For Judy,.

A Mother's Love

A mother's love does not exist in a physical laugh or cry
nor does a mother's love ever fall away or die.
Time may pass
and life's journey may move on
but, a mother's love continues like the coming of a new dawn.

So in those times of solitude, hurt or despair
there is no need to go looking for it is always there.
A mother's love will continue to grow and live on,
long after this life is all but gone.

her love is in the peace you are able to give,
the morals she taught,
the smile you inherited and the lessons you fought.

She lives on and spreads her love deep and wide
throughout the generations with her example as our guide

So, as we prepare to say good-bye for just now,
we struggle to go on and may wonder how?

Just remember....

A mother's love does not exist in a physical laugh or cry
nor does a mother's love ever fall away or die.
Time may pass
and life's journey may move on
but, a mother's love continues like the coming of a new dawn.

I don't know why I get caught up in thinking that I have to have things all figured out to take them to God in prayer. You know, having all the words or knowing how to pray? I fall so short in my prayer life when I am confused or faced with an obstacle that I can't figure out. Or even more so, if I am hurt. I know that when I am hurt about something I close up and shut down, usually my words are "I am done". So, after all of the head knowledge that I have and believe wholly and the written truth why is my heart so slow or unwilling to prayerfully respond in times like these?
Like last week, I went through a time of deep depression. I was not sure exactly why I was sinking but it was clear to me, that something was not right and I couldn't help it. Did I pray through it? Nope, I tried to no avail to wade through it myself knowing that prayer was the answer but not going that route. I spent about 5 days wallowing in whatever it was until I looked around and saw what I was doing... God is always faithful to send me reminders and I finally grasped at one and started out of the pit. All I had to do was talk it out with God, I KNEW He was the answer but I just can't figure out why I did not go to Him first. Maybe I wanted to wallow? Maybe it was more comfortable than working it out... I don't know the exact answer yet but by God's grace and faithfulness... I am out off the pit (again) :)

My answer lies in Psalm 71:14 - 14 But as for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more.

So, I praise in all things, when I know and when I don't. It's not a new word... it's not profound but it is the way out of hopelessness.

A Simple Manger

A Simple Manger

Since the beginning of time God has provided all of our needs,
He created a way to Him despite our selfish and sinful deeds.

A girl He chose innocent and pure,
a calling that held a world for her to endure.
He chose her knowing that she would be true,
she would bare he Messiah, no matter what she might lose.

She rejoiced and sang to the one and only Lord,
Not once looking back but obediently moving forward.

Joseph was a man with a great mind and much honor,
He took some time to make this decision he thoughtfully pondered.
He thought that he would do what was best,
but found that his spiritual belief would be put to the test.

God sent His angels to prepare the way
for the Holy Messiah's coming birthday.

Time came to travel long and far for the census.
Behold, in the town of Bethlehem, born the Savior, God sent us.

Everyone knew that this was like no other night,
for the star of the North had continuously shone bright.
Shepherds and kings had traveled on long journeys to see,
The baby, the Son of God and all he was here to be.

There were those whose intentions were all be true,
but already the baby Jesus, His prophecy He knew.

A tiny babe sent from God's loving hands
to come down to earth and teach us to take a stand.

Our Savior born in a humble manger stall,
came to wash us clean and to deliver us all.

He was sent to us from God's grace filled heart,
to make a way from His love never to depart.
This awesome gift given with out string from up above,
sent to guide us, lead us and show us God's pure love.

God made sure that there was just one way,
it would stand forever no matter where we might stray.

So if in this season you are finding yourself lost,
go back to the debt... The birth, life and ultimate paid cost.
Think about and remember why God sent His son in the flesh,
to renew us, love us, so we can walk with Him washed and refreshed.

He chose us way before it was our time,
to care and strengthen us to walk a fine line.
He gives us absolutely everything we need,
He asks us only to plant a seed.

A seed planted in the heart of those without His love,
A miserable life to live without the hope that is God above.
He calls us and woos us close to His side,
forever with Him we are now able to abide.

Again take a moment to re-live the awesome wonder,
Of the life of Jesus Christ and all that falls under.

Let that voice that tends to grow faint deep inside,
overcome us and teach us never again to hide.

Oh Lord; today please let your glory show,
that through these words all will know.
We will feel your call and the living hope,
that comes day by day as we learn to cope.

Let us see your passion and divine love,
That flows freely from the heavens above.

Show us, make us let us wholly understand,
the gift of life that was sent by your loving hand.
Let us take in, the grace that you showed us that day,
in a tiny baby, a simple manger... Making the way.