Good-bye 2009...

Good-bye 2009…

This year started out with a bang. January, my father-in-law went to heaven. February, my mother-in-law went to heaven. Summer, my daughter had to have surgery because of a lump on her breast. December, my mother went to heaven.

In all of this (and more) God has been faithful and remains faithful. God’s promises have been faithful and true. God’s Word has been the light in the darkness. God’s character has been tested and proven.

I have sense the presence of the Living God in a way I have never know it before. I have literally sense God carrying me and giving me enough strength for the next step. God’s leading and guiding has been so real that there are times when I have to sit in awe of HIM, filled with thankfulness and love for My Saviour Jesus Christ.

My God is a Faithful Saviour, Loving Father, an Incredible Comforter. I love Him so much.

2009 was a good year, because all that happened was HIS doing and for HIS glory. Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him. HIS plans for me are to give me a future and a hope, not to harm me.

What will 2010 bring? Only God knows. And, this I know, my God is a faithful God, one that can be trusted. So, I will give thanks to Him for 2009 and I will look forward to what He will bring in 2010.

Romans 8:32 - He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

“…With Jesus I know I can make it, with Jesus I know I can stand…My life is in His (very able, capable) hands…”

Mom's Funeral

My Mom's request was that she be buried in Mexico, next to her loved ones. God allowed me to fulfill this last request. Mom would have been proud of us - we were all together (something that hasn't happened in a while), and we behaved.

Finality is so difficult. I am so thankful for the HOPE that is in my heart, a HOPE that doesn't disappoint, because it is anchored in Jesus Christ. Jesus has conquered death, and because of this I KNOW that I will see Mom again.

I will see you soon Mom.

Discovering Joy Coffee at Harvest

Discovering Joy Coffee at Harvest

This morning I had the privilege of spending the morning with my two nieces. What a joy to sit with them hearing worship and listening to God's Word. I knew that the LORD had something for us. So much has happened in the last few days that this time of sitting and receiving was so refreshing. God gave us each a golden nugget of truth to walk away with and to sustain us for the task(s) ahead.

Mom is now HOME

My Mother entered into eternity on December 4th, 2009. She has no more pain now.

The LORD has answered and continues to answer prayer. She was at home surrounded by her loved ones.

Thank you LORD for your faithfulness.

Sista Closet

I went to what was called a Sista Closet. What an incredible blessing! A Sister put together this event to bless other sisters. She collected "nice" clothes, purses, jewelry, etc. put it all together and had whomever wanted to come, come and go through and pick what they could use for FREE! It was amazing! What a wonderful idea. There was wonderful fellowship and FREE STUFF. It was great to see sisters I haven't seen in a while.

Haven’t been writing in my Blog much lately. Writing for school simply takes all my writing energy away. So much has happened and will continue to happen around the Ramirez household.

Last week I had to go in person to school to complete a five hour requirement at the writing center. It was very interesting and at times challenging. Needless to say, I felt inadequate and out of place – great place to be, huh? On one occasion as I was walked across campus I was engaged in my constant ritual of feeling out of place and of not belonging. The LORD allowed me to see a gentleman who had some handicaps. He was slowly making his way across campus with the help of a cane and with a backpack full of books. I felt so little for feeling the way I did about myself. I guess the LORD knew I needed to see this man again, because on a totally different day and time I saw him again. It really spoke to me about forgetting about my “incapacities, inabilities, etc.” and forging forth on the journey that the LORD has planned for me at this point of my life.

On another occasion I came out of the writing center with a smile. I had so much joy because the LORD had shown me that I was actually retaining some of the material I have been learning. I said, “LORD this isn’t a waste of time after all.” I praised the LORD as I walked through the campus and to my car.

I tell you, this school thing continues to challenge me. I stand amazed that even through this journey the LORD is teaching and molding me…HE does all things well and uses all for HIS glory.

Temporal vs. Eternal

Last night I heard this story:

(Leti’s version) There was this little girl that had a strand of fake pearls. She loved her necklace and wore it all the time. Her Father lovingly asked, “Can I have your strand of pearls?” The little girl would respond, “No, but you can have this or that instead, but not my pearl necklace.” The Father would simply smile. Time would go by and the Father, once again, would ask the little girl for her strand of pearls, always getting the same answer. This went on for a while. One day, the little girl decided to go ahead and give her cherished strand of pearls to her Loving Father. She approached him and willingly gave her strand of pearls to her Father. He asked her, “Are you sure?” She said, “Yes.” Her Father smiled and put his hand in his pocket. He pulled out a container and gave it to the little girl. When the little girl opened it, she found a strand of REAL pearls.

Matthew 10:39 – He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.

2 Corinthians 4:18 – While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

Romans 8:32 – He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

He Heard My Cry...

I walked to the mail box to get our mail. Grabbed the stack and walked in my house sifting through it. Well, nothing interesting there. Lots of junk mail, wait, “What is this? A Card – humm?" I came and sat down on the couch and continued to sift through the mail paying closer attention to the envelopes. “This card? The envelope looks interesting.” Open more junk mail. “Okay, let me see what this card holds.” “Interesting envelope. Oh, I love the sticker (it said, A friend loveth at all times. Proverbs 17:17). That’s interesting, my address is typed.” I finally opened the envelope and saw this beautiful card. “Oh, it’s a real card. Let me see what the LORD will tell me through however sent this card.” As I opened it wide, out comes a typed note with 1 John 3:17-23 typed on it, and a Money Order. “What, is this a joke?!” Then I saw these words, “To help bring Angie home for Christmas.” --- I became a sobbing lump.

My Heavenly Father heard my cry, and the cry of a lot of other saints who have been praying for my daughter to be able to come home for Christmas. It seemed impossible, BUT GOD…

Bek's Birthday

On Sunday I got to spend some time with the Ramirez Family (Jose, Laura, Annie and Bek). Bekah's 5th birthday was on the 23rd and I so wanted to spend time with her and the family. So I headed for church and got to worship with the family and spend time with them afterward. The extra blessing is that Jaime got to join us for lunch. Good times with the family :~)

Jesus, the perfect atonement

When we say, “Jesus paid the price I could not pay” or “Jesus died for me, that I might be set free” – what do those “phrases” mean to you? Do we really understand what we are saying? Have we, even remotely, grasped what this cost and meant for Our Saviour Jesus Christ?

Today I read this meaning of “propitiation = ‘a sacrifice that bears God’s wrath to the end and in so doing changes God’s wrath toward us into favor’ Grudem, Systematic Theology”. I’ve also heard that justification is not only as if we had never sinned, but as if we had always obeyed – Wow!

We cannot save ourselves. We cannot maintain our salvation. We cannot earn our salvation. We are saved by grace alone. It is a free gift. However, this salvation cost an incredible price. One that, this side of heaven, we cannot even begin to comprehend nor grasp.

Once again, the LORD has been having me revisit Greg Harris’ book, The Darkness and the Glory. We are studying the book of Romans in our church (Women’s Bible Study). We are dealing with salvation by grace alone. I believe that there are those times that with our “familiarity” of certain terms or phrases we don’t grasp the fullness of that statement.

Only Jesus Christ could pay the price we could not pay.

Let me quote from the book:

The mere thought of the aggregate burden of one’s own sin – let alone the weight of every sin ever committed from Adam onward – overwhelms us…We possess neither spiritual nor mental capacities to understand it completely. We could more easily fathom numbering the sands of all the beaches in the world, giving each granule a specific name, and then recalling each grain of sand by name. Multiply this by billions, and you will begin to understand some of the depth of God’s love through Jesus Christ. We cannot even begin to seize it in thought – the magnitude of such a proposal rests only within the Godhead. No wonder angles fervently desire to look into the things related to salvation. No other event in history past or present even remotely compares to the divine love demonstrated that one dark day – as the Servant of Yahweh had His form altered and His appearance disfigured more than anyone who ever has or ever will live.

God did not look away from Jesus as the Lamb atoned for sins. During the darkness the Father looked fully on the Son. Each knew what the Other was doing during this unique second aspect of the cup that the Father had determined that His Son must drink. Is it any wonder that He was marred more than any Son of Adam ever had been (Isaiah 52:14)? How could He possible not be?

For three hours – divine wrath inflicted and received by the One alone able to do so.

For three hours – silent, willful submission by the Lamb of God, the Servant of Yahweh.

For three hours – the Father smote the Son with the full wrath He alone could render.

And then – He stopped.

God's Loving Embrace

Have you ever heard something like, “we are to be the hands and feet of Jesus”? I remember Pastor Jim Orate would always say, “May the LORD work in us, so that He can work through us”.

Yesterday, I began my day as usual. After spending time with the LORD I ventured out and drove to the gym. My body was not cooperating. My brain was “mush” – mid-terms, late nights, etc. had taken its toll on me. But, hey, I was still going to be diligent and disciplined. On Tuesday, I almost ran out sobbing in the middle of the class. Wow, the pressure we put upon ourselves! But, I didn’t. I stuck it through like the “go-getter” that I am. However, by Wednesday, there was nothing happening…energy, stamina and determination had all checked out.

I believe God is a personal God. I believe God cares about everything that happens to me. And, so I believe this morning HE knew I needed a special encounter with HIM.

What happened was that at the end of my gym class someone asked me if I was okay. I gave my normal answer, “I’m okay.” But she once again asked, she pursued it; I genuinely felt she wanted to know. I shared a little – I don’t’ know that I even knew what all was happening inside me. Then she asked me, “Would you like me to pray with you?” At this point I looked around and thought, “At the gym!?” But, hey, I am a Christian, I should be okay praying anywhere, and if this person has the courage to ask and pursue this then I need to be okay with being prayed with – at the gym. (Funny how my mind had this full on conversation; or was it a struggle?). I finally said, “okay.” She held my hands and began to pray. I, of course, began to cry. What she did next floored me. She gently embraced me and continued to pray. By this time I am sobbing. She held me for what, to me, seemed an eternity.

My God pursued me and met me where I was. He knew what I needed. He loves me so much that He used this person to hold me and pray with me, even though I was sweaty and stinky.

How many times have I neglected to heed His voice? How many times have I disregarded His still small voice that tells me go pray with or hug that person? How many times have I been in a hurry and haven’t had time to be used by Him, to minister to someone in need?

I, for one, am thankful that this person took the time to pray and hold me. I hope and pray that I will be more sensitive to those around me, to those that need a special touch.

Big Bear Lake

Take Nothing for Granted

God blessed my husband and me with all that was needed for us to get away for a couple of days. I want to share how this trip came about in order to encourage someone out there that might think, “I could never do this.”

My husband and I try to get away at least once a year. However, there have been circumstances and situations that have made it difficult, if not impossible to do this. One of my weaknesses is that I have a tendency to think, “we can never”, or “that will never happen to us, etc.” But, the LORD, always amazes me and humbles me with His love and care for me.

Back in 2006 the LORD provided for us to get away for a couple of days. I didn’t know where to even begin looking. He led me to a beautiful Bed and Breakfast up in Big Bear Lake. It was the perfect spot to relax, sleep and spend time with each other and with the LORD. We absolutely loved it! I remember being aware of one of the other rooms (a pricier one) that had a Jacuzzi and its balcony sat right on the lake, my thought was “we could never.” Well, three years later that is the room we stayed in.

First a friend of mine gave me a gift and said, “The LORD said this is for you and your husband to get away.” I immediately thought of Big Bear. I started praying. At this time we could not possibly get away given all that was happening in our family and home. I asked the LORD if it was possible for Him to grant us to go to Big Bear in October (the Fall in the mountains is absolutely gorgeous). I also asked Him if we could stay in that Bed and Breakfast, and if it wasn’t too much to ask, could we stay in The Shores (that’s the name of the room I had looked at previously). I looked up all the information and “it just happened” that the Bed and Breakfast was having a week day special and The Shores was the price that we could afford! And the rest my friends is history.

Allow me to back track a little. A few days before we left I was privileged to meet a precious woman that stirred me up and made me think a whole lot. She has had two brain aneurysms. She understands that “today is all we have; tomorrow is not guaranteed.” I believe some of us “quote” this, but really don’t live like we believe it. She reminded me that what I have can change in an instant. She reminded me that my husband, my children, my family is there now, but don’t take them for granted. She encouraged me to live each moment as if it was my last. As we were together she received a typed note, nothing fancy, from her husband and her son – her face lit up with joy and love. She even shared her note with everyone. She was so touched by her little note, that meant so much to her. (There was much more to this encounter, but for now this is all I’ll share.)

I thank the LORD for this encounter with this precious woman. Because of this encounter my husband and my getaway was so much more precious and meaningful. My time sitting with my husband, looking at his face, looking into his eyes, touching his warm hands, feeling his warm embrace, was so special. My thought was, “this can change in an instant.”

The LORD also reminded me that HE loves me and has good plans for me, not to harm me, but to mold me and shape me into the image of His Son.

Thank you Jesus for your unconditional love. Thank you LORD for your blessings, may I never take them for granted. Help me to focus on whatever is true, noble and praiseworthy. May I not cloud your love and your blessings with my self-pity and unbelief. Touch that person that feels like they will never get “rest”, like they will never get “a break”. Fill them with an expectant hope and with a joyful heart. In Jesus name – Amen.

Breakfast at Diana's

Today I had a chance to spend the morning with some wonderful friends. How good and pleasant it is when we gather together with the brethren or the sistas, as Diana would say.

We shared breakfast together - Diana made some yummy buttermilk pancakes. Thank you Diana! After wonderful food and fellowship, Diana shared a wonderful devotion – I just love God’s Awesome Word! We were well fed in body and spirit. We then went to the kitchen to make cookies for Angie and Richard, one of Diana’s sons. Diana had pre-made three kinds of batter, so all we had to do was roll the dough and put it on the cookie sheet. It was fun to see our individual cookie-making-styles coming out. Ida, was ever so careful – was she actually measuring her dough balls? It sure seemed that way. Meg was making one ball and eating the other (I saw you Meg – he!he!) My dough was just not behaving. I think there was more dough left on my hands than the actual cookies made. Once all these yummy cookies were made, they will be packaged and mailed out to Richard and Angie – I wish I had a camera to see their faces when they get their yummy cookies. I know Angie will be very happy – she loves sweets!

We all had a wonderful time. Then it was time to come home.

I am on my fourth week of school – wow, who would have thought! I am indebted to my nephew who has been there for me to encourage me and to help me walk through this unfamiliar territory – thank you Jose.

I’ve always liked to write my thoughts and ideas. In fact, that is one of the reasons I started blogging. However, when you have a deadline and someone else is giving a topic, it just doesn’t seem as fun. I remember working at a law office and having to be so specific and yes, wordy. I had to type in every detail; I had to dot all my i’s and cross all my t’s. Then came the computer and e-mails, and Facebook – now I had to get myself used to abbreviations and short thoughts – not easy, but I conquered it. So now I’m in my English class. I take my first quiz and what happens? I am asked to be specific and yes, wordy. I am not supposed to use abbreviations or fragments of sentences (wow, I am retaining something :) ). And so it goes…actually I am enjoying being a student.

We have also began our Women’s Bible Study. We will be studying the book of Romans. What an exciting journey this will be. Our first meeting was Thursday. The women were excited and eager to get into the study. Looking forward to what God will shows us through His Awesome Word.

My son, Jaime, began the process with the California Highway Patrol. He passed the written test and the physical. He then had the face-to-face interview – we are now waiting for the results of the interview. Please keep him in prayer. We only desire God’s perfect will and what will bring Him glory.

My daughter, Angie, is back at Mt. Zion School of Ministry. She is loving it. I will, as I mentioned in my previous post, keep up her blog in order to keep you up to date on what is happening in Pennsylvania. We are excited for what God is doing in her life and what He will continue to do.

My spiritual son, Jose, has begun teaching on Sundays (check out Laura’s blog for more details). We are so excited for him. Sunday was his first service. My husband and I sat in the back to pray for him and to take it all in. As I sat there, what kept coming to my mind is a picture that my sister had of him when he was little. A beautiful little face with pouting lips and tears in his eyes – if I remember correctly, he wanted to cry. My thoughts went to when my sister was pregnant with him – unexpected pregnancy because my sister’s tubes had been tied. God had a plan for him even before he was formed in his mother’s womb – Glory be to Our Awesome God!

Also, when I watched throughout that meeting room I could see the faces of many of my family members. O, truly God has done above and beyond all that I could ask or pray for. Many of my family members wonder through this life without a loving, personal relationship with Our Awesome God, through Our Savior Jesus Christ. I will hold on to what God has already allowed me to see and be a part of, knowing that Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever; just like He has done with the ones that were already in that room, He can do with those who are still in the clutches of the enemy. My hope and my trust is in you, LORD.

I continue to look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of my faith. When my body and mind don’t want to work, I will look to Him who will enable me for that which He has called me to. I am humbled and rejoice in seeing all that He has already done for me and my family and I look forward to what is up ahead.

Update

It has been "interesting" around here. As you know I have started school. I also started a more challenging workout. My daughter left to Pennsylvania for her second year of school...and on the events go. The other day I had a melt-down and wanted to throw EVERYTHING out the door. I haven't though - the love and encouragement of family and friends has kept me going. My quiet time with My Saviour has been rich and encouraging; He holds me tight and gives me WORDS of encouragement, and of discipline. He tells me self-pity is not of Him. He tells me that if He calls me then He will provide all that I need to make it to the end - whatever that end will be - I don't even know(tired of trying to figure it out). I haven't been writing much on my blog because I am writing for my English Class - I guess I only have so many words (some people would laugh at that; some say I am very "wordy"). I also wondered about keeping up my daughter's blog. My thought was that I would just update people through Facebook, but that has changed - I will keep up her blog too. With that come over to Angie's Blog and read the latest. I'm rambling to catch you up. Still believing and clinging to the hem of His garment. To God be the glory!

Motives

This morning I heard a song by Chris Sligh (Empty Me).

Through the lyrics one thing that stood out was “empty me so that I can be filled with YOU”. More of Him and less of me:

2 Corinthians 12:9 - And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

John 3:30 - He must increase, but I [must] decrease.

Then the LORD brought to mind something I had read, sometime ago, in Chuck Swindoll’s book, "Improving Your Serve":

“WHAT’S YOUR MOTIVE?”
Why are you planning this?
What’s the reason behind your doing that?
Why did you say yes (or no)?
What is the motive for writing that letter?
Why are you excited over this opportunity?
What causes you to bring up that subject?
Why did you mention his/her name?
What’s your motive, Leticia?

Wow! Truly lots to pray and meditate on.

Psalm 139:23-24 - Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Jeremiah 17:9-10 - The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his
ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.

Then I remember something my nephew told me (I don’t remember who he was quoting): Maintain integrity in the message (The Word); Purity in the motives (no flattery, no greed, no self-glory, never work to be appreciated); Credibility of service (we are being watched by the sheep and the wolves).

Motives check everyone. I am asking the LORD for purity…with that some things will burn and some will stand. May it ALL be done for the glory of My Heavenly Father and ONLY for His glory.

Matthew 5:16 - Let your light so shine before men, that they may see
your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Thinking again...

Sometimes you run into some pictures that simply leave you speechless. You simply sit there and reminisce. Pictured here (from left to right) is Meño, my older brother, My Dad, Mom, and Guille, my older sister.

Dad's face says it all...he loved being with his children. Dad and Sis are gone now...

God is my comfort and assurance. One day it will all make sense.

God's Fierece Love for Me

From Elyse M. Fitzpatrick’s book Comforts from the Cross:

Day 16 – SEE HIM!
See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 1 John 3:1

…the story of redemption is, in its purest form, a love story, but it’s a love story unlike anything you could ever imagine. It’s the story of God’s love for you, but this love isn’t just a sweet sentiment inscribed on a greeting card destined for next week’s garbage bin. It’s deeper and richer, and honestly a bit frightening. It’s love that is
willing to afflict itself and its beloved for a greater good.

…Fierce love pours from the tip of the pen of John…let me encourage you to push past detached facts, which can anesthetize the soul, to hear this breathtaking message. Picture him jumping up and down, waving his arms, seeking to awaken us from our stupor, while we muse, “Oh yes, God’s love…la la la…I’m his child. Isn’t that nice,” and then sink back into our comfy recliner, revisiting fantasies of how pleasant our lives would be if Santa really did visit us this year. “No, no! You’re missing it!” he would be yelling. “This love is the most important thing about you; it changes and will change everything!”

…Shake off your boredom and apathy. God’s love for you is fierce, self-afflicting, white-hot, life-transforming. The goal of this love is that you may be called God’s
daughter, God’s son. All this pain and grief is bent on one primary goal: your adoption and his eventual praise. Your relationship with the Creator of all there is has been secured in the blood and tears of love’s delight…

This whole concept of God’s fierce love for me struck me and paralyzed me. It made me push past the facts, past the boredom…what manner of love is this? Jesus Christ, God in the flesh, left all perfection and glory to come down and dwell amongst us and pay a price I could not ever pay – all for LOVE! This should not be boring. This should not be yesterday’s news. We should not read this as, “o yeah, I read this already – check. What will my reading be for tomorrow?” For GOD SO LOVED…that HE GAVE…

Thinking of My Brothers

Humberto
Oscar

Charly

I've been thinking allot about my brothers. I heard this song by Leeland called Tears of the Saints and my heart just broke for them. I tried to put the video, but had trouble so I just put the link.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jg1jBuInMqA

Let us keep watching and praying. Let us not give up.

A Student - Me???

The writing juices have not been flowing lately. Actually I have been reading so much that I am on information overload (good information overload).

We are preparing to begin our Women’s Bible Study. This year we will be starting in September and so there has been lots of preparation for this. Also, in a month my daughter, Angie will be flying, once again, to Pennsylvania.

In the midst of all this I have decided to start school – yes, school! A year ago, when I attended my first Women Discipline Women Conference, something happened to me. Something was stirred within me and hence, this wild ride into going to school has begun. It has been an interesting thing – from the application process, to the assessment test, to the student orientation, etc. There have been times that I shake my head and think, “this is crazy!” There have been apprehensions, doubts, questions, and on I could go, but somehow God continues to lead me on this direction. I also have wonderful family and friends who have been encouraging and lifting me up in prayer. Thank you all!

Yesterday I went to get my “Student ID” – the feelings are so crazy. Thank God I am not to rely on “my feelings”. Once again I think, “This is crazy!”

On July 6, 2009 I read the following on Sue Cramer’s blog:
Dare to Dream Big!
If your dreams don’t scare you…there’re not big enough! (Hab. 2:1-3)

So here we go. All I have is today; tomorrow is in God’s hands. Don’t know what or where all this will take me, but I know that God is My Good Shepherd and He will not lead me a stray.

Women's Bible Study Fellowship

The Body of Christ

As of late I've been more and more aware of the many afflictions that are assailing The Body of Christ. Psalm 34:19 says, "Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all." According to God's Word these afflictions are not uncommon. I read two posts from a couple of blogs that I frequent that resonate in the same light as what I have been experiencing. You can visit them at Gina's Blog and Julie's Blog.

In all this turmoil, in all this affliction it is wonderful to have those in the Body of Christ who are Christ's hands and feet. Now, please understand that in no way does it mean that if "someone" doesn't minister to you or does something special for you, it means that God is not ever-present, ever-caring for every single one of your needs. All I am saying is that when God chooses to use "someone" and that someone chooses to obey then there are blessings all around (Isaiah 35:3 - Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees).





One day, as I sat on my couch - depleted, unable to think or move - the door rang. I thought, "great! who can this be...I don't need this right now." I mustered up strength and went to the door only to find a beautiful sister with this gorgeous box in hand. This sister had absolutely no idea what all was going on. All she knew is that she was supposed to deliver this box to my house and give it to me. This particular ministry is called "The Joy Box Ministry". These beautiful boxes are packed with 7 small gifts with a Scripture on them. You are to open one gift a day for the next seven days. Had I had it my way I was tempted to open this box on the spot and open every single one of those promises. I was so "needy". The thought that this was a special gift for "ME" from the LORD, was beyond my comprehension.



Look inside, isn't it beautiful?

Everyday I would pick up my special gift/promise for that day with such love. Everyday God's special word to me was exactly what I needed for that day. These days were so incredibly hard that I did not have the mindset to sit and read at any length, but God knew. He knew that all I needed was this "tiny, but powerful manna" - just for the day. What an awesome God we serve!!!


On another day I received this beautiful post card. My daughter and I laughed because she said, "Look Mom its hair looks like yours." Actually this little critter looks better than I did when I received it - lol!!!

Another time, I was at the hospital with Mom having had an extremely rough night. Wondering, questioning, maybe even on auto-pilot...as I sat there gazed, watching Mom finally sleeping, my phone rang - I precious sister who moved to another State called me. My goodness, what an incredible comfort! It reminds me of a time I was in Mexico with Mom. We had had an incredible go at it with a few nights with absolutely no rest, nor sleep. When the phone rang, once again the thought came, "I don't want to handle another call." I picked up the phone only to hear the sweet voice of my pastor's wife. She spoke and prayed for me. All I did was cry. At the end of that call, I could barely audible say, "thank you."

2 Corinthians 1:3-5 - Blessed be God, even the Father of our LORD Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulations, that we may be able to
comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.

Praising God!

I feel as though I can finally "BREATH".

When my daughter came home for summer vacation she went to the Doctor for a physical. Amongst several minor issues we also heard something that simply floored me, "I feel some lumps in her breasts. We need to run some tests."

All I can tell you is that unless God had carried me by His Awesome Presence and His Powerful Word I would have folded. In the midst of an array of doctor's appointments there were so many other "minor issues" compared to this one. However, these minor issues made things more difficult and frustrating.

Can I just say that since I heard these words from the Doctor I feel like I've been holding my breath. Between this first visit and today God has carried me and sustained me and reassured me.

Psalm 119:92 - Unless Your law (God's Word) had
been my delight, I would then have perished in my affliction.

I could fill pages and pages of His Awesome Powerful Word that He spoke to me comfort and reassurance - regardless of the outcome. I also had incredible sister's in the LORD carrying us through prayer and friendship - thank you all. May the LORD refresh you in the manner that you refreshed and comforted us.

Tests, tests, tests, surgery, biopsy...today we received a report that IT WAS NOT CANCER! Just typing these words shake me. Now, I am fully aware that had it been the other way around, God would still sustain and carry us through the end for His glory and for His purpose.

For now - I will breath, I will thank, I will praise.

God's Promises are Comforting

Today I will cling to God's incredible promises:

2 Timothy 1:7 ...For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power and of love, and of a sound mind.

v. 12 - ...I know WHOM I have believed, and am persuaded that HE IS ABLE to keep that which I have committed unto HIM...(italics mine)

Also, Psalm 121; Psalm 91:1-2

I will trust and cling to HIM.

Angie will trust and cling to HIM.

What a wonderful Heavenly Father we have. Pray for us.

Happy 23rd Birthday Angie!

(Sahara and Angie)

Today we celebrate our daughter's 23rd Birthday.

We are blessed to be able to have her home for the summer to celebrate with her.

Happy Birthday Angie!!!

We love you tons!!!

Leadership Retreat

The LORD allowed my husband and I to be part of a retreat for Pastor and Leaders of all the spanish calvary chapels. It was held at Twin Peaks. These are pictures of the couples from our church that were able to be part of these retreat...including our Pastor and his lovely wife. We all went for a walk in the woods and had a wonderful time.

Picking-In

I just happened to find someone who has a laptop and wanted to let everyone know that "crazy" is how it has been. We are out of our house and, if you can believe this, I'm actually at this point "relaxing". The Scripture that God continues to bring to my heart and mind is Psalm 91:1-2, he who dwells in the secret place of the most High God, shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to my God, you are my Refuge you are my God, I will trust in you (my version). And one in Isaiah that says "you will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed in thee (I will put the whole Scripture and reference once I am home).

Thank God for His incredible Word...all-sufficient, filled with comfort...Thank you Jesus!

More to come once I have time...

Hungry Critters

It has been exciting around here. I had to take these pictures to show just how nasty these critters (termites) can be. We had to pack all our edibles on Tuesday and out of our house on Wednesday. I wanted to take a picture of our tented house, but forgot my camera. The workers showed me a piece of wood that they took of. There wasn't much wood left, all that was left was the paint - an incredible sight! Anyhow we were able to come home on Friday and tried to get the house together before leaving to a Leadership Retreat.

Update

For those of you who at times read my blog - just wanted to let you know that I have not fallen off from the face of the earth, I've fallen a few times, but not off the face of the earth.

It has been really odd-crazy around here. Let's see, doctor appointments, lab work, x-rays, plumber, termite inspection, doctor appointments...did I mention doctor appointments, me under the weather (yeah, what's new), back went out, neck did not want to turn, a cough that just doesn't want to go away, some medical issues that are still being checked out...

And in case you are wondering..."the circus is coming to town!" Yes, my friends, we have to tent our house for termite fumigation. We are now in the process of working out all the logistics - this is so complicated! Who would have thought these tiny little creatures could create so much havoc and do so much damage.

So anyhow, keeping up with blogging, even though there have been things I want to write(good things), has been close to impossible. I just wanted to stop by and say hello, I'm still here...keep praying for us.

Beautiful Table

Tea Time!

On Sunday we were invited by Theresa to a Tea she put together for her Mom, Gloria. The Hall family has become just an incredible part of our lives - we love them all! Anyhow, the table was gorgeous and the food was "DELICIOUS". Theresa and her aunts really out did themselves. They really should have their own business. Everything was yummy and gorgeous. The company was incredible. We felt like such ladies...we had a wonderful time. Thank you Theresa for all your work and for having us be part of this wonderful time:)

Busy, Busy, Busy

Wow, has it been busy around here. Lots of Doctor's appointments, both for myself and my daughter. Now we have follow up appointments...got to love these bodies! Amidst of it all I have to thank the LORD that we have health insurance - hasn't always been this way...thank you LORD!

I have also been blessed by the LORD to be able to spend wonderful time together with women that I love. I've been able to simply sit and spend quality time with each one of them.

I had a chance to spend quality time with two dear friend. We sat and enjoyed a quiet evening together over dinner. We treasure these times together.

On Saturday, my friend Laura and I got the opportunity to spend the day together. We not only had the opportunity to sit together and enjoy each others company, but we also got to enjoy getting fed both spiritually and physically by wonderful women of God. We got to attend a wonderful Conference at Grace Community Church. The theme was COMMUNION with God and COMMITMENT to others. I wish I could give you ALL that I received from the LORD through these wonderful teachers, but I would not do it justice. Suffice it to say that what we were taught was not watered down and was like a scalpel in the hand of a surgeon. Surgery of the heart took place and, although it hurt, I know that the healing and the "health" of my soul is what God is looking for in me.

God has truly blessed me with wonderful women around me.

Angie is Home

My daughter, Angie, is home for the summer. It brings such joy to my heart to hold her in my arms and see her beautiful face. Thank you LORD for bringing her home safely and sustaining her through her first year at Mt. Zion...your faithfulness, O LORD, is from everlasting to everlasting.

Check out a couple of pictures from her arrival - click here.

David's Response to His Enemies

After Absalom begins his take over of his father’s kingdom – David would have said it was God’s kingdom – David and his people flee.

2 Samuel 15:23…toward the way of the WILDERNESS.

Can you imagine David’s heart on this journey? It wasn’t a journey he chose nor one that he was glad to embark on. It was a situation totally beyond his control. And to top it off, his pilgrimage is not a smooth one – on this “way of the wilderness” David encounters lots of issues.

Remember David’s response to Saul? Well here in 2 Samuel 16:5-14 we are given another glimpse at David’s response to another one of his enemies.

v. 5 - …came out a man of the family of the house of Saul, whose name was Shemei…he came forth, and cursed still as he came.

v. 6 – And he cast stones at David…

v. 7 – And thus said Shimei when he cursed, Come out, come out, thou bloody man, and thou man of Belial:

v. 8 – The LORD hath returned…the LORD hath delivered the kingdom into the hand of Absalom thy son:…thou art taken in thy mischief, because thou art a bloody man.

Shimei was sort of saying, “Everything that is happening to you, David, is your fault. God is judging you”. If this were me, I’d be a basket case by this point. Just let me crawl under a rock and never come out.

v. 9 – (read the response of those with David? Yeah, this would probably be me. “Off with his head!”)

David’s response:

vv. 10-12 – And the king said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah? So let him curse, because the LORD hath said unto him, Curse David. Who shall then say, Wherefore hast thou done so? And David said to Abishai, and to all his servants, Behold, my son, which came forth of my bowels, seeketh my life: how much more now may this Benjamite do it? Let him alone, and let him curse; for the LORD hath bidden him. It may be that the LORD will look on mine affliction, and that the LORD will require me good for his cursing this day.

v. 13 – And as David and his men went by the way, Shimei went along on the hillside over against him, and cursed as he went, and threw stones at him, and cast dust.

How is that for additional turmoil on this already difficult journey – someone right along with you cursing you and throwing stones and dust at you?

v. 14 – And the king, and all the people that were with him, came weary, and refreshed themselves there.

Then later in 2 Samuel 18:5 we read, …Deal gently for my sake with the young man, even with Absalom…(This was David’s concern for his son, Absalom, regardless of all that Absalom had brought him through).

Then when David finds out about Absalom’s death we read in 2 Samuel 18:33, David response, And the king was much moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate, and wept: and as he went, thus he said, O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!

Breaks your heart, doesn’t it? David’s treatment of his enemies gives us much to ponder and meditate, and also brings us to a place of searching our hearts to say, “Change my heart, O God, make it ever new. Change my heart, O God, may I be like YOU.”

Chaffey High School Alumni Game

Jaime batting
Jaime catching
My handsome son;)

Today, just for a moment I was transported back in time.

Just for a moment I sat and enjoyed a wonderful afternoon at the ballpark.

Just for a moment life felt normal;

Just for a moment I could sit in the sun watching my son play baseball.

Thank you LORD for those "moments".