformation. Only he can exchange the indifference we carry with his compassion. I can't think of a better result than a lost lamb coming home.

But life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus-the work of telling others the Good News about God's mighty kindness and love. Acts 20:24

Get A Whiff Of This

Think with me of the smells that encompass our life each day. They can make us shudder or put a grin on our face. I remember the smell of my mom's laundry detergent, and it makes me think of home. Now on the other hand, the scent of the dairy nearby makes me gag. I smile when I sniff my daughter's blueberry shampoo, but other scents in the world of motherhood aren't so pleasant.

How does Christ make us smell? My hope is that his presence in our life gives off an agreeable and distinctive odor. As our world intersects with unbelieving moms let's hope the scent we leave behind will make them do an about face. May our life emanate what Christ has done for us, and make others smile as they get a whiff of the love he has for them.

Because of Christ, we give off a sweet scent rising to God, which is recognized by those on the way of salvation-an aroma redolent of life. 2 Corinthians 2:15

God's Reflection Exposed

Shine by Salvador

Bear with me in this post okay? While reading a book by Max Lucado today I was reminded that the moon generates no light on it's own. But it beams when it's properly positioned. The moon reflects the sun, just as we reflect the Son.

Rewinding to our younger days I'm sure you remember mooning of another kind. As shocking as it was it left an impression, right? I want to leave an impression worth remembering. An impression that has God written all over it.

Reserved Seat

Quote from Joni Eareckson Tada:

"What an encouragement to realize that God has reserved you and me for a special task in His great work. In His hands we're not only useful, but priceless."

reserved (adjective)-kept or set apart for some particular use or purpose, kept by special arrangement for some person.

task (noun)-a definite piece of work assigned to a person.

useful (adjective)-having a beneficial use.

priceless (adjective)-having a value beyond all price, of inestimable worth, invaluable.

Stork Sighting

A stork landed in my neighborhood today. He was slightly flat, made out of wood, and wearing blue. My mind rewound to four years ago when I had a relative of that stork (wearing pink) in my very own yard.

When we brought our sweet baby home I felt terrified. Where were the professionals? I certainly wasn't one of them. Who would wrap my baby like a sardine to help her sleep better?

In the days ahead I felt every range of emotion. At times I loved holding her and smelling her newness. Other times I felt like the life I had before was stifled. Some days I felt designed to be a mom, and other days I felt immobilized by my lack of knowledge.

Many new moms begin to pull away and isolate themselves. This is the stage of life when we need each other the most. Times to connect and commiserate are vital.

So many mornings the Lord's new mercies were all that got me out of bed. I pleaded with Him to "Give me joy in this loving act, and my weary heart will praise the Lord." Philemon 1:20

Do we not have a great gift to pass on to these precious new moms? A gift that is even more fulfilling than the stork's delivery? What might happen if we decide to extend support and compassion to these women? The Lord in us makes the possibilities endless.

Perhaps our pursuit of them during this vulnerable time would give them a curiosity of where our strength comes from. The effect we have could leave a lingering taste for more.

If you see a stork in your neighborhood leave a card, take cookies and introduce yourself to the exhausted mom inside. Extend encouragement, and get to know her story. There may come a time when you can introduce her to the one who made her, and who is madly in love with her.

Life Vine

Nothing Without You by Bebo Norman

"I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you're joined with me and I you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can't produce a thing. John 15:5

Do you believe Him? Without Him we can do nothing. He means that.
He wants to reveal himself through us to a watching world, but we cannot skip the relationship with him. He gets first place.

When I seek to know him more I actually get excited to obey; to witness his awesome power, to get a glimpse of his imagination, and to grasp his unconditional love for people.

On the Brink of Expansion

Quote from Lisa Bevere:

"I had set up little boundaries and parameters around my life to keep things nice, safe, and orderly, and God was getting ready to expand my borders on every front-by enlarging my heart and life. None of us were created to maintain what we have, we were made for expansion. Daughter of the Most High, God wants to enlarge the life of each and every one of us. He wants to push us out over the brink of what we can control on our own abilities and strength and position us to realize the lives He has for us outside our neat and tidy packages. He wants us to reach beyond and extend our roots, even when it complicates our lives."

Held High

While visiting San Francisco today I experienced the vast differences in the approach of 'Street Evangelists'. On one corner a man was gesticulating and yelling about hell and sinners. On the other corner a man quietly yet intentionally held a sign that read Jesus Loves You. The man who was yelling stood on a box as if to draw even more attention to himself and his message. The other man held a bright yellow sign high above the mass of humanity rushing past. When we came back after dark the man on the box was gone, but the man with the sign still stood his ground. I couldn't help but admire his determination to spread the good news in a quiet yet bold way. His gentle stance made a loud declaration.

As we influence moms around us may we hold our Jesus higher, because He's what our salvation is all about. We don't have to be abrasive, brash and stand on a box to get attention. When we seek to become more like Christ his love moves and "compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all." (2 Corinthians 5:14) There is a difference in our day to day life because of Jesus. Far from perfect, we are a work in progress in the hand's of a loving Father. When they see a difference, they will wonder, and we will have such life changing news to share.

Quietly trust yourself to Christ your Lord, and if anybody asks why you believe as you do, be ready to tell her, and do it in a gentle and respectful way. (1 Peter 3:15)

Son of God

How does He love us? Let us count the ways.

Dweller of my heart.
dweller (verb)-to live or stay as a permanent resident.
Father's gift to us.
gift (noun)-something bestowed or acquired without its being earned.
Our freedom's in your blood.
freedom (noun)-state of being free rather than in confinement.
forgiven (verb)-to grant pardon for an offense, or debt.
Strength beyond compare.
strength (noun)-the power to resist attack.
Redeemer of my soul.
redeemer (noun)-one who redeems, Jesus Christ.

How has He saved, redeemed and freed me?
He wants to do the very same for them.
Do they know this?

Lyrics above from the song Son of God by Starfield

Life In Progress

Starting a new year makes me excited. It makes me wonder where and in who's life God may want to use me. The time at which our lives intersect with another moms is no mistake. We may feel like we are stepping into a regularly scheduled life already in progress, but the Lord can affirm our presence there.

Whether I see my impact in another's life as large or small, I want a willing heart to be used by the Lord. My awareness of how God is working around me needs to be refined. He is so amazing, and I am thrilled to be a part of his plan.

"I will show the holiness of my great name. Then they will know that I  am the Lord, when I show myself through you before their eyes." Ezekiel 36:23 (Message)