Four Easy Steps to a New Life

1. God Loves You!

The Bible says, "God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life"

The problem is that . . .

2. All of us have done, said or thought things that are wrong. This is called sin, and our sins have separated us from God.

The Bible says “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” God is perfect and holy, and our sins separate us from God forever. The Bible says “The wages of sin is death.”

The good news is that, about 2,000 years ago,

3. God sent His only Son Jesus Christ to die for our sins. Jesus is the Son of God. He lived a sinless life and then died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins. “God demonstrates His own love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us.”

Jesus rose from the dead and now He lives in heaven with God His Father. He offers us the gift of eternal life -- of living forever with Him in heaven if we accept Him as our Lord and Savior. Jesus said "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except by Me."

God reaches out in love to you and wants you to be His child. "As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe on His name." You can choose to ask Jesus Christ to forgive your sins and come in to your life as your Lord and Savior.

4. If you want to accept Christ as Savior and turn from your sins, you can ask Him to be your Savior and Lord by praying a prayer like this:

"Lord Jesus, I believe you are the Son of God. Thank you for dying on the cross for my sins. Please forgive my sins and give me the gift of eternal life. I ask you in to my life and heart to be my Lord and Savior. I want to serve you always."

Did you pray this prayer?

Happy Fall!

My mother loved Fall. She loved the bright colors of the leafs and the flowers. The lily above was one of her favorites.

I love Fall too.

The picture of my mother and me was taken on her eighty-fourth birthday in

July of this year.

I know the colors that Mom is enjoying now are too incredible to describe.

My heart still aches, but I know Mom is happy now.

God is so wonderful.

HE is healing my broken heart.

HE is allowing me to enjoy the beauty of HIS creations.

Thank you Jesus for restoring my soul.

Forever Grateful.

Bren

Brotherly Love

I John 4 11 - 15

11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.

12 No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and His love is perfected in us.

13 Hereby know we that we dwell in Him, and He in us, because He hath given us of His Spirit.

14 And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.

15 Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.

The above verses are from my King James Bible.

As most of you know my mother went home to be with the Lord on October 8, 2009. Since my mother has left this earth I have been able to receive and observe God's love from many that confess to know Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour. I have also come to realize that many that speak of God's love do not demonstrate the words from their lips.

I John 4 : 16 And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.

I John 4 : 17 Herein in our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgement: because as He is , so are we in the world.

I John 4 : 18 There is no fear in love: but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

I John 4 : 19 We love HIM, because HE first loved us.

I John 4 : 20 If a man say, I love God, and hate his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?

I John 4 : 21 And this commandment have we from Him, That he who loveth God loveth love his brother also.

My mother's death has taught me many things. Love is a constant presence of God's children. Deceit, jealousy and bitterness are tools that are crafted by the evil one. The judgement of other's is in God's hands. To truly love others is not an act; it is a commandment from God.

Dear Heavenly Father,

My prayer is to love as YOU love. To love without a second thought. To be loved as your child. As your child, to love as YOU have imprinted on my heart. To love because YOU are my FATHER. It is my desire to love. My heart can not escape the love YOU have placed there. I am thankful YOU are a constant presence in my heart, my soul and my life. Thank you FATHER for pulling me through. Forever your daughter, Bren

Thank You All for your Prayers

Thank you all for your prayers, thoughts and cards.

God is comforting me.

I miss my mother.

The hope in my heart is I know I will see her again.

Letting go and going on.

Going on with this life that God has created for me on this earth.

Happiness.

Joy.

Sorrow.

Time continues.

My Savior, Jesus Christ is standing with me.

The peace that passes all understanding is stamped on my heart.

Bren

My Mother is with Jesus in Heaven

Today at 11:00 a.m. my mother went home to be with the Lord. I know she is happy in Heaven. I know my mother is walking hand in hand with Jesus.

She has suffered so long on this earth.

I will miss my mother; there are no words to describe how my heart aches.

My joy is to know she will not hurt or cry anymore.

My joy is to know she is with the Holy Savior, Jesus Christ.

She will get to see my grandparents, my daddy, my brother Glenn and my sister Judy.

As I watched my mother pass from this life to her eternal life with Christ, I saw peace on her face. I sang softy in her ears. I said, Mommie keep your eyes on Jesus.

As I looked at my mother's beautiful peaceful, sleepy face I was reminded of how much she looked like my sleepy doll when I was a little girl.

Miss Sleepy was my favorite doll.

I talked to my mother on Monday. We talked about my little doll, Miss Sleepy.

Mother laughed softly when I repeated the phases of Miss Sleepy.

"Mommie kiss me good-night."

"I want another drink of water."

"I go nite-nite now."

I fed my mother vanilla ice-cream.

My mother said, " I have lived a long time."

I said, Yes you have Mom.

I told Mom that I was fine here.

I asked my mother to keep her eyes on Jesus.

She said, she would.

I sang softly in her ears, "Oh how I love Jesus."

I prayed with her.

I told her I loved her.

I told her it was OK to go.

On Tuesday she seemed well.

On Wednesday her breathing became labored.

The family was called in.

My husband and I stayed late into Wednesday night.

My brother and sister stayed with Mom.

I kissed my mother good-bye and told her I would see her soon.

When I get to Heaven I will be able to kiss my mother again.

We will talk about Miss sleepy.

We will walk with our Holy Savior on streets of Gold.

I love you Mom.

I will see you soon.

Your baby girl,

Bren

Mama Wants to Go Home

How do you tell your mother that she will never return to her home?

How do you go on each day knowing that your mother could die

at any given moment?

Why do I feel so helpless?

The only answer to all my questions was answered by a soft and almost hushed sound that radiated in my heart.

Mother is longing for her home.

Her pain has been numbed by all the medicine; but her heart is searching to be comforted by the only ONE that can take her home.

Most of the time my mother stares with many small blinks in between. Her eyes opening and closing and searching for what seems lost to her on this earth.

Images become fuzzy and colors collide together like a stained glass window.

Mother sees and hears things that others do not.

When I sing to her, she mumbles ever so softly, "oh how I love Jesus, oh how I love Jesus".

I say to my mother, trust Jesus, Mommie.

HE is watching over you.

As a child I struggled.

God has allowed me to forgive.

God has allowed me to love.

God has given me strength to continue; for what HE has called me to do.

To forgive, to love and take each day as a blessing.

Just like my mother, often my eyes become cloudy.

My Savior, Jesus Christ sends the tears; just like rain to wash all the clouds away.

Dear Jesus,

Thank you for my mother. Give her peace Lord.

Bren

What is The Love Dare?

"The Love Dare" is a journey of 40 days of dares that consist of unconditional love that will make your marriage stronger than ever before. If you have seen the movie, "Fireproof" you will be somewhat familiar with "The Love Dare". Before beginning "The Love Dare", I highly recommend that you view the movie "Fireproof" with your spouse before "The Love Dare" Peacekeeper’s Wives Lunch On October 3, 2009. For those who will not be able attend in person I would recommend that you buy the book, "The Love Dare" and take the journey of your life. I dare you to choose unconditional love for your marriage. Now with all that being said; I am wondering if there are any wives out there that would be willing to share your experience with "The Love Dare". If so would you be willing to share with "Seeking Grace" readers? Question 1: Have you taken "The Love Dare"? Question 2: Can you tell us about the dares that you thought were special? At least 2 dares. Question 3: How long have you been married? Questions 4: Would you recommend "The Love Dare" and why? Question 5: What does unconditional love mean to you? Remember your responses may be left under comments. Also remember comments that are negative to "The Love Dare" journey will be deleted. For those that live in the United States and answer the above questions; you will be given an opportunity to win a copy of the movie "Fireproof". Winners will be chosen at random; all questions must be answered. Please leave an e-mail address if you would like a chance to win the movie, "Fireproof". Thanks and God bless you all. For Peacekeepers Wives; I hope to see you on Oct 3.

Bren

In the Arms of Jesus "Baby Isaac"

PSALMS 116: 15 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of HIS saints.

Isaac Samuel went home to be with Jesus this morning at 2:00 a.m. We will miss you Sweet Baby. I know Jesus is holding you close. Heaven has a new angel. You have touched so many lives here on this earth. We love you.

Please continue to pray for Isaac's family and his church family.

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you, Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Jesus spoke these words to HIS disciples before HE left this earth.

In God's Hands,

Bren

I love you, Mommie

Yesterday I visited my mother at the nursing home facility. When I walked into her room she informed me that she needed to go "pick up her mother". My mother's mother, my grandmother passed away when I was just a little girl. I could not understand my mother's speech and I did not understand what was happening to her. She continued to tell me she needed to go home and get the house ready. I tried in vain to make her realized where she was and who I was. I finally ran out into the hall and asked what was happening to Mom. The nurse told me that Mom's pain is unbearable for her now and they have to keep giving her very strong medicine to ease her.

As I looked at my Mom I realized my Mother is dying. I broke down into my husband's arms. My sobs were uncontrollable and we stood in front of my Mother's room holding each other. My husband looked at me and said, "It is going to be alright". I am so thankful that my husband Joey was with me. God knew I would need him to be there.

As we entered Mom's room again Ms. Clota sat crying. Although no words were exchanged everyone understood what was happening. The nurse came back in and asked Mother if she knew who I was. My mother looked confused and said, "They like you and you are not going to hurt me." I said to my mother as I placed my hand on her chest, It's me Mom, it's me, Brenda. For awhile she was still confused. She said that my Aunt Leila was there and I asked her what Aunt Leila was telling her. She mumbled something . . . that I could not understand. My Aunt Leila died last Spring.

Finally the nurse came in a third time. The sweet little nurse expecting her first child explained that Mom's medicines had to be changed and that the Hospice nurse would be evaluating Mom again this week. We are praying that if it is Mom's time to go be with Jesus that she will be able to spend her final days at the Hospice House so her family can be there with her when she goes.

Mother finally realized who I was as I sat beside her bed. I told her I loved her so much. She said she loved me too. I said I know you do, Mom.

The pain hit her hard and the nurse brought more medicine in.

Joey decided to take me out for a break and to try to eat. As I walked out into the parking lot the sun was so bright. My heart was breaking and felt as if I was a walking piece of clay.

When we returned to the nursing home facility Mother was resting. She asked me if I saw the puppies. I said yes to my Mother. "They are cute" she said. I said, yes they are Mom.

My husband and I tried hard to push back the tears but they came anyway. My mother said to me, " Your hair is so pretty". I told her she had beautiful hair too. I pushed her gray hair back from her head with my hand ever so softly.

I sang to my Mother "Jesus Loves Me" over and over. She said I like that. I sang "Amazing Grace" she said that was her favorite. I think she was trying to sing with me.

She needed to rest and let the medicine take the pain away. She said in a very low almost faint voice that, " God's timing is not like our timing". I said I know Mom. When Jesus calls you home, it is OK to go. I assured her I was fine here. I asked her to keep her eyes on Jesus and HE would help her.

My husband came over to the other side of my Mother's bed and we held my Mother's hands. My husband began to pray. His tears running down his face. I turned my head away so my mother could not see my tears as my husband prayed for Mom.

Mother said she wanted to rest now. I said I love you, Mommie. She opened her eyes and said, "How many times have you told me that? ". I said, OK Mommie I won't say it again. She smiled at me and said, " You better say it again".

I kissed her good-bye and said I love you, Mommie. She laughed and said. " I love you too". I said my good bye and walked out of her room.

My mother gave me the serenity prayer years ago. I needed it then and I need now.

Bren

Pray for Baby Isaac

Background Story

On July 22, at 35 weeks gestation, we got some difficult news about our little guy on the way. What we found out is that Isaac has a Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) - that's the technical details to say that he has a hole in his diaphragm. Complicating this problem is that his stomach and, possibly, some of his intestines have moved up into his chest. The biggest concern is his lung development and getting his blood pressure stabilized in the days after he's delivered. He will need surgery to move the organs in their right places and to repair the hernia, but it's going to be a long road of wating and recovery as he continues to stabilize and his lungs develop.Samuel "Isaac" was born on Thursday, August 13, at 8:58 p.m. The neonatology team was able to quickly intubate him and get him on a ventilator to help him breath and prevent air from entering his digestive system. So far, Isaac has experienced many of the common scenarios for a baby with CDH. At five days old, he had to be placed on ECMO (a heart/lung bypass) to oxygenate his blood. He was having trouble keeping his oxygen saturations high enough and exchanging the CO2 in his blood. The other benefit of ECMO is that it reversed his pulmonary hypertension in the right ventricile of his heart within the first 24 hours. This means that the lungs are able to receive the blood at low pressure and effectively oxygenate the body. To date, his pulmonary hypertension is still under control and appears to be maintaining as they prepare to wean Isaac off of ECMO.In the days ahead, we hope to get Isaac off of ECMO, get him stabilized for surgery, and begin the recovery process after his surgery is completed. We expect to have difficulty with his respiratory system; potential pulmonary problems and high blood pressure; and possible difficulties with beginning feedings and digestion after the surgery is completed.Through everything, we have seen God's unfolding plan as He continues to care for our entire family. Many of the worst-case scenarios and possible problems have turned into praises as we see God do amazing things and continue to keep us from harm. Thank you for praying for us and looking forward with us to see what God will do.

The background story was written by Jason, Isaac's dad. Isaac is our pastor's grandson.

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

Please pray for Isaac and Isaac's family. Thank you and God bless you all.

Bren

Love Never Fails! It is "Fireproof"!

The movie "Fireproof"' was presented recently at my church. My husband and I were able to host this movie as well as serve a wonderful dinner to the couples that attended.

The couples that attended this movie/dinner came away with a higher sense of how precious our life here on earth is and how everyday counts with the love ones we share our life with.

Not only did this movie display the type of love that we need from our spouses, it exemplified how to obtain and put into practice a love that can only be from the Holy Savior.

There are many of those romance movies out there today that include such romantic novelties that really do not have anything to do with true love.

In the King James Bible the verses below clearly state what true love is.

I CORINTHIANS 13:4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, it is not puffed up.

I CORINTHIANS 13:5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

I CORINTHIANS 13:6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

I CORINTHIANS 13:7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

I CORINTHIANS 13:8 Charity never faileth:

Although I love the King James Version of the Holy Bible, I know it may be difficult to understand some of the meaning of the words that is written in it. I believe that God allows the Holy Word to be interpreted by HIS children as HE clarifies it's meaning to the person that is reading the scripture.

This is how I have understood the meaning of the above verses;

Charity; love.

Love can endure long periods of suffering.

Love is kind.

Love does not envy.

Love does not promote self.

Love is not proud.

Love is calm and direct.

Love does not get angry easily.

Love does not think of evil.

Love is not pleased with sin.

Love is happy with the truth.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all and endures all things. Love never fails.

The movie "Fireproof" was full of all the love scriptures. These verses were spoken by some of the characters in the movie; however it was the actions of the characters that clearly proved how the simple verses show how actions speak louder than words. For those of you that have not seen this movie, I highly recommend that you see it with your spouse or special someone as soon as possible. I especially recommend this movie for those that have a spouse that is in law enforcement. This movie was designed with emergency workers in mind ( law enforcement, fire fighters, EMT). This movie clearly shows how so many of these people put their lives on the line each day. It also clearly shows how these dangerous positions can put added stress on marriages that are already in danger of divorce.

If God willing, in October I will be hosting a lunch for law enforcement wives and other wives that have husbands that work in dangerous fields of employment. Following the lunch we will begin a series of support groups that will expand into a period of eight meetings. All wives will be able to participate in these meetings via "Seeking Grace" if they are not able to attend in person. Wives will be notified of the meeting places within the next few weeks. For wives that are not local you may participate on line by reading "Seeking Grace". Look for Peacekeeper's Wives; The Love Dare. Peacekeeper's Wives: The Love Dare will include several teachings from the book "The Love Dare". Wives please be sure to look for information about these meetings coming to you soon. No personal information will be shared on "Seeking Grace". The comment moderator will be on for confidentially purposes. Only comments that are beneficial to the study will be shared. God is truly blessing us. We give HIM all the glory and praise. HE continues to protect our love ones each day. HE is our source of faith and strength.

Thank you to my church and to all those who helped begin this ministry for the wives of our Peacekeepers.

Thank you God for your purpose in our lives. Lord I know You hold our lives in Your Hands. God I am grateful to be able to encourage others. Thank you Lord for each day as You give it to us. Help me Lord to serve and seek Your Grace each moment on this earth. I pray God You place your protection around each of us as we work to serve You. I love you Lord. I honor You, Lord. I give You praise Lord! Your grateful daughter, Bren

Police Officer's Prayer

As I watched my husband ready himself for work this morning, the reality of his job hit me with amazing accuracy. As a wife of a police officer I often find myself wondering how I could ever survive without him. I wonder how our children could go on in this world without the man they call Dad? You see friends, he is more than a badge and uniform; underneath of all the gear is a real man with a real heart beat. A man that loves his family and a man with a family that dearly loves this man. Does his family love him because of the fact he wears a badge? Absolutely NOT, we love him because he loves us. He is my husband and he is my children's father.

In fact he is no different that any other man on this planet . . . he loves, he hurts and he works. Now his work is different than most. I understand this . . . I know this in my head; however my heart wants to be assured that when he walks out our front door in the early hours before dawn that he will return to me safe and unharmed before the sun sets in the sky.

There are many people that question me on a daily basis about how I can NOT be a total wreck and be married to a police officer. The truth is I know how dangerous his job is. I know he may not walk through our front door again when he leaves me alone in the hours before the world has awaken.

It is not an easy task to watch as your husband straps a gun to his body each day and walks out the door to protect other people that he does not even know.

It is not an easy task to listen to others comment about how police are just out to "get them".

He is simply doing his job; when an elderly lady calls to say there is someone trying to break in to her home and he walks into her home to check every door and window; only to find the lady is lonely and needed someone to share a cup of coffee with her.

He is simply doing his job; when he enters a home and faces a man with a gun pointed to his head and asks, "Why shouldn't I pull the trigger?"

He is simply doing his job; when he picks up an abused child and carries that child to a safe place.

He is simply doing his job; when someone pulls a gun on him because they decided to rob a bank that day.

He is simply doing his job; when he pulls someone over for speeding and/or driving while intoxicated.

There are so many "simply doing his job" things that I can tell you about.

I understand most of these things the general public has no knowledge of. In today's culture police are called to place their lives on the line but when they "do their job" they are ridiculed, fought, cut, beat, shot at and sometimes killed. For these reasons I understand.

I understand that my husband might not walk through our front door again. How can I live with this question lingering in my mind? I call upon the Holy name of God to protect and bring my husband back home each day. My faith in God is what gets me through each day.

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

These verses are from my King James Bible.

Hebrews 11:6 But, without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.

This is how I get through each day my friends. This is how I get through . . .

A Police Officer's Wife Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Please dear God protect my husband, my best friend, my children's father from harm today. God not only is he all these things to me and my children; he is your son too. I know YOU will care for him and bring him back home safely to his family. I know YOU are always in total control of every situation, of every detail in his day and I know YOU are with him. Thank YOU God for his protection. Thank you for not only protecting him but for also protecting all the other officers that are also "just doing their job" Lord. I am grateful Lord. Lord I am not perfect. I am sorry when I fail to serve YOU as YOU would have me to. I am sorry for my sins. I do not want to grieve your HOLY SPIRIT, Lord. Please forgive me. Dear God I understand that one day you may call my husband home before you call me. I ask Dear God for YOU to pull me through that time if it should ever be. I know God that he is in YOUR HANDS. I love you, Lord. Your grateful daughter, Bren

Charleston

The pineapple is the symbol of southern hospitality. Can you see the pineapple in the middle of the fountain? The fountain above is located in Charleston SC on the Battery. The Battery is the waterfront in downtown Charleston. Many battles began here. The one that is noted in history and said to have began the Civil War was the battle at Fort Sumter. Fort Sumter can be toured by taking a boat out to this history filled island from the waterfront or Battery in Charleston. PROVERBS 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. My husband and I were blessed to be able to visit this place of great grace, great beauty and great history. Our youth group were near by on Folly Beach. God truly blessed our youth with a much needed retreat. The kids were able to learn and grow in Christ as they were led each day in worship and prayer by amazing leaders that love the Lord. PROVERBS: 3:6 In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths.

This is the new Cooper River Bridge. It is a breath taking bridge to behold. This bridge can be traveled on by foot or by car. Boats on The Cooper can easily travel underneath this massive bridge. The Cooper River bridge is about three years old. Charleston is very proud of this beauty.

Of course in Charleston you will find many marshes, rivers and ships of all kind.

This beauty is a schooner. She sails gracefully with the wind in her sails.

This in the international port in Charleston. Many things are shipped via massive cargo in this Charleston port.

The lady you see in this picture is a third generation basket maker. She makes all baskets by hand. Her hand working. . . seemingly without thinking. . . only using a broken spoon handle to perfect her weaving process.

She was taught by her mother how to make baskets. She continues this art in order to support herself and her family. She is indeed a great artist!

As most of you know I am from the South. I enjoy my southern bell drawl, my southern bell heritage and the fact that my history is grounded in my faith as a Christian.

God gives us ALL something special. . .

It does not matter where you are or who you are. What does matter is will you use the gift in the place He has placed you?

In the last few weeks God has been playing a tug of war on my heartstrings. God has a purpose and a plan for each of us. When we try to do it "our'' way instead of GOD'S way then the tug of war is just a losing battle. When God says. 'Do it!' Please listen to Him. I have resolved to listen and obey. To speak words from the Lord. To write words from the Lord. To go where He tells me to go. To trust in Him and allow Him to direct my paths.

PROVERBS 3:6 In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths.

Bren

When A Soldier Comes Home

When a soldier comes homes . . . he finds it difficult to . . . . . . .

be tolerant of people who complain about the hassle of getting ready for work.

to be understanding when a coworker complains about a bad night's sleep.

To be silent when people pray to God for a new car.

To control his panic when his wife tells him he needs to drive slower.

To be compassionate when a businessman expresses a fear of flying.

To keep from laughing when anxious parents say ther are afraid to send their kids off to summer camp.

To listen to people that whine about being bored with life.

To keep a straight face when people complain about potholes.

To control his frustration when a colleague gripes about his coffee being cold.

To be civil to people who complain about their jobs.

To be forgiving when someone says how hard it is to have a new baby in the house.

The only thing harder than being a soldier is loving one!

So friends say a prayer for our soldiers today. Please let them know you appreciate what they do for this country that we call the United States of America! God bless our soldiers!

Bren

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY

Happy Father’s Day!

There are three very special men in my life.

My Heavenly Father

My Father is too majestic to behold HE is God the truth to be told.

HE gave is life for me on the cross; HE died.

In my heart HE now resides.

I can never repay my HEAVENLY FATHER that is why. . .

I am the clay and HE is the POTTER!

So into HIS HANDS I am held, forever protected and gently shelled.

In HIS LOVE I will guard HIS tender gift, to my Savior my prayer I will uplift!

Thank you God for keeping me in your perfect care. Without you Lord I would not dare.

To breathe or allow my heart to beat. You are my life . . . my sweet retreat.

Author: Bren H. Copyright@Seeking Grace on the Narrow Path 6-18-09

My Earthly Father

So lovingly I think of my father from days gone by. Dad is in Heaven now and I know why.

He gave his heart to Jesus my friend. It is true I will see my daddy again!

As a little girl I always knew Daddy loved me unconditionally and true.

Although he was not perfect while he was here. Dad's love for me not forgotten; still so sweet and dear.

So to this day I remember my daddy with a child like grin. I look to Heaven for my day to come in.

I love you my sweet, old dad. You are the best earthly dad this little girl ever had.

Bren H. Copyright@Seeking Grace on the Narrow Path 6-18-09

My Children’s Father

What can be said about a father like you?

You my love. . . give so much of yourself. Sometimes there is not anything of you left.

It is true you are a man of God. You have walked where few men dare to trod.

Our children sparkle when they speak of you. Just as my eyes fill with love too.

Always giving without expecting anything in return. This my sweet husband, our children will learn.

To put God first in all that they do. Forever our children will be true.

You are a father and you love best! Oh how our children know they are blessed!

How can you be the man that you are? God dwells within you; near and far.

My love for you is beyond words that I can express Our love is divine and endless.

Happy Day to you sweet father of my children. Forever I will love you.

Bren H. Copyright@Seeking Grace on the Narrow Path 6-18-09

These poems I have written for my special ones; to be celebrated as poems of love. It is God’s blessings that is in my life. So to HIM I give all glory for the rest of my earthly life.

Bren

Thanks to my dear friend Marcia for sharing this story with me. THE BRICK. . . A young and successful executive was traveling down a neighborhood street, going a bit too fast in his new Jaguar.. He was watching for kids darting out from between parked cars and slowed down

when he thought he saw something. As his car passed, no children appeared. Instead, a brick smashed into the Jag's side door! He slammed on the brakes and backed the Jag back to the spot where the brick had been thrown. The angry driver

then jumped out of the car, grabbed the nearest kid and pushed him up against

a parked car shouting, 'What was that all about and who are you? Just what the heck are you doing? That's a new car and that brick you threw is going to cost a lot of money. Why did you do it?' The young boy was apologetic. 'Please, mister....please, I'm sorry but I didn't know what else to do,' He pleaded. 'I threw the brick because no one else would stop...' With tears dripping down his face and off his chin, the youth pointed to a spot just around a parked car... 'It's my brother, 'he said 'He rolled off the curb and fell out of his wheelchair and I can't lift him up.'

Now sobbing, the boy asked the stunned executive, 'Would you please help me get him back into his wheelchair? He's hurt and he's too heavy for me.'

Moved beyond words, the driver tried to swallow the rapidly swelling lump in his throat.. He hurriedly lifted the handicapped boy back into the wheelchair, then took out a linen handkerchief and dabbed at the fresh scrapes and cuts. A quick look told him everything was going to be okay. 'Thank you and may God bless you,' the grateful child told the stranger. Too shook up for words, the man simply watched the boy! push his wheelchair-bound brother down the sidewalk toward their home.

It was a long, slow walk back to the Jaguar. The damage was very noticeable, but the driver never bothered to repair the dented side door. He kept the dent there to remind him of this message: 'Don't go through life so fast that someone has to throw a brick at you to get your attention!' God whispers in our souls and speaks to our hearts. Sometimes when we don't have time to listen, He has to throw a brick at us.. It's our choice to listen or not.

Thought for the Day: If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it. If He had a wallet, your photo would be in it. He sends you flowers every spring.

He sends you a sunrise every morning Face it, friend - He is crazy about you! Send this to every 'beautiful person' you wish to bless. God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way.

Read this line very slowly and let it sink in... If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it

Dear Friends, I will be writing and speaking this summer so I will only be posting once a week. Thank you for encouraging me and praying for me. Thanks to ALL CMPD families too! God bless you all! Bren

Miracles and Faith

This little story about miracles was placed on the sidebar of "Seeking Grace on the Narrow Path" a few weeks ago. God has a way of reminding me of the truly divine blessings and miracles HE has allowed me to receive. It is for HIS glory that I write, it is for HIS glory that I share HIS love. For I seek to do the will of my Heavenly Father. I seek HIS will with faith; for I know HIS will is designed with hope. For there is no greater purpose to live this life but in HIS will. HIS will is certainly designed for this child to have faith and glorify Jesus Christ. All else will be taken care of. Where do you place your FAITH? HEBREWS 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please HIM: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek HIM. King James Bible Without faith . . . remember it is impossible to please God. So with this in mind and faith in my heart I share again the miracles that God placed in my life. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A lump removed from my right breast a few years ago. (no sign of cancer and no more lumps)

My husband's life protected and saved!(so many times now, that I have lost count) Thank you, Lord! Thank you Lord! Thank you Lord! Thank you God for your divine intervention!

My baby son (now 14 years old) stopped breathing. As I called out to Jesus for help, a neighbor arrives. The neighbor, a Medic places oxygen to Baby Caleb's face. Caleb, purple from lack of oxygen, revived; as the ambulance arrives, Caleb is a beautiful baby pink and breathing perfectly. My husband behind the ambulance with sirens roaring, helps Baby Caleb and one frantic mom into the ambulance. Off we go to the hospital just as a precaution. Of course everything is fine. Jesus was right there with me and my newborn. HE heard my cry for help. No more problems with Caleb not breathing properly. Thank you God, for my son, Caleb. Thank you God for a lovely miracle.

When my children were small a few years ago. We were riding in the country and the gas gauge read "E". Of course my human mind is thinking how foolish I was not to check the gas before leaving town. I said a prayer; God, please let us make it back to town where we can get gas and go home. I know this sounds strange, but I told my children that God would send angels to push our car into town. My children's eyes widen. I knew God was sending angels to help us. My boys in the back seat looking back for the angels that were" pushing our car". Although we never saw the angels with our human eyes; we knew they were there. My children witnessed a miracle, along with their very thankful mother. It seems the angels had pushed our little, empty car all the way back to town. The gas station is the first place we see as we roll into town. All safe and sound. I will never forget the look on my little boys face as we made into the gas station. I will never forget their sweet words , "God's angels did it Mom!" They sure did boys, God let us see a miracle. My daughter sitting in the front seat thankful to be in town and safe. Did I mention that my little girl accepted Christ at the tender age of 7 years old? Her daddy led her to the Lord, at VBS. My son, Kylan gave his life to Christ at the tender age of 9 years. Again his daddy leading him and praying with him. Our baby, Caleb, well he accepted Christ as His Savior at the very tender age of four. He asked me how Jesus could live in his heart like Jesus lives in Mommie's and Daddy's. As I brushed back my tears, I explained to my four- year-old how Jesus died for our sins. And just exactly what "sins" mean to a four-year-old. Caleb knew there was something different about us. Caleb wanted Christ to dwell in his little heart and HE does dwell there, then, now and forever. Miracles, yes the greatest of all to see your children accept Christ as their Savior!

My mother regaining use of her hands after surgery. After much praying from her baby daughter; Lord if you can just give my mother the use of her hands I would be forever grateful. And of course Lord, I am FOREVER GRATEFUL! My mother is in a nursing home, but is able to use her hands to eat without assistance.Thank you God for your tender, gentle miracles. I love you, Lord. A miracle is a miracle; BIG or small. ALL MIRACLES are from God.Author: Bren 02-01-09

The Apple Cart. . . Excuse Me Are You, Jesus?

A few years ago a group of salesmen went to a regional sales convention in Chicago . They had assured their wives that they would be home in plenty of time for Friday night's dinner. In their rush, with tickets and briefcases, one of these salesmen inadvertently kicked over a table which held a display of apples. Apples flew everywhere. Without stopping or looking back, they all managed to reach the plane in time for their nearly-missed boarding. ALL BUT ONE!!! He paused, took a deep breath , got in touch with his feelings, and experienced a twinge of compassion for the girl whose apple stand had been overturned. He told his buddies to go on without him, waved good-bye, told one of them to call his wife when they arrived at their home destination and explain his taking a later flight. Then he returned to the terminal where the apples were all over the terminal floor. He was glad he did. The 16-year-old girl was totally blind! She was softly crying, tears running down her cheeks in frustration, and at the same time helplessly groping for her spilled produce as the crowd swirled about her; no one stopping and no one to care for her plight. The salesman knelt on the floor with her, gathered up the apples, put them back on the table and helped organize her display. As he did this, he noticed that many of them had become battered and bruised; these he set aside in another basket. When he had finished, he pulled out his wallet and said to the girl, 'Here, please take this $40 for the damage we did. Are you okay?' She nodded through her tears.. He continued on with, 'I hope we didn't spoil your day too badly.' As the salesman started to walk away, the bewildered blind girl called out to him, 'Mister.....' He paused and turned to look back into those blind eyes. She continued, 'Are you Jesus?' He stopped in mid-stride, and he wondered. Then slowly he made his way to catch the later flight with that question burning and bouncing about in his soul: 'Are you Jesus?' Do people mistake you for Jesus? That's our destiny, is it not? To be so much like Jesus that people cannot tell the difference as we live and interact with a world that is blind to His love, life and grace. If we claim to know Him, we should live, walk and act as He would. Knowing Him is more than simply quoting Scripture and going to church. It's actually living the Word as life unfolds day to day. You are the apple of His eye even though we, too, have been bruised by a fall. He stopped what He was doing and picked up you and me on a hill called Calvary and paid in full for our damaged fruit.

Author Unknown

This story has been on my sidebar for a while. It is so precious to me that I decided to post it again. God is so wonderful; how can you not believe in HIM? Remember you may be Jesus to someone. . . someday. . . when you least expect it! Will you love the way Jesus does? Will you have a heart that accepts with empathy? Will you be Jesus to someone today? Or will you simply walk away as so many others do? There are so many people that are looking for "JESUS". . . do you know HIM? Can you tell others about HIM?

God bless you my friends.

Bren

I Married the Sweetest Man on Earth!

On May 28 in l982 I married the sweetest man on this earth. It was one of the most wonder-ful days of my life. It has been 27 years now and I remember it as if it happened yesterday. It was a beautiful wedding . . . complete with a summer storm! The candlelight flickered as we committed our young lives to each other. My heart skipped a few beats as I repeated my vows. As I looked into the beautiful deep brown eyes of this godly man I knew that God had sent him just for me. Of course there were many thoughts that ran through my young brain that afternoon. For example, the thought of making the right decision . . . for now and forever. I chose forever. I knew without a doubt that God had brought us together.

ESPHESIANS 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; King James Bible

I can honestly say that my husband has loved me with this kind of love as stated in ESPHESIANS. Unselfishly giving . . . putting me first. Thank you God for this blessing of knowing how much my husband loves me. Thank you God for loving me and giving me a husband that shows Godly love.

God knew this man was the perfect mate ... the one HE created just for me. I thank God for my loving husband. He is a man that loves the Lord with all his heart. He is a man that would rather not be recognized for what he has accomplished on this earth. His humble heart ... his tender soul filled with the love of Christ... his gentle ways... his relentless patience... his brave heart... his compassion for others... is a few of the reasons I fell in love with this man. Thank you God for bringing him into my life. I know I am blessed. So Mr. Man if you are reading this I want you to know I am very much in love with you . . . you have made my life so special . . . I want to honor you today with my love. I will always love you . . . no matter what. You are my best friend, my prayer partner, the father of our children, the love of my life. I treasure our days together and I pray God will help us through the trials we face in our life. Happy Anniversary Joey; praying God will bless us with 27 more wonderful years. I love you.

Bren

Crossroad of Prayer

God is teaching me at the crossroad of prayer.He is carefully directing my steps at the Crossroad of Prayer. Walking the road; each prayer is cautiously graced with words that honor my Savior. Understanding I am in the presence of Greatness beyond my ability to recognize. Approaching slowly; proceeding with awe and wonder of the majestic God of whom I belong. Accepting HE is like no other. Praying with purpose to end the ever tug of struggle that exist in my heart. Only HE can guide me through; remove the selfishness that is in my soul. Leaving HOPE like never before. Enduring trials; suffering of others; how can I open my mouth to ask anything of my Almighty God? Choosing; why one has and the other one has not? Believing God cares deeply for HIS children. Blessing, heals; HIS sheep hear HIS voice and follow the Great Shepard. Keeping grounded; searching and wanting so much more of my Heavenly Father. Teach me dear GOD at this crossroad which path to take. Show me dear God what it is that YOU would have me to know. Lead me Lord, where You would have me to go. Let the wisdom come Lord as my trials become lengthy and draining. I know you are my CREATOR. Fearfully Lord, I bow my head in awe of YOU. Come close Dear GOD; whisper in my ears, lead me to a place that is peacefully safe. Stir my soul with BOLDNESS to step out in faith. Place your shield around my shattering heart, Lord. I am weary Lord. Tired and I need your divine direction. God I am expecting miracles; I will rely only on YOU. Miracles Lord for your children. Miracles Lord, for all who confess and call out to YOU. Understanding Lord, how my words to you reflect my heart’s intentions and desire to serve YOU. Realizing GOD’S ways are not to be compared to my way. Realizing to come into such a Holy presence is not to be taken lightly. Realizing how truly Your Greatness is; remaining calm enough to express in human words my purpose in prayer. Standing at the Crossroad; amazed! GOD is GOD! HE knows the path I will take. Honor and seeking HIS WILL. Grateful! GOD is GOD! Grateful HE hears my tiny voice. GOD is GOD! HE is not to be compared. Who am I that GOD chooses to love me, hear me and save me from the depths of Hell? I am HIS child forever grateful, forever seeking more of HIM. GOD IS GOD! Holy . . . Wonderful ... Counselor . . . Majestic . . . Father . . . My GOD! My everything! Crossroad ends and prayer begins. Your undeserving daughter, Bren

HANDY LITTLE CHART - GOD HAS A POSITIVE ANSWER: YOU SAY GOD SAYS BIBLE VERSES You say: 'It's impossible' God says: All things are possible (Luke 18:27) You say: 'I'm too tired' God says: I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28-30) You say: 'Nobody really loves me' God says: I love you (John 3:1 6 & John 3:34 ) You say: 'I can't go on' God says: My grace is sufficient (II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15) You say: 'I can't figure things out' God says: I will direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5- 6) You say: 'I can't do it' God says: You can do all things ( Phil ippians 4:13) You say: 'I'm not able' God says: I am able (II Corinthians 9:8) You say: 'It's not worth it' God says: It will be worth it (Roman 8:28 ) You say: 'I can't forgive myself' God says: I Forgive you (I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1) You say: 'I can't manage' God says: I will supply all your needs ( Phil ippians 4:19) You say: 'I'm afraid' God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear (II Timothy 1:7) You say: 'I'm always worried and frustrated' God says: Cast all your cares on ME (I Peter 5:7) You say: 'I'm not smart enough' God says: I give you wisdom (I Corinthians 1:30) You say: 'I feel all alone' God says: I will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5)

A Cup of Tea with Daddy!

One day my mother was out and my dad was in charge of me. I was maybe 2 1/2 years old and had just recovered from an accident. Someone had given me a little 'tea set' as a get-well gift and it was one of my favorite toys. Daddy was in the living room engrossed in the evening news when I brought Daddy a little cup of 'tea', which was just water. After several cups of tea and lots of praise for such yummy tea, my Mom came home. My Dad made her wait in the living room to watch me bring him a cup of tea, because it was 'just the cutest thing!' My Mom waited, and sure enough, here I come down the hall with a cup of tea for Daddy and she watches him drink it up. Then she says, as only a mother would know . :) 'Did it ever occur to you that the only place she can reach to get water is the toilet? The author of this story was not made known to me. HAPPY BELATED MOTHER'S DAY! However the cute little girl in the picture is my daughter, Maleah. She was about 4 years old at the time. How wonderful of God to bless us with daughters! Thank you, Lord for my daughter, Maleah. She is truly a blessing. Sweetie if you are reading this; I want you to know I love you more than my words could ever express! PROVERBS 31:28 HER CHILDREN ARISE UP, AND CALL HER BLESSED; HER HUSBAND ALSO, AND HE PRAISETH HER. King James Bible Dear God, Thank you Lord, for you have blessed me beyond measure! I am grateful, Dear God. I humble myself to you, Lord. I praise your Holy Name. Without you Lord, my life would be without purpose. I lift up my praises to you, Lord. Your undeserving daughter, Bren

Just Another Story or A Miracle? You Decide

She jumped up as soon as she saw the surgeon come out of the operating room. She said: 'How is my little boy? Is he going to be all right? When can I see him?' The surgeon said, 'I'm sorry. We did all we could, but your boy didn't make it.' Sally said, 'Why do little children get cancer? Doesn't God care any more? Where were you, God, when my son needed you?' The surgeon asked, 'Would you like some time alone with your son? One of the nurses will be out in a few minutes, before he's transported to the university.' Sally asked the nurse to stay with her while she said good bye to her son. She ran her fingers lovingly through his thick red curly hair. 'Would you like a lock of his hair?' the nurse asked. Sally nodded yes. The nurse cut a lock of the boy's hair, put it in a plastic bag and handed it to Sally. The mother said, 'It was Jimmy's idea to donate his body to the University for Study... He said it might help somebody else.. I said no at first, but Jimmy said, 'Mom, I won't be using it after I die.. Maybe it will help some other little boy spend one more day with his Mom.' She went on, 'My Jimmy had a heart of gold. Always thinking of someone else. Always wanting to help others if he could.She kissed her son's forehead one last time, and with tears rolling down her cheeks, left the hospital room. Sally walked out of Children's Mercy Hospital for the last time, after spending most of the last six months there. She put the bag with Jimmy's belongings on the seat beside her in the car. The drive home was difficult. It was even harder to enter the empty house. She carried Jimmy's belongings, and the plastic bag with the lock of his hair to her son's room. She started placing the model cars and other personal things back in his room exactly where he had always kept them. She lay down across his bed and, hugging his pillow, cried herself to sleep. It was around midnight when Sally awoke. Lying beside her on the bed was a folded letter.. The letter said: 'Dear Mom, I know you're going to miss me; but don't think that I will ever forget you, or stop loving you, just 'cause I'm not around to say 'I Love You'. I will always love you, Mom, even more with each day. Someday we will see each other again. Until then, if you want to adopt a little boy so you won't be so lonely, that's okay with me. He can have my room and old stuff to play with. But, if you decide to get a girl instead, she probably wouldn't like e the same things us boys do. You'll have to buy her dolls and stuff girls like, you know. Don't be sad thinking about me. This really is a neat place. Grandma and Grandpa met me as soon as I got here and showed me around some, but it will take a long time to see everything. The angels are so cool. I love to watch them fly. And, you know what? Jesus doesn't look like any of his pictures. Yet, when I saw Him, I knew it was Him. Jesus himself took me to see GOD! And guess what, Mom? I got to sit on God's knee and talk to Him, like I was somebody important That's when I told Him that I wanted to write you a letter, to tell you good bye and everything. But I already knew that wasn't allowed. Well, you know what Mom? God handed me some paper and His own personal pen to write you this letter I think Gabriel is the name of the angel who is going to drop this letter off to you. God said for me to give you the answer to one of the questions you asked Him where was He when I needed him?' 'God said He was in the same place with me, as when His son Jesus was on the cross. He was right there, as He always is with all His children. Oh, by the way, Mom, no one else can see what I've written except you. To everyone else this is just a blank piece of paper. Isn't that cool? I have to give God His pen back now He needs it to write some more names in the Book of Life Tonight I get to sit at the table with Jesus for supper. I'm sure the food will be great. Oh, I almost forgot to tell you. I don't hurt anymore the cancer is all gone. I'm glad because I couldn't stand that pain anymore and God couldn't stand to see me hurt so much, either. That's when He sent The Angel of Mercy to come get me. The Angel said I was a Special Delivery! How about that? Signed with Love from God, Jesus & Jimmy.

Author Unknown

Stand Up! God Is with You!

I PETER 5: 5 - 11 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. King James Bible

As I read I PETER 5: 6 - 11, the Lord spoke to my heart. I understand that the Lord desires for us to trust in Him; to place ourselves, our troubles, our suffering, our love ones in His hands. At the same time knowing that the evil one is in the mist. As for me and my house; we will serve the Lord. My Holy Savior will give me strength and I will rejoice in afflictions; as my brothers and sisters in Christ rejoice with me. Suffering will bring my walk closer to the Holy One. He will settle my soul. The eternal glory of Jesus will be evident for all the world to witness.

God gave Himself; we must follow His Holy example. Humble yourself and seek God's face. Lift your prayers to Heaven. Talk to the Lord. Do you worry what others may think of you? Why? We are here to please God; not man.

In Children's Church last Sunday I asked the children what did it mean to carry their cross like Jesus carried His. The answers surprised me tremendously. These children understood that we would have burdens (our crosses to carry) to bear. It was so true that these children understood to take a stand for Christ. They understood what a awesome God we have. They understood humility. You have heard me say before and I will say again; simple words that uplift Our Holy Savior. Simple hearts capture God's love sincerely without question.

So Stand Up for Jesus! He is standing for you. He is edifying us now. We are His children; humble yourselves. Lift your burdens to Heaven. He is waiting. Stand up as children who see Jesus as simply as their Heavenly Father. He who is capable of all things. Glory to God for He is the life that exist to care and dwell in our hearts forever.

His Grateful Daughter,

Bren

ROMANS 5: 1 - 8

1THEREFORE being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience ; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. 6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some even dare to die. 8But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Tribulations will come.

God promises us that these tribulations will give us patience, experience and hope in the love of God. Peace, sweet peace comes too . . . . we can believe in our Savior as HE pulls us through and teaches us how not to be ashamed. Our Savior will provide strength and guidance for those who are seeking to do His Will. Thank you God for all you allow us to learn while we are here on this earth. Lead us God through all the difficult times and mold us into your children. I love you, Lord. Your daughter, Bren

***PRAYER REQUEST FOR MY MOM AND MY FAMILY*** Hospice is coming in two days a week now to visit/help Mom. Please pray that God will help us endure what will come in the future. The medical staff can not tell us when Mom may leave us. What I do know is ...... she is suffering. My heart breaks for her; maybe it is breaking for me too. I can't tell now. Please pray God will ease my Mother's pain. Thank you my friends. Bren

He Alone!

I can only marvel at God's Creation!

How HE created the colors of each and every wave that the tide brings in. How HE created the waves that swiftly return to the sea only to return again and again and again. How HE designed EVERY wave in the ocean. Each crest of the wave crashing into a foamy white edge that breaks into the shoreline. My camera can not capture the unexplainable way the earth's gravity pulls in each wave. HE alone knows how all the earth's creations are formed. HE alone knows why the waves return perfectly to the shore. HE alone knows ............

Do you ever wonder how HE created the oceans? Have you ever wondered how HE created each grain of sand? HE alone knows exactly how many single grains of sand is on every shoreline. HE alone.

As I stood on the beach with my camera in hand I understood that ONLY HE ALONE KNOWS the answers. When I gaze at the ocean, I recall the story of how Jesus commanded the waters to 'be still' and the waters did.

Luke 8 22-25

Now it came to pass on a certain day, that HE went into a ship with His disciples: and He said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth. But as they sailed He fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy. And they came to Him, and awoke Him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then He arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water; and they ceased, and there was a calm. And He said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What matter of man is this! for He commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey Him.

I can only marvel. He alone knows all things. I alone can say my faith is in He alone. He alone holds the oceans in His hands. He alone has power over all creations. He alone is my salvation. He alone is my refuge. He alone is my strength. How can anyone not believe in Him alone? Bren

How I Met Jesus!

It has taken me several weeks to write about this special time in my life. I remember it so vividly. My childhood was a emotional filled roller coast ride. Most of the bad memories stick out in my mind like a sore thumb. This memory actually took me back to my eleven year old self. It's funny how memories can to that to a person. Although most memories I have tried to avoid; this memory has a permanent place inside my heart and my brain. Here is my story of how I came to know Jesus as my personal Savior. All the terms; born-again, saved, a new creature in Christ came together as I accepted the free give of salvation. A eleven year old girl may have trouble comprehending all those terms in her head; however a eleven year old girl's heart is eager to accept this marvelous love without any explanation. Faith comes easily for most children. Children see with their hearts and do not consider the things that their minds can not grasp. As I read the salvation stories from all those who shared them with me, I realized that God deals with children's hearts in such a special way. The Bible does not tell us that we have to understand what is happening in our hearts. The Bible does tell us to believe (faith) and accept God's free gift by repeating of our sins and living a life that Christ is evident in our hearts. It was the summer of l972. I was 11 years old. I lived on the side of town that most would consider to be the poor side. My father worked in a cotton plant as a weaver. I remember one day my father forgot his lunch. My mother asked me to take it to the plant for my dad. Since the plant was in walking distance, I pulled my backpack on with Daddy’s lunch inside. I walked to the plant and right through the unlocked back gate. I was not sure where the entrance was. I knew Daddy went in through the large wooden doors. I decided that had to be the entrance. I looked up and saw large fans blowing cotton around. As I got closer to the large wooden doors I could hear the sound of machinery running. I opened the door. The sound was so loud that I put my hands over my ears. I begin walking down a long concrete corridor. My father immediately noticed me and ushered me back to the wooden door. There was no attempt at talking: just hand motions. Daddy took the ear plugs out of his ears as he opened the large wooden doors. He looked at me and said, “Don’t you ever go into that cotton mill again”. I tried to explain to him that mama asked me to bring his lunch. I pulled the bag out of my backpack. He took the lunch from my hands and told me to go home. To this day I do not completely understand what my father’s job was. He tried to explain it to me, but until you see the weaving process it can be difficult to understand.

We always lived near the plants because Daddy would often walk to work. We moved around quite a bit. If a plant would have a lay-off then my father would move us to the next plant that was stable.

Most of the neighborhoods that were in the area of the plants consisted of families that struggled to survive. The families usually had several children.

Although my family was large in the beginning; ten children in all. I happened to be number ten. The last child at home; all alone. It seemed that all my siblings were eager to leave and start new lives of their own. My older brothers (although still very young) were in and out of the home. They really did not look for trouble, but trouble often found them. As I neared my teen years my brothers had left home. My brothers went through difficult times. They were also very young and they were looking for something ‘special’ in their lives. Well there was not much for a young girl to do in neighborhoods like this. The other children would often gather outside and play in the streets. Sometimes they would play kick ball and sometimes dodge ball. When it grew darker outside all the kids would play hide and seek. Later in the evening I would learn how to raid the neighbor’s plum tree. That was a team effort! One of the girls that lived in the neighborhood who had befriended me and helped me learn how to raid the neighbor's plum tree asked if I would like to ride the 'church bus' with her.

I did not understand what a 'church bus' was. Kay, my new friend explained. She said it was a bus that came on Sunday mornings to take kids to church. She said that the ‘church people’ were nice and would give candy to us when they brought us back home.

Well you can imagine that candy sounded pretty good to a 11 year old girl. Plus it was something to do. Every Sunday morning the church bus would come and pick up the kids in the neighborhood. Every Sunday I would be on that bus! I enjoyed going to church! Kay was right there was something different about these ‘church people’. On one particular Sunday the youth leader in the Sunday school class asked us if we knew Jesus.

I had heard about Jesus, but the way he talked about Jesus I could tell that the youth leader REALLY knew Jesus.

The youth leader talked to the Sunday school class about how Jesus could save us from Hell. He asked if we believed there was a Heaven. Then he said if you believe there is a Heaven, you must believe there is a Hell too. He described both places using his Bible as his guide.

He asked us if we knew the difference between wrong things and right things. He and his young wife, Becky seemed to glow with happiness. I thought to myself I want what they have.

The Holy Spirit convicted me of my sins as I sat there that day. I was only a 11 year old girl, but I knew I desperately needed Jesus. The youth director said that the Bible tells us in REVELATION 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I with come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

I heard Jesus knocking on my heart that morning! Then to my amazement the youth leader asked if anyone could hear Jesus knocking at their heart's door. My hand flew up. There were some other hands that went up too!

The youth leader asked me if I would like to accept Jesus as my Savior. I knew exactly what he was asking me.

I said, oh yes sir!

He led me down the Romans Road. I knew I was sinner. I knew I was lost without Christ. I knew Jesus died on the cross for my sins.

I prayed this prayer;

Dear Jesus, Please forgive for my sins. I believe you died on the cross for my sins. I know you took the punishment that I deserved for all the sin that I have committed. I know when my body dies, my soul will unite with you in Heaven. I believe on the third day you arose from the dead and now sit beside God in Heaven. I asked you to forgive me and come live in my heart.

Tears rolled down my face as I finished my prayer.

The youth leader looked at me and said you belong to God. You are born-again, all the evil, sinful things that you have done God has forgiven you. My soul and heart was clean; white as snow. God’s presence dwells inside my heart. I was a new creature in Christ.

There are some people that say they do not feel any different after they come to know the Lord. I remember how I felt and I still feel the same way today. I felt loved! I felt saved! I was a child of God. I knew God and God and knew me. Bren

If God is speaking to your heart today, do not hesitate. It's very simple to receive God's gift of Salvation. He longs for you to become His child. If you say 'yes' to this free gift you gain eternal Salvation. If you say 'no' you loose your chance to live in Heaven forever.

God's Simple Plan of Salvation

Dear Friends,

I would like to thank all of you that left your salvation stories on my site. God is so good! Caleb drew out the name Denise. I will visiting Denise's blog (Shorty's Bear's Place)to tell her the good news. Thank you all for sharing your stories of how Christ changed your hearts and lives. If you do not know Christ as your personal Savior, would you take a few minutes and read "God's Simple Plan of Salvation"? Would you give Christ the opportunity to change your life? I will be taking a blogging break for a few days. I am going to turn on the comment enabler(this means no one else can view your comment but me) so you may leave your comments in complete privacy. I would love to pray for you. No one else will be able to view your comment unless you ask me to share it. Thank you dear friends! Denise I am on my way! Bren God’s Simple Plan of Salvation My Friend: I am asking you the most important question of life. Your joy or your sorrow for all eternity depends upon your answer. The question is: Are you saved? It is not a question of how good you are, nor if you are a church member, but are you saved? Are you sure you will go to Heaven when you die? God says in order to go to Heaven, you must be born again. In John 3:7, Jesus said to Nicodemus, “Ye must be born again.” In the Bible God gives us the plan of how to be born again which means to be saved. His plan is simple! You can be saved today. How? First, my friend, you must realize you are a sinner. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Because you are a sinner, you are condemned to death. “For the wages [payment] of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). This includes eternal separation from God in Hell. “ . . . it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). But God loved you so much He gave His only begotten Son, Jesus, to bear your sin and die in your place. “ . . . He hath made Him [Jesus, Who knew no sin] to be sin for us . . . that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus had to shed His blood and die. “For the life of the flesh is in the blood” (Lev. 17:11). “ . . . without shedding of blood is no remission [pardon]” (Hebrews 9:22). “ . . . God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). Although we cannot understand how, God said my sins and your sins were laid upon Jesus and He died in our place. He became our substitute. It is true. God cannot lie. My friend, “God . . . commandeth all men everywhere to repent” (Acts 17:30). This repentance is a change of mind that agrees with God that one is a sinner, and also agrees with what Jesus did for us on the Cross. In Acts 16:30-31, the Philippian jailer asked Paul and Silas: “ . . . ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’ And they said, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved . . . .’ ” Simply believe on Him as the one who bore your sin, died in your place, was buried, and whom God resurrected. His resurrection powerfully assures that the believer can claim everlasting life when Jesus is received as Savior. “But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name” (John 1:12). “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Romans 10:13). Whosoever includes you. Shall be saved means not maybe, nor can, but shall be saved. Surely, you realize you are a sinner. Right now, wherever you are, repenting, lift your heart to God in prayer. In Luke 18:13, the sinner prayed: “God be merciful to me a sinner.” Just pray: “Oh God, I know I am a sinner. I believe Jesus was my substitute when He died on the Cross. I believe His shed blood, death, burial, and resurrection were for me. I now receive Him as my Savior. I thank You for the forgiveness of my sins, the gift of salvation and everlasting life, because of Your merciful grace. Amen.” Just take God at His word and claim His salvation by faith. Believe, and you will be saved. No church, no lodge, no good works can save you. Remember, God does the saving. All of it! God’s simple plan of salvation is: You are a sinner. Therefore, unless you believe on Jesus Who died in your place, you will spend eternity in Hell. If you believe on Him as your crucified, buried, and risen Savior, you receive forgiveness for all of your sins and His gift of eternal salvation by faith. You say, “Surely, it cannot be that simple.” Yes, that simple! It is scriptural. It is God’s plan. My friend, believe on Jesus and receive Him as Savior today. If His plan is not perfectly clear, read this tract over and over, without laying it down, until you understand it. Your soul is worth more than all the world. “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul?” (Mark 8:36). Be sure you are saved. If you lose your soul, you miss Heaven and lose all. Please! Let God save you this very moment. God’s power will save you, keep you saved, and enable you to live a victorious Christian life. “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, Who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13). Do not trust your feelings. They change. Stand on God’s promises. They never change. After you are saved, there are three things to practice daily for spiritual growth: Pray -- you talk to God. Read your Bible -- God talks to you. Witness -- you talk for God. You should be baptized in obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ as a public testimony of your salvation, and then unite with a Bible-believing church without delay. “Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord . . . .” (2 Timothy 1:8) “Whosoever therefore shall confess [testify of] Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 10:32). Copyright: Robert Ford Porter, 1991

Humming Bird Lane And A Give-A-Away

Humming bird lane! This lady lives in an area that the humming birds fly through once a year.

She put out sugar and water in the dish first.

Later she decided to put the dish in

HER HAND and look at what happens NEXT. Her husband runs for the camera and begins shooting. The woman later said if she knew her husband was going to take pictures she would have put on some make up. Personally I think she looks beautiful just the way she is. God is so wonderful and amazing. He allows us and wants us to enjoy all the beauty that He has created on this earth. I have NEVER had humming birds land on my hands; but what a blessing that this lady was able to enjoy. The humming birds that I have seen are at my kitchen window and I am grateful to be able to get a quick peek. JOB 12: 7 - 10 But ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee; and the fowls of the air, and shall tell thee; Or speak to the earth, and it shall teach thee: and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee. Who knoweth not in all these that the hand of the Lord hath wrought this? In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath, of all mankind. KJV God's Holy Word God has changed the way I view the world. He has given me the joy of writing. He has given me an opportunity to share my salvation story with many people. Would you share your salvation story with me? How has God changed your life? By sharing your salvation story you will be entered into a special give away. The winner will be selected at random by my son, Caleb. All entry names will be placed in a container and my son will pull one name out. The dateline for this give-a-way is March 31st. If you are not a blogger; please leave your e-mail address. All entries must state area in which they live; for example United States, NC, Canada and United Kingdom. Thank you and God bless you all for sharing your salvation stories.

The winner will receive a beautiful box filled with a devotional, pens, stamps, writing paper, notebook, cards, candles, a journal and an instrumental music cd. As soon as I can I will post a picture of the prize on my site.

Your salvation story may be left by clicking on comments under this post. Remember it's your story. I do not mind if it is short or long; just sharing it with others is a blessing. ********In order to enter this give a way; your salvation story has to be left under this posting. Just click on comments. You may also cut and paste your salvation story from your blog site to comments. Thank You and God Bless. UPDATE: THE GIVE A WAY WILL END AT 12:00 MIDNIGHT ON MONDAY MARCH 30TH. THE NAME THAT WILL BE DRAWN OUT OF THE JAR WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON TUESDAY MARCH 31st. I WILL CONTACT THE NAME THAT CALEB PULLS OUT OF THE JAR VIA E-MAIL OR A VISIT TO THE BLOG SITE. GOD BLESS YOU ALL FOR YOUR SALVATION STORIES.

INNOCENCE IS PRICELESS

One Sunday morning, the pastor noticed little Randy standing in the foyer of the church staring up at a large plaque. It was covered with names and small American flags mounted on either side of it. The six-year old had been staring at the plaque for some time, so the pastor walked up, stood beside the little boy, and said quietly, ' Good morning Randy . ' ' Good morning Pastor, ' he replied, still focused on the plaque. ' Pastor, what is this? ' The pastor said, ' Well son, it ' s a memorial to all the young men and women who died in the service. ' Soberly, they just stood together, staring at the large plaque. Finally, little Randy ' s voice, barely audible and trembling with fear asked, ' Which service, the 8:30 or the 10:45?

My Morning Prayer: To See My Mother Smile

Yesterday I went to visit my mother at the nursing home. When I walked into my mother's room I immediately noticed that her bed was empty. Her covers not there; only the sheets and one pillow. The nurse saw the panic look on my face as I ran from my mother's room to the nurse's station. It's o.k. she said, your mother is in the social room. Really? Of course, the nurse replied. I ran toward the social room and looked for my mother. I spotted her sitting in her padded wheelchair fast asleep. As I touched her shoulder mother popped her head up and opened her eyes widely and blinked a few times. As my mother looked at me I could tell that she wasn't sure if she was dreaming or awake. I kissed her on her cheek and she realized I was not a dream. We talked for awhile and of course I had to tell her how wonderful she looked. She is almost 84 years old. She never tires of hearing her children tell her she is beautiful. Before I went to see my mom I e-mailed one of my best friends. I asked Debra to pray for me on this morning I would travel to see my mom. I prayed too! You see, I am my mother's baby; the youngest of ten children. Can you believe that? My morning prayer; Crying out to you Lord; from the bottom of my heart. PLEASE GOD HELP ME NOT TO CRY. HELP ME TO BE STRONG FOR MY MOTHER'S SAKE. GOD YOU KNOW IT BREAKS MY HEART TO SEE MY MOTHER LIVING HER LAST DAYS IN A NURSING HOME. GIVE ME THE STRENGTH LORD; TO SAY THE RIGHT THINGS, TO MAKE HER SMILE AND TO PRAY WITH HER. LET IT BE A GOOD DAY FOR US BOTH, LORD. THANK YOU GOD FOR YOUR MANY BLESSINGS AND TEACH ME LORD WHAT YOU WOULD HAVE ME TO LEARN. I LOVE YOU, LORD. YOUR CHILD. BREN Well it is so sweet to see God answer prayer. God is truly my Father. He knew I had to go and He gave me the strength and courage to do so. Not only was it a good day for my mother and me; mother allowed me to take her outside. We sat under the gazebo and talked about life things. The wind blew slightly and the sun warmed the garden. She pointed to a tree and told me that it was a Maple tree. The daffodil's were starting to bloom; and she wondered if the flowers at her house had bloomed yet. She still thinks of her home. We all know because of her medical condition that she will not be able to return to her little house that she and my daddy shared. Of course, daddy is in Heaven with Jesus. The house is empty. We talked for a good hour out under the gazebo and mom tired. I headed her wheelchair back to the social room. The nurse needed to assist my mom after awhile. I remained in the social room with the other residents. Ms. Mary was there and was taking her socks off and laughed with delight each time she removed them. Ms. Wilson talked to me, although I know she didn't understand what she was saying. Then there was another lady in a wheelchair; no response just staring at me. The nurses returned my mother to her room and attended to her medical needs. They came for me when they had finished. As I entered mom's room the odor was so bad. I opened the window and the fresh air cleaned the room. Mom's roommate sat staring at me. I washed my mother's face and applied her favorite Oil of Olay lotion. Next was her nails; file, wash and only clear polish. Mother was tired, it had been a long day. We talked a little more. Mother's eyes began to close. I knew it was time for me to go. I prayed with my mother and told her that I love her and I would see her soon. She seemed happy. She looked up and said she enjoyed our day together. I kissed her good-bye and I told her it was a good day and that I was glad to bring her joy. So, thank you Dear God for answered prayers. My heart can not bear these things without You. Bren

How to Plant Your Garden

First, you Come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the roses.... FOR THE GARDEN OF YOUR DAILY LIVING, PLANT THREE ROWS OF PEAS 1. Peace of mind 2. Peace of heart 3. Peace of soul PLANT FOUR ROWS OF SQUASH: 1. Squash gossip 2. Squash indifference 3. Squash grumbling 4. Squash selfishness PLANT FOUR ROWS OF LETTUCE: 1. Lettuce be faithful 2. Lettuce be kind 3. Lettuce be patient 4. Lettuce really love one another NO GARDEN IS WITHOUT TURNIPS: 1. Turnip for meetings 2. Turnip for service 3. Turnip to help one another TO CONCLUDE OUR GARDEN WE MUST HAVE THYME: 1. Thyme for each other 2.. Thyme for family 3.. Thyme for friends WATER FREELY WITH PATIENCE AND CULTIVATE WITH LOVE. THERE IS MUCH FRUIT IN YOUR GARDEN BECAUSE YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW. My instructions were to send this to people that I wanted God to bless and I picked you! Thank you my dear friend, Blessed Again. I am truly blessed because you are my friend.

Who is Perfect?

PERFECTION OR REFLECTION? How often I have looked at others and thought to myself; they look so very perfect. They are the beautiful people and seemingly do not have any worries on this earth. They are very wealthy. They are at the top of their careers. They have so much money; to buy more perfect things for their perfect lives. They have beautiful houses in perfect neighborhoods. Their children make excellent grades in school. They can pay for perfect success on this earth. PROVERBS 27:19 As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man. King James Bible God’s Holy Word My heart is full with sadness. I realize the need for the Savior is so real in today’s world. My family struggles in today’s economy; but our hearts rest “perfectly” in the assurance of God’s love

Fruit of the Spirit

Christian character is produced by the Holy Spirit, not by self-effort. GALATIANS 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. GALATIANS 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy , peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith. GALATIANS 5:23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. King James Bible. My sons are growing so strong so fast. Their physical appearance can be deceiving; they look mature on the outside. I often wonder about their inside. How about their hearts, their souls, how are they changing? What about the fruits? Do I see the blooms of love, kindness, gentleness? Do they see those flowers of fruit in me? I am not expecting perfection from my boys. As I hope they do not expect it from me. My sons are still very young. They have much to learn; just as we all do. Am I a fruit inspector? No. Just a farmer with two boys planted; waiting for the harvest season. Thank you HeartLight.org for the beautiful picture by Ben Steel.(above)

May Your Day, Be a Shay Day!

I received this e-mail from a friend with this special story included. The sender asked if I would make a choice. I could choose to delete it or forward it to other friends. I am choosing to forward it. The author of this story was not made known to me. If anyone does know the author please let me know. If you would like to share this story with others please do so with the understanding that the author is unknown at the present date 2-20-09......Bren Two Choices........ What would you do? You make the choice. Don't look for a punch line, there isn't one. Read it anyway. My question is: Would you have made the same choice? At a fundraising dinner for a school that serves children with learning disabilities, the father of one of the students delivered a speech that would never be forgotten by all who attended. After extolling the school and its dedicated staff, he offered a question: 'When not interfered with by outside influences, everything nature does; is done with perfection. Yet my son, Shay, cannot learn things as other children do. He cannot understand things as other children do. Where is the natural order of things in my son?' The audience was stilled by the que ry. The father continued. 'I believe that when a child like Shay, who was mentally and physically disabled, comes into the world, an opportunity to realize true human nature presents itself, and it comes in the way other people treat that child.' Then he told the following story: Shay and I had walked past a park where some boys Shay knew were playing baseball. Shay asked, 'Do you think they'll let me play?' I knew that most of the boys would not want someone like Shay on their team, but as a father I also understood that if my son were allowed to play, it would give him a much-needed sense of belonging and some confidence to be accepted by others in spite of his handicaps. I approached one of the boys on the field and asked (not expecting much) if Shay could play. The boy looked around for guidance and said, 'We're losing by six runs and the game is in the eighth inning. I guess he can be on our team and we'll try to put him in to bat in the ninth inning.' Shay struggled over to the team's bench and, with a broad smile, put on a team shirt. I watched with a small tear in my eye and warmth in my heart. The boys saw my joy at my son being accepted. In the bottom of the eighth inning, Shay's team scored a few runs but was still behind by three. In the top of the ninth inning, Shay put on a glove and played in the right field. Even though no hits came his way, he was obviously ecstatic just to be in the game and on the field, grinning from ear to ear as I waved to him from the stands. In the bottom of the ninth inning, Shay's team scored again. Now, with two outs and the bases loaded, the potential winning run was on base and Shay was scheduled to be next at bat. At this juncture, do they let Shay bat and give away their chance to win the game? Surprisingly, Shay was given the bat. Everyone knew that a hit was all but impossible because Shay didn't even know how to hold the bat properly, much less connect with the ball. However, as Shay stepped up to the plate, the pitcher, re cognizing that the other team was putting winning aside for this moment in Shay's life, moved in a few steps to lob the ball in softly so Shay could at least make contact. The first pitch came and Shay swung clumsily and missed. The pitcher again took a few steps forward to toss the ball softly towards Shay. As the pitch came in, Shay swung at the ball and hit a slow ground ball right back to the pitcher. The game would now be over. The pitcher picked up the soft grounder and could have easily thrown the ball to the first baseman. Shay would have been out and that would have been the end of the game. Instead, the pitcher threw the ball right over the first baseman's head, out of reach of all team mates. Everyone from the stands and both teams started yelling, 'Shay, run to first! Run to first!' Never in his life had Shay ever run that far, but he made it to first base. He scampered down the baseline, wide-eyed and startled. Everyone yelled, 'Run to second, run to second!' Catching his breath, Shay awkwardly ran towards second, gleaming and struggling to make it to the base. By the time Shay rounded towards second base, the right fielder had the ball, the smallest guy on their team who now had his first chance to be the hero for his team. He could have thrown the ball to the second-baseman for the tag, but he understood the pitcher's intentions so he, too, intentionally threw the ball high and far over the third-baseman's head. Shay ran toward third base deliriously as the runners ahead of him circled the bases toward home...All were screaming, 'Shay, Shay, Shay, all the Way Shay' Shay reached third base because the opposing shortstop ran to help him by turning him in the direction of third base, and shouted, 'Run to thi rd! Shay, run to third!' As Shay rounded third, the boys from both teams, and the spectators, were on their feet screaming, 'Shay, run home! Run home!' Shay ran to home, stepped on the plate, and was cheered as the hero who hit the grand slam and won the game for his team. 'That day', said the father softly with tears now rolling down his face, 'the boys from both teams helped bring a piece of true love and humanity into this world'. Shay didn't make it to another summer. He d ied that winter, having never forgotten being the hero and making me so happy; and coming home and seeing his Mother tearfully embrace her little hero of the day! AND NOW A LITTLE FOOT NOTE TO THIS STORY: We all send thousands of jokes through the e-mail without a second thought, but when it comes to sending messages about life choices, people hesitate. The crude, vulgar, and often obscene pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion about decency is too often suppressed in our schools and workplaces. If you're thinking about forwarding this message, chances are that you're probably sorting out the people in your address book who aren't the 'appropriate' ones to receive this type of message. Well, the person who sent you this believes that we all can make a difference. We all have thousands of opportunities every single day to help realize the 'natural order of things'. So many seemingly trivial interactions between two people present us with a choice: Do we pass along a little spark of love and humanity, or do we pass up those opportunities and leave the world a little bit colder in the process? A wise man once said, every society is judged by how it treats it's least fortunate amongst them. You now have two choices: 1. Delete 2. Forward May your day, be a Shay ALL CHILDREN ARE GIFTS FROM GOD.

FIREPROOF

The Movie Sparking a Marriage Movement Inside burning buildings, Captain Caleb Holt lives by the old fire fighter's adage: NEVER LEAVE YOUR PARTNER BEHIND. In the cooling embers of his marriage, it's another story. As he and his wife prepare to enter divorce proceedings, Caleb's dad asks his son to try an experiment:" The Love Dare". But is it too late to fireproof his marriage? His job is to rescue others. Now Caleb must face his toughest job ever . . . rescuing his wife's heart. Two showings: Friday, March 6 at 7:00 PM Saturday, March 7 at 7:00 PM Free Admission: Call church office at 704-843-4924 for tickets Nursery Provided Our church will also be showing the movie in our life center on March 6 and March 7. If you have not seen this movie I understand that it is quite powerful and will bless your marriage. As of today's date I have not yet seen the movie. My husband and I are planning to see "FIREPROOF" on Valentine's Day. And again at our church on March 7. (just as a review). Most of you know I am married to a police officer. He serves a large city in the state of NC. He has protected and served this city for over 22 years. He continues to serve this wonderful city each day. My husband understands it is God that called him to be the police officer that he is today. Without any doubt my husband and I also know that God "PROTECTS" him each day. In fact God has protected my husband so many times that I can not count. Most of the times I am not made aware of what happens to my husband while he is at work each day. However I am forever grateful to God for His Divine Protection for each day HE PROTECTS my husband. I am forever grateful to my wonderful Savior. For without God's intervention, I could not be strong for my husband. I look to God each day for courage to be brave for my husband. I rely on God and I know He will take care of my husband. My Savior replenishes my courage to stand strong and pray long. Marriage is difficult in today's world. So, when you add the fact of being married to someone that places his life on the line each day; it can become more difficult, more stressful and a merry-go-round of dilemma. NAHUM 1:7 The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and He knoweth them that trust in Him. King James Bible. This verse has a very special place in our hearts and in our home. A few years back my husband was working in a bank (off duty) when two men ran in; one of them has a gun in his hand. Both of the men had stockings over their faces and it was evident they intended to rob the bank. Of course, they could not see my husband because he was at the end of the bank teller's counter. The robbers were persistent and yelled to the bank tellers to give them the money or they would begin to shoot. My husband pulls his gun from his holster and keeps it pointed at the robbers. He screams to the robber(the one holding the gun) to drop the gun. Then one of the robbers jumps over the counter and my husband aims his gun at him and yells at the robber to get on the floor. At that point, my husband is able to get the robber to the floor and handcuffs him. My husband then runs to catch the other robber. This was the one that pointed the gun at my husband and the frozen bank tellers. I guess this robber decided it was a good time to depart the bank. Of course, by the time my husband ran to the door of the bank the robber had vanished. But thanks to the other officers out in the field that day, later the second robber was caught. My husband remaining calm, returns to the bank and finishes his job. On the counter next to him; a date book with the date and the Bible verse: NAHUM 1:7 The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble, and He knoweth them that trust in Him. King James Bible God's Holy Word For my husband's bravery and because he saved so many lives that day he received the Medal of Valor Award from the great city he serves. The Bible verse was framed and placed in our home as a gift from the bank tellers. My husband has spoken about this incident to me a few times. The first time: I sobbed so hard I could not comprehend his words. The second time, I heard a little more. The third time he spoke to me was after the trial and the FBI gave us the pictures that the bank's camera had taken during the robbery. Again more tears, my legs turned into jelly and to my knees I fell; thanking God for saving my sweet husband's life. Seeing pictures of my husband with a gun pointed at him, put everything about my marriage in perspective. I love my husband and God allowed him to return home that evening to me and our children. My husband trusted God to protect him that day and God did! My husband remained calm and he later told me he knew God was with him. He did not have fear. The point of this post is very simple; wives love your husbands today with all your heart because tomorrow he may not be here. Likewise for the husbands out there; love your wife as Christ loved the church and gave His life for it. Marriage is difficult, but love is not. Marriage is difficult, but praying is not. Being left behind is difficult, but not being there is a total loss. So, husbands put your wife before yourself; likewise wives put your husband before yourself. Your marriage will be blessed, filled with joy and complete with true love as you unselfishly love your spouse. Written by Bren on 2-12-09 Edited by Bren on 2-14-09 Authorization has not been given to commercial writers and/or commercial publishers to print this writing for financial gain. This writing is my husband's testimony for our Lord, Jesus Christ and will be used only for God's purpose. Thank you and God bless you.

TO EVERY THING THERE IS A SEASON

ECCLESIASTES 3:1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: ECCLESIASTES 3:2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; ECCLESIASTES 3:3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up: ECCLESIASTES 3:4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; ECCLESIASTES 3:5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; ECCLESIASTES 3:6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; ECCLESIASTES 3:7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time keep silence , and a time to speak; ECCLESIASTES 3:8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. The above words are from my King James Bible. There really is a time for everything and that time is planned by God. He created us and gave us "our birthday". Not only does God give us our lives, He also can take them at any time. Have you ever considered why God has placed you here on this earth? Could it be your time to plant what God has placed in your heart? Or maybe to pluck up that which God has planted for you? Wars will continue; there will be time to kill on this earth. As dreadful as killing can be, it will happen over and over again. Be assured God knows all things; including those that choose to kill. Thank God, there is also a time to heal. Have you given God a chance to heal you? Maybe you have had your heart broken or maybe you are sick. Ask God for His help, He promises to hear the prayers of His children. God gives us a choice; we can choose Him or reject Him. Choose Him and allow Him to heal you today. Has this life broken you down? Then let God help you rebuild. Ask forgiveness of your sins and ask Christ to live in your heart today. God not only will help you rebuild, but will give you a clean heart without sin. The last few months, I have had my share of weeping. Now God is preparing the way for me to laugh again. There will be more mourning. Thank God, the mourning will pass and we will be able to dance again soon. Every time I close my eyes I can see my grandmother and my father dancing with Jesus in Heaven. There will be plenty of time to cast away and gather stones. Thank God, for forgiveness and those times we can embrace our brothers and sisters in Christ. And of course as the stones begin to gather again, there will come a time to refrain from embracing. A time to get from this life and a time to lose from this life. It is a never- ending circle. Just remember each time you go around, God is right there with you. He allows us the things to KEEP and the things of this life to CAST AWAY. There is a time to rend; to think about our lives decisions. After that a time to sew or do to the work of Our Lord. A time to speak. To speak of the things that are righteous and declare to this world that, I LOVE JESUS! And yes there is a time to be silent and allow God to speak to us. Open our hearts, our ears, our souls to what God is saying to us. This of course is my favorite part of ECCLESIASTES; A TIME TO LOVE. God is love. There is no question about that. His Love brings me through each day as I walk on this Narrow Path. You probably already know my least favorite part of ECCLESIASTES; A TIME TO HATE. Just because I do not like to talk about hate, does not mean it does not exist. So the Bible clearly states that will be a time to hate. Hate the sins of people, hate the injustice in the world and hate the things that are not of Our Holy Savior. I must admit that I am not a fan of any type of war, however; there will be wars as the Bible declares. Pray for our soldiers who have to fight for our liberties. Pray for the hurt and wounded in the battlefield. And pray for those who fight spiritual wars each day as they struggle against unseen forces in this world. And finally PRAY FOR PEACE! Pray if it be God's will, that there will be peace on this earth. Peace, Peace, Sweet Peace. Written by: Bren

Listen to God's Whispers

Can you hear the whispers of Our Holy Savior? Sometimes, this world tries to drown out Our Savior's sweet whispers to our hearts. This world is very manipulative with their shouts. JUDGEMENT! FALSE WITNESS! JEALOUSY! SELFISHNESS! HATE! Often these shouts are disguised as offers of help or advice. God NEVER leaves His children. I will trust Him with my whole heart. For I know His whispers are true and loving. His whispers are special to me. His whispers are why I live my life each day. His whispers are the sweetest comfort to my heart. His children hear His Voice. So my prayer today is to shut out all those shouts of this world. To serve Christ each day faithfully. To listen to the soft whispers of My Holy Savior. To love as Christ loves, to forgive as Christ does, to continue on The Narrow Path with or with out support from anyone that lives on this earth. Thank you Jesus for choosing me as your child. Thank you Jesus for loving me and forgiving me when I fail you. Thank you Jesus for leading me with the soft, sweet whispers that come directly from you. Thank you God for the understanding you have placed in my heart. Forever I am grateful for those sweet whispers. Forever I am grateful for your caring and gentle ways. I love you, Lord. I love your whispers. My heart is full of hope now. My heart will continue for I know You are with me. One more prayer Lord: God you know what is happening in this world. You know that Your Daughters are under attack. Please God pull us through. This morning and this afternoon Lord, two of my sisters in Christ have poured their hearts out in prayer to You, Lord. I also have poured out my heart in prayer to you, God. We need your guidance, we need your direction, please Lord help us. Lord, we are christian women seeking You in this world. Hear our prayers, oh Lord. Help us Jesus. Lord, be with M. and her family, be with D. and her family, be with S. and her family and Lord be with me and my family. Thank you God for answered prayers. I love you, Lord. Your child, Bren

When Love Takes You In

These are the words to Steven Curtis Chapman's Song. I know you've heard the stories. They all sound too good to be true. You've heard about a place called home, but there doesn't seem to be one for you. So one more night you cry yourself to sleep and drift off to a distant dream. Where love takes you in and everything changes. A miracle starts with the beat of a heart. When love takes you home and saids you belong here. Loneliness ends and a new life begins when love takes you in. And somewhere while you're sleeping, someone else is dreaming too. Counting down the days until they hold you close and say I love you. And like the rain that falls into the sea, in the moment what is been is lost and what will be. When love takes you in. Everything changes, a miracle starts with a beat of a heart AND HIS LOVE WILL NEVER LET YOU GO; THERE IS NOTHING THAT WILL EVER CAUSE THIS LOVE TO LOOSE IT'S HOLD. When love take you in everything changes. A miracle starts with a beat of a heart. When love takes you home and saids you belong here. The loneliness ends and a new life begins. When love takes you in. It takes you in for good. When love takes you in. These are the words from the King James Bible. Matthew 22: 37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord the God with all thy heart, and with the soul, and with all thy mind. Matthew 22: 38 This is the first and great commandment. Matthew 22: 39 And the second is like unto it, Thous shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. KJV God's Holy Word

Do You Need a Savior?

This song was was written by Steven Curtis Chapman. He lost a child a few months ago. He continues to write songs and praise God. I will be sharing with you in my upcoming posts more songs that he sings. Please take some time, and listen to the words and open your heart up IF you need a Savior. Well who is this angry man I see, in the mirror looking back at me? It's a man who's tired. A man who's weak. It's man who needs a Savior. And who is this beautiful little child, crying out from home, lost in the wild? With a lonely heart that's fading fast. It's a child who needs a Savior. A child that needs a Savior. And what is this longing in my soul that I get so scared and angry? I need more than just alittle help. I need someone who will save me. Come and save me. I need some one to save me. Who will save me? Come and save me. And who is this one nailed to a cross, who would rather die than leave us lost? He's come to rescue us. Come to set us free. Hallelujah! Hallelujah! It is Christ the Lord, Our Savior. Please take a few moments more to read the Bible verses below; if you need a Savior. John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. Romans 5:8 But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. Romans 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. John 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee,Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. God bless you all. Leave me a comment if you accepted Christ as your Savior today. Your's in Christ, Bren

Calm Your Child, Lord!

The storms will rage; but in the mist of all the lighting and thunder God is waiting to calm His child. Going through storms is not a easy battle, but I know soon the storms will pass. I know God hears my prayers. He is calming my soul and opens up the umbrella to shield my heart. Just when you think you can not bear anymore, God whispers to my heart, "I AM here with you my child". Although this week has been very trying for me, God tugs on my heart and beckons me to continue with His mission. The storms will come again. My soul will rest when the storms do arrive. My Heavenly Father is here with me, forever here to calm my soul! So let the storms rage again. As I know they will. For I know, I am HIS CHILD and HE will calm me and keep me safe. ROMANS 5:1 THEREFORE being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: R0MANS 5:2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. ROMANS 5:3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; ROMANS 5:4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: ROMANS 5:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. King James Bible My writings are very simple and to the point. Throughout my teaching years, I learned early on that children expect: simple words and simple steps. Thank God, for bringing those wise, little students into my life. It is my mission to keep my words simple and uncomplicated. My soul is calm when my words reflect the simple way Jesus changed my life. Staying the course through the storms is my heart's desire. Relying on Jesus to calm me is my prayer and my hope. Written by: Bren

We Walk By Faith

II CORINTHIANS 5:7 (For as we walk by faith, not by sight:) KJV God's Holy Word Walking by faith is totally trusting God to lead us in the right direction. There will be many times when we know Satan is aware of "our walk". As we walk, God shelters us. He will protect us and keep us from temptations. As we stay focused on Christ we will certainly be able to resist Satan's snare. 1 PETER 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. KJV God's Holy Word Persistant prayer and being faithful in seeking God's will; will empower you with God's armour to resist the devil. Do not let Satan deceive you, because he would like to see God's children hurting and off the narrow path. As a christian woman, I have faced and will continue to face many of the devil's tempations. God, my Heavenly Father, knows how much my heart can handle. I am thankful to walk by faith. God knows walking by faith is difficult for His children on this earth. He will not put in our path; trials that we can not endure. Our walk in faith will teach us through these trials. God will allow wisdow and strength to come as our trials lead us into His arms. Walking in faith is purely a trusting matter. Let your heart trust in Our Lord. He is faithful to care for us. He is faithful to bless us. He is faithful to guide us. Let us be faithful and walk the good walk on the narrow path. Difficult times will come. Be assured you are not alone on this faith walk as narrow as the path may be. Dear God, Thank you, Father for helping us to keep our hearts and eyes upon you. We know Lord, the devil is looking for those he can destroy. Protect us Lord. We trust you Lord. We love you, Lord. Forgive us Lord, when we fail. Help us Lord, to stay on the narrow path and walk by faith. Your child, Bren

100 Miles An Hour!

Life is flying by at record speed! One day we will find ourselves rejoicing in Heaven with our Heavenly Father. I am wondering when that day will be. Will anyone in heaven care what someone's past was? Can anyone hear me? Look around folks. There are people here on this earth that need Jesus's love. They are looking for someone. They are looking for someone to say, "Are you ok, can I help in any way?". They are looking for someone to love them just as they are. They are looking for people that strive to be like Jesus. Are you going to be Jesus to someone today? If you had the chance and could go back in time, what would you do first? I know what I would do. I would slow down and live my life without fear and without judging others. I would try to walk in someone else's shoes and open my eyes wider to see what Jesus would have me to do. I would understand. I would look back and ask, 'Was I Jesus to anyone today?' No more running 100 miles an hour for me folks. I have to slow down. After all I certainly do not want to get a speeding ticket! I certainly want to be heading in the right direction when Jesus returns for His children. Lord, slow me down. Head me in the right direction. You know, Lord I am holding on to you to pull me through. Calm my soul, Lord. Your child, Bren.

Happy Birthday, Sweetheart!

Last month my daughter celebrated her twenty-third birthday. Since, I have rearranged my blog site this birthday message was deleted somehow. My daughter is so precious to me, I wanted her to know I love her with all my heart. The birthday message was very simple and direct from my heart. We are so thankful that God has blessed us with us a sweet daughter. She has stayed true to the calling of Christ and has found His purpose for living life on this earth. She amazes us each day as she teaches her students with such love and tenderness. Thank you God, for giving her the God-given ability to teach and reach out to others that are in her world. She has taught me NEVER to give up and to do what God has called me to do. I am so thankful to you, Lord for giving me this precious gift. I know she is in your hands Lord. No better hands than yours! I could not end this birthday message without telling my dear son-in-law how much we appreciate him. He stands beside our daughter and we know he loves her with much love. Written by: Bren

Hebrews 12: 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12: 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. KJV God's Holy Word. Thank you God for sending your son, Jesus to die on the cross for our sins. I love you Lord. Your child, Bren

Thank You Cathryn at "I am Redeemed By The Blood Of The Lamb" for this Lovely Award

Thank you Cathryn for this most high honor award. I have only been writing for a few short weeks. I am very touched you would choose me for this award. I will pass it on. I believe in encouraging others as much as God allows me to. My purpose here at The Narrow Path is to tell others about Jesus. Thank you again. I am so glad to know that there are other christian women out there that really love others like Jesus does. Since I am new to blogging, I am not sure how to pass alone this award. So if anyone out there in bloggy world can help me, I would appreciate it. These are the sites I feel deserve this award for spreading the love of Jesus and creating wonderful blog sites. "Sharing Sharon", "With A Grateful Heart", "Beautifully Imperfect","This is the Day", "Whatsoever Things Are Lovely", "KJV Blog Directory","Abounding Treasures" Thanks again for the award from the bottom of my heart. Since my purpose is to share my life about Jesus Christ I am going to forgo future awards. Comments and questions are very much appreciated. This site will be award free and tag free site. Please understand your sweet thoughts of me are very much appreciated. Your friendship in Christ is so precious to me. Your sister in Christ, Bren

Beautiful stained glass windows in a church. How beautiful! Please take a moment to enjoy these. And while you are enjoying these, please take a few moments to pray for the less fortunate. Who are the less fortunate? You might be surprised to learn that the less fortunate are all around us. Sometimes sitting right next to us in a big, beautiful church. Sometimes the less fortunate are in the grocery store struggling to buy food for their family. Sometimes the less fortunate are on the side of the road waiting for someone to offer help. Sometimes the less fortunate are in your neighborhood with needs you don't know about. Sometimes the less fortunate are in your very own family, maybe they don't know The Savior. You see the less fortunate is anyone that YOU can help. Let God lead your heart today and help someone that needs you. God has blessed you and me with so much. So let's take a look around. Maybe there is someone that needs a helping hand. Maybe someone needs a prayer, maybe someone needs you "just to listen". Maybe someone needs food. Maybe someone needs a warm coat. Maybe someone needs a pair of shoes. Maybe someone needs a place to stay. No matter what the reason. There is always someone that God sends into your life so you can have the opportunity to help. When you do help God will bless you. So open your heart and your eyes to see those who need a blessing today. God bless you FORTUNATE CHILDREN AND UNFORTUNATE CHILDREN. Written by: Bren

It is a New Year and my heart is heavy with love and concern for the officers that protect the great city of Charlotte. My heart holds a special place for one such officer. Keep him safe Lord. I am trusting in you to protect him and bring him home to his family each night. For all the ones out there Lord, please protect them, lead them and direct their steps to safety. They are just ordinary men and women that want to make a difference in this world. All these officers are special to someone and have families that love them. Please pray for our men and women that protect us each day. These men and women put their lives on the line each day for us. There is a special place in my heart for one of these officers. He knows who he is. Please pray for all the Charlotte Meckleburg police officers for this upcoming year of 2009. HAPPY NEW YEAR! MAY GOD BRING SAFETY AND PEACE TO ALL OF YOU IN BLUE! MAY GOD SEND ANGELS TO WATCH OVER YOU. MAY GOD ALLOW BLESSINGS TO FLOW IN YOUR HEARTS, HOMES AND LIVES. I LOVE YOU GUYS.

Dear God, Thank you for being our gracious, heavenly Father. Thank you God for your many blessings. Thank you Lord, for your protection, peace and loving us in our imperfections. There are so many Lord that are in need of prayer. My heart is burdened with so many. Please forgive me Lord for my sins and hear my prayer today Please God if it be your will; send peace to this world. Protection for armed forces here and overseas. Father, please do not let us forget those who suffer from poverty. Open the unsaved hearts Lord, so they might come to know you as their Savior. Remind us Lord, that we can help others as you help us. God you know all our needs, I place them before You today. I love you Lord and I thank you for answers to my prayers.

What is a Hero?

What does one have to do to have the honor of that title? I have often asked myself that question. Does a hero give up his life for others? God's Holy Word tells us in John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. KJV But what about the men and women that place their life on the line for us everyday? Well, I am praying that as these heros protect us that God will protect them. You see, I pray for each and everyone of these guys in blue (just guys, not heros) I pray that they come home each night to the families that love them. All too often our heros are never noticed. They are never seen by us. Each day they go out and just do their jobs. My prayer is for safety and protection for the forces that protect us. Both here and overseas. Thank you God for these men and women that care enough about others to place their lives on the line for us.

Friends For Life

I really couldn't believe my eyes when I saw this amazing photograph. Animals just have a special innocence about them. Not only did these amimals capture my attention; they also captured my heart. These animals realized that they needed each other. Despite their differences, they accepted each other. Wouldn't the world be a sweeter place if despite our differences we could just accept each other?

My Serenity Prayer

My mom gave me the "Serenity Prayer" years ago. I thought at the time that mom just wanted me to have a lovely picture to hang in my home. I know now, this prayer is much more than a beautiful picture. You see my mom is 83 years old and she is in a nursing home. She can not get out of her bed. She can use her arms and hands to do small things. She also can still give her baby daughter much appreciated advice. Thanks Mom. My mom knows that as a christian woman I will experience discrimination, judgement from others, and only God knows what else. Mom also knows that God Is In Total Control. Mom knows that I will face challenges. She knows that I have to surrender those challenges to God. Thank you Lord, for my mom. Lord you know the what the past has held for us and You know what the future holds for my mom and for me. Again Lord Grant me the Wisdom to know the things I can't change. The wisdow that my mother shared with me, I want to share with my daughter. Sweetheart, I am so proud of you for all you have accomplished in your young life. Your father and I am are so amazed at how well you use your God given talents to teach and care for your students so tenderly. We know you have found the true purpose for living life on this earth. Happy birthday, Sweetheart. God thank you for my daughter and all she means to me. Thank you God for sending someone special into her life. He is a very young man and we know he will stand beside our daughter through this life

Seeking Grace on the Narrow Path

The narrow path can sometimes seem to be a very lonely place. You see there are not many who travel on this narrow path. However; when I travel I do not travel alone. I have a constant companion, friend and comforter that travels with me. He is always here, even on a long, narrow path. When others do not understand and would like to for me to wonder off into a different direction, I hear my friend's soft, still voice saying, " Stay with me, child. I am here." I guess I should introduce you to my best friend, his name is Jesus Christ. Jesus and I have been friends for quite some time. In fact it has been 35 years ago that our wonderful relationship began. I was invited to church by some gracious people that love the Lord and people that had a burden for unsaved souls. As the youth minister talked to us about Jesus, my heart grew very tender. I knew that void in my heart had to filled with my Savior, Jesus Christ. Everyone sins. But anyone that will ask forgiveness for their sins will be forgiven. So that is exactly what I did. I asked Jesus to forgive me and cleanse my soul. I know that He died on the cross for my sins. I know when my body dies, I will have a eternal home in heaven. I wonder if you know where your soul will go when your body dies. Written by: Bren