HAVE FAITH.......

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

What are you hoping for in your life today? The Bible says that faith gives substance to the things you hope for. Notice this verse starts by saying, “Now faith…” It’s not “later” faith or “one day” faith. We have to believe that God is working behind the scenes right now. Faith is simply believing that God is a good and faithful God—that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Can you believe that God wants to move in your life, today? Do you believe He can provide for you need, today? Do you believe He can heal your relationships, today? Do you believe He can give you that promotion, today? Whatever you are hoping for, open your heart and expect that God is working on your behalf. Stand strong and declare that victory is already yours. As you face each day with faith and expectancy, you’ll increase in strength and see God’s hand in every area of your life!

**excerpt from Joel Olsteen's devotional......

The Shack

Well I thought I would just let people know that I am going to be hosting a book club starting in April. A lot have already read the book "The Shack" or are in the midst of reading. If you have already read it that's OK because there is so much in the book to discover that we can together read it again and will probably see more in it the second time around.
So mark April 2 on your calenders and plan to attend. My house starting at 7pm.
It should be a time of exploring our walk with God.
I am going to include some comments about the book that I got off the website. So see you April 2.

**Jason the lord has led us to a small number of life-changing books and this one heads the list. When you close the back cover you will be changed.

Dale Lang, (rockcanada.org), father of student killed in Columbine copycat shooting

**You will be captivated by the creativity and imagination of the shack, and before you know it you’ll be experiencing god as never before. William Young’s insights are not just captivating, they are biblically faithful and true. Don’t miss this transforming story of grace.

Greg Albrecht, Editor, Plain Truth Magazine

I read and wept and slept and read again. I am full of words, inexpressible thoughts, shades and hues of hope and light and joy.

Larry Gillis, pastor/counselor

This is from the author's bio:

These are some of the facts of my life, but they don’t begin to tell the real story. That would take much more room than is available here. The journey has been both incredible and unbearable, a desperate grasping after grace and wholeness. These facts don’t tell you about the pain of trying to adjust to different cultures, of life losses that were almost too staggering to bear, of walking down railroad tracks at night in the middle of winter screaming into the windstorm, of living with an underlying volume of shame so deep and loud that it constantly threatened any sense of sanity, of dreams not only destroyed but obliterated by personal failure, of hope so tenuous that only the trigger seemed to offer a solution. These few facts also do not speak to the potency of love and forgiveness, the arduous road of reconciliation, the surprises of grace and community, of transformational healing and the unexpected emergence of joy. Facts alone might help you understand where a person has been, but often hide who they actually are.

The Shack will tell you much more about me than a few facts ever could. In some ways my life is partly revealed in both characters—Willie and Mack. But an author is always more. I hope that someday we can share a cup of coffee, or for me, an extra hot chai tea with soy. If that happens, and if you want, I will tell you a little more about the bigger story and you can tell me some of yours.

That about sums up my life. For me, everything is about Jesus and Father and the Holy Spirit, and relationships, and life is an adventure of faith lived one day at a time. Any aspirations, visions and dreams died a long time ago and I have absolutely no interest in resurrecting them (they would stink by now anyway). I have finally figured out that I have nothing to lose by living a life of faith. I know more joy every minute of every day than seems appropriate, but I love the wastefulness of my Papa’s grace and presence. For me, everything in my life that matters, is perfect!

God is giving you HOPE today

“Find rest, o my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him” (Psalm 62:5).

God is constantly planting seeds of hope and victory in your life. He’s constantly trying to deposit His faith on the inside of you. Often times, when we’re anxious and worried, it’s difficult to hear His voice of hope and confidence. But when we stop and quiet ourselves, when we find rest in Him, we will recognize His voice of hope.

You’ll hear Him saying to your heart, “Your best days are still in front of you, you are more than a conqueror, you’re the head and not the tail.” As you receive His hope, it creates a foundation for faith to rise inside your heart. The Bible says that faith gives substance to things hoped for. In other words, your hope gives your faith something to work toward. If the cares of this world have left you frustrated and empty today, make the decision right now to open your heart and allow the Lord to deposit His hope on the inside of you. It doesn’t matter what you are facing today or what’s happened in your past, God wants to give you hope today. He wants to pour out His blessing in every area of your life so that you will live the abundant life He has for you!

**excerpt from Joel's devotional**

Cat and Mouse.....

Well, our cat is now suffering from post-traumatic stress order. Why you ask? Well our cat has not seen the outdoors her whole life. Well, she as ventured out on to the deck but that is about it. Which brings me to this story. Charlie caught a mouse last night, yes in our HOUSE!!! YIKES!!!!!
I am not very happy about this either. Anyway, she was very jumpy after the whole ordeal. She is very skitish, and is not liking her space being invaded by little rodents. Anyway, I took matters into my own hands, I went today and bought those ultra sonic sound wave thingys you plug in and also bought some of the big gun stuff. Anyway, I am hoping Charlie won't need extensive counseling for the next few years.
Welcome to spring!!!!!!!!!

When you show LOVE, you are showing God to the world.....Part 2

A few weeks later, I received a letter from that young lady. I had no idea that she had recognized Victoria and me; she hadn't given us any indication that she knew us.
Her letter began by asking, "Do you remember me? I'm the girl who waited on you at what was probably your worst restaurant experience ever?"
I smiled as I read and thought, I know exactly who you are. She went on to tell how she had been raised in a good christian family. They went to church every Sunday, but in her late teens, her family was hurt by a leader in their congregation. Somebody did them wrong. Consequently, the entire family had given up on God and dropped out of church. Over the last year or two, however, they had been watching me on television. The waitress related in her letter, "I told my parents I know those people are real. Something on the inside tells me they're sincere and we need to get back in church."
She continued, "Joel. when you and your wife came in the restaurant, and we got your order all mixed up, most people would have really gotten aggravated and upset, but you two were so nice and kind. And on top of that, you left us that big tip." She said, "That confirmed what I already knew in my heart. I went home and told my parents what happened, and now we've gotten our lives back on track, and we're worshiping the Lord at Lakewood every Sunday morning."

Learn to be good to people. That's one of the best witnesses we can possibly have. Now, when I tip people, I tell Victoria, "We're going to sow a seed into their life. Here's an opportunity to do good." When I leave that place, I want them to be able to say, "That couple sure is generous; they are good people."
The world does not need to hear another sermon nearly as much as it needs to see one. Learn to give your time, your money, and an encouraging word; meet a need.

When you show LOVE, you are showing GOD to the world.


**excerpt from "Become a better You by Joel Olsteen**

When you show LOVE, you show God to the world....

excerpt from Joel Olsteen's book, Become a Better You!!!

Victoria and I went to a restaurant where we had eaten a number of times before. We practically knew the menu by heart, and we knew exactly what we wanted. When we sat down, we ordered right away. I was hungry, but it seemed to take forever for the cooks to prepare our food. We waited and waited. It didn't make sense. The restaurant wasn't even busy. When the waitress finally brought the food, our order was incorrect. She returned my dinner to the kitchen, and it was another long delay. Finally, I got tired of waiting and began eating off Victoria's plate. It was the worst service that we'd ever had in that restaurant.

When it came time to pay the bill and leave a tip, I thought, God, now you just say what happened. And I know that you're a just God. Surely, you don't expect me to leave a good tip.
Almost immediately, I knew I was wrong. I said, "Okay, God; how about five percent?"
Let me tell you a secret. Don't ever negotiate with God, because you will never win. I said, "Okay, God, how about ten percent, fifteen percent? That's the normal amount. God, you know that's the going rate. I should be able to do that." But I still didn't have any peace. I knew God was saying, "Don't miss this opportunity to do good. Don't miss this opportunity to show MY MERCY." We can be good to people when they're good to us. That's easy. But God wants us to be good to people even when they're not so good to us.

I eventually changed my attitude and thought, I'm not just going to give this girl a tip, I'm going to sow a seed in her life. I'm going to go the extra mile and be good to her. We left a twenty-dollar tip for a thirty- dollar meal. But we did it as sowing a seed.

This is not the end of the story, I will continue it tomorrow.......
Great lesson in this, who in your daily life should you sow a seed? People that you work with, socialize with, go to church with? Stay tuned!!!!!!

What's Your Title?

A woman named Emily renewing her driver's license at the Transport office was asked by the clerk to state her occupation. She hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself. "What I mean
is, "Explained the clerk, "do you have a job, or are you just a ? "Of course I have a job," snapped Emily. "I'm a Mum." "We don't list 'Mum' as an occupation...... 'housewife' covers it," said the clerk emphatically.
I forgot all about her story until one day I found myself in the same situation, this time at our local police station. The Clerk was obviously a career woman, poised, efficient, and possessed of a high sounding title like, "Official Interrogator" or "Town Registrar." "What is your occupation?" she probed. What made me say it, I do not know... The words simply popped out. "I'm a Research Associate in the field of Child Development and Human Relations."The clerk paused, pen frozen in midair, and looked up as though she had not heard right. I repeated the title slowly, emphasizing the most significant words.
Then I stared with wonder as my pronouncement was written in bold, black ink on the official questionnaire! "Might I ask," said the clerk with new interest, "just what you do in your field?"Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice, I heard myself reply, "I have a continuing programme of research, (what mother doesn't), in the laboratory and in the field, (normally I would have said indoors and out). I'm working for my Masters, (the whole bloody family), and already have four credits, (all daughters). Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the humanities, (any mother care to disagree.?) and I often work 14 hours a day, (24 is more like it). But the job is more challenging than most run-of-the-mill careers and the rewards are more of a satisfaction rather than just money." There was an increasing note of respect in the girl's voice as she completed the form, stood up, and personally ushered me to the door.
When I got home, buoyed up by my glamorous new career, I was greeted by my lab assistants -- ages 10, 7, and 3. Upstairs, I could hear our new experimental model, (a 6 month old baby), in the child development programme, testing out a new vocal pattern. I felt I had triumphed over bureaucracy! And I had gone on the official records as someone more distinguished and indispensable to mankind than "just another Mum."
Motherhood.....What a glorious career! Especially when there's a title on the door. Does this make grandmothers "Senior Research Associates in the field of Child Development and Human Relations" , and great Grandmothers "Executive Senior Research Associates"??? I think so!!! I also think it makes Aunts "Associate Research Assistants". Please send this to another Mum, Grandmother, Aunt, and other friends you know.

Author unknown..................but very smart

Have Faith..........

“According to Your faith, be it unto you” (Matthew 9:29)

A lot of time people think that when they have a need, that if God wanted to, He could just automatically meet it. But Jesus didn’t say, according to your need be it unto you; He said, according to your faith.

That’s why it’s so important to have an attitude of expectancy every single day. If we want God to move in our lives, we have to approach every day filled with faith and hope. The scripture tells us in Romans that “faith comes by hearing the Word of God.” The more you have the Word of God in your life, the more your faith will grow and the more you will see Him working in your life.

God longs to bless you, and He’s given you everything you need to be successful in life. Remember, all things are possible to those who believe! Believe in His goodness today and take a step of faith toward the life of blessing God has prepared for you!

**from Joel Olsteen's devotional**

Snowy Days......

Ok, so after seeing the pictures on Shari's blog I thought I would post some of my own. Now these are actual pictures taken today (Sunday) of our house and there is one of our neighbours who's car is buried under the snow. (second top left pic.)

I must say it's kind of fun, if only we had little kids we could go tobogganing down some hills. Maybe we'll rent some.....I'm kidding. Hope everyone is digging out ok.

Until next blog, happy shovelling!!!!

Gratitude Saturday

Well, 22 years ago today, Todd and I were married.  We had this much snow for our wedding day.  I remember staying at the Westin Hotel in Ottawa, and the snow was falling just like today.  Not that I am a fan of the snow but it's good to reminisce.  

• I am grateful for having a loving husband who makes me laugh on  a daily basis.
• I am grateful for having two wonderful children.
• I am grateful after 22 years we are still in love with each other.
• I am grateful that we can look back at the last 22 years and see the adventures and situations that God has been with us every step of the way.
• I am grateful to say that we are best friends and enjoy our time together.
• I am grateful that we both enjoy traveling together.

I am looking forward to what is ahead for Todd and I, with weddings and some day grand-babies, we will enjoy growing old together.  

Ryan's Trip

Well, Ryan is home!!!! I thought I would post some of his

pictures so that you get an idea of what he experienced.

He arrived home last night or early this morning, I think very happy to see us and be home in his nice warm bed. He did show me the mysterious soars on his knee and elbow. He seems to think they were bed bug bites. YUCK!!!! Just the thought of that gives me the willies.

Anyway, just thought I would share some of his journey with you all. He took some pictures of cars for his dad and he took a couple of pictures of the bathroom that they had to use when they were in Malita. Grace, Grace........

We are proud of Ry, and he had a blast!!!!

Over flowing Blessings

Our God is a running-over God! He doesn’t want you to just have barely enough to meet your own needs, God wants you to be so blessed that when other people get around you, it overflows onto them! He wants you to be so blessed in your finances that not only can you pay your bills and accomplish your own dreams, but you can be a blessing to others. In the same way that a parent loves to see their children doing well and excelling, God wants you to do well and excel in every area. He takes pleasure in prospering you. But the key is that you have to make room for it in your thinking. You have to expect that He wants to bless you. Take a step of faith today toward the dreams that are in your heart. Begin to thank Him for His abundance in every area of your life. Declare that because you walk in obedience, God’s blessings are going to chase you down and overtake you! Don’t just settle for a “good enough” mentality, develop an overflow mentality, and you’ll see God’s hand of blessing in every area of your life!

Let the Lord be magnified Who takes pleasure in the prosperity of His servant (Psalm 35:27)

The sky is the limit!!!!!!!!!

**excerpt from Joel Olsteen's daily devotional........

Finally have contact....

Well, after a long week I heard from Ryan. If anyone knows him well, his email was short and sweet. He has been enjoying the hot weather, taking pictures of fish and having a case of the well shall I say it......."the runs"!!!! I am sure he will appreciate me sharing that with all of you. We have sure missed him being around but know that he is experiencing things that will change him forever.
I think there have been a few sick this journey, so continue to pray for them and their health.
Can't wait to here all the stories from the trip!!!!!!