Ice Cream and Jesus, Wednesday, July 9

A 4 week children's summer small group on "Beginning the Christian Adventure." We threw the Ice Cream in just for fun! This small group will focus on basic foundations of faith. Fun games, activities, and music are incorporated into each lesson.

BEGINS: Wednesday, July 9 at 6 p.m. AGES: Children who have completed KG - 5th grade.

NO CHILDREN'S Activities THIS Wednesday, July 2.

*Looking for volunteers to help with the ice cream treats - may be homemade, store bought, Baskin Robbins...doesn't matter, we'll eat it!

Top 10 Things Parents Need to Know

I asked my youngest son, who is ten, what were 10 things he thought parents need to know about their kids - especially his parents. His responses were pretty amazing and insightful for a 10 year old. I thought I'd share some of them with you today.

1. Need to know their names. I guess this is a natural response from my son as I can't keep my three kids' names straight! "Whoever you are, come here right this instant!"
2. What they eat. Seems simple right? Do you know what your kids eat? What their favorite foods are? Mac & Cheese all the way, baby!
3. What they are watching on TV. Wow, out of the mouths of babes! What are our children watching? What are their favorite shows? Is it appropriate? Does it compromise God's teachings?
4. What they are learning. Wow, again!
5. What they like to play. Do you know what each of your children like to play? Do you ever play their favorite game with them? I think I do, maybe, hmmm...
6. Where they like to go on vacation. My youngest is the easiest to please - just a hotel with a pool, thank you very much!
7. What kind of difficulties they are having. This one took me by surprise. How true! We parents do need to ask our kids how things in their lives are going. We need to go beyond the basic, "How was your day?" question without sounding like we are super secret agents attempting to probe top secret information out of them.
8. Who their friends are. Wow, again!
9. What they are doing.

AND THE #10 THING PARENTS NEED TO KNOW IS...

10. RULES for HUGGING! My youngest sat me down on a bench in Wal Mart one day last summer to give me the "Rules for Hugging for Parents"
- No hugging, holding hands, or kissing on cheek in public.
- No calling him baby, sweetie, or other embarrassing name in public.
- None of the above may happen especially in the presence of teenage brother.
- Hugging, kissing on cheek, holding hands is only allowed at home if older siblings are not in viewing distance.

I guess I've been told!

Grace and Peace, Cathy

Psalm 139:17

"How precious are your thoughts about me, O God.

They cannot be numbered."

Psalm 139:17

I love the Psalms. They reflect God's Glory and our need for Him. I love this verse. Yes, how precious are His thoughts about us! He loves us. He created us in His image. We are His masterpiece. He saved us with the Blood of Christ. So, how will you respond to His loving thoughts about you today?

In His Love, Cathy

Excellent Children's Devotional Resources

I wanted to pass along a few excellent resources I found for children.

Hands On Bible (NLT) published by Group Publishing and Tyndale. Gets kids into the Bible with 102 Hands On Bible experiences, secret messages, Bible hero biographies, 52 key verse activities, fun facts, and "The Jesus Connection." Designed to help children grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ.

Young Believer 365 Devotionals for children ages 8-12. Helps children learn more about God, who He is, and what He is about. Teaches children how to live out their faith. Available at http://www.youngbeliever.com

Cool Devotions for Boys: Gotta Have God available for different ages: 2-5, 6-9, and 10-12. (Author: Diane Cory, Publisher: Legacy Press)

God and Me Devotions for Girls available for different ages: 2-5, 6-9, and 10-12. (Authors: Linda M Washington, Jeanette Dall)

These are just a few ideas if you are looking for devotionals for your child. All are available at most Christian bookstores and at their onlinewebsites. Might be available at a discount at http://overstock.com, amazon.com, ebay.com, or other discount book websites.

What a Sweet Day: On Today's Baptisms

What a sweet day in the LORD. Over 40 brothers & sisters in Christ were baptized this morning! Each with a unique journey, unique testimony, unique background, various ages...but all united as one in the Lord Jesus Christ. Each were sought by the Shepherd. YOU were sought by the Shepherd. I was sought by the Shepherd. He is not willing lose a single one!

"So Jesus told them this story: 'If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them gets lost, what will he do? Won't he leave the ninety-nine others in the wilderness and go to search for the one that is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he will joyfully carry it home on his shoulders. When he arrives, he will call together his friends and neighbors, saying, 'Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.' In the same way, there is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven't strayed away!' "

Aren't you glad that we serve a LORD who seeks the one? Aren't you glad He searched for you?

Heaven is rejoicing! Let us rejoice in those who have repented and returned to God. Let's go out and help rescue sheep. Pray for someone you know who needs Christ. Pray for the right words and the courage to speak up as a witness for Christ. Rely on God to provide the opportunity and the words.

He is so good!

In His Love, Cathy

Bring Your Sacred Offerings

"The LORD said to Moses, 'Tell the people of Israel to bring me their sacred offerings. Accept the contributions from all whose hearts are moved to offer them." Exodus 25:1-3

Let us bring our sacred offerings to the LORD today! Let us bring Him adoration, praise, worship, love, offerings, and our hearts. Let us seek Him and His truth first. May we and offerings be found acceptable to the LORD. LORD move our hearts to offer you sacred offerings today!

Youth Car Wash Today - at La Ha in Pace

Be sure to drop by to support our youth going to Student Life Camp!

Beth Moore on Being Yourself

LOL...I'm so like Beth!

Get to Work: A parent's advice on how to raise responsible, hard-working kids.

Here's an article that I thought would be very helpful to parents. It's a great read and offers advice on raising children with a good work ethic.

http://www.christianitytoday.com/cpt/2002/001/5.36.html

Upcoming Children's Events & VBS Music Info

Ice Cream and Jesus - Join us starting Wednesday, July 9 at 6 p.m. for a 4 week Bible Study "Beginning the Christian Adventure" and enjoy a plethera of ice cream confections! For children who have just completed KG through 5th grade. Looking for parents who can make good home made ice cream or who can plug in to providing ice cream supplies!

Corporate Family Worship Service & Baptism THIS Sunday, June 29 No children's services. Nursery is provided.

SUMMER FUN DAYS - No drop offs please. At least one parent or responsible adult must attend with child.
July 9 at 10 a.m. - The Ridge, Free Movie Day
July 16 at 10 a.m. - Oops Alley for Bowling, Bring $$$ for bowling & Lunch.
July 23 at 9:30 a.m. - Beach Day (meet at church)
July 30 at 10 a.m. - Water Day & Picnic at church (water games & activities)
*In case of rain, outdoor activities will be cancelled.

PROMOTION SUNDAY, AUGUST 3.

VBS & Children's Worship Music Order Information Many parents have asked where they can obtain a copy of the VBS music and the Sunday Morning worship songs we sing. The information is below:
VBS Music: "Sing & Play Stampede" available at Amazon.com in DVD & CD. Contains "Wild Ride"
SUNDAY Music: "Elevate Music Year 1" available at Creativepastors.com, then click on Elevate. Available in DVD & CD, $15 each. "ROUNDUP" is on this selection, not the "Sing & Play Stampede." Includes ALL of the worship songs the children have learned this year.

The LORD Bends Down to Listen

"I love the LORD because he hears my voice

and my prayer for mercy.

Because he bends down to listen,

I will pray as long as I have breath!"

Psalm 116:1-2

The Awesome God of the Universe bends down to listen to You. How wonderful is that?

UM or BUST!

He's decided! After months of indecision, deliberation, debate, and LOTS OF PRAYER our Son has decided on attending the University of Mobile! Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!

Check out their link on my blog! It's a wonderful Christian College with a beautiful campus. Famous Alumni: Bid Daddy Weave!

Overcoming Perfectionism

As a wife, mother, teacher, and Children's Pastor, life can get really hectic at times. I'm going to admit it, I am a type A person, a control freak, a perfectionist, a very obsessive compulsive person. Yes, I am OCD and I'm not just saying this lightly. One of my three children was actually diagnosed as such and guess who the doctor said they inherited it from? Me! It does run in my side of the family. This diagnosis came after extensive testing of our child and us.

Ok, so I'm OCD, a perfectionist, little miss Type A. Believe it or not, I am more laid back now that I was when I was much younger. When my husband and I first married I ran around the house cleaning and straightening until everything was perfect. If one little thing was out of place, I'd hop right up and fix it. My husband is "Mr. Laid Back," Type B, and he admits it. He'd fuss at me because my obsessiveness drove him nuts! Although I'm still a lot like this today, I gave up on our house being perfect after we had children.

As a perfectionist, I struggle with the tendency to want to do everything myself. In my perfectionistic mind I think that I'm the only one who can do things right! Therefore, I tend to take everything on myself instead of delegating. But that's not what God wants from me. That's not what He wants from any of us.

First, life was not meant for us to live it alone. When we become a Christian, we are united in the body with other believers. Each believer has unique talents, gifts, abilities, strengths, and weaknesses. We complement each other and use our gifts together to accomplish the ministry work that God has called us to. We NEED each other just as the parts of our physical bodies need each other. Each one of us are equally important in the Body of Christ. Paul emphasized this in 1 Corinthians 12:12-31. He says in verses 12 and 13, "The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the Body of Christ. .. But we have all been baptized into one body by one Spirit, and we share the same Spirit." Paul goes on to say that some of the weakest and less dignified parts are some of the most neccessary parts. So how does this relate to a perfectionist? Here's how. Don't try to do everything yourself. Face it, not a single one of us has all of the gifts necessary to accomplish God's work by ourselves. Paul says so in 1 Corinthians 12: 29-31, "Are we all apostles? Are we all prophets? Are we all teachers? Do we all have the power to do miracles? Do we all have the gift of healing? Do we all have the ability to speak in unknown languages? Do we all have the ability to interpret unknown languages? Of course not! So you should earnestly desire the most helpful gifts."

Even Moses had to learn to let go and allow others to help out. In Exodus 17, Jethro, Moses' father-in-law witnessed Moses settling disputes among the people, ALL day long. This is what verse 14 says, "When Moses' father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he asked, 'What are you really accomplishing here? Why are you trying to do all this alone while everyone stands around you from morning till evening?" Jethro recognized a problem, that Moses was taking on too much. Maybe he was Type A like me. Maybe he was a perfectionist, thought he was the only one who could do the job. Verses 15-16 seems to support this, "Moses replied, 'Because the people come to me to get a ruling from God. When a dispute arises, they come to me, and I am the one who settles the case between the quarreling parties. I inform the people of God's decrees and give them his instructions.' " Perhaps Moses felt that only he was qualified to hear disputes, he was the only one who knew God's decrees. Jethro's advice was very wise..."TEACH THEM!" Pick honest, God-fearing men and teach them God's decrees so that Moses could be freed to do those things that only he could do. So, what are we really accomplishing when we try to do things on our own? Why do we take on so many things, allowing others to just stand around and watch? We're not going to accomplish much if this is how we are leading, teaching, parenting, working or whatever.

Bottom line, when we do not share the workload with others, when we don't trust others to do the job, when we are afraid to ask because we don't want to burden others - we aren't accomplishing much. Delegate! Step out of the way and allow others to step into their calling of God. By allowing others to step in and help, you are allowing others the opportunity to grow as well. At home, our children pitch in and help with housework and yardwork. This has two obvious benefits; less work on my husband and I, AND they learn how to care for their future homes. The same is true at work, in your leadership, or in ministry. Delegate. Teach others. Then step out of the way and let others grow. Be there for support and help, but don't take it back over. Ask God to help you in sending and choosing the right people. Then trust Him and them to get the job done. And if it isn't done right...unless it is critical, life or death, let it go!

Now I too must live by this!

In His Love, Cathy

Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire!

Remember that old saying? I really never thought much about it until today. I received a call from one of my best girlfriends today about one of her children. This precious child of hers, who had just recently given her life to Christ, had been caught in several lies. I hope my friend doesn't mind me sharing this on my blog, but I think there are many of us parents who face this issue sooner or later. I recall going through a bad phase of this with each of my three children.

Lying. There's little white lies that happen once in a while, and then there is habitual lying. We tend to think that little white lies aren't the least of these two evils. According to God, both are equally as bad. A lie is a lie. So, my friend's sweet child lied A LOT this week. My friend disciplined her child, but to little avail. The lying continued even as the child was serving time. So what can a parent do to help a child overcome a habitual behavioral problem such as lying?

Well, there is the obvious, discipline the child according to the crime. Pray for the child and as God to help you. Talk with the child to help them understand why what he or she is doing is wrong. I remember when I caught my own children in lie after lie. For a short time, there, I didn't think we'd ever break that bad habit.

One thing we did do was show our children how much God hated lying. Yes, we pulled the God card on them. We let them know that even if we didn't know they were telling the truth, God did and that one day they would have to face him on it. We showed them how much God hated lying. Proverbs 13:22 says, "The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth." Notice here that God didn't just tell us what we shouldn't do, but He gave us the positive alternate behavior to model. He hates lying, but He delights in our telling the truth. Express to your child HOW MUCH GOD loves it when they tell the truth!

Another verse you can share with your child is Proverbs 26:23, "A lying tongue hates its victims, and flattering words cause ruin." Help your child understand that their lies, no matter how small they think they are, can hurt other people. How their lies do hurt you. How lying can hurt your trust in them. You can also share with them the story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5. Remember them? They sold their property and brought part of the money to the church. However, they claimed that they had brought it all. Well, Ananias was struck dead by God. When Sapphira came along, she was struck dead by God as well...for lying! I don't want to strike fear into little hearts so this may be a little to strong for a child. But what Peter last spoke to Sapphira is something you can share with your child. In Acts 5:4 Peter says "...You weren't lying to us but to God!" Help your child understand that God knows the truth ALL THE TIME!

You can also warn them that when you start lying too much, then you have a hard time telling the truth. Share with them Micah 6:12 which says "...Your citizens are so used to lying that their tongues can no longer tell the truth." Ask your child if they want to be like that? If they want others to not trust them or think of them as a liar.

As parents we know that the issue of lying is nothing to play around with. Be clear & consistent in your discipline, be firm, correct them in love, take certain coveted privileges from them until they show a sincere change, and use God's Word to help them correct their behavior. I am praying for you!

By the way, do you know what "Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire!" means? I think I do!

In His Love, Cathy

Our Son, The Graduate

Our son just recently graduated from high school as did the children of many of my friends. We who are experiencing this for the first time have mixed emotions about the tremendous milestone our babies...I mean our young adult children have just passed. And what a tremendous milestone it is.

Do you remember the early days of your child's life? The days where you recorded every little thing that he or she did and took several pictures every day because they changed on a daily basis! (Ok, maybe you didn't take pictures every single day, but I did. Now you know how crazy I really am!) Remember how excited you got over the milestones your child went through...he smiled for the first time, she cut her first tooth, she got her first haircut, she rolled over, when he started walking, his first word, and who could forget...THE TIME NIGHT HE SLEPT ALLLLLL NIGHT!!! Ahhh, those were the days!

Then there were the memories of the first day of kindergarten, their baby dedication, the first team they played on, learning to read, write, the first day of middle school, then came high school, prom, homecoming. How about the day he or she accepted Christ! How happy that day was! As the years went by, time passed so very quickly. In a blink of an eye, that tiny little baby who was so dependent on you is a grown man. He's shaving. He's bigger and taller than you. He's driving. He's looking at college majors and deciding on a career. His SELECTIVE SERVICE card and VOTER REGISTRATION card came in the mail! He has a bank account, a cell phone, a life that will be so very different that the one he's had for the last 18 years. He's, well, a man!

As a mother, it's hard for me to let go. They wouldn't even let me go in to help him register for his college classes! The nerve of those people! I had to fill out a form and he sign off to give me permission to see his grades! They even asked me why I needed to know. BECAUSE I AM PAYING FOR IT!!! Don't they know I'm his mother and I know what is best! Yes, they do, but they knew it was time for me to let go. I think that was the day it really hit me that my son did not need me as much as I thought he did. That is was time to let go of some things, trust him, and trust him to God's care. We had done all that we could. It's now up to him.

Ever so slowly, this young man who stands where my son once crawled is ready to continue to his next milestone. Not as my little boy, but as a young man ready to take on his next milestone to adulthood.

Enjoy your children. Savor every precious moment that you can with them. Work through the difficult time with lots of prayer and God's help. And take pictures EVERY DAY if you want! They are such a reward and a delight! (Yes, keep telling yourself this especially when they are flexing their 'independence' muscle!)

"Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him. Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrier's hands. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them! He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates." Psalm 127:3-5


In His Love, Cathy

I Stand Amazed

I just stand amazed at what God does sometimes. I guess I should know to expect Him to do the unexpected, but He still amazes me!

Sometimes, I'm just caught up in my own little world, my own little problems, my own little worries, my own little wants that He just catches me by surprise. At times it seems as though He is pulling the rug right out from under me. In those times, I ask myself, "What is God doing?" Notice here, who I asked? Did I ask God? No, I ask myself as though I can figure it out. Well, there's the problem! I can't figure anything out on my own, I mean, He's God. Who do I think I am to try to figure Him out? The times He pulls the rug out from under me, when I didn't see it coming, could be because I was focused on me and not Him! Ever had that happen to you?

Then there are those times when He does something wonderfully amazing right before our eyes - and to think that He allows us to witness it, to be a part of it! Who are we to even be worthy of such? Today was such a day! This past week has been just such a week. We witnessed children get on FIRE for God and ASK JESUS CHRIST to be THEIR LORD and SAVIOR through VBS! God blessed me with the special privilege of meeting with them to talk about their salvation and upcoming Baptism. What a joy! What a blessing! To see the love these little hearts have for our God, our precious Savior! What a special honor it was to meet with them, to see them express their love and belief in Christ! What a joy this has brought to so many families this week. One mother said she was at peace, relieved, that her two oldest children have been saved. I know that feeling so well! There are several more appointments set up to meet with even more children to discuss their decision for Christ! Pray for these baby believers as they take their first steps! We have many people who will be Baptized Sunday, pray for their new walk in Christ! What a wonderful God we serve who concerns Himself with these little ones...not wanting a single one of them to slip away!

Yes, I stand amazed in the presence of our Wonderful Lord!

"We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, 'What amazing things the LORD has done for them.' Yes, the LORD has done amazing things for us! What joy!" Psalm 126:2-3

In His Love, Cathy

God's Love for You

God is so amazing! He created the ENTIRE universe. He created the heavens and the earth. He created the light and the darkness. He created the sea, the sky, the land. He created LIFE! Then, last of all, He created man, in HIS own image.


God didn't have to do any of this. But He did because He wanted us. He desired our existance. He loves us and desires our love. But He didn't just end with our creation. He went a step further. He reached out to us. He knew that we'd mess up. That mankind would sin. That sin separated us from our wonderful God. He had a plan to remedy that as well. Some may ask, why did he need a plan for that? Can't you just be a good person and go to heaven? Isn't there more than one way to God? Well, no.


It's somewhat like the story I tell the children. Pretend your mother is inside all day long, working hard, cleaning her house from top to bottom. Everything is sqeaky clean. No dirt, no dust, no mess ANYWHERE. But you were outside, rolling around in the mud, fully clothed, shoes, socks, everything! She can't allow you inside her nice clean house all filthy and dirty. She probably wouldn't want to even hug or touch you! That mud separated you from the love of your Mother, physically speaking. Most likely, she'll hose you down, strip you down, and make sure you are clean from head to toe before you are allowed inside her clean house or she hugs you. Otherwise, your filth would corrupt her and her clean house.


God is perfect, holy, righteous, magnificent, glorious, and just. He is without sin. Perfect. His home is perfect as well, reflecting His glory. As for man, he's played around in the mud of sin. Wallowing in it from his head to his feet. God can't allow that kind of a mess in His house nor in His presence. He is worthy and sinless. But we can't just take a hose and wash the sin all off. We can't just shower and scrub ourselves clean with soap and water. The Bible says that the wages of sin is death(Romans 6:23) and that all men have sinned and fallen from God's glory(Romans 3:12). So based on this, not a single person can do anything on their own to enter God's Kingdom.

But like our mother who cleaned us up from the mud, God can cleanse us from our sins. He can through His Son, Jesus Christ. Sin corrupts us on the inside and Jesus is the only one who can wash us completely clean. Why Jesus? Because He was God's perfect Son. He chose to take the punishment for OUR sin, though He himself was sinless. He loved us so much that He stepped in on our behalf. He suffered, he bled, he died in my place and in your place. Why? Because the debt for mankind's sin had to be paid off. So He settled it once and for all. 1 Peter 3:19 says "Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit." Yes, Jesus died to take OUR punishment for sin. But He didn't stay dead. He rose on the third day! Some may discount this or claim it not true, but the evidence is there, the witnesses are there, and one day EVERY knee shall bow and EVERY tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Jesus himself said,"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me." (John 14:6)

Where do you stand with Christ? God wants so much to have a personal relationship with you. Look at all that He has done just for YOU. He created you, He loves you, He has persued you your whole life! Yes, the God who created the universe and all that exists has PERSUED you so passionately. "For God loved the world so much that He gave His One and Only Son so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16) Won't you respond to His love? Will you denounce Him or ignore Him yet again?

Won't you accept Jesus as your Savior? Respond by believing in Him as described in Romans 3:10 "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved." Respond by receiving Christ, that is acknowledge your belief in Him and turn to God. Let God direct your life. Invite Him into your life. When you do, you become a child of God. "But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God." (John 1:12)

If you would like to accept Christ as Savior, then simply pray. In this prayer, ddmit to God that you are a sinner. Ask His forgiveness for your sin and that you sincerely want to turn from that sinful way of living. (This is called repentence.) Believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who died for our sins, and who rose again on the third day. Confess Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, that is ask Him to come into your life, direct your life, and that you love and trust in Him.

Here's a prayer from my NLT Bible that you can pray or model your prayer after.

"Dear God, I know that my sin has separated me from you. Thank you that Jesus Christ died in my place. I ask Jesus to forgive my sin and to come into my life. Please begin to direct mylife. Thank you for giving me eternal life. In Jesus' name, Amen."

I'm praying for you!

In His Love, Cathy

The Robot - Yes I am a Child of the 80's

Now that I've totally embarrassed myself...
Okay, I've been asked by many, even my husband, how did I learn to do 'The Robot'? I'm just a child of the 80's. It just spontaneously happened. I really don't know how I learned it. I guess the Holy Spirit 'moved me'! :-)

Wonderful VBS Team - Thank You

I wanted to take a moment to Honor God and the special people He sent to help with VBS. We had 30 to 40 volunteers - people who were willing to share their wonderful talents, gifts, abilities, and time to help with the mission God set before us. To have so many precious people to volunteer in a single event is a FIRST in our children's ministry. God sent the right people and placed them in the right place. What's more, EVERYONE who helped, LOVED IT!!! There is nothing more rewarding than serving Christ! This is especially true when working with children. They are so loving and sweet! What is especially AWESOME is that God moved upon the hearts of many children who came and as a result, many indicated that they either asked Christ to be Lord and Savior or that they want to know more about Jesus! The Holy Spirit moved in MIGHTY ways this week! AMEN!

THANK YOU to everyone who prayed, supported, and provided resources. A HUGE THANK YOU to everyone who came out and helped with our VBS. YOUR help was so critical in the successful mission of VBS. God is certainly using THIS ministry, OUR church, and YOU to further His Kingdom!

One day in heaven, you may come across someone you recognize, they turn to you and say, "When I was a child, you told me about Jesus. You prayed with me. You loved me. You took time with me. You helped me. It's because of your faithfulness that I am here today! Thank you."

This is the impact we have been called to!

In His Love, Cathy

VBS - What a turnout!

Around 130 people came to our 2nd Annual Children's VBS since moving into our new church building. It's truly amazing and a miracle! Why? Here's why.

First, everything that could go wrong did. None of our ads in the papers were printed. Only one of three schools passed out the 1,700 advertising flyers we printed to the children, though it was school board approved. We only had 25 yard signs out around the community. Not very many for a community the size of ours. We didn't advertise on the radio because we were concerned about the large number of children receiving the school flyers! Now please understand, our PR person did a WONDERFUL JOB and worked hard to get the ads and flyers submitted in a timely manner. After we discovered our flyers did not go out, I did email two radio stations to post it to their community web site.

So, all in all, the children who knew about our VBS were mostly our regularly attending children. Our whole purpose of VBS is to reach as many children in the community with the message of Salvation through Jesus Christ. How were we going to accomplish that with all that went wrong?
Now here's the rest of the story. God blessed our VBS with over 30 adults and even more teens who wanted to serve in this ministry. We've never had that many volunteers in children's ministry EVER! Though we were all disappointed that the advertising didn't go as planned, I was sure that God would not send this many volunteers to help unless He had big plans for this VBS. GUESS WHAT! HE DID! I prayed for a bumper crop despite the lack of information to the community. HE PULLED IT OFF! WHAT A MIGHTY GOD WE SERVE!

I pray that we increase this number EVERY SINGLE NIGHT this week and that we have DOUBLE this attendance on Thursday night, the night we present the message of salvation. I'm trusting God and believing Him to bless the ministry of VBS. I'm believing in miraculous spiritual transformations of children and their families. I'm praying that we'll be able to reach the children of Pace with God's love. I'm looking for God to use our church to reach the lost people of our community!

In His Love, Cathy

VBS is Going to be AWESOME!

Decorations are up!
Plans are made!
People are ready!

I'm praying that the LORD will send us a 'bumper crop' of children! I pray that we can reach as many children as possible with the message of salvation through Jesus Christ! I'm believing in an abundant harvest of hearts won over to Christ!

God has sent an abundance of workers, there must be a HUGE harvest in store! That's what I'm praying for!

I'm believing God for a miracle!

It's Saturday

It's Saturday. A nice, rainy, quiet Saturday. Everyone is home. Everything is quiet. Everything is peaceful.

It's Saturday. A lazy kind of Saturday. I enjoy a long, cup of coffee in the morning as my mind wanders aimlessly around the brim of my cup. No where to be. No schedule to keep.

It's Saturday. No work, no games, no activities. Time stands still as if for a brief moment. I hear the laughter of my children playing together. How happy their sounds!

It's Saturday. A tent made of linens, pillows and our couch adorns the living room. The belongings of our youngest child scattered on the floor within. His watch, his flashlight, a bag of popcorn, a sleeping bag.

It's Saturday. My only day 'off.' A day to enjoy the company of my husband and my children without the outside world creeping in. A day of rest and relaxation.

It's Saturday. No makeup. Hair pulled up. Ball cap on. Who cares?

It's Saturday. Praise God, Hallelujah, it's Saturday!

God is Working through VBS

Wow! I'm so happy and so excited about all of the people who have turned out to help with VBS. God is certainly blessing our efforts to reach children with the Good News of Christ. We have around 30 ADULTS who are helping with VBS and even more teens helping out. THIS IS A BIG ANSWER TO YEARS OF PRAYER! Everyone has been so wonderful and willing to plug in where needed. We had 20 to 25 that came to our last meeting.

Why is all of this so very important? Because it shows the sweet spirit of His people. People who love Him and want to serve him even in the smallest of ways. I thank Him today because of each and every person who is serving Him through VBS. I thank Him for everyone who so willingly serve Him in our church and our community. I praise Him for He is the only one that can make it happen.

I pray for blessings upon every one of these wonderful people and their families. I pray that He will use our VBS and our church to reach lost children and their families with the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. I am one who is truly honored and blessed to be a part of His great work. Lord, you've sent the workers, prepared them, now send the harvest!

My Blue Eyed, Blonde, Curly Haired Girl

When I was 15 years old, I prayed that one day God would bless me with a blue eyed, blonde, curly haired girl. You see, I'm totally the opposite. I'm dark brunette with deep chocolate eyes. I also prayed that she'd be taller than me and would not be fair like me.

I know now that this was a pretty selfish little prayer, but for a 15 year old, I didn't realize that. You see, half of my life was lived for just me...praying selfish prayers, looking to my own interests, and thinking of God as an "ALL YOU CAN WISH" type of genie. I was young. I didn't understand. I just didn't get it.

But you know what? For some reason, God gave me what I asked for, plus so much more. He blessed me with a wonderful husband. He blessed my husband and I with a beautiful daughter. Our sweet child is 5'6" tall, with gorgeous bright, BIG blue-eyes...as blue as the sky and long beautiful, thick curly blonde hair...though she straightens it with a flat iron! He also gave us two tall, handsome, strong, sweet sons. One with fair hair and beautiful blue eyes like his sister. This is really a miracle considering that both my husband and I have dark hair (minus the grays) and dark eyes.

Why did God do this? Why did He answer so many other of my selfish prayers through all of those years? Maybe it was because He wanted me to know Him. Maybe He was showing me that He cares about every little detail in my life. He cares about my worries, my burdens, my heartbreaks, my pain. He is a God of miracles and awesome power, but also a God of great love and attention. He LOVES me for who I am. A sinner redeemed by the Blood of His Precious Son.

All I know is that He is a God of Great Abundance and even when He doesn't answer my prayers the way I sometimes want, He does answer them. I understand now that when I don't get what I pray for, it is because He has something so much better in mind. Just like us parents, we sometimes tell our children 'no' to things that are not in their best interests. He is looking at the long term - eternal life. WE can trust Him to be faithful in answering our prayers. He loves us so very much!

"You faithfully answer our prayers with awesome deeds, O God our savior." Psalm 66:5

In His Love, Cathy

Interpreting Dreams is God's Business

"And they replied, "We both had dreams last night, but no one can tell us what they mean."

"Interpreting dreams is God's business," Joseph replied. "Go ahead and tell me your dreams." " Genesis 40:8

As I was reading Genesis chapter 40 this morning, God emphasized verse 40:8 to me. At this point in Joseph's life, he is still imprisoned. The warden has entrusted him to watch over the prisoners and, as I mentioned yesterday, God made him successful in everything he did. In addition, people noticed and saw that God was with him. Because of this, they also prospered as a result of Joseph's success.

In today's scripture, the Pharoah had imprisoned his cup bearer and his chief baker. These two men were very important to Pharoah. They held a high position in Pharoah's court. They had to be trustworthy and loyal men. The cup bearer tasted everything Pharoah ate or drank to ensure it was safe. The chief baker oversaw the preparation of all of Pharoah's food. For whatever reason, something had happened that caused Pharoah to throw them both into prison. While in prison, Joseph looked after them. Both men had a dream and wanted to know what they meant. They asked others but no one in the prison could tell them what their dreams meant. Noticing that they were upset, Joseph asked them why they were worried. They explained their situation and their dismay that no one could interpret their dreams. Then Joseph's response in Gen. 40:8..."Interpreting dreams is God's business." ...."Go ahead and tell me your dreams."

Notice what Joseph did. He took the focus off people, himself included, and redirected everyone to God. He gave God the credit right off the bat, before he did anything. Of course no one could tell them about their dream...only God could interpret their dreams. Joseph recognized that his ability to interpret dreams came directly from God. It wasn't anything he could do on his own. He used this opportunity as a powerful witnessing tool for the Lord.

My commentary for this scripture says that "One secret for effective witnessing is to recognize opportunities to relate God to the other person's experience. Whe the opportunity arises, we must have the courage to speak, as Joseph did."


What I'm about to tell you is God's business, God in action. I was just the willing, or somewhat unwilling tool. I am not bragging in any way because I almost didn't obey.

The other day, I took my daughter shopping for new basketball shoes and equipment. We went to one of the sports supply stores in our area. When we were checking out, I felt this sudden love and compassion for the lady who was our cashier. She was an older lady. Very friendly, very nice. I felt as if the Holy Spirit was prompting me to encourage her in some way. To give her a word that she was loved by God. I know that I sound crazy, but I can tell you the feeling was just as strong and real as anything I've ever experienced. Well, I was a coward. I just couldn't bring myself to do it. CHICKEN is the word. When we returned to our car, I just couldn't leave. The feeling just kept getting stronger and stronger. I shared what I felt the Holy Spirit wanted me to do with my daughter. She pretty much thought I was nuts. So we decided to go back in, purchase something else, and when I checked out I would say, "God bless you!" So, that's what we did. We went back in, purchased snacks for us and beach toys for my youngest son, and stood in her line. When it became my turn, the guy behind me interrupted my transaction to ask about propane tank refills. Then began arguing with her over the fact that the store was out. I waited until this discussion ended, looked her in the eye, smiled at her, thanked her for her help, and said "God bless you!" Nothing earth shattering, I know, but I marvelled at it's timing. I was able to say it at a time she really may have needed to hear it. After someone had treated her somewhat meanly.

That's our wonderful God. He used that as an opportunity for witnessing in a small way to this lady. Amazing! So like Joseph, let's look for opportunities to relate God to other's experiences. Point others to God, give Him the credit, and be a witness for Him in our lives.

Overcoming the Overwhelming

"But the LORD was with Joseph in the prison and showed him his faithful love. And the LORD made Joseph a favorite with the prison warden. Before long, the warden put Joseph in charge of all the other prisoners and over everything that happend in the prison. The warden had no more worries, because Joseph took care of everything. The LORD was with him and caused everything he did to succeed." Genesis 39:21-23 (NLT)

As I was having my quiet time this morning, I came across the story of Joseph, specifically, the story of how he was wrongly accused by Potiphar's wife and then thrown into prison. No trial, no lawyer, no hope. Joseph was wronged, no doubt about it. It wasn't the first time. He had also been wronged by his brothers and sold into slavery which is what landed him in Egypt, in Potiphar's home as a slave. Instead of succombing to his circumstances, he trusted God. He didn't give up. The Bible says that the "LORD was with Joseph, so he succeeded in everything he did." (Genesis 39:2) As a result, "Potiphar noticed this and realized that the LORD was with Joseph, giving him success in everything he did." Genesis 39:3

After being arrested, Joseph could have just given up. Thrown in the towel, convinced that the world was out to get him, that he couldn't win for losing. Do you ever feel this way sometimes? When it just seems that nothing goes your way and everyone has it in for you? I would be less than truthful if I claimed to never feel that way. I think we all experience this from time to time. I have especially experienced this in tough situations God brought me through this year. I guess that's why God brought me to Joseph's story today.

As I prayed over and studied this scripture, God impressed upon me to look at Joseph's response. Instead of giving into hopelessness, he leaned on God. He continued to do his best at everything that was given to him, no matter how big or small the task was. And once again, though imprisoned with no hope of ever being released, "...The LORD was with him and caused everything he did to succeed." Genesis 39:23 (NLT)

Like Joseph, are you facing a hopeless situation? Are you struggling in an area of your life in which nothing seems to go your way? Has someone wronged you? Is there something that has happened at home, work, or school that you don't think you can overcome? Has your reputation or integrity been called into question? Have you been falsely accused or betrayed?

If so, we can respond as Joseph did. Lean on Christ. Pray and seek his help. Be faithful and obedient. Do your best at every task no matter how big or how small, whether it's appreciated or not. Do so WITHOUT COMPLAINT. Trust God to turn your situation around. God will see your efforts, hear your prayers, and He can reverse overwhelming circumstances to your favor. RELY on HIM. And if He doesn't change the circumstances, He will bring you through it. God can use our circumstances, hardships, and trials to spiritually transform our character to be more Christlike. And what's more...through YOU others can see God's great power working in your circumstances. Seeing your faith in action and God's work, others may come to know Jesus Christ as Savior.

Just one last word of encouragement, turn your circumstances over to God. Trust Him to take care of you according to His plan. He is faithful and just.

"Give your burdens to the Lord,and he will take care of you.He will not permit the godly to slip and fall." Psalm 55:21-23

I pray for God's peace upon you today, in whatever circumstances you are in.
In His Love, Cathy

Psalm 47

" Clap your hands, all you nations;

shout to God with cries of joy.

How awesome is the LORD Most High,

the great King over all the earth!

He subdued nations under us,

peoples under out feet.

He chose our inheritance for us,

the pride of Jacob, whom he loved.

God has ascended amid shouts of joy,

the LORD amid the sounding of trumpets.

Sing praises to God, sing praises;

sing praises to our King, sing praises.

For God is the King of all the earth;

sing to him a psalm of praise.

God reigns over the nations;

God is seated on his holy throne.

The nobles of the nations assemble

as the people of the God of Abraham,

for the kings of the earth belong to God;

he is greatly exalted."

Psalm 47

Perspective

Perspective. I think it's good when God opens our eyes to give us fresh perspective - His perspective. I was reminded of that these past couple of weeks. I watch as my 93 year old grandfather struggles for his life after a serious stroke and another serious fall. As a result, a once strong, wise, loving man is now blind, weak, and living in a world only he knows of. My grandfather, a good man, one of character, one who loves others, and one of the most unselfish people I know, is fighting to make it through one more day. Even in his weakened state, he was concerned about me. He asked if I was doing okay, if I was cold, if I needed anything. Amazing!

I was also reminded of God's perspective when a friend of mine lost her unborn child. She and her husband found out this past Friday. This is twice for this young couple, who love God and serve Him faithfully. My heart is broken for them. She said though she is deeply saddened, she has not been robbed of her JOY. Only someone with God's perspective could say that. I admire her faith!

There have been many in our church family who have loved ones who are going through terminal illnesses right now or have lost loved ones in this past week. My heart goes out to each of them as it is painful and very sad. I lift each of them and their loved ones up to The Healer.

Perspective. God's Perspective. It's times such as these that we turn to Him. It is also times such as these that we realize that there are just certain things that we think of as so important that really aren't that important after all. Battles that we fight over things that have no eternal implications. Unforgiveness toward those who we believe have wronged us in some way - whether they have or not. Hardness that we have in our hearts toward those who differ in opinion from us. Wishing ill toward one another. Criticizing and complaining about each other. A lack of compassion for others. Spreading gossip about others. A lack of LOVE that God commanded us to have toward one another - most especially toward our Christian brothers and sisters. Worry and stress over things that aren't of any eternal value. Proving a point no matter who it hurts in the process. Thinking only of our own interests and not looking out for others.

What is worthy about any of these things? NOTHING. So why waste precious time, effort, energy, and thought on things that tear down instead of build up? Life is too short! From here on I am putting my efforts and energy toward that which builds up; toward my family, my friends, my church, my students, the children, God's work, and most of all toward God Himself. As I watch Granddaddy struggle to live, I think on how much time I've spent in this life on that which is unworthy. Such a waste!

Yes, I too have been guilty of many things, especially not loving others as God commanded. That's because I am an imperfect human. We all are guilty of these things. But the beauty of it is we can ask for His forgiveness. We can start on a clean slate everyday because of what Jesus did for us on the Cross. Once we do, like Paul, we can stand in clear conscience before our God and let Him decide. And like Abraham, we are to be faithful and lead a blameless life. When we all decide to build up instead of tearing down, when we are united as The Body of Christ, encouraging one another in love, then the world can see Christ's Glory through us. Let's see things from now on from God's Perspective, not from our own limited, finite view. Then let us act accordingly.

Perspective. God's Perspective. That's what I'm praying for.

"How wonderful and pleasant it is

when brothers live together in harmony!

For harmony is as precious as the annointing oil that was poured over Aaron's head,

that ran down his beard,

and onto the border of his robe.

Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon

that falls on the mountains of Zion.

And there the LORD has prounounced his blessing,

even life Everlasting."

Psalm 133:1-3

In His Love, Cathy

Awesome Sunday

'I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD." ' Psalm 122

Awesome worship, awesome message!
The Holy Spirit was surely amongst us!
How glorious and amazing is Our Lord!
I yearn for when we are forever in His Glorious Presence!

Thank you, LORD!

Vacation Bible School

VBS at our church is June 16-20 from 6 to 8:20 p.m.
THEME: Cactus Canyon, John 3:16

VBS Workers Meeting Wednesday, June 11 at 7 p.m. All workers need to attend.

VBS Painting/Decorating Dates:
Sunday, June 8 from 2 to 4 p.m.
Friday, June 13 at 10 a.m. (Decorating Hallway, Rooms 1 and 2)
Sunday, June 15 at 3 p.m. (Decorating Sanctuary, Nursery, and Room 3)
Cleanup Church after VBS, Friday, June 20 at 8 p.m.

VBS Worship Team Practices
Sunday, June 8 at 2 p.m.
Wednesday, June 11 at 6 p.m.
Sunday, June 15 at 3 p.m. (on stage)

School's Out for the Summer

Whoooohooooo! Hallelujah!

Levothyroxine, Synthroid, & Me

I wanted to share something I learned about this week. Before I start, I must clarify that THIS IS NOT MEDICAL ADVICE so please check this out with your doctor. I am not a medical professional, just a patient who is sharing information about my own personal experience.

For many of us who have thyroid problems, we know that Synthroid is our lifeline. As for me, I had papillary thyroid cancer and had my thyroid removed. Those of us who are 'Synthroid Brothers & Sisters,' know how bad it gets if our dosage is off or we miss taking it. It is to this end that I share my personal experience in the taking of the generic Levothyroxine versus Synthroid.

I have been on Synthroid for the last ten years since my cancer. I've had dose adjustments between .125 mg to .150 mg. For the most part I've done well on Synthroid. Well, this past month or so, a new Florida law allowed Pharmacies to automatically fill all prescriptions with their generic equivalents without prior approval from the Insurance Company. So, as usual, I called in a refill for my Synthroid last month. My husband picked it up and brought it home for me. When I went to take my first pill from this new bottle I discovered that it looked quite different from my traditional Synthroid tablet. Upon further inspection, I saw that I was given the generic levothyroxine instead of the Synthroid that I requested. I also noticed it was more than half the price of Synthroid, so I went with it.

As the days progressed, I began to experience hypothyroid symptoms insomnia, migraines, lack of focus, stiff/sore muscles & cramps, the big D, well, you guys know what I'm talking about. I didn't think it was the new medication as I was told it was the equivalent to Synthroid. By the beginning of the 4th week of taking it, I was a MESS.

I began speaking with one of my Synthroid Sisters and we both shared with each other about how fatigued we were and how we needed to our TSH levels checked. Then, as a course of discussion, we discovered we both had been switched to generic levothyroxine at the same time. WHOA! So, we both looked up levothyroxine sodium on the web. Here's what we found out:

1. Generic and branded tablets of levothyroxine may differ:
- in the amount of levothyroxine they contain,
- the absorption of the levothyroxine into the body, and
- the distribution of levothyroxine throughout the body.
2. There are foods and other substances that can interfere with absorption.

• Avoid taking calcium and iron supplements within 4 hours of the medication.
• Avoid taking soy products within 3 hours of the medication as these can reduce absorption of the medication.
• Other substances that reduce absorption are aluminum and magnesium contained in antacids.
• Ketamine may cause hypertension and tachycardia and Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants increase its toxicity.
• Lithium causes hyperthyroidism by affecting iodine metabolism of the thyroid itself and thus inhibits Synthetic levothyroxine as well.

3. Synthetic levothyroxine may have adverse side effects like: palpitations, nervousness, headache, difficulty sleeping, insomnia, swelling of the legs and ankles, weight loss and/or increased appetite.

Thought I'd share. I am not implicating the generic as not being as good just that I experienced hypothyroid symptoms during the month I was on it. It may be as simple as an adjustment in dosage. There could have been other factors that influenced this as well. Again, please check with your doctor and pharmacist, especially if you have been switched to a different medication that you usually take and begin experiencing symptoms.

Information for levothyroxine sodium used in this blog was found on the following websites:
http://www.medicinenet.com/levothyroxine_sodium/article.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levothyroxine#Dosage.2C_precautions_and_side_effects

The Sweetest Sound

I just heard the sweetest sound today.

A sound that causes my heart to leap for joy.

The sound of our children, singing and praising God.

As I sit in my office, busying about the tasks that never seem to end,

God broke through today with the sweetest memory I will forever cherish.

Our children, joining their voices together as one worshipping our Lord and Savior.

Yes, two teenagers, who could be spending their time elsewhere involved in other things.

Instead, they are here, at church. Singing. Playing. Worshipping.

Their sweet melodies seep slowly into my office as one strums along on the guitar.

My heart cries out in praise, my eyes tear up in joy, at the sound of their voices blending in harmony.

How wonderful to know that our children are joining together in worship, praise, and love for our Risen Savior!

How thankful I am that they have given their hearts, lives, and all that they are to Christ.

How amazing that ones so young could have such a passion for our glorious Lord!

How awesome it is that God works in and through them.

How magnificent is our Lord that He uses ones so young, innocent, and sweet.

I wish I could preserve this moment forever.

Yes, what a sweet sound I hear today as I sit in my office.

Thank you, Lord!

In His Love, Cathy

Reach for Your Star

That was the theme for my daughter's middle school awards ceremony. I didn't think too long or hard about the meaning of "Reach for Your Star" when I saw it that morning. My focus was on my daughter and her friends. It wasn't until I looked at that title on her awards program just now and thought back on the ceremony that I fully grasped its essence. What seemed like a a nice sentiment that encouraged children to find their own success in their own way provoked my thoughts on the matter.

You know, every single child received an award for something that day. ALL 300 8th graders got an award! I thought, "How nice! Everyone got something." Although everyone was a winner that day, it became very apparent that some were bigger winners than others. But that was okay, because everyone was recognized for something.

There are so many life parallels I can pull from this event and write to. But I will limit myself to this one impression it left with me - how the event was an echo of the way society says we are to raise our children today. As I reflected over all of this, it just got me to thinking...

I think there is a deeper lesson here that we can derive. All children need to feel loved, cared for, and good about themselves. We all know that. As parents and teachers, we walk a fine line. We need to build up our children's self esteem recognizing their strenths, weaknesses, talents, and abilities. But we must be realistic in doing so. Children graduate from high school with shelves full of awards. Then they go off to college, try to get a job in the real world, and reality hits them in the face. Many do very well, but others don't. They don't get the participation award just for doing their job or going to class. They lose confidence in who they thought they were. I've known quite a few former bright, aspiring students come back home 'defeated' by college. The bottom line - society built some of them up with the right intentions but in the wrong way for the wrong reasons.

So what are we to do? How do we help our child reach for their own special star? Well, for starters, let's build up strong characters in our children by helping them have a healthy self esteem...one that is realistic and help them succeed in life. Let's reward them and cherish THEIR individual special abilities. Let's help them discover their true strengths and weaknesses and build upon those things. Help them develop goals in life and show them how they can accomplish those goals. We need to get involved in our children's education, extracurricular activities, and most importantly, their SPIRITUAL UPBRINGING. Let's take time to know our kids and have high, realistic - not lower - expectations of them as well. Offer encouragement instead of empty praises - that is give praise when it is truly due. Love on them and ensure they understand that you love them unconditionally. Most importantly, build up your child in the Lord Jesus Christ asking for His help in raising your child. He's just a prayer away... or two or three...or however many it takes to raise that child!

"Unless the LORD builds a house, the work of the builders is useless." Psalm 127:1

I don't know all of the answers, but God does and he's on call 24 hours a day!
In His Love, Cathy

Welcome

Welcome to my first blog! I'm very excited about the prospects of having my very own blog sight. I'm hoping that my blog will serve as a creative outlet for me to express the passions in my life. However, I also hope others will be blessed through what is expressed on this site. God has given each of us all unique life experiences and different passions. As for me, he's given me a passion for teaching and for reaching children with the love of Jesus Christ. He's also brought me through some really hard, tough times. Looking back on my life, I now realize these things, though extremely scary and difficult, molded me into the person I am today. Then I realized that there may be others who are going through the things that I've gone through, who need an encouraging word, a prayer, or just someone who understands. Who am I? Well, let's see. Where should I start? I am a wife to a wonderful man. We've been married almost 21 years. I am a mother to three beautiful children. Our oldest son just graduated from high school last week. Our daughter starts high school this next fall. Our youngest will be in 4th grade. Whew! Let me catch my breath here! I find it unbelievable how quickly they have grown up! My husband and I are high school teachers at the same school. He teaches history and I teach math. We went to Troy State (BS) and Auburn (MS). WAREAGLE!!! I serve as the Children's Pastor at our church while my husband serves in our church youth ministry. Working with kids is AWESOME! It keeps you young, as my husband says! I am a thyroid cancer survivor of 10 years. I am one who is very thankful for God's grace, mercy, and healing! I feel that He has given me a second chance at life. Thanks for reading! Type to ya' later!