I do not plan to include this post in my collection of writings for my grandchildren, this is just for me tonight. It's something I need to write as a way of expressing my very great burden for marriage.
I have failed to post a blog for the last couple of days because my chronological reading has taken me to Song of Solomon, a perplexing book in some respects because of its different interpretations (is it an allegory or a play, poetry or narrative?) and because I have had difficulty landing on exactly what I feel led to say about the content of the chapters to my grandchildren.
I do know this already though, I will be focusing on the beautiful demonstration of sexual purity that the young Shulamite maiden chooses despite her intense longing for her lover. After all, that is what God asks of us, right? And yet, all around, Christian marriages crumble after the news of infidelity, indiscretion and illicit encounters break.
Tonight, I am grieved for Jenny Sanford, the wife of South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford, and her four sons who now face public disgrace under very humiliating circumstances. I do not know her, but she is my sister. Her Christian faith is evidenced in a compelling statement released today that can be read here. And sadly, what can also be read on the Internet by anyone who cares to read it, are some of the explicit emails that Mr. Sanford exchanged with his adulterous lover.
Also in the news this week, Jon and Kate Gosselin, parents of eight beautiful children, and who also claim to share my Christian faith, have announced they will seek a divorce after rumors of extramarital encounters have surfaced. Never mind that there are eight little lives who will suffer as a result of the public spotlight their parents have placed them in, an adult's gotta do what an adult's gotta do, right?
So, is it inevitable that nearly every marriage will experience an implosion of some sort? I know it isn't because I have seen successes--marriages that don't make headlines or tabloids, yet are newsworthy nonetheless. I've watched my parents walk the "for better or worse, richer or poorer, in sickness and in health," road for 55 years. And they are not alone, others in my life have stayed the course and chosen to love when they didn't "feel" like loving and have been selfless in this selfish world.
In this life there are choices to make and they are never made in a vacuum. Mark Sanford, shame on you for choosing to cheat. Yes, God forgives those who genuinely repent and maybe you have done just that. I am certainly not your judge and I won't even play jury--but I will say this, my heart is breaking for your wife and sons, and I write this tonight asking that all who read these words pray for your heart to turn back toward home and for God to lovingly, mercifully, abundantly bless your heartbroken wife and sons.
Father, save Christian marriages in this age of selfish indulgence--and help those of us who claim your name to be examples of passionate purity and fervent faith who stay the course with your help and for your glory.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Prayers and Psalms...
The evening news brings stories of struggles around the world, evil that is rampant, people who are cruel and regimes that wickedly dominate and oppress all who oppose them. The reports are hard to hear and difficult to imagine, yet as I read scripture, it becomes clear that our news in the 2000's is quite similar to the news that would have been reported in the days of the kings of Israel.
The verses today are Psalm 119: 89 through 176. Years ago, I started praying many of the Psalms aloud as part of my prayers to God, personalizing applicable verses and reciting these songs of praise that so eloquently tell of His excellent greatness.
I encourage you to do the same sometimes. Reading these beautiful words that were written so many years ago is a precious reminder that although evil has always existed, it does not have to prevail in the lives of those who walk by faith in the Risen Lord. What a blessing to pray with the Psalmists, asking God to guide, protect, and use us as we recite our praises to the One who alone is worthy!
Psalm 119:
89 Your eternal word, O Lord,
stands firm in heaven.
90 Your faithfulness extends to every generation,
as enduring as the earth you created.
91 Your regulations remain true to this day,
for everything serves your plans.
105 Your word is a lamp to guide my feet
and a light for my path.
133 Guide my steps by your word,
so I will not be overcome by evil.
137 O Lord, you are righteous,
and your regulations are fair.
175 Let me live so I can praise you,
and may your regulations help me.
The verses today are Psalm 119: 89 through 176. Years ago, I started praying many of the Psalms aloud as part of my prayers to God, personalizing applicable verses and reciting these songs of praise that so eloquently tell of His excellent greatness.
I encourage you to do the same sometimes. Reading these beautiful words that were written so many years ago is a precious reminder that although evil has always existed, it does not have to prevail in the lives of those who walk by faith in the Risen Lord. What a blessing to pray with the Psalmists, asking God to guide, protect, and use us as we recite our praises to the One who alone is worthy!
Psalm 119:
89 Your eternal word, O Lord,
stands firm in heaven.
90 Your faithfulness extends to every generation,
as enduring as the earth you created.
91 Your regulations remain true to this day,
for everything serves your plans.
105 Your word is a lamp to guide my feet
and a light for my path.
133 Guide my steps by your word,
so I will not be overcome by evil.
137 O Lord, you are righteous,
and your regulations are fair.
175 Let me live so I can praise you,
and may your regulations help me.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Little Woman...
Disclaimer: I do not know this child, she is not one of my granddaughters, but she is adorable nonetheless. See if you agree!
This hilarious clip prompted a deviation from Bible blogging this morning for your viewing pleasure--enjoy...
This hilarious clip prompted a deviation from Bible blogging this morning for your viewing pleasure--enjoy...
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Wise Guys (and girls)...
I love to imagine the scene from fairy tales where a Genie offers to grant a wish. It's during those daydreams that I ponder what I'd ask for, and over the course of my life I can recall quite a vast array of notions.
I think my list has ranged from the material to world peace and back again--but today's scripture provides an example of the best possible request. In 1 Kings 3 and 4, David's son, Solomon, is king. In a dream, God appears and asks him what he wants.
Imagine that! The God of the universe, the owner of the cattle on a thousand hills, asking you to name it--whatever you want! My fear is that given that possibility and privilege, I'd blow it by asking for something stupid or ridiculous rather than responding as Solomon did--with careful, reflective wisdom. So what was this thing that he requested? Just that--wisdom. Take a look at what Solomon said:
1 Kings 3:10: Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?” The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for wisdom. 11 So God replied, “Because you have asked for wisdom in governing my people with justice and have not asked for a long life or wealth or the death of your enemies—12 I will give you what you asked for! I will give you a wise and understanding heart such as no one else has had or ever will have! 13 And I will also give you what you did not ask for—riches and fame!
Today's scriptures, 1 Kings 3-4; 2 Chronicles 1; and Psalm 72, include additional fascinating details, including a demonstration of Solomon's God-given wisdom when two women each claimed to be the mother of the same baby.
As I consider the most important take-away from these passages, I hope you are challenged to recognize and value what really matters. Scripture affirms that the beginning of wisdom is fear of the Lord. This "fear" means healthy respect, reverence and awe that results from awareness that God alone is Lord.
I pray--with all that is in me--that God grants me wisdom and that He does the same for you. And even more, I pray that you yearn for Godly wisdom and seek Him with all your heart so that when you are faced with choices--or options--that you will always choose wisely.
Psalm 72: (a Psalm of Solomon)
18 Praise the Lord God, the God of Israel,
who alone does such wonderful things.
19 Praise his glorious name forever!
Let the whole earth be filled with his glory.
Amen and amen!
I think my list has ranged from the material to world peace and back again--but today's scripture provides an example of the best possible request. In 1 Kings 3 and 4, David's son, Solomon, is king. In a dream, God appears and asks him what he wants.
Imagine that! The God of the universe, the owner of the cattle on a thousand hills, asking you to name it--whatever you want! My fear is that given that possibility and privilege, I'd blow it by asking for something stupid or ridiculous rather than responding as Solomon did--with careful, reflective wisdom. So what was this thing that he requested? Just that--wisdom. Take a look at what Solomon said:
1 Kings 3:10: Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?” The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for wisdom. 11 So God replied, “Because you have asked for wisdom in governing my people with justice and have not asked for a long life or wealth or the death of your enemies—12 I will give you what you asked for! I will give you a wise and understanding heart such as no one else has had or ever will have! 13 And I will also give you what you did not ask for—riches and fame!
Today's scriptures, 1 Kings 3-4; 2 Chronicles 1; and Psalm 72, include additional fascinating details, including a demonstration of Solomon's God-given wisdom when two women each claimed to be the mother of the same baby.
As I consider the most important take-away from these passages, I hope you are challenged to recognize and value what really matters. Scripture affirms that the beginning of wisdom is fear of the Lord. This "fear" means healthy respect, reverence and awe that results from awareness that God alone is Lord.
I pray--with all that is in me--that God grants me wisdom and that He does the same for you. And even more, I pray that you yearn for Godly wisdom and seek Him with all your heart so that when you are faced with choices--or options--that you will always choose wisely.
Psalm 72: (a Psalm of Solomon)
18 Praise the Lord God, the God of Israel,
who alone does such wonderful things.
19 Praise his glorious name forever!
Let the whole earth be filled with his glory.
Amen and amen!
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Give me sense...
If a day can be perfect, this one was pretty close. I know it isn't over yet, but I must thank God for the "so far".
Going to church is always great, but this morning was particularly good because Steven led worship with an obvious anointing that ushered in God's presence and made it easy to remember the reason we were there.
What a joy to know (and remember) that when it's all said and done, it's all about God! Throughout this day I've enjoyed little reminders of His greatness and His goodness, His power and His perfection.
After lunch with our children and grandchildren, we enjoyed some outside time by the pool and were surprised by a visit from two of our "adopted" kids who brought news that they are expecting their first child early next year. We couldn't be more ecstatic to know that another little life is being fashioned in the image of God!
Life. It really is a miracle and a reminder of how creative God is. As we eagerly await the arrival of our third granddaughter, I marvel at the mystery of God's amazing design.
Today's verses are among the most poetic in scripture. Psalm 119, verses 1-88, capture my heart with challenging words and insightful reminders that we are here for a reason and that life is a beautiful, sometimes chaotic journey that affords us the opportunity to choose to seek, find and follow the One who loves us most, or to follow the road well-traveled with all those who reject and deny their need for The Lord.
Thank you Father, that you have chosen to reveal yourself to all who seek you and that your Word brings comfort, consolation and confidence to all who place their trust in You!
Psalm 119:
18 Open my eyes to see
the wonderful truths in your instructions.
29 Keep me from lying to myself;
give me the privilege of knowing your instructions.
35 Make me walk along the path of your commands,
for that is where my happiness is found.
37 Turn my eyes from worthless things,
and give me life through your word.
73 You made me; you created me.
Now give me the sense to follow your commands.
Going to church is always great, but this morning was particularly good because Steven led worship with an obvious anointing that ushered in God's presence and made it easy to remember the reason we were there.
What a joy to know (and remember) that when it's all said and done, it's all about God! Throughout this day I've enjoyed little reminders of His greatness and His goodness, His power and His perfection.
After lunch with our children and grandchildren, we enjoyed some outside time by the pool and were surprised by a visit from two of our "adopted" kids who brought news that they are expecting their first child early next year. We couldn't be more ecstatic to know that another little life is being fashioned in the image of God!
Life. It really is a miracle and a reminder of how creative God is. As we eagerly await the arrival of our third granddaughter, I marvel at the mystery of God's amazing design.
Today's verses are among the most poetic in scripture. Psalm 119, verses 1-88, capture my heart with challenging words and insightful reminders that we are here for a reason and that life is a beautiful, sometimes chaotic journey that affords us the opportunity to choose to seek, find and follow the One who loves us most, or to follow the road well-traveled with all those who reject and deny their need for The Lord.
Thank you Father, that you have chosen to reveal yourself to all who seek you and that your Word brings comfort, consolation and confidence to all who place their trust in You!
Psalm 119:
18 Open my eyes to see
the wonderful truths in your instructions.
29 Keep me from lying to myself;
give me the privilege of knowing your instructions.
35 Make me walk along the path of your commands,
for that is where my happiness is found.
37 Turn my eyes from worthless things,
and give me life through your word.
73 You made me; you created me.
Now give me the sense to follow your commands.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Only God Can...
If you haven't yet, you one day will meet someone who is a self-exalter. According to the dictionary, to "exalt" means to praise, glorify or honor. When a person seriously exalts him or herself, there is always a reason--and usually it is a result of personal insecurity or doubts about their perceived worth or value.
In today's scriptures, 1 Kings 1 and 2, and Psalm 37,71 and 94, we learn that David's fourth son, Adonijah, decided to make himself king. Two of his older brothers were dead (Amnon and Absalom) and the other son who would have also been older, Chileab, may also have been dead because he was never mentioned again after 2 Samuel 3:3.
In making the decision to pronounce himself king, Adonijah violated one of scriptures principles: it is up to God to exalt us.
For exaltation comes neither from the east
Nor from the west nor from the south.
But God is the Judge: He puts down one,
And exalts another. (Psalm 75:6-7)
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. (James 4:10)
Reading through these chapters is fascinating because we learn here that no matter how we may connive, when something conflicts with God's will, it simply will not happen. Regardless of all our striving, our efforts are vain and our self-promotion is futile when we operate outside of God's plan.
The truth is that nobody enjoys being in the presence of someone who brags, applauds or otherwise exalts himself. I've often found myself feeling sorry for those who continually "toot their own horns," because it usually means there aren't loved ones or friends in their lives who will congratulate them when congratulations are in order, or build them up with encouraging words when deserved.
For that reason, although there are so many important lessons in today's passages, I want to focus on these two reminders.
#1. Leave the bragging about you to others and resist the temptation to exalt yourself no matter how difficult--that is God's privilege alone. To repeat a great quote, "He must increase, we must decrease."
#2. Speak words of loving encouragement to someone today. We may never know this side of heaven the impact of a complimentary conversation, but to the person who receives the kudos, it might prevent them from succumbing to the temptation to attempt patting their own back.
I love that God allows us to be his hands and feet while we journey here on earth, but I know that I fail Him every day. He wants people to feel loved, appreciated and encouraged through you and me. Let's go do some loving and appreciating today.
Father, help us seize every opportunity to tell someone who needs to know it that we appreciate them and recognize their value. And please, help us love them as You do. In Jesus Name, Amen.
In today's scriptures, 1 Kings 1 and 2, and Psalm 37,71 and 94, we learn that David's fourth son, Adonijah, decided to make himself king. Two of his older brothers were dead (Amnon and Absalom) and the other son who would have also been older, Chileab, may also have been dead because he was never mentioned again after 2 Samuel 3:3.
In making the decision to pronounce himself king, Adonijah violated one of scriptures principles: it is up to God to exalt us.
For exaltation comes neither from the east
Nor from the west nor from the south.
But God is the Judge: He puts down one,
And exalts another. (Psalm 75:6-7)
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. (James 4:10)
Reading through these chapters is fascinating because we learn here that no matter how we may connive, when something conflicts with God's will, it simply will not happen. Regardless of all our striving, our efforts are vain and our self-promotion is futile when we operate outside of God's plan.
The truth is that nobody enjoys being in the presence of someone who brags, applauds or otherwise exalts himself. I've often found myself feeling sorry for those who continually "toot their own horns," because it usually means there aren't loved ones or friends in their lives who will congratulate them when congratulations are in order, or build them up with encouraging words when deserved.
For that reason, although there are so many important lessons in today's passages, I want to focus on these two reminders.
#1. Leave the bragging about you to others and resist the temptation to exalt yourself no matter how difficult--that is God's privilege alone. To repeat a great quote, "He must increase, we must decrease."
#2. Speak words of loving encouragement to someone today. We may never know this side of heaven the impact of a complimentary conversation, but to the person who receives the kudos, it might prevent them from succumbing to the temptation to attempt patting their own back.
I love that God allows us to be his hands and feet while we journey here on earth, but I know that I fail Him every day. He wants people to feel loved, appreciated and encouraged through you and me. Let's go do some loving and appreciating today.
Father, help us seize every opportunity to tell someone who needs to know it that we appreciate them and recognize their value. And please, help us love them as You do. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Who's on First?
Me. It's a tiny little word that we all learn early. This morning, I stopped by Leslie's house to pick up some study material I needed in order to prepare for a class I'll be co-leading this summer at church. While there, I held Lilia for only a few seconds before Ava Grace noticed and started saying, "Me!". "Me!" "Me, Nana!"
Some people believe that humans are born basically good. This mistaken impression not only contradicts the teachings of scripture, it is a dangerous assumption because it can lead us to compare ourselves to each other (or really bad others) rather than comparing ourselves to our Holy, Heavenly Father.
In truth, we come into to the world bent on having things our way, getting what we want, and securing the good things first for ourselves. You only have to observe a toddler for minutes to see the sin nature rear its ugly head. Why share when we are bigger, stronger, or smarter? Why listen when what we're being told conflicts with what we prefer to do?
Just like little children, we often fail to see the harm or dangers that lurk on the other side of God's warnings and reminders. We want what we want, when we want it, exactly as we've ordered--anything less is insufficient for feeding our gluttonous fleshly appetites.
Today's scriptures are Psalm 111 through 118. The verses all paint incredible pictures of the majesty, glory and worthiness of God. We are reminded that it is in and through Him alone that we are secure and forgiven and that only when we submit and surrender to His Lordship can we say with the Psalmist that we "will not be overcome by evil," or that we "will not fear bad news".
But we, me, I, fight to be first--to be fed--to be foremost, to take the position that belongs only to God. Any attempt we make to find fulfillment and purpose apart from humble worship and submission to Christ is always vain and void. Consider these words from Psalm 115:
1 Not to us, O Lord, not to us,
but to your name goes all the glory
for your unfailing love and faithfulness.
Not to us! ALL glory and honor belongs to the Lord. Search, seek, and strive to take what is His for yourself and you will search a lifetime without success. Seek Him first--and His righteousness, and ALL that you really need will then be added. (Matthew 6:33)
Some people believe that humans are born basically good. This mistaken impression not only contradicts the teachings of scripture, it is a dangerous assumption because it can lead us to compare ourselves to each other (or really bad others) rather than comparing ourselves to our Holy, Heavenly Father.
In truth, we come into to the world bent on having things our way, getting what we want, and securing the good things first for ourselves. You only have to observe a toddler for minutes to see the sin nature rear its ugly head. Why share when we are bigger, stronger, or smarter? Why listen when what we're being told conflicts with what we prefer to do?
Just like little children, we often fail to see the harm or dangers that lurk on the other side of God's warnings and reminders. We want what we want, when we want it, exactly as we've ordered--anything less is insufficient for feeding our gluttonous fleshly appetites.
Today's scriptures are Psalm 111 through 118. The verses all paint incredible pictures of the majesty, glory and worthiness of God. We are reminded that it is in and through Him alone that we are secure and forgiven and that only when we submit and surrender to His Lordship can we say with the Psalmist that we "will not be overcome by evil," or that we "will not fear bad news".
But we, me, I, fight to be first--to be fed--to be foremost, to take the position that belongs only to God. Any attempt we make to find fulfillment and purpose apart from humble worship and submission to Christ is always vain and void. Consider these words from Psalm 115:
1 Not to us, O Lord, not to us,
but to your name goes all the glory
for your unfailing love and faithfulness.
Not to us! ALL glory and honor belongs to the Lord. Search, seek, and strive to take what is His for yourself and you will search a lifetime without success. Seek Him first--and His righteousness, and ALL that you really need will then be added. (Matthew 6:33)
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
To Summarize...
While vacationing, I read a book that many friends and loved ones have recommended, and it challenged me in a way that only God's Word has previously.
The book, "Crazy Love," by Francis Chan, does a pretty good job of explaining what it actually means to be pursued by a relentless God--and in turn, what it might look like if we, as his children, could grasp the depth, breadth and height of not only His love for us, but also His purity and holiness.
The scriptures that continue my chronological journey through the Bible today are 1 Chronicles 26-29, and Psalm 127. The passages explain the duties assigned to specific people near the end of King David's life and the eventual passing of the leadership torch to his son, Solomon.
I'm particularly fascinated by the way David's reign is summarized in
1 Chronicles 29: 26-28 So David son of Jesse reigned over all Israel. 27 He reigned over Israel for forty years, seven of them in Hebron and thirty-three in Jerusalem. 28 He died at a ripe old age, having enjoyed long life, wealth, and honor. Then his son Solomon ruled in his place.
All of the prior details we've covered including the trials, terrors, tragedies and troubles of David's life are seemingly forgotten-- and only the good is recorded in the summary, which brings me to why I mentioned "Crazy Love" earlier. Francis Chan reminded me in the book that when this life ends, it's pretty definite that there will be a nice memorial service where nice things are said about me--but at that point, it won't matter. The only thing that will matter is Who I've served, and how that impacted the way my time was spent--what I invested in--who I invested in--what I was passionate about.
Scripture explains that we cannot serve two masters in Matthew 6:24. It also says that we are either for or against THE Lord in Luke 11:23. When we meet Him face to face, the only summary of our lives that counts will be how we responded to the compelling, overwhelming love of Christ and whether we said, "Yes," or "No," to His call for us to take up our cross and follow Him. Have you said yes, yet? I have, and there is no question more pressing, no decision more urgent, and no reason to delay.
The book, "Crazy Love," by Francis Chan, does a pretty good job of explaining what it actually means to be pursued by a relentless God--and in turn, what it might look like if we, as his children, could grasp the depth, breadth and height of not only His love for us, but also His purity and holiness.
The scriptures that continue my chronological journey through the Bible today are 1 Chronicles 26-29, and Psalm 127. The passages explain the duties assigned to specific people near the end of King David's life and the eventual passing of the leadership torch to his son, Solomon.
I'm particularly fascinated by the way David's reign is summarized in
1 Chronicles 29: 26-28 So David son of Jesse reigned over all Israel. 27 He reigned over Israel for forty years, seven of them in Hebron and thirty-three in Jerusalem. 28 He died at a ripe old age, having enjoyed long life, wealth, and honor. Then his son Solomon ruled in his place.
All of the prior details we've covered including the trials, terrors, tragedies and troubles of David's life are seemingly forgotten-- and only the good is recorded in the summary, which brings me to why I mentioned "Crazy Love" earlier. Francis Chan reminded me in the book that when this life ends, it's pretty definite that there will be a nice memorial service where nice things are said about me--but at that point, it won't matter. The only thing that will matter is Who I've served, and how that impacted the way my time was spent--what I invested in--who I invested in--what I was passionate about.
Scripture explains that we cannot serve two masters in Matthew 6:24. It also says that we are either for or against THE Lord in Luke 11:23. When we meet Him face to face, the only summary of our lives that counts will be how we responded to the compelling, overwhelming love of Christ and whether we said, "Yes," or "No," to His call for us to take up our cross and follow Him. Have you said yes, yet? I have, and there is no question more pressing, no decision more urgent, and no reason to delay.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Blessings, blessings, blessings...
Life has been a wonderful roller coaster ride since the middle of May--and I am going to take an opportunity tonight to post a few of the highlights.
On May 16, a beautiful Saturday morning, Leslie, Jessica and I hosted a baby shower brunch for my "adopted" daughter, Lindy. It was the perfect morning and oh so much fun. Precious Macie Ryan is due in July and we can't wait to welcome her! Here are a couple of the shower pictures...
On that same day, my favorite son-in-law, Steven, celebrated the day of his birth. We went to dinner the previous night to mark the milestone with food and festivities. Leslie appears substantially shorter in this photo because she was kneeling beside him for the picture. We, of course, must take the opportunity to tease her about having bowed to his highness. Happy Birthday Steven, we're so glad that God brought you into our lives...
Not to be outdone, my dad got into May 16th's action by falling from a ladder while pruning a tree. He was unconscious and suffered significant injuries and trauma, but without a doubt God answered the many prayers lifted for him by giving Dad a recovery that is miraculous. He is still black and blue from bruising and transfusing, but he is walking with only the assistance of a cane at this point! We love you Dad, and we're all thrilled that you are doing so well. May I be so bold as to suggest that you do some serious praying about what kind of assignment God has for you since you missed this great opportunity to leave us? You are hereby, officially, on ladder restriction!
On May 26, George and I celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary! He is my best friend and in fact, the best person I know. The photo here was taken after a heavy rain, so don't mistake the fog for halos--wink wink. Seriously though, God has blessed us and we are so grateful...
We enjoyed a cruise vacation to celebrate our anniversary. My sister, Lisa, and her husband, Dale, went with us. We had some moments that will go down in history--(ours at least)... I won't elaborate except to say that just the mention of her name makes me laugh out loud. I'm glad you're my friend, Lisa, and I can't wait for you to move back to Charlotte!
Finally, we returned to Charlotte just in time for me to turn 50. The surprise party that was thrown by my family was amazing. A steel drum band was playing by the pool when we returned from dinner--and about forty of my dearest friends and family were gathered to help me usher in this "golden" year. I understand that my sister, Kathie, worked feverishly to get this whole thing set up while we were at dinner. Did I already say I'm blessed?
In my mind, I'm still eighteen, but I guess the proof's in the pudding--I'm not looking so young anymore. But I wouldn't change one thing if I could because these years have allowed me to experience God's grace, mercy and blessings in ways that I wouldn't trade for all the wrinkle-free, jiggleless days of youth in the world.
So...I plan to resume the Bible blog tomorrow, Lord willing, but hopefully, these pictures and details will explain the blogging absence. For each of you who have wished me happy birthday, happy anniversary, or happy sailing, I say THANK YOU! You are the blessings for which I am grateful every day and I thank my God upon every remembrance of you. Philippians 1:3
Love,
Sandy
On May 16, a beautiful Saturday morning, Leslie, Jessica and I hosted a baby shower brunch for my "adopted" daughter, Lindy. It was the perfect morning and oh so much fun. Precious Macie Ryan is due in July and we can't wait to welcome her! Here are a couple of the shower pictures...
On that same day, my favorite son-in-law, Steven, celebrated the day of his birth. We went to dinner the previous night to mark the milestone with food and festivities. Leslie appears substantially shorter in this photo because she was kneeling beside him for the picture. We, of course, must take the opportunity to tease her about having bowed to his highness. Happy Birthday Steven, we're so glad that God brought you into our lives...
Not to be outdone, my dad got into May 16th's action by falling from a ladder while pruning a tree. He was unconscious and suffered significant injuries and trauma, but without a doubt God answered the many prayers lifted for him by giving Dad a recovery that is miraculous. He is still black and blue from bruising and transfusing, but he is walking with only the assistance of a cane at this point! We love you Dad, and we're all thrilled that you are doing so well. May I be so bold as to suggest that you do some serious praying about what kind of assignment God has for you since you missed this great opportunity to leave us? You are hereby, officially, on ladder restriction!
On May 26, George and I celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary! He is my best friend and in fact, the best person I know. The photo here was taken after a heavy rain, so don't mistake the fog for halos--wink wink. Seriously though, God has blessed us and we are so grateful...
We enjoyed a cruise vacation to celebrate our anniversary. My sister, Lisa, and her husband, Dale, went with us. We had some moments that will go down in history--(ours at least)... I won't elaborate except to say that just the mention of her name makes me laugh out loud. I'm glad you're my friend, Lisa, and I can't wait for you to move back to Charlotte!
Finally, we returned to Charlotte just in time for me to turn 50. The surprise party that was thrown by my family was amazing. A steel drum band was playing by the pool when we returned from dinner--and about forty of my dearest friends and family were gathered to help me usher in this "golden" year. I understand that my sister, Kathie, worked feverishly to get this whole thing set up while we were at dinner. Did I already say I'm blessed?
In my mind, I'm still eighteen, but I guess the proof's in the pudding--I'm not looking so young anymore. But I wouldn't change one thing if I could because these years have allowed me to experience God's grace, mercy and blessings in ways that I wouldn't trade for all the wrinkle-free, jiggleless days of youth in the world.
So...I plan to resume the Bible blog tomorrow, Lord willing, but hopefully, these pictures and details will explain the blogging absence. For each of you who have wished me happy birthday, happy anniversary, or happy sailing, I say THANK YOU! You are the blessings for which I am grateful every day and I thank my God upon every remembrance of you. Philippians 1:3
Love,
Sandy
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