Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside much earlier, the stars were not visible, and dawn had not peeked through the trees yet. It was a little strange that the sky looked like an unpainted canvas.. not black and not blue.. just sort of blank. But now, the sky is blue, and it looks like a very warm day again, before another cold front shows up. Tomorrow is the last day of Feb. We will see if March comes in like a lion!
Well, Louis got his new wheels yesterday... three of them on his new walker. He is now using it instead of the cane, and with good results. It is a little more work for me to get it into the back of the car after putting him in, but it is very good for his balance. It squeezes together to get into small spaces, so he can take it through the bathroom door with no problem. God is good!
We drove through the messy park yesterday and I noticed the piles of oak leaves everywhere. It used to be so neat with all the leaves raked up and blown off the road daily. Sigh. Not any more. But the azaleas are still blooming and pretty and the turtles were sunning again. Maple seeds are all over the boardwalk, so spring is almost here! Yay!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
Ecclesiastes 3
There is a time for everything,
a season for every activity under heaven.
A time to be born and a time to die,
A time to plant and a time to harvest.
A time to kill and a time to heal.
A time to tear down and a time to rebuild.
A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance.
A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.
A time to embrace and a time to turn away.
A time to search and a time to lose.
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
A time to tear and a time to mend.
a time to be quiet and a time to speak up.
a time to love and a time to hate.
A time for war and a time for peace.
And one of my favorites; Ecc.4:9
Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one. They get a better return for their labor. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble. And on a cold night, two under the same blanket can gain warmth from each other. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, February 27, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Psoaring thru Psalm 20
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Wow! What a beautiful day! I just came in from chatting with my neighbor and the sun was so bright, I was blinded for a few minutes when I came back inside. They have had their house painted and we were discussing how nice it looked. It was in really bad shape before!
Well, after waiting for hours for the walker to come yesterday, I called the supplier and discovered it was out of stock and would be delivered today, instead. She apologized for not calling to inform me.
So, anyway, we got to leave the house and go to the Park, where it was totally crowded with people enjoying the beautiful weather and all the sights at the park. I would rather walk when only a few people are on the boardwalk, so I did not walk. Instead, I enjoyed seeing the five turtles lined up enjoying the sun on the weir and the squirrels acting squirreley in the road and on the trees. :o) God is good!
Psalm 20 NLT
In times of trouble, may the Lord respond to your cry.
May the God of Israel keep you safe from all harm.
May he send you help from his sanctuary
and strengthen you from Jerusalem.
May he remember all your gifts
and look favorably on your burnt offerings.
May he grant your heart's desire
and fulfill all your plans.
May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory,
flying banners to honor our God.
May the Lord answer all your prayers.
Now I know that the Lord saves his anointed king.
He will answer him from his holy heaven
and rescue him from his holy heaven.
Some nations boast of their armies and weapons
but we boast in the Lord our God.
Those nations will fall down and collapse,
but we will rise up and stand firm.
Give victory to our King, O Lord!
Respond to our cry for help.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Well, after waiting for hours for the walker to come yesterday, I called the supplier and discovered it was out of stock and would be delivered today, instead. She apologized for not calling to inform me.
So, anyway, we got to leave the house and go to the Park, where it was totally crowded with people enjoying the beautiful weather and all the sights at the park. I would rather walk when only a few people are on the boardwalk, so I did not walk. Instead, I enjoyed seeing the five turtles lined up enjoying the sun on the weir and the squirrels acting squirreley in the road and on the trees. :o) God is good!
Psalm 20 NLT
In times of trouble, may the Lord respond to your cry.
May the God of Israel keep you safe from all harm.
May he send you help from his sanctuary
and strengthen you from Jerusalem.
May he remember all your gifts
and look favorably on your burnt offerings.
May he grant your heart's desire
and fulfill all your plans.
May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory,
flying banners to honor our God.
May the Lord answer all your prayers.
Now I know that the Lord saves his anointed king.
He will answer him from his holy heaven
and rescue him from his holy heaven.
Some nations boast of their armies and weapons
but we boast in the Lord our God.
Those nations will fall down and collapse,
but we will rise up and stand firm.
Give victory to our King, O Lord!
Respond to our cry for help.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
More hope
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, the sky was overcast and no stars were visible, but now the sky is clear and a slight wind is blowing. It is a beautiful day!
We did not get out much yesterday, because I have been reading a series of books I started when I was sick. I finished a "page-turner" and now must catch up with work I have been neglecting. That's what happens when I start to read! :o)
We did get to the Park, though and while no gators were visible from the road, lots of turtles were sunning and the snowy egrets were pecking. I really like the snowy egrets, because of their delicate feathers which blow in the breeze. God is good!
God is full of surprises! I thought I would have to go out to Seminole to buy a three-wheeled walker for Louis, but got a phone call from the doctor's office that the doctor had ordered one to be delivered today, charged to insurance! Hopefully, Louis will be able to handle it after he test drives it, because it has hand brakes. It should be more helpful to him, because it will go through narrow openings much better than the old four legged one. God knows our needs!
From the Promise Bible continued from yesterday:
Psalm 130:7 O Israel, hope in the Lord; for with the Lord there is unfailing love and an overflowing supply of salvation.
Psalm 146:5-10 Happy are those who have the God of Israel as their helper, whose hope is in the Lord their God. He is the one who made heaven and earth, the sea and everything in them. He is the one who keeps every promise forever, who gives justice to the oppressed and food to the hungry. The Lord frees the prisoners. The Lord opens the eyes of the blind. The Lord lefts the burdens of those bent beneath their loads. The Lord loves the righteous. The Lord protects the foreigners among us. He cares for the orphans and widows., but he frustrates the plans of the wicked. The Lord will reign forever. O Jerusalem, your God is King in every generation! Praise the Lord!
Our hope is rooted in the wonder acts of God in creation and history. The Bible gives full testimony to the fact that God is able to deliver us from any and every circumstance. He will either get us out of it or bring us through it--for his glory and our joy.
Romans 15:13 I pray that God, who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in him. May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Psalm 94:19 When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.
Romans 5:1-5 Since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of highest privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory. We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know when they are good for us-they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation. And this expectation will not disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
Expectation builds endurance. We can get through a great deal when we realize the wonderful gifts God has for us in this life and in the life to come.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
We did not get out much yesterday, because I have been reading a series of books I started when I was sick. I finished a "page-turner" and now must catch up with work I have been neglecting. That's what happens when I start to read! :o)
We did get to the Park, though and while no gators were visible from the road, lots of turtles were sunning and the snowy egrets were pecking. I really like the snowy egrets, because of their delicate feathers which blow in the breeze. God is good!
God is full of surprises! I thought I would have to go out to Seminole to buy a three-wheeled walker for Louis, but got a phone call from the doctor's office that the doctor had ordered one to be delivered today, charged to insurance! Hopefully, Louis will be able to handle it after he test drives it, because it has hand brakes. It should be more helpful to him, because it will go through narrow openings much better than the old four legged one. God knows our needs!
From the Promise Bible continued from yesterday:
Psalm 130:7 O Israel, hope in the Lord; for with the Lord there is unfailing love and an overflowing supply of salvation.
Psalm 146:5-10 Happy are those who have the God of Israel as their helper, whose hope is in the Lord their God. He is the one who made heaven and earth, the sea and everything in them. He is the one who keeps every promise forever, who gives justice to the oppressed and food to the hungry. The Lord frees the prisoners. The Lord opens the eyes of the blind. The Lord lefts the burdens of those bent beneath their loads. The Lord loves the righteous. The Lord protects the foreigners among us. He cares for the orphans and widows., but he frustrates the plans of the wicked. The Lord will reign forever. O Jerusalem, your God is King in every generation! Praise the Lord!
Our hope is rooted in the wonder acts of God in creation and history. The Bible gives full testimony to the fact that God is able to deliver us from any and every circumstance. He will either get us out of it or bring us through it--for his glory and our joy.
Romans 15:13 I pray that God, who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in him. May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Psalm 94:19 When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.
Romans 5:1-5 Since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of highest privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory. We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know when they are good for us-they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation. And this expectation will not disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
Expectation builds endurance. We can get through a great deal when we realize the wonderful gifts God has for us in this life and in the life to come.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Hope
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Well it's another beautiful sunshiny day with cool temps and very low humidity.
Yesterday was so lovely, I took a walk for the first time in a month, it seemed. We saw a black gator sunning on the bank of the lake as we drove in, and I walked out to the first covered shelter and the gray Mama gator was sunning full length on the bank by the shelter. First time I had seen her out of the water. Apparently she has babies again, according to Mike, but many people were there looking at her, so I couldn't get close enough to see the babies. God is good!
I saw Mike, the naturalist, wave at me, so I walked into the building to talk with him and he said he had taken a group of French exchange students from Shorecrest for a walk to see the gator on the bank and they were thrilled to have their photos taken with the gator in the background. He is really interesting to talk to, and very nice, with eyes as blue as the sky. Being outdoors suits him.
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What is my hope?
1 Peter 1:21 Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And because God raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory, your faith and hope can be placed confidently in God.
The resurrection, the greatest event in history, is the foundation of our hope.
1 Peter 1:3-5 All honor to God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, for it is by his boundless mercy that God has given us the privilege of being born again. Now we live with a wonderful expectation because Jesus Christ rose again from the dead. For God has reserved a priceless inheritance for his children It is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And God, in his mighty power, will protect you until you receive this salvation, because you are trusting him. It will be revealed on the last day for all to see. So be truly glad! There is wonderful joy ahead, even though it is necessary you to endure many trials for a while.
When people get motion sickness, they need to fix their eyes on the horizon in order to regain composure. Remaining fixed on a point in the distance helps us travel. Jesus' followers fix their eyes on an eternal horizon. This gives us hope in all the discomforts of daily life.
How can I have hope when times are tough?
Hebrews 10:23 Without wavering, let us hold tightly to the hope we say we have, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.
Our hope is rooted in God's integrity and faithfulness. When everything else falls apart we can cling to the fact that God keeps his word.
John 14:1 Don't be troubled. You trust God, now trust in me.
John 16:33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrow. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.
Our troubles do not surprise the Lord and should not surprise us. Trouble is rampant in this fallen world. Our focus should be on Jesus who has overcome this world and all its troubles.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday was so lovely, I took a walk for the first time in a month, it seemed. We saw a black gator sunning on the bank of the lake as we drove in, and I walked out to the first covered shelter and the gray Mama gator was sunning full length on the bank by the shelter. First time I had seen her out of the water. Apparently she has babies again, according to Mike, but many people were there looking at her, so I couldn't get close enough to see the babies. God is good!
I saw Mike, the naturalist, wave at me, so I walked into the building to talk with him and he said he had taken a group of French exchange students from Shorecrest for a walk to see the gator on the bank and they were thrilled to have their photos taken with the gator in the background. He is really interesting to talk to, and very nice, with eyes as blue as the sky. Being outdoors suits him.
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What is my hope?
1 Peter 1:21 Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And because God raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory, your faith and hope can be placed confidently in God.
The resurrection, the greatest event in history, is the foundation of our hope.
1 Peter 1:3-5 All honor to God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, for it is by his boundless mercy that God has given us the privilege of being born again. Now we live with a wonderful expectation because Jesus Christ rose again from the dead. For God has reserved a priceless inheritance for his children It is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And God, in his mighty power, will protect you until you receive this salvation, because you are trusting him. It will be revealed on the last day for all to see. So be truly glad! There is wonderful joy ahead, even though it is necessary you to endure many trials for a while.
When people get motion sickness, they need to fix their eyes on the horizon in order to regain composure. Remaining fixed on a point in the distance helps us travel. Jesus' followers fix their eyes on an eternal horizon. This gives us hope in all the discomforts of daily life.
How can I have hope when times are tough?
Hebrews 10:23 Without wavering, let us hold tightly to the hope we say we have, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.
Our hope is rooted in God's integrity and faithfulness. When everything else falls apart we can cling to the fact that God keeps his word.
John 14:1 Don't be troubled. You trust God, now trust in me.
John 16:33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrow. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.
Our troubles do not surprise the Lord and should not surprise us. Trouble is rampant in this fallen world. Our focus should be on Jesus who has overcome this world and all its troubles.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, February 23, 2009
Power of God
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the cool day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! The air is cool, the sun is shining and God is good!
I was able to go to church yesterday for the second time this month, because I was finally healed from the upper respiratory infection. However, I apparently strained a back muscle reaching in a top cabinet and was really in a lot of pain when I moved. I asked my sons for prayer and a good friend... went to bed in pain and full of pain killers and woke up healed! God is the great Physician!
We went to the Park after church and saw Miss Peahen walking about, then a gator under the bridge, a beautiful egret, and several turtles sunning themselves. Since there are no staff people around, more and more signs are popping up. In addition to the frog xing, and turtle xing, there is a new sign on the entrance bridge stating what is not allowed on the boardwalk. Hope they work!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What is God's power like?
Psalm 20:4-7 May he grant your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans. May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory, flying banners to honor our God. May the Lord answer all your prayers. Now I know that the Lord saves his anointed king. He will answer him from his holy heaven and rescue him by his great power. Some nations boast of their armies and weapons, but we boast in the Lord our God.
God's power is greater than that of the greatest kings who ever ruled or the mightiest armies that ever marched . That power is ours as we trust him, obey him, and honor his name.
Psalm 44:4-7 You are my King and my God You command victories for your people. Only by your power can we push back our enemies, only in your name can we trample our foes. I do not trust my bow; I do not count on my sword to save me. It is you who gives us victory over our enemies; it is you who humbles those who hate us.
God's power is greater than any of the skills or resources we have at our disposal. While we may use the means that God has provided to us, we know that victory comes from God alone.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I was able to go to church yesterday for the second time this month, because I was finally healed from the upper respiratory infection. However, I apparently strained a back muscle reaching in a top cabinet and was really in a lot of pain when I moved. I asked my sons for prayer and a good friend... went to bed in pain and full of pain killers and woke up healed! God is the great Physician!
We went to the Park after church and saw Miss Peahen walking about, then a gator under the bridge, a beautiful egret, and several turtles sunning themselves. Since there are no staff people around, more and more signs are popping up. In addition to the frog xing, and turtle xing, there is a new sign on the entrance bridge stating what is not allowed on the boardwalk. Hope they work!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What is God's power like?
Psalm 20:4-7 May he grant your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans. May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory, flying banners to honor our God. May the Lord answer all your prayers. Now I know that the Lord saves his anointed king. He will answer him from his holy heaven and rescue him by his great power. Some nations boast of their armies and weapons, but we boast in the Lord our God.
God's power is greater than that of the greatest kings who ever ruled or the mightiest armies that ever marched . That power is ours as we trust him, obey him, and honor his name.
Psalm 44:4-7 You are my King and my God You command victories for your people. Only by your power can we push back our enemies, only in your name can we trample our foes. I do not trust my bow; I do not count on my sword to save me. It is you who gives us victory over our enemies; it is you who humbles those who hate us.
God's power is greater than any of the skills or resources we have at our disposal. While we may use the means that God has provided to us, we know that victory comes from God alone.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Friday, February 20, 2009
Fix Your Focus
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Brrr! When I stepped outside in the chilly dawn, the wind was blowing but the sky was almost clear... just a few wispy clouds over the bright crescent moon. However, the temp. has dropped since I arose and will be even colder tomorrow. Looks like March will roar in like a lion!
We had a little rain yesterday, (thank you, Lord) and could use more, but at least the pollen got settled for a while. It didn't seem to make much difference when we drove through the Park. Leaves were still on the ground, but the azaleas looked very pretty. They were trimmed way down last year, so that means fewer blooms, but they still looked nice. God is Good!
From Quiet Moments with God:
"I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Jeremiah 29:11
Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard address the nature of true humility by suggesting we think of an arrow soaring on its course toward its target. Suddenly the swift moving arrow halts in mid-flight to see how far it has come, how high it has soared, how its speed and ease with which it flies. Right at the moment when it turns to focus on itself, the arrow falls to the ground.
Preoccupation with self is counterproductive to reaching our goals. It is the opposite of humility, which is preoccupation with the Lord.
As for evaluating ourselves, the Bible says we are to examine our hearts, making certain wee are walking in faith and purity toward the Lord. (1 Corinthians 11:28 and 2 Corinthians 12:5.)
Second Timothy 1:6 exhorts us to stir up the gifts God has given us, and Jesus made it quite clear in the parable of the talents that we are to use all the abilities and resources God gives us to give glory to Him.
Whether we are examining our hearts or using the gifts and talents God gave us, our focus is always on the Lord. Our motivation is to please Him, draw closer to Him, and serve those He leads us to serve.
The irony of the Christian life is that when we give our lives to God and to others, we receive true joy and fulfillment. It is when we hold onto our lives and are consumed with our own selfish desires and interests that we are miserable and nonproductive.
Take your mind off yourself, and concentrate on your loving Heavenly Father. Ask Him about His plan for your life.
Trust the past to the mercy of God. The present to his love, and the future to his providence.
Saint Augustine of Hippo
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
We had a little rain yesterday, (thank you, Lord) and could use more, but at least the pollen got settled for a while. It didn't seem to make much difference when we drove through the Park. Leaves were still on the ground, but the azaleas looked very pretty. They were trimmed way down last year, so that means fewer blooms, but they still looked nice. God is Good!
From Quiet Moments with God:
"I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Jeremiah 29:11
Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard address the nature of true humility by suggesting we think of an arrow soaring on its course toward its target. Suddenly the swift moving arrow halts in mid-flight to see how far it has come, how high it has soared, how its speed and ease with which it flies. Right at the moment when it turns to focus on itself, the arrow falls to the ground.
Preoccupation with self is counterproductive to reaching our goals. It is the opposite of humility, which is preoccupation with the Lord.
As for evaluating ourselves, the Bible says we are to examine our hearts, making certain wee are walking in faith and purity toward the Lord. (1 Corinthians 11:28 and 2 Corinthians 12:5.)
Second Timothy 1:6 exhorts us to stir up the gifts God has given us, and Jesus made it quite clear in the parable of the talents that we are to use all the abilities and resources God gives us to give glory to Him.
Whether we are examining our hearts or using the gifts and talents God gave us, our focus is always on the Lord. Our motivation is to please Him, draw closer to Him, and serve those He leads us to serve.
The irony of the Christian life is that when we give our lives to God and to others, we receive true joy and fulfillment. It is when we hold onto our lives and are consumed with our own selfish desires and interests that we are miserable and nonproductive.
Take your mind off yourself, and concentrate on your loving Heavenly Father. Ask Him about His plan for your life.
Trust the past to the mercy of God. The present to his love, and the future to his providence.
Saint Augustine of Hippo
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Changing Seasons
Good Morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the windy, cloudy day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside much earlier I saw that the moon had moved to the southeast and was still shining brightly, even though just a crescent, now. But since then, the clouds have blown in from a front that is moving this way, and I am hoping for rain. Right now Florida is a desert and we are facing tougher water restrictions. God, we need rain! Amen.
I ran a few errands yesterday, including a trip to the doctor for Louis' checkup, and wound up in the leaf-strewn park. Lots of people, strollers and dogs were enjoying the windy beauty. A beautiful egret was looking for fish along the bank and the anhingas are always perched in a tree someplace, drying out. God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God for Teachers:
The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.
Isaiah 40:8
Marie had always enjoyed washing dishes by hand. It gave her an opportunity to slow down, think, and observe the changing of the seasons as she gazed out her kitchen window.
Over the course of a year, Marie watched a sparrow preparing her nest and then bringing food to her babies in the springtime. A hummingbird made regular stops after he discovered the window feeder during the summer. In autumn, squirrels scampered around in the crisp fallen leaves in search of acorns. During the winter, Marie saw a deer standing majestically in her yard...
Life is like the changing seasons. During the springtime of Marie's life her days were filled with fun and joy as she played with frogs and tadpoles. Her teen and young adult years-the summer of her life-were marked by enthusiasm as she tried to find herself in the fast lane of life. Today, Marie is beginning to sense the contentment of autumn. She sees security in the eyes of her husband and joy in the lives of her grown children and realizes that winter soon will be upon her.
As a Christian, Marie knows that one day she will awaken to a world more wonderful than she can even imagine. Until then, she knows that whatever season she's in right now is the best season of her entire life.
There's nothing wrong with looking back at the previous seasons of our lives. But God has a purpose for allowing us to be in the season we're in right now. So enjoy where you are on the way to where you're going!
LIFE CAN ONLY BE UNDERSTOOD BACKWARDS;
BUT IT MUST BE LIVED FORWARDS.
Soren Aabye Kierkegaard
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I ran a few errands yesterday, including a trip to the doctor for Louis' checkup, and wound up in the leaf-strewn park. Lots of people, strollers and dogs were enjoying the windy beauty. A beautiful egret was looking for fish along the bank and the anhingas are always perched in a tree someplace, drying out. God is good!
From Quiet Moments with God for Teachers:
The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.
Isaiah 40:8
Marie had always enjoyed washing dishes by hand. It gave her an opportunity to slow down, think, and observe the changing of the seasons as she gazed out her kitchen window.
Over the course of a year, Marie watched a sparrow preparing her nest and then bringing food to her babies in the springtime. A hummingbird made regular stops after he discovered the window feeder during the summer. In autumn, squirrels scampered around in the crisp fallen leaves in search of acorns. During the winter, Marie saw a deer standing majestically in her yard...
Life is like the changing seasons. During the springtime of Marie's life her days were filled with fun and joy as she played with frogs and tadpoles. Her teen and young adult years-the summer of her life-were marked by enthusiasm as she tried to find herself in the fast lane of life. Today, Marie is beginning to sense the contentment of autumn. She sees security in the eyes of her husband and joy in the lives of her grown children and realizes that winter soon will be upon her.
As a Christian, Marie knows that one day she will awaken to a world more wonderful than she can even imagine. Until then, she knows that whatever season she's in right now is the best season of her entire life.
There's nothing wrong with looking back at the previous seasons of our lives. But God has a purpose for allowing us to be in the season we're in right now. So enjoy where you are on the way to where you're going!
LIFE CAN ONLY BE UNDERSTOOD BACKWARDS;
BUT IT MUST BE LIVED FORWARDS.
Soren Aabye Kierkegaard
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Psoaring through Psalms
Good Morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the windy, sunshiny day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside later than usual, the crescent moon was shining brightly as the sky lightened with the coming of dawn and an airplane was soaring by very high in the sky. I could see the lights twinkling as it flew by..
Well, I had my first big outing since I came down with the URI and I kinda overdid it. I went out to the Walmart Supercenter and walked the whole store getting needed supplies. My foot did not like all that walking, and was really sore the rest of the day, but feels much better today. A two week rest takes a toll on the body when you get back in action.
I drove through the leafy park, and saw a anhinga crawling up the side of the weir. They really look crippled when they try to walk, because their legs look ungainly. They are much more used to swimming underwater and then drying their wings. Also, a couple turtles were sunning on the bank. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
A psalm of David , regarding the time he pretended to be insane in front of Abimelech, who send him away.
I will praise the Lord at all times,
I will constantly speak his praises.
I will boast only in the Lord,
let all who are discouraged take heart.
Come, let us tell of the Lord's greatness;
let us exalt his name together.
I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me,
freeing me from all my fears.
Those who look to him for help will be
radiant with joy,
no shadow of shame will darken their faces.
I cried out to the Lord in my suffering and he
heard me.
He set me free from all my fears.
For the angel of the Lord guards all who
fear him.,
and he rescues them.
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Oh, the joys of those who trust in him!
Let the Lord's people show him reverence,
for those who honor him will have all they need.
Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry,
but those who trust in the Lord will
never lack any good thing.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Well, I had my first big outing since I came down with the URI and I kinda overdid it. I went out to the Walmart Supercenter and walked the whole store getting needed supplies. My foot did not like all that walking, and was really sore the rest of the day, but feels much better today. A two week rest takes a toll on the body when you get back in action.
I drove through the leafy park, and saw a anhinga crawling up the side of the weir. They really look crippled when they try to walk, because their legs look ungainly. They are much more used to swimming underwater and then drying their wings. Also, a couple turtles were sunning on the bank. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
A psalm of David , regarding the time he pretended to be insane in front of Abimelech, who send him away.
I will praise the Lord at all times,
I will constantly speak his praises.
I will boast only in the Lord,
let all who are discouraged take heart.
Come, let us tell of the Lord's greatness;
let us exalt his name together.
I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me,
freeing me from all my fears.
Those who look to him for help will be
radiant with joy,
no shadow of shame will darken their faces.
I cried out to the Lord in my suffering and he
heard me.
He set me free from all my fears.
For the angel of the Lord guards all who
fear him.,
and he rescues them.
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Oh, the joys of those who trust in him!
Let the Lord's people show him reverence,
for those who honor him will have all they need.
Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry,
but those who trust in the Lord will
never lack any good thing.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Integrity, con't.
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the coolish day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, I noticed the moon is now down to half but still bright. It always seems like it shines brighter when the air is cool and dry.
Our yard and driveway are covered with oak leaves again, because the trees have not finished shedding, but with the wind blowing today, they should be cleared at least from the driveway! Speaking of leaves, the park is covered with leaves all over the parking area. When they had full staff, the first thing they did every morning, was blow all the leaves off the road. How things have changed!
Yesterday I was treated to a one hour massage courtesy of a gift card from the men in my life. What a treat! Soft music, dark room and strong fingers moving constantly over tired muscles. I should have gone right to bed, but, instead, had to drive home. Sigh.
We saw a bride dressed in white satin, with black sneakers, in the park the other day. The small bridal party was on the way to take photos and she was wise not to wear high heels in the grass. Quite a few weddings are held there during the year. It is a beautiful place, but the last wedding party we saw was right after a heavy rain, and the dresses were getting wet. That's the chance they have to take, though.
From the Promise Bible NLT:
I thought this was a good subject even though it is a repeat, because of all the corruption we read about daily it seems, in people in high positions who should know better.
What are the benefits of integrity?
Proverbs 11:3,5 Good people are guided by their honesty: treacherous people are destroyed by their dishonesty...The godly are directed by their honesty, the wicked fall beneath their load of sin.
Integrity keeps us from the trap of dishonesty and the destruction that can result.
Psalm 15:1-5 Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill? Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts. Those who refuse to slander others or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends. Those who despise persistent sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the Lord and keep their promises even when it hurts. Those who do not charge interest on the money they lend, and who refuse to accept bribes to testify against the innocent. Such people will stand firm forever.
Our character affects our ability to worship and enjoy fellowship with God. Worship is more acceptable to God and more meaningful to us when we honor the Lord in our daily conduct.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Our yard and driveway are covered with oak leaves again, because the trees have not finished shedding, but with the wind blowing today, they should be cleared at least from the driveway! Speaking of leaves, the park is covered with leaves all over the parking area. When they had full staff, the first thing they did every morning, was blow all the leaves off the road. How things have changed!
Yesterday I was treated to a one hour massage courtesy of a gift card from the men in my life. What a treat! Soft music, dark room and strong fingers moving constantly over tired muscles. I should have gone right to bed, but, instead, had to drive home. Sigh.
We saw a bride dressed in white satin, with black sneakers, in the park the other day. The small bridal party was on the way to take photos and she was wise not to wear high heels in the grass. Quite a few weddings are held there during the year. It is a beautiful place, but the last wedding party we saw was right after a heavy rain, and the dresses were getting wet. That's the chance they have to take, though.
From the Promise Bible NLT:
I thought this was a good subject even though it is a repeat, because of all the corruption we read about daily it seems, in people in high positions who should know better.
What are the benefits of integrity?
Proverbs 11:3,5 Good people are guided by their honesty: treacherous people are destroyed by their dishonesty...The godly are directed by their honesty, the wicked fall beneath their load of sin.
Integrity keeps us from the trap of dishonesty and the destruction that can result.
Psalm 15:1-5 Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill? Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts. Those who refuse to slander others or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends. Those who despise persistent sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the Lord and keep their promises even when it hurts. Those who do not charge interest on the money they lend, and who refuse to accept bribes to testify against the innocent. Such people will stand firm forever.
Our character affects our ability to worship and enjoy fellowship with God. Worship is more acceptable to God and more meaningful to us when we honor the Lord in our daily conduct.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, February 16, 2009
Integrity
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside much earlier this morning, I saw the half moon in a nearly clear sky, unlike the sky yesterday which was mostly overcast all day. We did not get the rain I was hoping for, but God will send it in his time.
I was still coughing too much to go to church, but today is a turning point. I think all the congestion has cleared and the coughing has quieted down. Praise God!
We did get out for a little ride yesterday and on the way into the park, two peacocks were fanning out their tails and putting on a show for the people who stopped their cars just to look. They are show offs! But God gave them gorgeous colors and they flaunt them! A beautiful contrast to the brown grass and yellow leaves falling from the oak trees. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How does God respond to my commitment to integrity?
Psalm 18:2-25 The Lord rewarded me for doing right; he compensated me because of my innocence. For I have kept the ways of the Lord; I have not turned from my God to follow evil. For all his laws are constantly before me; I have never abandoned his principles. I am blameless before God. I have kept myself from sin. The Lord rewarded me for doing right, because of the innocence of my hands in his sight. To the faithful you show yourself faithful; to those with integrity you show integrity.
The psalmist claims a high level of personal integrity that makes some of us uncomfortable. It makes sense, however, when we realize that he isn't boasting in his accomplishment but thanking God for giving him the power and direction to live according to God's ways. This passage offers the same promise to us; God will empower our obedience.
1Peter 2:12 Be careful how you live among your unbelieving neighbors. Even if they accuse you of doing wrong; they will see your honorable behavior, and they will believe and give honor to God when he comes to judge the world.
Our integrity may not bring immediate rewards, but we are certain that it will one day be recognized.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs.
Amaryllis
I was still coughing too much to go to church, but today is a turning point. I think all the congestion has cleared and the coughing has quieted down. Praise God!
We did get out for a little ride yesterday and on the way into the park, two peacocks were fanning out their tails and putting on a show for the people who stopped their cars just to look. They are show offs! But God gave them gorgeous colors and they flaunt them! A beautiful contrast to the brown grass and yellow leaves falling from the oak trees. God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How does God respond to my commitment to integrity?
Psalm 18:2-25 The Lord rewarded me for doing right; he compensated me because of my innocence. For I have kept the ways of the Lord; I have not turned from my God to follow evil. For all his laws are constantly before me; I have never abandoned his principles. I am blameless before God. I have kept myself from sin. The Lord rewarded me for doing right, because of the innocence of my hands in his sight. To the faithful you show yourself faithful; to those with integrity you show integrity.
The psalmist claims a high level of personal integrity that makes some of us uncomfortable. It makes sense, however, when we realize that he isn't boasting in his accomplishment but thanking God for giving him the power and direction to live according to God's ways. This passage offers the same promise to us; God will empower our obedience.
1Peter 2:12 Be careful how you live among your unbelieving neighbors. Even if they accuse you of doing wrong; they will see your honorable behavior, and they will believe and give honor to God when he comes to judge the world.
Our integrity may not bring immediate rewards, but we are certain that it will one day be recognized.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs.
Amaryllis
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Happy V-A-L-E-N-T-I-N-E
This special Valentine was sent to me, so I send it on to you all!
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Karin Wallace
Date: Feb 13, 2009 10:02 PM
Subject: Happy V-A-L-E-N-T-I-N-E
To: Undisclosed-Recipient
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Karin Wallace
Date: Feb 13, 2009 10:02 PM
Subject: Happy V-A-L-E-N-T-I-N-E
To: Undisclosed-Recipient
You are special! Have a blessed Valentine's Day!!!
|
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Leadership and Guidance
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, the moon was shining with a piece out of it, and then later, the fog rolled down and all was misty for awhile. Now the fog is clearing up and it will be another very warm day. God is good!
David was over yesterday to clean up the yard and it looks much better right now. The leaves are all cut up and mulched and the driveway is clear, but not for long, I am afraid, as the wind is still blowing and the leaves are still falling. The squirrels don't seem to mind, though, they still scramble happily about, running up and down the trees, and climbing across the roof. For little guys, they seem to have big feet!
We drove through the park yesterday and saw two peacocks chasing each other, or rather, the peahen was chasing the peacock. He had his tail feathers fanned out in all their beauty at first, and then I guess she was very attracted to him and he was playing hard to get. :o) Always something going on!
This is from my Daily Blessings calendar:
Leadership has been an important part of God's plan
from the beginning. He has called, chosen and prepared
individuals whom He knew would be faithful and true.
As God places you in positions of leadership and
responsibility, He will require obedience and trust.
Leadership
And the Lord shall make thee the head, and not
the tail; and thou shall be above only, and thou shalt
not be beneath; if you hearken unto the commandments
of the Lord thy God, which I command thee this day, to
observe and do them.
Deuteronomy 28:13
How can I be sure God will guide me?
Psalm 32:8 The Lord says,"I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.
Psalm 37:23-24 The steps of the godly are directed by the Lord. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will not fall, for the Lord hold them by the hand.
Jesus gives this promise to all his followers. If God values the littlest things of his creation, how much more must he value us for whom he gave his own precious Son.When we are anxious or concerned, we need to remind ourselves that God does indeed care about us and is watching over us.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
David was over yesterday to clean up the yard and it looks much better right now. The leaves are all cut up and mulched and the driveway is clear, but not for long, I am afraid, as the wind is still blowing and the leaves are still falling. The squirrels don't seem to mind, though, they still scramble happily about, running up and down the trees, and climbing across the roof. For little guys, they seem to have big feet!
We drove through the park yesterday and saw two peacocks chasing each other, or rather, the peahen was chasing the peacock. He had his tail feathers fanned out in all their beauty at first, and then I guess she was very attracted to him and he was playing hard to get. :o) Always something going on!
This is from my Daily Blessings calendar:
Leadership has been an important part of God's plan
from the beginning. He has called, chosen and prepared
individuals whom He knew would be faithful and true.
As God places you in positions of leadership and
responsibility, He will require obedience and trust.
Leadership
And the Lord shall make thee the head, and not
the tail; and thou shall be above only, and thou shalt
not be beneath; if you hearken unto the commandments
of the Lord thy God, which I command thee this day, to
observe and do them.
Deuteronomy 28:13
How can I be sure God will guide me?
Psalm 32:8 The Lord says,"I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.
Psalm 37:23-24 The steps of the godly are directed by the Lord. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will not fall, for the Lord hold them by the hand.
Jesus gives this promise to all his followers. If God values the littlest things of his creation, how much more must he value us for whom he gave his own precious Son.When we are anxious or concerned, we need to remind ourselves that God does indeed care about us and is watching over us.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Problems (con't)
Good morning, dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, the moon was still full and shining brightly, and then daylight came and dimmed the light some. We have a windy day today and it is supposed to get up to 80! The warm weather is good for fair-goers and then the Strawberry Festival, but we have more cold weather coming.
I saw about five turtles sunning themselves at the Park yesterday and lots of brown grass from the frosts we have had. It looks brown in every neighborhood that does not have trees, but, hopefully, will soon green up with the coming of rain and spring. The azaleas at the park are blooming but not as much as years past, because they were cut down so far. I have been advised to trim ours down, which will lose some blooms next year, but be better for them after that. We have one bush that is covered with blossoms, and the others not so much, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How else does God care for me in times of trouble and danger?
Psalm 91:11 He orders his angels to protect you wherever you go.
Hebrews 1:14 Angels are only servants. They are spirits sent from God to care for those who will receive salvation.
In addition to all the other sources of help, God sends his mighty angels to watch over us. Though we rarely see them, we can trust God's word that they will care for us.
2 Corinthians 4:8-10 We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed and broken. We are perplexed, but we don't give up and quit. We are hunted down, but God never abandons us. We get knocked down, but we get up again and keep going. Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.
God shows his care by his constant presence in our lives.
How can we help each other with our problems?
Galatians 6:2 Share each others troubles and problems, and in this way obey the law of Christ.
God works through others to show comfort and concern, to restore and refresh to correct and challenge. While we each have burdens to bear, one of the great advantages of being a part of God's family is that we do not have to bear our burdens along.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I saw about five turtles sunning themselves at the Park yesterday and lots of brown grass from the frosts we have had. It looks brown in every neighborhood that does not have trees, but, hopefully, will soon green up with the coming of rain and spring. The azaleas at the park are blooming but not as much as years past, because they were cut down so far. I have been advised to trim ours down, which will lose some blooms next year, but be better for them after that. We have one bush that is covered with blossoms, and the others not so much, but God is good!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
How else does God care for me in times of trouble and danger?
Psalm 91:11 He orders his angels to protect you wherever you go.
Hebrews 1:14 Angels are only servants. They are spirits sent from God to care for those who will receive salvation.
In addition to all the other sources of help, God sends his mighty angels to watch over us. Though we rarely see them, we can trust God's word that they will care for us.
2 Corinthians 4:8-10 We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed and broken. We are perplexed, but we don't give up and quit. We are hunted down, but God never abandons us. We get knocked down, but we get up again and keep going. Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.
God shows his care by his constant presence in our lives.
How can we help each other with our problems?
Galatians 6:2 Share each others troubles and problems, and in this way obey the law of Christ.
God works through others to show comfort and concern, to restore and refresh to correct and challenge. While we each have burdens to bear, one of the great advantages of being a part of God's family is that we do not have to bear our burdens along.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Problems
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, the huge full moon was shining in the west on its way around the earth, and everything was lit up. God is Awesome!
I took a drive to the Park yesterday and saw the pastor's wife taking a photo of some turtles lying on the bank, then went on to find a parking place, so I could walk out on the bridge. I stood for a few minutes feeling the sun on my back and relaxing, then, since the traffic light was blinking red, and traffic was heavy, I turned right and went on to Joe's Creek Park. What good timing! There was a whole flock of ibis, tri-colored immature ones, and white ones pecking all around the fence... must have been three or four dozen. I got out of the car and they paid no attention to me. I watched them for a few minutes, then made my way home.
I also noticed that the tiny songbirds are now here for the winter. I just noticed one in the neighbor's mango tree, pecking and flitting around. God's creation is great!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What do I do when problems overwhelm me?
Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation-so why should I be afraid? The Lord protects me from danger-so why should I tremble?
Problems can turn our eyes from the Lord. Use them, instead, as opportunities to turn our eyes to the Lord for his protection, his guiding light, and his saving power.
Psalm 145:14 The Lord helps the fallen and lifts up those bent beneath their loads.
God finds the fallen and never passes them by. When we feel we can't go another step, he shoulders our loads, easing our pain and burden.
Psalm 42:5-6 Why am I discouraged? Why so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again--my Savior and my God! Now I am deeply discouraged, but I will remember your kindness-from Mount Hermon, the source of the Jordan, from the land of Mount Mizar.
Remember God's mercy. He has been faithful in the past and will be faithful in the future. Memory ignites the fire of hope and drives away the darkness of despair.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
I took a drive to the Park yesterday and saw the pastor's wife taking a photo of some turtles lying on the bank, then went on to find a parking place, so I could walk out on the bridge. I stood for a few minutes feeling the sun on my back and relaxing, then, since the traffic light was blinking red, and traffic was heavy, I turned right and went on to Joe's Creek Park. What good timing! There was a whole flock of ibis, tri-colored immature ones, and white ones pecking all around the fence... must have been three or four dozen. I got out of the car and they paid no attention to me. I watched them for a few minutes, then made my way home.
I also noticed that the tiny songbirds are now here for the winter. I just noticed one in the neighbor's mango tree, pecking and flitting around. God's creation is great!
From the Promise Bible NLT:
What do I do when problems overwhelm me?
Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation-so why should I be afraid? The Lord protects me from danger-so why should I tremble?
Problems can turn our eyes from the Lord. Use them, instead, as opportunities to turn our eyes to the Lord for his protection, his guiding light, and his saving power.
Psalm 145:14 The Lord helps the fallen and lifts up those bent beneath their loads.
God finds the fallen and never passes them by. When we feel we can't go another step, he shoulders our loads, easing our pain and burden.
Psalm 42:5-6 Why am I discouraged? Why so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again--my Savior and my God! Now I am deeply discouraged, but I will remember your kindness-from Mount Hermon, the source of the Jordan, from the land of Mount Mizar.
Remember God's mercy. He has been faithful in the past and will be faithful in the future. Memory ignites the fire of hope and drives away the darkness of despair.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, February 9, 2009
Free from the Guilted Cage
Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the beautiful day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! The sky is blue, the breeze is blowing and the temps are supposed to be in the middle seventies today. A good day for fair-goers in Tampa. You can get all the greasy food you want, including bacon slabs dipped in chocolate, and fried pickles. Yum.
But, the Strawberry Festival is coming and I have already had about four pints of ripe strawberries in shortcake. They seem to be really good this year.
I am healing slowly from the bronchitis, but am still blowing and coughing. I went for an outing yesterday, just to get out of the house and saw a beautiful white egret, several ibis and a great blue heron all in a row on the bank of the canal at the park. On the way home there was a kingfisher perched on the line again overlooking Turner Creek. Also, the ospreys are flying in and out of their nests, already taking care of eggs. God is good!
From Hymns for the Family of God:
A Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, today I want to live my life as an expression of your love rather than as an effort to earn or deserve your love. Like Paul, I have tried about everything to prove my worth. Nothing satisfies. I am weary of doing the right thing because of guilt and not grace. Thank you for the limitless power of your love which sets me free from a guilted cage to fly and soar to new heights of joyous praise today. Amen.
-LLoyd John Ogilvie
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
But, the Strawberry Festival is coming and I have already had about four pints of ripe strawberries in shortcake. They seem to be really good this year.
I am healing slowly from the bronchitis, but am still blowing and coughing. I went for an outing yesterday, just to get out of the house and saw a beautiful white egret, several ibis and a great blue heron all in a row on the bank of the canal at the park. On the way home there was a kingfisher perched on the line again overlooking Turner Creek. Also, the ospreys are flying in and out of their nests, already taking care of eggs. God is good!
From Hymns for the Family of God:
A Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, today I want to live my life as an expression of your love rather than as an effort to earn or deserve your love. Like Paul, I have tried about everything to prove my worth. Nothing satisfies. I am weary of doing the right thing because of guilt and not grace. Thank you for the limitless power of your love which sets me free from a guilted cage to fly and soar to new heights of joyous praise today. Amen.
-LLoyd John Ogilvie
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Saturday, February 7, 2009
What a Day!
Good morning Dear Friends and Prayer Partners!
Yesterday was a day not to forget! It was Louis' birthday and then came the call that Daryl was on the way to the hospital! I want to thank each of you that prayed for him. God hears and answers prayers and I felt calmer than I thought I would, so I know the prayers were answered.
Daryl was discharged after some tests and the conclusion was that he has an inner-ear disturbance causing the imbalance and light-headedness. The pressure on the chest could be anxiety, but at least the heart is doing its job and is OK. Praise the Lord!
Once again you all came through and I feel blessed to have such warriors on my side!
God bless you all with a wonderful day!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Yesterday was a day not to forget! It was Louis' birthday and then came the call that Daryl was on the way to the hospital! I want to thank each of you that prayed for him. God hears and answers prayers and I felt calmer than I thought I would, so I know the prayers were answered.
Daryl was discharged after some tests and the conclusion was that he has an inner-ear disturbance causing the imbalance and light-headedness. The pressure on the chest could be anxiety, but at least the heart is doing its job and is OK. Praise the Lord!
Once again you all came through and I feel blessed to have such warriors on my side!
God bless you all with a wonderful day!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Thursday, February 5, 2009
update
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the cold day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice in it! I am rejoicing that I am still alive and coughing and blowing and taking antibiotics for bronchitis. I have been outside about three times this morning, because the leaves were piled up so far in front of the front door, that I had to sweep them out of the way.
Also, I took the dumpster down to the curb and brought it back, but this afternoon I have to make another trip to CVS to pick up more tissues. My indoor-outdoor thermometer read 38 this morning and hasn't moved much since.
Well, I always give thanks for you, and hope you are remembering me in prayer, as I am you.
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Also, I took the dumpster down to the curb and brought it back, but this afternoon I have to make another trip to CVS to pick up more tissues. My indoor-outdoor thermometer read 38 this morning and hasn't moved much since.
Well, I always give thanks for you, and hope you are remembering me in prayer, as I am you.
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
Monday, February 2, 2009
Easin' thru Ephesians
Good morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Well, after a near perfect day yesterday, we have rain this morning, but that's all right with me, since we still need the rain. However, all the remaining yellow leaves on the oak tree that is shedding are now on the porch and wet. So, no sweeping until they are dry.
We saw an unexpected spot of beauty yesterday as we drove along Turner's creek. The tide was out , so the mud flats, (not beautiful) were showing and there was a roseate spoonbill down in the unlovely creek, just glowing in all its pink gorgeousness! God is good! Also, up on a line was the kingfisher, which seems to be hanging out along the creek.
As we drove to the Park, two peacocks raced across the road, with their scrawny legs looking so funny. But the tail feathers are fully grown out now, for courting, and look lovely. There was also one on a fence with very long tail feathers hanging down. All around us is beauty, if we just open our eyes to see.
From the NIV
Ephesians 3: 14:4-6
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom the whole family of believers in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more that 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!
As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit-just as you were called to one hope when you were called-one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love,
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
We saw an unexpected spot of beauty yesterday as we drove along Turner's creek. The tide was out , so the mud flats, (not beautiful) were showing and there was a roseate spoonbill down in the unlovely creek, just glowing in all its pink gorgeousness! God is good! Also, up on a line was the kingfisher, which seems to be hanging out along the creek.
As we drove to the Park, two peacocks raced across the road, with their scrawny legs looking so funny. But the tail feathers are fully grown out now, for courting, and look lovely. There was also one on a fence with very long tail feathers hanging down. All around us is beauty, if we just open our eyes to see.
From the NIV
Ephesians 3: 14:4-6
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom the whole family of believers in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more that 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!
As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit-just as you were called to one hope when you were called-one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love,
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
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