Spreading the LOVE of Reading

Who is helping to give out half a million free books all across America on one day?  I am.

Tonight I will be one of the 25,000 volunteers, from Kodiak, Alaska to Key West, Florida, in 6,000 towns and cities across America participating in World Book Night U.S. – a celebration of reading and books.

World Book Night U.S. is an ambitious campaign to spread the joy and love of reading. Volunteer book lovers like myself, will help promote reading by going into our communities and handing out free books to new or light readers, reaching them especially in underserved places – and even some fun spots.  Thirty different novels have been chosen as World Book Night paperbacks. They are specially-printed, not-for-resale paperbacks. As a book giver, I have received 20 copies of Peace Like a River, by Leif Enger, to hand out.

Overview of the book:

With over a million copies sold, Leif Enger's award-winning, national bestseller Peace Like a River is a heroic quest, a tragedy, a love story, and a haunting meditation on the possibility of magic in the everyday world. Enger brings us eleven-year-old Reuben Land, an asthmatic boy in the Midwest who has reason to believe in miracles. Along with his sister and father, Rueben finds himself on a cross country search for his outlaw brother who has been controversially charged with murder. Their journey unfolds like a revelation, and its conclusion shows how family, love, and faith can stand up to the most terrifying of enemies, and the most tragic of fates.


Special Give-Away: As part of World Book Night, I will be giving away a copy of Peace Like a River to two lucky readers of my blog. All I ask is after you are done reading the book that you pass it on so that someone else can also share the joy of reading.

To enter the Give-a-way - leave your name below and
tell me the name of your favorite author or favorite type of book.

All entries must be posted by midnight EST Thursday, April 26, 2012.

Winner will be announced on my blog Friday 4/27/12.

Please note: To enter this give-a-way you must be a U.S. resident,

sorry but I am personally paying for shipping the books!

World Book Night, through social media and traditional publicity, also promotes the value of reading, of printed books, and of bookstores and libraries to everyone year-round. I am very proud to be a part of the first World Book Night in the U.S., and look forward to telling you about my experience in the near future.

Peace, Love & Happy Reading, Donna Weaver

To read an overview of other books selected as part of 2012 World Book Night,

click on this link: http://www.us.worldbooknight.org/wbn2012-the-books/see-all-30-books

GOD'S Green Earth

“The heavens declare the glory of God;

the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”

– Psalm 19:1

What’s Happening: On Sunday, April 22nd more than one billion people around the globe will participate in Earth Day 2012. Did you know the centerpiece of Earth Day in the United States will be a rally on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Tens of thousands of environmentally-conscious people from all walks of life and all parts of the country will be joined by civic leaders and celebrities for this special event to galvanize the environmental movement.

Check with your city or neighborhood organization to see what events they have planned for Earth Day. Take Action!

Why Should we Care: Psalm 24:1 tells us “The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” That means since God created the world, we are only temporary stewards, and should be committed caretakers of its resources.

Sea turtle photo from www.blogs.westword.com

Facts about plastic – did you know?

• Plastic needs about 450 years just to start decomposing. Then, it takes another 50-80 years to decompose completely.

• Approximately 150,000 tons of plastic garbage goes into the ocean every year, causing the death of many sea animals which mistake the garbage for food. The plastic clogs their digestive systems and infuses their systems with chemicals.

• 24 million gallons of oil are needed for the production of a billion plastic bottles.

• The average American consumed 1.6 gallons of bottled water in 1976. In 2006, that number jumped to 28.3 gallons.

• Recycling a single plastic bottle can conserve enough energy to light a 60W bulb for up to 6 hours.

• Over 13 billion plastic bags are produced every year, which averages about 300 per adult.

• There are many countries which have banned or restricted the use of plastic bags. Australia, China, Austria, Bangladesh, Ireland and several European Union countries are among them.

Suggestions for making everyday Earth Day: 

• Use a reusable water bottle
• Turn off lights when you leave a room
• Use reusable lunch boxes for your children’s lunches
• Plant a tree or a garden
• Bring your own reusable shopping bags to the grocery store
• Convert your household light bulbs to LED
• Use rechargeable batteries
• Walk or bike more, drive less
• Use a water-saving shower head

Educational Resources:
 
Sullie Saves the Seas by Goffinet McLaren (South Carolina author).  This beautifully written book is a must read for children and adults concerned for planet Earth.  
 
Know Green, Go Green is a national campaign that promotes environmental education through providing resources for teachers to use to educate and mobilize their students.
 
Reading for the Earth is a national platform that libraries can use to promote environmental literacy and to inspire youth to read more books


It’s Friday, Let’s Sparkle … Action Required … Choose to make a difference, join the Billion Acts of Green. Today you can become part of the solution and help protect our planet by making a commitment to take action. Decide how you want to make a difference and pledge an act of green at  http://www.earthday.org/2012. The goal is to have one billion acts of green this Earth Day!

Get your families, friends, neighbors, churches, and schools involved … we all can make a pledge to be good stewards of this beautiful earth that God has entrusted to us.

I took the Pledge… I am helping reduce the danger of plastic water bottles by using a non-toxic, reusable water bottle. No one can do it all, but if we each do something – together we can make a difference!

Have a blessed weekend and don’t forget to …

Recycle – Reuse – Repurpose + Raise Awareness about Earth Day

God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

Sharing God’s Light – Part 1

“Don't hide your light! Let it shine for all; let your good deeds

glow for all to see, so that they will praise your heavenly Father.”

- Matthew 5:15-16

One of the most popular artists in America, "Painter of Light" Thomas Kinkade, died Friday at the age of 54. The University of California Berkeley graduate had a strong faith in God, which served as the foundation for his artwork.

Kinkade was one of the most widely collected and beloved artists of our day. According to his website, “Each year millions of people are drawn to the luminous light and tranquil mood of Kinkade's paintings and include his creations in their lives through prints, books, and other fine collectibles."

Years ago I collected lighthouses and had several Kinkade prints of his “beacon’s of light. “ He had such an eye for taking objects and using his paintbrush to make them “come alive with light."  As I was thinking about Kinkade’s work, I also thought about how God makes us come alive with His light.  We are not to shine our light to draw attention to ourselves, but commanded to become the light to others in this world, so that they may know the true Source of our light.

So, how do you shine?

There are many ways we can shine for Jesus. Maybe you are like Kinkade and shine with a paintbrush, or maybe you shine with your voice. I like to think that God’s light shines just a little through the words I write.  Whatever gifts, talents and passions God has given to you, use them to His glory and “shine” for all to see.

Thomas Kinkade painted some amazing images of faith include pieces entitled: The Good Shepherds Cottage, The Cross, Sunrise, Walk of Faith, Stairway to Paradise, Bridge of Faith.  He also has “The Garden of Prayer Collection” which includes the following paintings: The Garden of Prayer, Pools of Serenity, The Hour of Prayer, and Gazebo of Prayer.

I’d like to close my blog today with words written by Kinkade himself, describing his painting The Gazebo of Prayer ...
  

"In my heart, gazebos are truly peaceful places. They seem to exist apart from the world and beacon all of us inside the confines of the small world they capture. Children use them in their fanciful play delighting their young imaginations. Lovers use them as a retreat to share a romatic moment or perhaps a wedding vow.  Wanders usethem as a palce of refuge, gently sheltering from the day's brillant sun.  To my artistic eye, this gazebo is a perfect place for those seeking a time of reverent renewal and a moment of solitude to be with their God. The trees soften the light to create harmonies of shadow and color enhancing the viewer's experience. One can smell the fragrant floral aromas gently drifting in this small sanctum of solitude. The birds happily sing in the trees as if they were a church choir praising the creator and thanking Him for the grace given to this heavenly garden. The spirit of our Lord fills every moment if we take the time to simply look, listen and allow His presence to fill our hearts and provide guidance. Join me in the Gazebo of Prayer where we can connect with providence often lost in hectic, everyday life. God Bless."

Excerpt taken from the official Thomas Kinkade website.

Check out his work at the link below:

http://www.thomaskinkade.com/index_splash.html

I'll be back on Friday with Part 2 of Sharing God’s Light. Have a blessed and “sparkly” week.   God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

Journey to the Cross - DARKNESS FALLS

“How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

- Romans 10:15

We’ve journeyed through the garden.

And now we approach the path to the cross.

The cross on a hill.

He carried our burdens and took our place on the cross

The blood stained cross.

Darkness falls over the Earth.

Leave your burdens and sins at the foot of the cross.

But do not stay in the darkness.

Because ...     Christ is Risen! 

"This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again.

               - John 3:16  (The Message)

It’s Friday, Let’s "Sparkle" ... action required ... God required a price to be paid for our sin, so Christ took the journey to Calvary - and through His death, we've all been given the right to be called the sons and daughters of God.  All He asks in return is for us to believe in Him!

If you have never asked Jesus to forgive your sins and be your Savior, my prayer is that you will do so today. 

If you are already a Christian, my prayer is that you will let the light of Christ shine in your life for all to see. Spread the Good News.

Lent began with a symbol of ashes, and ends with the light of Jesus shining in each one of us.

Easter blessings everyone.
God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

The JOY of JESUS

“A joyful heart makes a cheerful face,

But when the heart is sad, the spirit is broken.”

- Proverbs 15:13 (NASB)

This week one of my friends sent me an email that included a short devotion entitled, “Sparkling!” Since that just happens to be part of our message at PEACE, LOVE and SPARKLE every Friday, I wanted to share with you the opening paragraph.

“As I was waiting to checkout I glanced at one of the magazines on the rack, I noticed it had a female celebrity wearing a gem studded gown worth four times as much as my friendly cashier could make in a year. When I looked at it, however, I couldn’t help but think that nothing on that dress sparkled as brightly or shined as beautifully as the cashier’s joyful smile.” (excerpt taken from “Sparkling!” by Joseph J. Mazzella)

What a wonderful compliment ... but it actually means so much more.

Do you remember this childhood song?

If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands.

If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands.

If you’re happy and you know it, then your face will surely show it.

f you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands.

A SMILE is an outward expression of an inward emotion. And that inward emotion is JOY. Our JOY comes from knowing the LORD. And our love of the LORD fills our heart with JOY (inward emotion) and is expressed with a SMILE (outward expression).

Okay, are you dizzy yet? Whether you noticed it or not, we just went in a complete circle.

As Christians we have so much to be thankful for. I once heard someone say that “heart smiles” erupt on our faces and give us a special radiance that comes from the joy in our heart.

Does your face reflect the spiritual condition of your heart?

Here are some reminders from scripture:

“She is clothed with strength and dignity;

she can laugh at the days to come.”

- Proverbs 31:25

“Yet I will rejoice in the Lord,

I will be joyful in God my Savior.”

- Habakkuk 3:18

“Laughter does the heart good like a medicine

but a broken spirit dries the bones.”

- Proverbs 17:22

It’s Friday, so if you are happy, let your face show it
– aka Sparkle.

Our smile can be a wonderful testimony to our faith. Let your confidence in Christ – your joy, happiness and peace, shine through.

Remember, you may be the only Christ someone will ever see.

Praying that your weekend will be filled with JOY and lots of SMILES!
God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

Seeking “God-Moments”

"Blessed are those to whom Easter is not a hunt... but a find;

not a greeting... but a proclamation;

not an outward fashion... but inward grace;

not a day... but an eternity."

- Author Unknown

The next two weekends will be filled with a burst of spring activities; shopping for the perfect Easter outfit, haircuts for the kids, preparation for the Easter brunch, community Easter egg hunts, freshening up the house for out of town guests, practice for the Easter program at church, and of course, Spring Break activities.

Beware:  Busyness once again lurks in the shadows - ready to attack and steal our peace.

Remember:  Daily time spent with God can fill us with peace, patience, perseverance and help us through each day. His presence will give us perspective!

Sometimes I feel like my mind is like a broken record, replaying the same words over and over again ...

“avoid BUSYNESS, seek PEACE, seek HIM”

“avoid BUSYNESS, seek PEACE, seek HIM”

“avoid BUSYNESS, seek PEACE, seek HIM”

The fact is, these reminders keep pounding in my head because I still have not learned to listen to God’s promptings. Always good intentions ... but in my human-ness, I always fall short ...

I wake up and rush to get ready for work, missing the beautiful morning sunrise. I’m on the go, running my errands, can’t be late – missing the fresh scent of flowers along the path. I have my head buried in paperwork, eyes focused on the computer, TV making noise in the background, but I do not take time to sit on the patio and enjoy the afternoon sunshine.

God provides beautiful works of art, if we choose to open our eyes. God provides magical moments, if we choose to open our hearts. God provides inspiring, encouraging and loving words in scripture, if we choose to open our minds. As I was writing this, I got to thinking about the Bible verse about the “lilies of the field.” Check out this version of the passage which is taken from The Message Bible.

Matthew 6:27 - 33 (MSG)

27-29 "Has anyone by fussing in front of the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? All this time and money wasted on fashion—do you think it makes that much difference? Instead of looking at the fashions, walk out into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They never primp or shop, but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them.

30-33 "If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.

Sounds so reassuring ... like a wonderful, relaxing, peace-filled plan. God’s beautiful plan.

How about we give it a try? Would love to hear how you plan to enjoy some God-moments this weekend. Post your comments below.

 
 
It’s Friday, Let’s Sparkle ... action required ... In the midst of all the spring celebrations, there are people we may need to pray for, offer an invitation to, or take action to help out. Ask God to open your eyes to their needs. Ask Him to open your heart to reach out and love them. And ask the Holy Spirit to fill your mind with the words to tell them the reason you have hope, love, joy and peace.


“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” - Romans 5:8


Grace & Peace, Donna Weaver

Inside the Cover – WEIRD: Because Normal Isn’t Working

“Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God
transform you into a new person by changing the way you
think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which
is good and pleasing and perfect”  - Romans 12:2

Can I tell you a secret .... { I want to be WEIRD! }

When I was young, kids would do almost anything to conform and not be considered different (or weird).  But, I’ve grown up – and, in today’s world “normal” people are stressed, overwhelmed, and exhausted. Our normalcy affects our friendships, our family life and most importantly, our relationship with God.

Normal is rarely content. Normal has become living paycheck to paycheck. Normal lacks time for what is really important in life.

Let’s face it, NORMAL isn’t working.

I just finished reading a book that gives the reader permission to break free from the “norm.” It is packed full of alternatives that will help us choose to live a radically abnormal (and much more fulfilling) life.

The author of WEIRD: Because Normal isn’t Working is a pastor, husband and father of six children, and he is WEIRD (in a good way). Craig Groeschel begins his story by recalling a time in his youth when he asked himself questions like: “What if Jesus is real? What if his teachings are true? How would my life change if I truly tried to live like Jesus? What if I really gave my life to God?”

Knowing that he did not have all of the answers, he knew enough to foresee that pursuing these questions would “force him to step outside the safe circle of being normal.” Using personal stories, scripture, and a touch of humor, we are challenged to join him and step out of our comfort zone.

He offers his WEIRD views on topics such as time management, financial decisions, marriage, parenting, sexual purity, intimacy, relationship with God, and morals. One statement that he made really hit home. He said, “We choose popular standards instead of the habits that lead to holiness.”

In the book we are asked the question, “What if the Bible is talking about a different-than-what-everyone-else-does, good type of Jesus weird?"  Today I challenge you to read this exciting book and join me in being WEIRD.

It’s Friday, Let’s “Sparkle” ... action required ... Books like the one we discussed today can be a great addition to our spiritual learning. Why not gather a group of friends together and read a book together?  Many Christian books include discussion questions or offer companion study guides that help facilitate conversations about the book and our faith.  Great reading, interesting discussions and blessed fellowship - PRICELESS!

Have a WEIRD weekend!
God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

Resource:    WEIRD: Because Normal isn’t Working
by Craig Groeschel
http://www.christianbook.com/weird-because-normal-isnt-working/craig-groeschel/9780310327905/pd/327905

Digging Deeper for the TRUTH

un•der•stand – to realize or become aware of something

What is the cost?  What does the commitment entail?  How far away is it?  How much time will it take?  UNDERSTANDING the full picture is important in any aspect of life.

This semester I am taking a course called Interpreting the Bible.  I am learning to analyze, interpret, and apply what I am reading. I am also discovering that many times we read God’s Word with a “preunderstanding” (conscious and subconscious preconceived notions). These notions may be based on things we learned as a child, from our life’s experiences, or from our culture.

Understanding a passage in the original context - including who wrote it, to whom it was written, and what historical things were going on at the time, is so important. To understand how to apply God’s Word to our lives today, we need to grasp the meaning of the text as God originally intended.

“Each passage of scripture was God’s Word to other people before it became God’s Word to us. We are separated from the biblical audience by culture and customs, language, situation, and a vast expanse of time” (Grasping God’s Word, 2005). With that said, the time bound message of Scripture contains eternally relevant principles that we can discover and apply to our lives in today’s world. That is why it is important for us to dig deep and meditate on God’s Word and never rely totally on the understanding or interpretation of someone else.

The concept of digging in and finding the truth for ourselves is a great practice in other areas of our life too.  This week several things happened that were separate but also connected in many ways. First, I am on an email/prayer list for a missionary in the Sudan. Her name is Michelle Perry and her base is an orphanage in a very dangerous area. She shares her stories and how God is working in the lives of the Sudanese people on her blog. This week she shared a very insightful story. Before I share her link I want to tell you the other half of the story. While spending time on the internet last week I kept seeing a post for KONY 2012. I didn’t have time to check it out, but this weekend my daughter called to let me know that she had sent me an email that would touch my heart. It was the KONY 2012 video.

As I watched the video, I thought about Michelle’s work in a different light. My daughter was right, my heart broke for the children that have been abused and tortured by this awful person. One particular scripture came to mind:

“He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one

of the least of these, you did not do for me” – Matthew 25:45

I plan to continue to pray for Michelle and the work she is doing in the Sudan. Beyond that, I cannot say where my heart will lead me.

The key to taking any type of “action” can only be found in truly UNDERSTANDING. Many of you have probably viewed the KONY 2012 video. If you have not, I have provided a link below. You will also find links to the two posts that Michelle Perry’s wrote this week - she is a beautiful writer and photographer, and captures the words and faces of life in the Sudan, beyond anything you can imagine. She sheds a new light on the same topic and your heart will be touched.

Have a blessed week. As you continue to study God’s Word, I pray that you will seek a deeper understanding of each passage you read.

I’ll be back on Wednesday as we continue our Journey to the Cross.
God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

Original KONY 2012 video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4MnpzG5Sqc

Michelle Perry, Missionary in the Sudan - blog posted 3/8/12:
http://fromtheunpavedroad.com/2012/03/08/what-does-it-mean-to-love-our-enemies-really/

Michelle’s follow up blog posted 3/9/12:
http://fromtheunpavedroad.com/2012/03/09/live-free//

With a Thankful Heart

“God has two dwellings: one in heaven,

and the other in the meek and thankful heart.”

-- Isaac Walton

So often we’re asking, asking, and asking for the things we want from God. It’s time once again to talk about an attitude of gratitude.

For almost a year now, my friend Peggy and I have been keeping what we call our “Blessings Journals.” We started out with two identical journals, our favorite pens, and a goal of recording 1,000 blessings in each book. The fun part is that we swap journals every 2-3 weeks and continue recording our blessings in the other persons’ journal.

Last week it was time once again for our “swap,” and guess what? We have recorded almost 500 blessings in each book. Half-way there, but we’ve also decided that the number doesn’t matter anymore. Holding each other accountable and sharing our gratitude, has blessed us both more than we can put in to words. There are some days when the only blessing might be, “the day is finally over.” Other days, God’s abundant blessings never seem to end. It may be a "thank you" for patience, an unexpected check in the mail, a phone call from a friend, bird's chirping in the early morning, a handmade card from a grandchild, a beautiful sunrise, or a slice of cheesecake.  The size or number of our blessings doesn’t matter ... it is the attitude, our changed hearts and the joy found in reading the other persons blessings. It is worshipping God with a grateful prayer and a thankful heart.

I think we’ve both decided that we need to continue our shared journals forever.    { s m i l i n g }

With a grateful prayer ...

Each one of us have been given more than we’ll ever know.

and a thankful heart ...

Whatever we think about throughout the day affects our attitude.

We worship you, Lord.

Joy, peace, healing, prosperity, salvation - just a few of our many blessings.

I just love this quote, it says it all ... “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.” -Melody Beady

 
It’s Friday, Let’s “Sparkle” ... action required ... Below are some tips for beginning your own Blessings Journal. Why not consider sharing your gratitude with a friend – twice the blessings and twice the fun! I have also included some scripture verses you could pass along to someone that might need to realize all of the blessings in their life.
 
Go Shopping, be Creative - You can use a beautiful hardbound journal, a plain blank inexpensive notebook, or a simple collection of blank notecards tied together with a beautiful ribbon.

Pick your Style of Journaling – Make a list, write a prayer, jot a thank note to Jesus – simple words or eloquent writing, it’s your choice.

Make a Commitment – Having an attitude of gratitude, a thankful heart, is a discipline. It’s best to try to make a plan – once a day, three times a week, every Sunday, whatever works with your schedule. Be consistent.

Don’t give up! – If you find that you are skipping a day, forgetting to write, or saying to yourself “I’ll start again tomorrow,” pray and ask God for willpower and self-discipline. Another great idea is to ask someone to hold you accountable.

“Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make

known his deeds among the people” - 1 Chronicles 16:8

"Enter into his gates with thanksgiving,

and into his courts with praise: be thankful

unto him, and bless his name” - Psalms 100:4

Below is a link to a Youtube video of a song entitled “With a Thankful Heart,” by Don Moen. Please enjoy and have a blessed weekend.

God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

Don Moen – “With a Thankful Heart”

http://vodpod.com/watch/15731653-don-moen-with-a-thankful-heart-with-lyrics

Falling Asleep in the Garden – FORGIVENESS

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness

of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace”

- Ephesians 1:7

By now, we’ve come to realize that the Lenten season is a Journey to the Cross. We began our walk through the garden of Gethsemane by reflecting on the things that separate us from Christ. Last we went back to the garden and talked about confessing our sins with a sincere heart.

This week we will be exploring the topic of forgiveness. Even while we were sinners, God sent his Son to die in our place. Jesus took the journey to the cross, experienced pain and suffering ... and ultimately died for our sins. He carried our burdens and took our place on the cross.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” - John 3:16

Are you beginning to sense the depth of God’s love for you?

As we continue on the path from ashes to glory we need to realize that this GIFT of forgiveness occurred once for all time. It is God’s free and loving gift to us. A gift we cannot earn and one we definitely do not deserve.

PREPARING OUR HEARTS: Let’s stop along the path this week to smell the roses. A few years ago I came across the story below and love to pull it out at Easter time. It’s a great reminder that we need to pass along the same love and forgiveness that God has shown to us, to others who join us on our life journey.

The Fragrance of My Savior

by Sharon Lee Roberts

I was running bath water the other night when I looked into my basket of bath salts and little soaps. There was a small package with a beautiful floral print on the front. It was called “Essence of Rose.”

I thought about the name. I smelled the fragrance. It smelled just like a rose. Though it wasn’t a rose, it carried the rose’s fragrance.

I remembered that special title for Jesus found in the bible “the rose of Sharon” (Song of Solomon 2:1). I remembered that I, as a Christian, am to carry the fragrance of Christ, whom I follow.

Also, I am to reflect his image. Do I reflect Jesus Christ? Will people see him shine through me? I hope that others can see Jesus in me. I know that I can be more like him only as I submit to God’s will for me, to his working in me. For it is God who does the work. The process may be painful, but I need to endure it so that the desired results in my character are produced.

I pray that I have the fragrance of gentleness, and the scent of forgiveness and forbearance. I pray that meekness shines through me.

As I inhale that beautiful fragrance of “essence of rose” and close my eyes to envision a rose, I pray that the world will sense in my life the fragrance of my Savior.

This week I pray that we will truly understand the power of forgiveness,
and the joy of everlasting life that goes along with it.

Counting down to Calvary ...

God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

Encouragement for a WEARY HEART

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart,
and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light”
- Matthew 11:28-30

May 22, 2011. A supercell thunderstorm produced an EF-5 tornado over Joplin, Missouri. The sign above was from in front of the Joplin High School. When the tornado struck the J - L - I - N were blown off the sign. Days later someone expressed the sentiment of the town when they added a duct tape H and E. The new sign makes a statement about the attitude of the students and the community. They made a choice in a most difficult time. They chose HOPE!

Last night I was catching up with friends and family on Facebook and I happened to see a post from a friend that said she had lost her job. Another dear friend added to my prayer list of those without jobs. The list just keeps growing – and my heart goes out to them because it wasn’t all that long ago that I had also been on the same “list.” Life circumstances may be out of our control, but one thing is certain – we serve a mighty God who loves us and is IN CONTROL. Just like the person who changed the letters on the Joplin High School sign, we too can choose the way we react, the attitude we have and the source of our strength – even when times are difficult.

Today I would like to share some of my favorite words of HOPE, along with some awesome resources. It is my prayer that these words will offer encouragement and remind those with a “weary heart,” that they are not alone.

SHUT DOORS –– God will sometimes shut doors (even the ones we really want to walk through) in order to guide us in the right direction. We simply have to trust God. He has the power to open every door, and shut the ones we shouldn’t walk hrough. Proverbs 19:21 states: “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”       - Called Magazine  

PROVISION –– Your God will bring supernatural provision for the vision

He has given you. So have faith, and don't doubt! Do you believe He is

able to do it? Then, according to your faith it will be done (Matthew :27-29).

- Called Magazine

 “Don't worry about a thing just let
God's peace flow over you.”
- Philippians 4:7

No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what
others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never
let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; He'll always be
there to help you come through it."   - 1 Corinthians 10:13 (The Message)

 

"You need Me continually - not only for daily bread and blessings,

but also for the myriad of decisions you must make each day," - Dear Jesus

- from Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young

“A downpour of trials can be a force that destroys and washes

away hope, or it can become a tool God uses to bring healing new life.”

- Excerpt from Rain on Me: Devotions of Hope and Encouragement

for Difficult Times, by Holley Gerth

It’s Friday, Let’s Sparkle ... action required ... Look around and find someone that needs HOPE today.  Offer them a listening ear or an encouraging word.  The message below was posted on Facebookand is worth repeating ...

"Sometimes when I say "I'm okay," I want
someone to look me in the eyes, hug me
tight and say, "I know you are not!" 

What a powerful reminder that there are so many hurting people in our world today.  Let's be the hands & feet of Christ to a hurting world.... one person at a time.If you would like to post a prayer request in the comment section, please do so. While you are at it, why not say a prayer for someone else on the list.  Have a safe and relaxing weekend ... remember to find time to rest in His presence.

God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

RESOURCES:

CALLED Magazine helps Christian women serve better, lead better, and live better– no matter what they’re called to do. Ministry is not for a select few. It's for all of us!  http://calledmagazine.com/

Books by Holley Gerth and Sarah Young
Available at   www.amazon.com   or   www.christianbook.com

Scripture     http://www.biblegateway.com/

A Walk in the Garden – CONFESSING OUR SINS

"Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. Create in

me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me"

- Psalm 51:9-10

Our Journey to the Cross continues.

Where do you go to seek God’s presence?

I don’t know about you, but I love to walk in a beautifully manicured garden. The sweet smells, the beautiful colors, the wonder of nature makes me feel close to Him. I admit that I do not have a green thumb, but I definitely appreciate the peacefulness amidst nature’s beauty. This past week there was another “garden” in my thoughts ... the Garden of Gethsemane. Located east of the Kidron Valley from Jerusalem, on the slopes of the Mount of Olives, I can only imagine that it was a beautiful place too - a peace-filled place, where Jesus went quite often to seek God’s presence.

I hope you’ve been able to find some quiet time this past week ... a time for reflection ... a time to examine our hearts, and pray about the things that hinder our relationship with God. Now we have to step out of our comfort zone and cry out to God, just as David did in the words of Psalm 51.

Easier said than done!

Most of us are more comfortable with the idea of giving up something for Lent, or just focusing on the upcoming celebration of Easter morning. But the hard fact is that we need to walk through the darkness that comes before the light ... the confession that comes before the joy.

As Easter approaches we need to be honest with God. We need to lay our sins and burdens at the foot of the cross. 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive and to cleanse us from every wrong.”

Remember ... there is nothing that will surprise God – no sin too bad, no secret too dark. God is a God of light and darkness cannot survive in his presence. Nothing can keep us from His mercy and grace when we confess our sins with a sincere heart.

For our God sent His own Son in to the darkness, to die on the cross ... for US. He took our place. He was our substitute, so that we may live in the light.

PREPARING OUR HEARTS: Meditate on the words of Romans 5:6-11, “You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”

This week take time to pray about what it really means to take someone else’s punishment in their place. What are the results of Christ dying for us while we were still sinners?

Counting down to Calvary ...
God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

Time for a Checkup

  

It’s been over a year now since I set out on my journey to seek more of God’s peace in four specific areas of my life.  I think that I’m past due for a check-up and re-affirmation.

"When you are proclaiming peace with your lips, be careful
to have it even more fully in your heart.”  – St. Francis of Assisi

Peace in my Heart is directly affected by my relationship with God and others. I will continue to seek peace in this area of my life through prayer, being still (listening to God), and reading His Word.

“If there is to be any peace it will come through being, not having.”

- Henry Miller

Peaceful Environment is the result of simplifying my life. I will continue to seek peace in this area through controlling clutter (self-discipline), honoring the commitments that God calling me to (self-discipline), and avoiding chaos (self-discipline).

“The fruit of silence is prayer; the fruit of prayer is faith;

the fruit of faith is love; the fruit of love is service;

the fruit of service is peace.” – Mother Teresa

Spirit of Peace is reflected by the presence of the Holy Spirit in my life. I will continue to seek peace in this area by abiding by the virtues of the Fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control).

“Make me an instrument of your peace.”

– St. Francis of Assisi

Sharing the Peace is to share the light of Jesus that resides within us, aka “sparkle.” I will continue to seek peace in this area of my life by using the gifts, resources, and passions that God has given me to bring Him glory.

I believe a spiritual journey of seeking God’s peace helps me live out the words of John 10:10, “ ...I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full..”  My prayer is that as we continue this journey together, we will allow God to transform our hearts, encourage us, teach us and lead us each step of the way.

Don’t forget to check back on Wednesday as our “journey to the cross” takes us back to the Garden of Gethsemane.

God’s Peace, Donna Weaver

Inside the Cover – GOD’S GUEST LIST

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up..."

- 1 Thessalonians 5:11

You can’t always judge a book by it’s cover, but you can tell how good a book is by the impression it makes on you. Was it heart-felt - bringing you to tears or creating feelings of overwhelming joy? Did it spark curiosity, making you want to learn more about the topic? At the end of the story, did you want to read more? Was it entertaining, shocking, surprising, mysterious, educational?

What about those books that inspire you? Did you finish reading the last page and feel moved to take action?

I’m a huge fan of New York Times bestselling author, Debbie Macomber. I have read her romance novels for years, and have also enjoy her books that have been made in to TV movies, such as the holiday story of Mrs. Miracle.  Recently I read one of her non-fiction books that truly inspired me.  

  As Christians, our lives are all about relationships – with God and with others. We meet people every day. Some become our instant friends, but others we never think about again. Some we think about years later, and ask ourselves what ever happened to them. And then there are those that you think about and are reminded of the impact they have had on your life. I am a firm believer that God brings people into our lives for a purpose, a season, a moment or a lifetime.

In her book GOD’S GUEST LIST, Debbie Macomber shares how God prompted her to make a list of the people he had sent in to her life. As she explored the names on her list, she wrote down how each person impacted her life. Her book explains how each of us have “influencers” that have changed us or made a difference in our lives – through encouraging words or deeds, through teaching, sharing, or mentoring. God has used others to help us become the person we are today.

Who is on God’s “guest list” for your life . . . and why?

The answers may surprise you.

I highly recommend this book. Macomber’s personal stories and brilliant insight will definitely change how you look at the people in your life - past, present and future.

The author’s journey to compile her “Guest List” was so inspiring that I have started working on my own list. As I have been journaling, God has brought to mind so many people that I had completed forgot about or lost track of. Not only has this become a great way of preserving memories, but I plan to send notes to some of the people just to let them know how they have influenced my life.

By pausing to recognize the influences that other people have had in our lives, we can only begin to grasp the extent of God’s plans and desire for us to be in “relationship” with others.

Woven throughout the book, Debbie also uncovers the power we have to shape and influence others. So keep your eyes open, because we might just be invited to be on God’s guest list in someone else’s life.

It’s Friday, Let’s “Sparkle” ... action required ... Books that inspire our Christian life don’t always have to be filled with theology. Sometimes an easy read, such as God’s Guest List” can help us see God’s work in our life. Talking about our favorite books and sharing them can be a great way to witness to others.

Here is a great tip: If you like going to thrift shops, keep your eyes open for Bibles, Christian devotionals, Chicken Soup for the Soul and other books that you can pick up at pretty reasonable prices. I once picked up an NIV Study Bible (in great condition) for $3.75. It’s a great way to have books handy, just to “pass on” to others.

I’d love to know ... “What was the last book you read that inspired you to explore your faith or take some other kind of action?”

See you back here Monday – have a blessed weekend.
God’s Peace, Donna Weaver