Friday Night Live

Day 19 of 25 Days of Thanksgiving

I am thankful for the Friday night ministry at our church.  We simply call it "Friday Night Live".  And alive it is!  We are in our third year of doing Friday Night Live (FNL) each week.  We started FNL as the catalyst for our Christian Recovery Ministry.  Our desire was to give people an alternative on Friday nights instead of going "out" to bars, etc.  FNL has evolved from the first session and we have various classes offered each session/semester: (i.e., Women's Bible Studies, Beth Moore Studies, Sign Language Class, Men's Studies, etc.).  What an amazing thing to see families come out on Friday nights seeking The Lord and eager to learn more about Jesus and eager to fellowship with one another. Simply Amazing.   Tonight we finished our Fall 2010 session of FNL and concluded a 10 week "Crazy Love" Bible Study Challenge.  It was life changing.    I am looking forward to seeing what The Lord has in store for our FNL for the 2011 Winter session!!!

Butt...I "heart" you!!

Day 18 of 25 Days of Thanksgiving

When I walked into the bathroom this morning I glanced down and found this in the floor:

Today, I am thankful for the red confetti heart.   

Red confetti hearts have a history in the Burton home.   It started on our honeymoon.  When Jim and I arrived at our hotel, we opened our suitcases only to find a zillion little red confetti hearts spewing out everywhere.   We later learned that Jim’s mom was the heart sprinkling culprit.   We found red confetti hearts randomly around our house for the first year of marriage thanks to MeMaw Burton.  

On our first anniversary, I thought it only appropriate to repeat the heart sprinkling.  Not wanting them in my house to make a mess I trashed Jim’s car with red hearts the night before our anniversary. The next morning, much to his surprise-he was greeted with confetti hearts in his car.   Despite my effort to keep the mess out of the house, the hearts found their way back into our home and history repeated itself.  We found random red hearts through the house (and car) for the next year.  We also moved that year and we even found red hearts in our NEW home!

Each year on our anniversary I keep the heart tradition alive.  It has become very comical to find little hearts show-up in  very unexpected places (curious minds want to know so keep reading).  

There is a word of caution here.  In September, we celebrated our 20th anniversary.  Being on a tight budget we decided not to celebrate, in addition to the fact we had to attend a funeral that day.  However, I was determined the heart sprinkling tradition was going to continue!!

The morning of our anniversary I hurried outside and started sprinkling hearts in the car.  A bit later as we were leaving for the funeral, Jim was delighted to find the “surprise” waiting for him in the driver's seat of our car.  He thought I had forgotten.   

Here is the warning part:  Red hearts CLING.   As we were walking into the church for the funeral, Jim was walking in front of me.  I glanced up to find a red heart stuck to his…....um…....his  le derrière!   I was mortified.  I wasn’t sure what to do.  If I reached to “wipe it off”, people would think I was grabbing his butt and that would most certainly be inappropriate  behavior for a Pastor's wife (at least in public).  So—with no time to think, not sure what a girl should do, I made a hasty decision.  I decided to let the heart stay right where it was!!!  (I "heart" my man so much. *smile*)

I want to encourage you to share the red heart confetti tradition at your home too.  You never know where they will show-up.   (Just remember—you have been warned.)

The Family That Prays Together, Stays Together

Day 17 of 25 Days of Thanksgiving

I am thankful for my Godly, Christian parents.  I am who I am today because of their love and support. We have shared many memories, tears, prayers and laughter (lots of laughter I might add!!)

 I love you mom and dad. Thank you for everything!!!  

“Children are natural mimics who act like their parents despite every effort to teach them good manners”  Author Unknown

  

Families are like fudge - mostly sweet with a few nuts.  ~Author Unknown

Me and my mom doing our annual Christmas Eve candle stick karaoke 

The one thing children wear out faster than shoes is parents.  ~J. Plomp

Your children need your presence more than your presents.  ~J. Jackson

"Any man can be a father.  It takes someone special to be a dad." Unknown  

You know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer ......

Day 16 of 25 Days of Thanksgiving

While digging through Christmas tree ornaments last night, I was reminded that I am thankful for the continuing 20 year debate my husband and I have each year at Christmas.  Each year we have a (healthy and friendly) debate about the name of one of Santa's Reindeer (we are so mature, huh?).   Jim holds firm to his belief that the reindeer is Donner, while I hold firm that his name is Donder.  We both have done research and have tried to prove our point to one another.   Neither of us will budge from our firm and differing conviction.


Years ago, I received a gift from Jim's sister that I adore.  Every year when I decorate my tree, I pull out the gift as my friendly little "Jim, I'm right" reminder.  

Of course, since I decorate the tree, Donder is perched front and center on our tree.  

I am still waiting for Jim to bring home a "Donner" ornament ........(Jim, if you are reading this--it is on baby!  You HAVE been challenged!!)  


I love my man. 

An Index Card Kinda Mornin'

Day 15 of 25 Days of Thanksgiving

I am thankful that the Lord gives us exactly what we need…when we need it and sometimes even before we need it.  

picture from staples.com

When I opened my Bible this morning, an index card fell out with this verse written on the card (1 Corinthians 15:57-58)

But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

"Awww, what a great verse!” I thought then I quickly shoved the card back into the Bible not giving the it a second thought.  A bit later in my reading time, I noticed a red tab I had inserted in my Bible some time ago (based on the tattered look of the red tab—it was a long time ago). Not remembering why I had "flagged" my Bible, my curiosity got the best of me and I flipped to the tab which revealed an arrow pointing to a highlighted text.  What text?…get ready…it was this verse (again):

But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

I was excited that the Lord had given me the same verse twice in less than an hour.  I was thrilled and confidently accepted this verse for my day!    Little did I know He was preparing me for a “situation” that would quickly happen.

The “situation” hit out of nowhere and it left me a bit confused and doubtful.  I wanted to defend my belief and convictions but I felt inadequate to do so in this "situation".   I felt discouraged and honestly, my first thought was a defeated thought that echoed “why do I bother?” inside my mind.   I was quickly reminded of the verses my Friend had given me earlier in my morning.  Though I had thought I would need the verse for "exciting ministry adventures" I really needed it as a confirmation and reminder to me as I battled discouragement and isolation. 

 I am so thankful for His truths.  I am thankful that no matter when or how the attacks may come, He is faithful to give encouragement.  What a beautiful thing to know that the encouragement is always right on time even when we are clueless to His timing.   

When you experience a “situation” or an attack in your life that leaves you feeling alone and discouraged, remember there is One who cares.   So, stand firm!  We have the victory through Jesus. 

I found this poem over the weekend while I was searching for something. Once again, His encouragement was right on time!!  (I do not know who wrote this poem.  If you know, please email me and tell me so I can give proper credit)

So much material

So much to learn

So much to change

An overwhelming concern

“Something is better than nothing”

We are told,

And, again wisdom and understanding

Are better than gold

Where do I begin?  I’m not even thin!

I move one step forward-two back,

I find my priorities all out of whack

I want to be on the right track.

Pray for me, I need it so,

For I’ve got a long way to go

Many things are obvious today,

The answer to this dilemma ---- PRAY!

(Author unknown)

Be a Voice

Day 14 of 25 Days of Thanksgiving

Today our church participated in the 2010 International Day of Prayer.  I am thankful for organizations like Open Doors USA and Voice of The Martyrs that help assist Christians around the world who are persecuted for their faith in Jesus Christ. 

I am thankful for my religious freedom.

Saturday Morning "C.C."

Day 13 of 25 Days of Thanksgiving

I just love Saturday mornings (especially when I have no place to go!).  Today is one of those days.  It is a chilly morning where I live and I am enjoying "C.C".   When my girls were younger every Saturday morning was "C.C."  It stood for "Coffee and Cartoons".  Every Friday night I would ask, "Guess what?", to which they would reply with great excitement, "What?" Then I would answer with,  "Tomorrow is C.C.!!".  We would jump around and yell with joy.   It was a blessing to spend a few hours every Saturday morning watching cartoons with the girls and drinking coffee.  (In case you are wondering, I would give them a very watered down cup of java too.)  

This morning I sat all alone (dogs in lap) enjoying my Novermber version of "C.C".  I had "coffee" in my hand and my undecorated "Christmas tree" by my side.  

After a short time, my November "C.C"  evolved to another cup of "Coffee" and my "Computer".   I was able to sit for a while and catch up on some of the blogs that I follow.  Today, I am thankful for blogs out there in  Blogville.  I am thankful for my blog friends.  Many I have never met and probably never will.  Yet, their blogs are a source of inspiration and encouragement to me.  These blogs also serve as yet another way to share prayer requests and  intercede for others.  In addition, one advantage of a blog friend is that you don't have to worry about them showing up at your front door if your house is not clean.  (joking!  well--sorta!)

I wanted to share that I found a new blog last night.  One of my friends had posted her blog post on Facebook.   This blog post really inspired me and blessed my heart.  I hope this will encourage you all as well.  Check out Wanda's blog, The Journey of My Pen and read this post called Life As Ministry.

I am also linking up to Company Girl Coffee  to get to know some of the other great ladies in Blogville. 

Okay, I am signing off now so I can continue with my "C.C". ---"Coffee" and "Cleaning".

Another reason I wear purple

Day 12 of 25 Days of Thanksgiving

 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  1 Corinthians 4:16

My blog post today is a topic that I have never mentioned on my blog or Facebook.  I feel that it is time for me to be real and transparent and write a post about this part of my life.  To be honest, I am not sure why I feel led to do so today, but here it goes:

Today, on Day 12, I am thankful for my fibromyalgia. (click here for more info about Fibromyalgia) After a few years of testing, I was finally diagnosed in 2009.  I have been told by several people through the years that it "is in my head" and not "real" or if I had enough faith, I'd be healed.  I beg to differ.  I know it is not in my head.  And I do have faith.  That is what makes me thankful for the fibromyalgia.  I am thankful because this condition can be a humble reminder that this old body is wasting away but that one day I will live with Christ forever and I will have a new body.  I am thankful that in my weakness, Jesus' strength is made perfect. I am thankful for my fibromyalgia because it forces me to trust The Lord with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding.   I am thankful that He and He alone gives me strength to do all that He has called me to do regardless of what my body 'tells me'.  I am thankful the pain I experience and extreme fatigue strips me from all pride.  I am thankful that My Lord is the Ultimate Doctor in my life, Jehovah Rapha, and He guides me. I am thankful for the health that I do have as I know that it could always be worse.  I am thankful for my loving family and husband that understands the limitations that I experience.  I am thankful that I am more than a conqueror through Christ Jesus and all that I do or say can be for His glory.   

I am thankful that my fibromyalgia does not define me!!!

I am thankful that the support color for Fibro is purple--seriously is there any better color?  

Thankful Thursday

Day 11 of 25 Days of Thanksgiving

I am thankful for the evening I had to spend at home with my family. We kept a special "little one" this afternoon. We had so much fun laughing, playing, and dancing around to Christmas music.  Our special visitor even helped us put up our Christmas Tree. 

I am, once again, thankful for each of you moms of little ones.  I was  reminded (again) firsthand of how much work you all have to do! My. Heavens.   I was blessed to have JoJo helping me babysit, as well as, a precious husband (who helped cook dinner).   I wish I was rich and could give each and everyone of you moms a maid or personal chef (of course, I'd have one too if I were rich!)  Actually, you probably would just like a nap if the truth be known.  

Surely, Isaiah 40:29 (He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.) can be claimed, prayed and quoted for all moms everywhere, right?  RIGHT!

Lastly, I am thankful for bedtime.  My little grand-baby wore me out. But it was worth every moment and every memory made.  

Now, this grandma is off to beddy-bye! 

It's beginning to look a lot like.........

Day 10 of 25 Days of Thanksgiving

Today is a fun "thankful".  I am thankful for Target!!  I know, I know-- a bit lame but still true.    I had to run into my local Target this afternoon to grab two items.  I did pretty good - I left with only three items!  When I walked into the store I was greeted with this beautiful sight:

Later tonight I will be greeted with another beautiful sight.  Little Miss Jaelynn will arrive.  Amanda sent me this picture today before they hit the road.  (I think she is ready to get going and come see her Mimi).

Word Up

Day 9 of 25 Days of Thanksgiving

Today I am thankful for God's Word.  You see, I have an obsession with Bibles.  I love, love, totally love Bibles!  I actually swoon over them.  I can not walk into a bookstore without checking out the Bible section.  Many times I have arrived home and had to explain a compulsive Bible purchase to Jim with something like this, "But...I just HAD to have it! I don't have one like this one.  And it was on SALE!".   

Here are a few from my collection:

I even have a Beck's Translation.  Seriously!  Wait for it.....wait for it..........

Talk about the Word of God "speaking to you"......I feel as if this calls me by name:

(What a reminder.  "Beck, Christ has freed us!"  Indeed He has!)    

This purple beauty is one of my favorites.  I call her my "Legacy Bible". 

Jim game me this one in 1995 for Christmas.  It contains so many precious notes and highlights.  I have pretty much retired this precious keepsake as I am afraid I will take it someplace and forget it.    In the back of this Bible I have kept a record of quotes through the years that I liked.  I write who said the quote and the date. This was my only Bible for many years when I was a young Christian woman trying to learn The Word.  I can not even imgaine the number of  church services, Vacation Bible Schools, Precpet Bible Studies and revivals this Bible 'attended' with me. I wonder how many tears the pages of my Legacy Bible caught.  I can remember a time when I was so desperate for The Lord to speak (my heart was aching and I was confused by life) that I literally covered my head with this Bible and cried to The Lord for any measure of wisdom He would give me.  This tattered Bible was my "bff" when my girls were little and Jim worked 60 hour work weeks.  

    

I am SO thankful for The Word.  Heaven and Earth will pass away but the Word of the Lord will remain forever.    

I want to keep it real.  If you read my blog, you know I like "realness" (if that is a word).  I have a confession.  With all the Bibles I own, I am not in the Word like I should be these days.  I do try to read the Word daily.  However, I am falling short.  Many times I find myself sitting down in a hurry to read to basically  "get it done" or so I can say I had my "quiet time" today.  Sometimes I read with a purpose to find my next lesson while preparing for a class or teaching, not that this is wrong, but I want to read with a fresh anticipation.  I want to read with the expectation that I will receive a fresh Word from The Lord that will give me life that I need each day. 


  I have often thought that there may come a day when we will not have the freedom to have Bibles.  What will we do then?  We will only have what is inside us from years of studying and memorizing The Word.   


How often do  sit down and just read or study to hear from The Lord.  To hear what He wants to say to me?  The Word is life and it is power.  I pray I can saturate myself more in the days to come and not less.  How about you?  Are you in the Word like you need to be?  If not, let's commit to dig deeper together.  The popular key phrase these days is to "Man Up".  At church my CCF gals say we need to "Girl Up" (meaning to get rid of all fear and anxiety that holds us back and just do whatever it is that needs to be done).  I think the answer is even better than "Man Up" or "Girl Up"...we just need to  "Word Up"! 


Let's get busy and get in The Word.  Word-Up gals, Word-up!   ( And if you need a Bible, let me know.  I have one you can borrow!)

I love the Message version of Psalms 119:105.  May this be the cry of our heart:

 By your words I can see where I'm going; they throw a beam of light on my dark path.  I've committed myself and I'll never turn back from living by your righteous order.  Everything's falling apart on me, God; put me together again with your Word. Festoon me with your finest sayings, God; teach me your holy rules.   My life is as close as my own hands, but I don't forget what you have revealed.   The wicked do their best to throw me off track, but I don't swerve an inch from your course. I inherited your book on living; it's mine forever— 

 what a gift! And how happy it makes me! I concentrate on doing exactly what you say— always have and always will.