Creekside Ministries

Audrey's Sparrow

2012-01-25T09:27:00.000-05:00

... a familiar old gospel hymn

... a sweet refreshing interpretation

... sparkling sunlight on a cloudy winter day

Linda

"What is the price of 5 sparrows? A couple of pennies? Yet God does not forget a single one of them. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to Him than a whole flock of sparrows"

- Luke 12:6-7 {NLT}.

A Note From My Sister

2012-01-23T11:12:00.002-05:00

Marilyn, October 2010

Linda,

When I was having treatment you gave me a devotional book called Journey Into Day (meditations for new cancer patients) by Rusty Freeman. I told you then that it was really good and I got around 1/2 way through it and put it down. We must have had company around that time because I recently found it in a paper bag of piles of papers that I had put in my closet!! I started reading the book where he starts talking about the end of treatment, remission, etc. It is excellent and definitely the best book for new cancer patients - (not sure if it is good for people who are terminal). It is written by a pastor who has had cancer two times.

I'm thinking of buying a bunch and bringing them to the oncology treatment waiting rooms - I know the one at Beth Israel they take all kinds of books - and I'm also thinking of giving some to the oncology chaplains office. So, thanks for passing it along - I think you got it from one of your friends.

Guess it is good we were cleaning out a closet!
Marilyn

Thank you to those who still ask for my sister. She continues to forge ahead ... and in a monthly cancer support group, she's now impacting the lives of other women.

Linda

The Kids Said It Best

2012-01-22T11:08:00.000-05:00

I heard all about this powerfully compelling "ad" shown recently at an NFL game, and then spotted it over at Brent Carl's blog this week.

You can read sponsor Focus on the Family's perspective here.

But I think the kids say it best ...

"A Little Child Shall Lead Them" ~
Linda

"The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. It is the same with My word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it"

- Isaiah 55:10-11 {NLT}.

Feeling Like Gumby

2012-01-20T12:55:00.004-05:00

If you know me well, you KNOW that I have a great heart for the health, sanity, life balance, and well being of ministry leaders, having gone through the whole depression and burnout thing myself back in the day. So I've appreciated the work of Scott Couchenour in recent years. A self-described introvert and "recovering burnout and depression sufferer," he now coaches and writes with a sharp focus on the needs of ministry leaders. Serving Strong is a blog worth keeping your eye on.

Anyway, I had fun sharing my story with him last July, and so I was happy to respond when he recently invited me to write a guest post.

"When you received your call into ministry leadership, it probably never crossed your mind that one of your sacrifices would be your energy. Tight finances, less family time, not alot of room for advancement ... those considerations were probably in there for you.

But energy? No way!

And then slowly but surely, you begin to feel like Gumby. Pulled from all directions by ..."

Linda

*** 6 Burnout Lessons for Ministry Leaders ... and anyone else who's feeling a bit fried around the edges ***

- Gumby by Maya Lucchitta -

Organizational Gifts From Ann

2012-01-18T14:00:00.000-05:00

Ann Voskamp taught me alot about gratitude last year. Remember Lessons at Breakfast?

Well, I absolutely love her beautifully charming YEAR OF GRACES CALENDAR and WEEKLY & DAILY PLANNERS.

Click on each link to download and print. And then please travel over to her website to share your gratitude for these beautiful resources ...

Linda

- photo by SprittiBee -

When Our Children Don't Share Our Faith

2012-01-16T12:59:00.014-05:00

Over at the ministry leadership blog Out of Ur, there's been several recent posts focusing on "the religious views of 20-somethings."

And I hear that this video is getting alot of press in the Christian blog world.

Once again, the issue of the faith of the next generation is on the table.

Or did it ever leave?

Writer Brandon J. O’Brien defines what the new face of faith looks like. "Spiritual, but not religious ... Happy to believe many things at once ... Tradition and morality are valued more than belief ... Serving doesn't require believing ... Religious beliefs having very little impact on their personal or professional goals."

Read his insightful observations here and here.

All this conversation is all very well and good and incredibly applicable to the church's future ministry. But it doesn't even begin to speak to the agony of parents whose kids have abandoned their parents' faith. Or choose to express their beliefs in ways that are rather incomprehensible to these parents, who are left to figure out what to do with much that they can't get their hands and hearts around.

We've looked at this in Outta There, Where Did We Go Wrong?, and Whatever Happened to Sunday School?.

The bottom line is that we all must work out our salvation with fear and trembling {Philippians 2:12}. Our children's faith must be authentically their own. And, yes, it can be soul-searing to watch them do so and make choices that bring us sorrow. If you've ever felt powerless as a parent, it's at these precise moments.

In the conversations I've had with heartbroken parents, this is what they've taught me:

1. I NEED TO GRIEVE

My child has not turned out the way I hoped and prayed they would. I am hurt. Frustrated. Scared. Feel disrespected {possibly a.k.a. angry.} I need to wrestle with this. I need to acknowledge any mistakes I made along the way and ask for forgiveness, but I refuse to blame myself for their choices. I need to walk through this well and come to some measure of peace. If I don't, instead of Jesus' compassionate love, bitterness will slowly begin to define my life.

2. I NEED TO LOVE

My very legitimate feelings can not come in the way of my relationship with my child. I must be respectful of their right to choose what they believe and how they live out their beliefs. I need to be very active in loving them them well in this season of our lives, in a language they understand.

3. I NEED TO REDEFINE THE RELATIONSHIP

I want a rich relationship with my child. I need to see my little one as an adult, treating them with the same respect that I want in return. I need to accept who they are today, and actively and creatively look for ways to us to connect and move ahead. I must allow my faith to give me all the comfort and wisdom I need to do this well.

4. I NEED TO STEP ASIDE

I am not the Holy Spirit. I need to "pray without ceasing" that He will do all the pursuing and convicting that my child might need. I will not entertain endless question and answer sessions that morph into hurtful and fruitless debates that go nowhere and put a wedge into our relationship.

Please know that if this is your experience, you're not alone. You share this sorrow with many other parents who have raised their children to love and serve Jesus Christ. And then have watched them choose to walk on other paths.

Are you willing to share your experience? What's helped/hasn't worked as you've walked through this valley? I invite you to click on the comment link below. And if it helps, please feel free to do it anonymously.

Linda

How 'Bout All Those Shoes?

2012-01-14T12:59:00.009-05:00

Stop for one minute, close your eyes, and imagine. Imagine that you have no shoes. Worse yet, that your child has nothing to protect their feet.

Now morph over to all those closets in your home. Got some unused shoes or boots in decent condition taking up valuable space?

Soles4Souls is a Nashville-based charity that collects shoes from the warehouses of footwear companies and the closets of people like you and me. The charity distributes these shoes to people in need, regardless of race or religion. Since 2005, they have delivered over 16 million pairs of new and gently worn shoes. The shoes have been distributed to people in over 127 countries.

I first heard and wrote about this organization in honor of National Barefoot Week back in 2010.

Today's Poughkeepsie Journal featured a report of a local drive going on til January 25th, in honor of National Association of Professional Organizer's "Get Organized Month" of January.

CREEKSIDE WILL BE COLLECTING YOUR UNNEEDED SHOES UNTIL NEXT SATURDAY, JANUARY 21st ... we will deliver to the drop-off location!

Blog readers, friends, clients - What a profitable way to spend a mid-January hour, going through your closets and collecting footwear that have not seen the light of day recently!

Let's go!
Linda

P.S. #1 Please put a rubber band around each pair for ease of shipping and distribution.

P.S. #2 Would you be so kind as to spread the news of this drive via your Facebook page?

P.S. #3 Be sure and get your children involved in the joy of gifting!

*** JANUARY 23rd UPDATE! 85 pairs of big shoes, little shoes, and everything in between! A special thanks to Journey of Hope Fellowship in Pawling ... and to all who braved the inclement weather to deliver your footwear to our doorstep!

- 1st shoe picture by Reans
2nd shoe picture by Dottie Eckler -

My Hope Is In You , Lord

2012-01-14T11:01:00.005-05:00

The video of the song ...

The lyrics of the song ...

The story behind the song ...

The devotional written for the song ...

Living the song with my family in 2010 ...

"Yet this I call to mind

and therefore I have hope:

Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed,

for His compassions never fail.

They are new every morning;

great is Your faithfulness.

I say to myself, 'The Lord is my portion;

therefore I will wait for Him.'

The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him,

to the one who seeks Him;

It is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord"

- Lamentations 3:21-26.

Linda

It Pays to Age

2012-01-13T12:51:00.001-05:00

I loved turning 30. 40. 50. I saw those years as wonderful milestones. But there was something about the impact of 55 candles on a cake perched in front of me that was strangely unsettling.

At that moment, 60 began to loom like an ominous, dark, gray cloud.

But time has passed and I've recovered. It is what it is. Most days I wake up filled with gratitude ... and along the way some rewards have popped up. {Remember my trip to the A&P last May?}

My friend Sharon sent me this ginormous list of seniors discounts available to us aging youngsters. {Sorry, I can't vouch for its accuracy.} Post on your Facebook page. Email to friends. Keep a copy in your wallet or glove box in your car. And go have some fun!

I guess it pays to age ~
Linda

Restaurants
Applebee's: 15% off with Golden Apple Card (60+)
Arby's: 10% off (55+)
Ben & Jerry's: 10% off (60+)
Bennigan's: discount varies by location
Bob's Big Boy: discount varies by location (60+)
Boston Market: 10% off (65+)
Burger King: 10% off (60+)
Captain D's Seafood: discount varies on location (62+)
Chick-Fil-A: 10% off or free small drink or coffee (55+)
Chili's: 10% off (55+)
CiCi's Pizza: 10% off (60+)
Culver's: 10% off (60+)
Denny's: 10% off, 20% off for AARP members (55+)
Dunkin' Donuts: 10% off or free coffee (55+)
Einstein's Bagels: 10% off baker's dozen of bagels (60+)
Fuddrucker's: 10% off any senior platter (55+)
Gatti's Pizza: 10% off (60+)
Golden Corral: 10% off (60+)
Hardee's: $0.33 beverages everyday (65+)
IHOP: 10% off (55+)
Jack in the Box: up to 20% off (55+)
KFC: free small drink with any meal (55+)
Krispy Kreme: 10% off (50+)
Long John Silver's: various discounts at participating locations (55+)
McDonald's: discounts on coffee everyday (55+)
Mrs. Fields: 10% off at participating locations (60+)
Shoney's: 10% off
Sonic: 10% off or free beverage (60+)
Steak 'n Shake: 10% off every Monday & Tuesday (50+)
Subway: 10% off (60+)
Sweet Tomatoes 10% off (62+)
Taco Bell : 5% off; free beverages for seniors (65+)
TCBY: 10% off (55+)
Tea Room Cafe: 10% off (50+)
Village Inn: 10% off (60+)
Waffle House: 10% off every Monday (60+)
Wendy's: 10% off (55+)
White Castle : 10% off (62+)

Retail and Apparel

Banana Republic: 10% off (50+)
Bealls: 20% off first Tuesday of each month (50+)
Belk's: 15% off first Tuesday of every month (55+)
Big Lots: 10% off
Bon-Ton Department Stores: 15% off on senior discount days (55+)
C.J. Banks: 10% off every Wednesday (60+)
Clarks : 10% off (62+)
Dress Barn: 10% off (55+)
Goodwill: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Hallmark: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Kmart: 20% off (50+)
Kohl's: 15% off (60+)
Modell's Sporting Goods: 10% off
Rite Aid: 10% off on Tuesdays & 10% off prescriptions
Ross Stores: 10% off every Tuesday (55+)
The Salvation Army Thrift Stores: up to 50% off (55+)
Stein Mart: 20% off red dot/clearance items first Monday of every month (55+)

Grocery

Albertson's: 10% off first Wednesday of each month (55+)
American Discount Stores: 10% off every Monday (50+)
Compare Foods Supermarket: 10% off every Wednesday (60+)
DeCicco Family Markets: 5% off every Wednesday (60+)
Food Lion: 6% off every Monday (60+)
Fry's Supermarket: free Fry's VIP Club Membership & 10% off every Monday (55+)
Great Valu Food Store: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
Gristedes Supermarket: 10% off every Tuesday (60+)
Harris Teeter: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
Hy-Vee: 5% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Kroger: 10% off (date varies by location)
Morton Williams Supermarket: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
The Plant Shed: 10% off every Tuesday (50+)
Publix: 5% off every Wednesday (55+)
Rogers Marketplace: 5% off every Thursday (60+)
Uncle Guiseppe's Marketplace: 5% off (62+)

Travel

Alaska Airlines: 10% off (65+)
Alamo : up to 25% off for AARP members
American Airlines: various discounts for 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
Amtrak: 15% off (62+)
Avis: up to 25% off for AARP members
Best Western: 10% off (55+)
Budget Rental Cars: 10% off; up to 20% off for AARP members (50+)
Cambria Suites: 20%-30% off (60+)
Clarion: 20%-30% off (60+)
Comfort Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Comfort Suites: 20%-30% off (60+)
Continental Airlines: no initiation fee for Continental Presidents Club & special fares for select destinations
Dollar Rent-A-Car: 10% off (50+)
Econo Lodge: 20%-30% off (60+)
Enterprise Rent-A-Car: 5% off for AARP members
Greyhound: 5% off (62+)
Hampton Inns & Suites: 10% off when booked 72 hours in advance
Hertz: up t0 25% off for AARP members
Holiday Inn: 10%-30% off depending on location (62+)
Hyatt Hotels: 25%-50% off (62+)
InterContinental Hotels Group: various discounts at all hotels (65+)
Mainstay Suites: 10% off with Mature Traveler's Discount (50+); 20%-30% off (60+)
Marriott Hotels: 15% off (62+)
Motel 6: 10% off (60+)
Myrtle Beach Resort: 10% off (55+)
National Rent-A-Car: up to 30% off for AARP members
Quality Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Rodeway Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Sleep Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Southwest Airlines: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
Trailways Transportation System: various discounts for ages 50 and up
United Airlines: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
U.S. Airways: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)

Activities and Entertainment
AMC Theaters: up to 30% off (55+)
Bally Total Fitness: up to $100 off memberships (62+)
Busch Gardens Tampa : $3 off one-day tickets (50+)
Carmike Cinemas: 35% off (65+)
Cinemark/Century Theaters: up to 35% off
U.S. National Parks: $10 lifetime pass; 50% off additional services including camping (62+)
Regal Cinemas: 30% off
Ripley's Believe it or Not: @ off one-day ticket (55+)
SeaWorld Orlando: $3 off one-day tickets (50+)

Cell Phone Discounts
AT&T: Special Senior Nation 200 Plan $29.99/month (65+)
Jitterbug: $10/month cell phone service (50+)
Verizon Wireless: Verizon Nationwide 65 Plus Plan $29.99/month (65+)

Miscellaneous

Great Clips: $3 off hair cuts (60+)
Super Cuts: $2 off haircuts (60+)

- candles by janoid -

2012 Counseling Team Update

2012-01-12T08:28:00.001-05:00

Creekside Ministries has begun another year of providing Christ-centered counseling services to New York's Hudson Valley! Since 2007, our focus has been all about providing pastoral counseling from a biblical perspective in a safe and nurturing atmosphere. God has been so good in continuing to lead men, women, and young adults to our doors who are in need of this level of care and guidance.

We are delighted to announce that Cynthia Canaday has joined our Creekside counseling team as an Adjunct Counselor on Thursdays. Cynthia brings an extensive level of professional training and 25 years of counseling experience to the ministry, and we are honored to have her join us. She continues to maintain her private practice in Hyde Park. Cynthia can be reached at 845.229.5737.

Brent Carl joined us as an Adjunct Counselor last year, and the news about his Monday counseling services for young men, ages 13-30, is hitting the streets! Brent has an outstanding rapport and a truly authentic connection with men in this age group. He can be reached at 845.554.2630.

Bob Eckler continues his work with men and I with women on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Our conversational, team approach with couples and families has been very well received. We both continue to have a heart for the great needs of ministry leaders and their families, and over the years this has developed into a meaningful, special niche.

You can learn more about each of us on the team page. Details about the counseling ministry are here.

With the arrival of winter, our counselors currently have some availability. If you've been considering counseling, there's no better time than now to give us a call and begin your journey toward hope and healing. And we invite former clients to feel free to come back in for a bit of a new year's "tune-up"

if needed.

Please call us at 845.298.0710 with any questions you might have or to make an appointment.

Linda

Director, Creekside Counseling Services

P.S. #1 If you're in the Hudson Valley we'd love it if you'd share this post on your Facebook page by using the link below! Thanks for spreading the word about what God is doing alongside the Wappingers Creek!

P.S. #2 And if you're a woman living ANYWHERE in the US, my life coaching services are available to you by phone! If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and are willing to engage in some energizing, pro-active, life-changing conversations, click here!

It's a Haven, Not a Fortress

2012-01-11T07:50:00.012-05:00

Gotta admit I was a bit intrigued when I came across the invitation to consider some Home Goals over at nesting place last week. I've done quite a few posts on dealing with clutter and homekeeping along the way, but to me this challenge goes beyond that. It's actually quite personal.

I've been mulling this whole idea over since then. And these 3 goals have evolved. I'm heading toward keeping them in the months ahead. {And I think it's safe to say that my husband's on board!}

1. NO EXCUSES

Our first home was right in the middle of the action. It was small. And we didn't care. A week never went by without someone stopping in at some point - for coffee, soup, ice skating on the pond in the woods, a party, or after church on Sunday nights. We had lots of friends and we loved having them over.

Along the way we chose to move way out in the middle of nowhere. And subconsciously I began to make excuses why people wouldn't want to drop by. "It's too far." "It's out of the way for them." "They won't want to use all their gas to come up and back."

And slowly but surely we stopped inviting people to spend time with us in our home.

Sooner or later, I realized that if we asked them, they came. Gratefully. Oh, a few had reasons they couldn't come that seemed a bit lame. But the point is that I stopped looking for excuses not to extend the invite.

Here's where we live. And we'd love to have you come over for dessert. An open house. Dinner. Brunch. A meeting. The weekend.

And it works. And I want to do more of it this year.

2. IT'S A HAVEN, NOT A FORTRESS

About the time we moved way out in the middle of nowhere, I headed off to work and then back to school. Many of the old friends had moved away. We changed churches. The girls were soon off to college, and I was busy heading into the next season of life. I became stretched, stimulated, exhausted, and focused on homework/papers/projects/endless commuting. Home became a quiet place, an escape away from the demands from the outside world.

Drop-ins and invited guests dwindled to a trickle. I loved the peace-filled, tranquil haven we had created, and even more so after the demands of ministry and counseling became a part of my life. The boundaries I set were helpful, but they were too rigid. The house became a fortress, keeping me safe from the craziness of life.

And we slowly became just a bit isolated ... kind of like a couple of hermits. Things got a little lonely sometimes, even though my husband and I enjoy each other's company. We'd reminisce about back-in-the-day when we had all those friends to share life with.

Now we're making choices to share the restful haven that's evolved over the years with others.

3. IT'S ABOUT HOSPITALITY, NOT SHOWMANSHIP

We invite you here because we care about you and we enjoy your company. Trust me, I'm fairly sure there's no way you'll be impressed with my culinary skills. Or my possessions {most have come from garage sales or someone's attic along the way}. And yes, there's a reason why the candles are lit - don't look at the dust! Don't check out the kitchen floors!

We just don't care about those things. We extend an invitation simply because we want to enjoy your companionship. And think that maybe we can bless each other in some way.

Because in the end it's all about relationships. Listening, loving, and serving each other well.

Oops ... gotta run. Company's coming for dinner ... and I think something's burning in the oven!

Linda

An Authentic Faith Relationship

2012-01-10T12:21:00.009-05:00

"The problem of evil is real, and it troubles Christians and non-Christians alike. Evil exists in our world and within each of us ...

There are times when we must complain to God, vigorously and emotionally, about suffering and injustice. In prayer we hold God accountable for His own promises declared to us in Jesus Christ.

God shares our weariness, pain and anger in a sin-marred world.
When we appeal to His covenant promises, we faithfully anticipate the consummation of His eternal kingdom."
- Benjamin Giffone, M.S.
Philadelphia Biblical University

As we travel through life, we continue to encounter situations that just don't make sense. That are just plain wrong. We can't begin to understand why God allows these things to happen, and wonder where He is in the midst of the suffering, the evil, the injustice, the persecution.

Yet in the midst of all the wickedness that whirls around us and the evil that battles for a place within:

1. I love that we can come to God just as we are. And that He loves us too intensely to let us remain the way we came. We can be authentic about our searing pain, upfront with our endless questions, sincere with the raging doubts that threaten to pull us far away from His love. But even in the midst of all our stuff, He refuses to allow the pain from our past or our current circumstances to define us. He always wants to transform us to be more and more like His dear Son.

2. I love that Jesus absolutely understands the unrest and turmoil in our souls, having lived on the same earth that we do. He was flesh and bone, yet absolutely without sin. "A man of sorrows and aquainted with grief" {Isaiah 53}. This is the One who wept over the death of a friend {John 11}, intensely wrestled with His Father in prayer through the night {Luke 22}, who cried out in the anguish of abandonment on the cross {Matthew 27}.

3. I love that He patiently continues to woo us to Himself. He beckons us to turn to Him. He longs to welcome us with open arms and bring us close to His tender heart where we will find comfort and peace, even in the middle of our heart-wrenching uncertainties and soul-deep sorrows. He longs to transform us, to deliver us from our endless excuses and our life-defining bondage, our pain-filled addictions and exhausting fears. His desire is to stretch and grow us and free us from ourselves, enabling us to live lives of holiness as we are filled with the fruit of His Spirit {Galatians 5}.

The book of Psalms gives us full permission to have this kind of authentic relationship with our heavenly Father. Psalm 13 brings us full circle. David puts his cards of doubt and fear and apprehension right on the table. But in the end, he returns, once again to his Redeemer, the Lover of his often wounded and weary soul.

Can we, should we, do any less?
Linda

- photo by Joan Y -

Repeat Performance - "Take a Sharpie To It" ... and Goals & Resolutions Galore!

2012-01-06T14:00:00.006-05:00

Commitments, goals, people, datebooks, opportunities, phone calls, demands, calendars ... multitudes of all-things-2012 are grabbing at us for our attention.

And I bet your Christmas decorations aren't even put away yet!

So it's prime time for a repeat performance of January 2009's TAKE A SHARPIE TO IT. Before you get completely overwhelmed and under the pile, read on!

"It's the 2nd week of the year, and already our calendars, datebooks, journals, and scraps of paper are rapidly filling with goals, dreams, appointments, hobbies, commitments, household tasks, opportunities, groups, projects, relationships, and to-do lists.

Before life gets out of control ..."

~ ~ ~

And if you really are into setting goals - or like the idea but never follow through, here's a few links that will either propel you into action ... or make you say "no way!"

THE 5 STEP SUCCESS GUIDE TO NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS

GOALS MAKE US AVAILABLE, NOT PERFECT

THE ONE HABIT YOUR NEW YEAR CAN'T DO WITHOUT

TWO WAYS TO MAKE NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS ACTUALLY STICK

COMING UP :: HOME GOALS LINKY PARTY

KEEPING YOUR RESOLUTIONS

NEW YEARS RULE OF LIFE

A NEW YEAR BECKONS ... PLUS TIPS ON CREATING A VISION PRAYER BOARD

NEW YEAR'S ANTI-RESOLUTION: STOP SETTING GOALS

How 'bout you? Making those resolutions? Sticking to them? Or bored to death with the whole idea?

3 HINTS:

1. It has to be something you're absolutely life or death passionate about succeeding at.

2. It will be energized into existence by some kind of crisis.

3. It probably won't happen at the beginning of a calendar year.

I'd love for you to leave a comment and let me know what works for you!

Linda

Our Crossroads Moment

2012-01-03T13:32:00.016-05:00

A new year begins to unfold. A defining crossroads moment is ours. We have limited time, and a multitude of decisions, large and small, demand our attention. Many people want yet another piece of us, and a myriad of things drain our already waning energy.

Meanwhile, the Lover of our soul beckons. Quietly, yet persistently. His agenda is not to send us on a guilt trip. But to woo us from the bounty of His deeply compassionate love.

What might He have for you around the corner? What opportunities await your inspection? What relationships are waiting to be formed? What healing does He have ordained for you? What miracles just might take place?

It's hard to know what God has in mind, and often difficult to discern His will, if we're not choosing to be in a place of silence, of solitude on a regular basis. Because it's in the quietness of those sacred moments where He often chooses to speak truths that we desperately need to hear. Where He touches the deep neediness that's crying out from within our bruised souls. Where He whispers sparkling gems of much-needed wisdom. And where He clearly leads to opening doors that we were much too preoccupied to even notice.

"I am preparing you for what is on the road ahead, just around the bend. Take time to be still in my Presence so that I can strengthen you. The busier you become, the more you need this time apart with Me. So many people think that time spent with Me is a luxury they cannot afford. As a result, they live and work in their own strength - until that becomes depleted. Then they either cry out to Me for help or turn away in bitterness.

How much better it is to walk close to Me, depending on My strength and trusting Me in every situation. If you live in this way, you will do less but accomplish more. Your unhurried pace of living will stand out in this rush-crazed age. Some people may deem you lazy, but many more will be blessed by your peacefulness. Walk in the Light with Me, and you will reflect Me to the watching world."
- Sarah Young, in JESUS CALLING

What better time than the fresh, crisp beginning of a new year to choose to invest some of your best energy and focus on the One who longs to guide and heal and surprise and delight?

Most of our resolutions and goals are shallow and small, and will have little if any meaning in light of eternity. But making the continued choice to sit quietly with the Lover of your soul on a very regular basis will, most likely, be one of the most powerful decisions you make as you launch into a new year. The dividends of this investment far outweigh any other use of your valuable time.

My prayer is that none of us will venture a single step without His warm companionship and loving guidance.
Linda

“This is what the Lord says:
Stand at the crossroads and look;

ask for the ancient paths,
ask where the good way is,
and walk in it.”

- Jeremiah 6:16

- photo by fly flipper -

Creekside's 2011 Top 20

2011-12-31T09:45:00.005-05:00

2011's MOST READ POSTS

ABUSE

Straight Talk on Domestic Abuse & Biblical Submission

ADDICTION

We Are So Out of Control

BOOKBAG

7 Books You've Gotta Have

BRIAN'S PRAYER

Introducing Brian

BURNOUT

7 Steps to Conquer Compassion Fatigue

CHRISTMAS

Holiday Season Control Freaks

CLIENTS SPEAK

A Day in the Life of a Client

CLUTTER

Clutter 201

COACHING

Oodles of Lists

HEALTH

Women's Health Week

HOMEKEEPING

September's Homekeeping Task

INSIGHTS FROM SCRIPTURE

Jesus Came at Just the Right Time

LIFE BALANCE

7 Steps Toward Reclaiming Your Energy

LONELINESS

The Loneliness Disease

MARRIAGE

What's It Like Being Married to You?

MINISTRY LEADERS

Women Ministry Leaders

PAIN

The Lover of Your Soul Stays

PARENTING

Outta There

SINGLES

Online Dating? Opinions & Cautions

TRANSITIONS

Switching Gears Into Fall

Living our daily faith in Jesus Christ surely is a multi-faceted adventure! All I can say is that it's a joyful privilege to share our perspective and resources with you. Each day we pray that one person will be blessed by something that we offer ... I trust that maybe you were one of those individuals.

Thanks so much for spending time with us along the way!

Linda

- PHOTO BY BRIGHT TAL -

Take 15!

2011-12-30T13:20:00.002-05:00

There's lots of fancy ideas and grand schemes out there when it comes to de-cluttering and reorganizing our spaces.

But I'm wondering when all is said and done if it could be as simple as TAKE 15!

1 room. 3 bags. 15 minutes.

1. Set the timer for 15 minutes.

2. Grab 3 bags - 1 for trash, 1 for donations, 1 for stuff to sell.

3. Move clockwise around the room, opening every drawer and closet, going through every stack and pile.

4. Toss 15 items into the TRASH bag.

5. Release 15 items into the GIVE bag.

6. Place 15 items into the SELL bag.

7. Store bags in an out of the way place til tomorrow. When filled, act on your decision. Dispose. Donate. Sell.

Just think! If we did this each day, at the end of the month:

We'd throw out 450 pieces of junk.

We'd give 450 decent, usable items to someone who could make good use out of them.

We'd sell 450 items on ebay, Craigs List, at a garage sale.

We'd have space and time and energy and freedom to spare. Because we wouldn't be overwhelmed by our possessions. We'd be free to love and serve and minister and enjoy the life God has blessed us with.

And to keep ourselves from getting in that place again, it wouldn't be at all difficult to incorporate these 8 DAILY HABITS into our everyday routines.

More often than not, simpler is best. What a way to begin 2012!

Linda

- photo by lifeintheforest -

Panning for Gold

2011-12-29T11:36:00.002-05:00

There's nothing like taking the time to sit and reflect at the end of the calendar year. To ponder, to gain wisdom. No, we don't want to be maudlin and live in the past. But there are always mistakes that we don't want to even come close to repeating again. Life-changing history lessons to be learned. And pockets of wisdom that are ready and waiting to be catalysts for change and growth in the year ahead.

So I invite you at the dusk of 2011 to stop, review, and contemplate. Panning for gold takes a bit of focus and perseverance. And if you do it well, you'll probably have to sift through alot of unpleasant debris to get to the good stuff.

But to find a nugget or two of truth or beauty or wisdom to claim as your own? This time of contemplation just might end up being one of the highlights of your year.

2 Evaluations 4 U.

"Tune your ears to the world of Wisdom;

set your heart on a life of Understanding.

That's right - if you make Insight your priority,

and won't take no for answer,

Searching for it like a prospector panning for gold,

like an adventurer on a treasure hut,

Believe me, before you know it Fear-of-God will be yours;

you'll have come upon the Knowledge of God.

And here's why: God gives out Wisdom for free,

is plainspoken in Knowledge and Understanding.

He's a rich mine of Common Sense for those who live well,

a personal bodyguard to the candid and sincere.

He keeps His eye on all who live honestly,

and pays special attention to His loyally committed ones"

- Proverbs 2 {The Message}.

Seeking, gleaning ~

Linda

*** 12/30 BONUS - 20 MORE QUESTIONS!

- photo by alaska_girl -

A Special Offer ... An Important Book

2011-12-26T19:04:00.009-05:00

Relationship counselor Leslie Vernick's book THE EMOTIONALLY DESTRUCTIVE RELATIONSHIP is a very important volume. It's a must-read if you're in any kind of relationship that is harmful, abusive, or destructive. Or care about someone whose life's vibrancy is being drained away by painful uncertainty and potential danger.

And until January 3, 2012, it's available to download onto your Kindle or Nook

for only $2.99.

Discover what behaviors look like that are meant to "control, punish, and hurt." Learn when and how to speak truth. Determine when to hang in and hang on ... and know when enough is enough. Learn what being safe is all about and begin to set up boundaries that will protect your soul. And become equipped to move ahead to a life that is motivated by love and hope, instead of manipulation and fear.

Not quite sure what emotional abuse is? Click here.

And healing from hidden wounds is here.

Let's get this important subject on the table. Because chances are you know someone who's stuck in that place of devastating hopelessness right now. And yes, sadly, it just might be you.

I encourage you to make this the first book you read in 2012.

Linda

"Christmas in a Nutshell"

2011-12-23T10:40:00.004-05:00

"Instead of giving us more stuff, He gave us Himself."

This is what it's all about.

Celebrate Him ... and all that He is to you!

Rejoicing in Jesus, Thankful to His Father ~

Linda

Another Answer to Luigi's Prayer

2011-12-20T16:02:00.003-05:00

... from Monday's journaling

"The most beautiful gift came last night when Jenn called and said that Katie wanted to talk to us. Right then, I knew in my spirit that she had accepted Christ as her Savior. As Katie took the phone and began to speak with a bit of shy hesitancy, yet with confidence, she told us her news.

"I prayed that I would give my life to Jesus and He would be my King forever."

I just knew there were a great cloud of witnesses applauding. I thought of my own grandparents, gleaming with pride and excitement as they welcomed another great-great-granddaughter into the Kingdom.

It just doesn't get better than this. Everything else gets put aside. We praise God together."

And then this morning, my mom reminded me of her grandfather Luigi's prayer for his family. Way back in the day in Piverono, Italy, he often asked God that each one in the generations to follow would find salvation in Jesus Christ.

And I'm thinking today that Luigi and Henrietta Negri, Katie's great-great-great-grandparents, just might have been leading that great cloud of witnesses in celebrating the salvation of this most precious girl that I call My Kates.

Rejoicing with the angels ~
Linda

"'As for Me, this is My covenant with them,' says the Lord. 'My Spirit, who is on you, and My words that I have put in your mouth will not depart from your mouth, or from the mouths of your children, or from the mouths of their descendants from this time on and forever,' says the Lord"
- Isaiah 59:21.

Lots of Cookies ... and Sparkling Punch

2011-12-19T12:06:00.005-05:00

I hear that my daughters have been baking up a storm. These girls are fabulous with flour and sugar and a mixer. Where they find the time to do all this, I haven't the vaguest idea. I'd like to take some credit for their culinary giftedness, but in all honesty, I don't think they learned this creative skill at their mother's knee.

I love cookies. Eating them. But I do not love making them.

Anyway, at last report, batch after batch of orange drop cookies, buckeyes, M&M cookies, shortbread logs, double chocolate mint cookies, spritz cookies, gingerbread men, pizelles, chocolate crinkles, surprise meringues, peanut butter blossoms, and peppermint meltaways have made their way in and out of their ovens. These little goodies have already made their appearance at a fundraiser, an open house, a few church gatherings, and onto gift plates.

I plan to spend a substantial portion of Christmas Eve day grazing and sampling my daughters' handiwork.

The kitchen may not be my favorite room in the house, but I've gotta admit that I am also inspired by Rikki Snyder's Sparkling Punch.

And oh my look at those Fudge Cups! Do wander over to her blog to enjoy more of her mouthwatering photographs and recipes. Don't you love those edible gold stars?!

Yes, I know Christmas is not all about the cookies. But I, for one, am thankful that they'll be available as we celebrate His birth ...

Enjoy!

Linda

*** 12/21 Update - Click on the little red comment link below for my mom's delectable
Surprise Meringue recipe!

A Children's Carol

2011-12-18T09:24:00.001-05:00

“So much of what inspires us to write hymns actually finds its origin in carols even more than traditional hymns,” says Keith Getty. “There is such enjoyment and excitement in celebrating the most improbable thing that is the incarnation of God on earth. In this season, bringing the Good News in the form of music is also an opportunity to offer a glimpse of what Christmas in Ireland is like for us.”

“There has been a deepening in our understanding of Christmas since our daughter Eliza Joy was born earlier this year,” Kristyn Getty states. “We have been so struck by the vulnerability and helplessness of a little baby in a way that has grown our wonder in the humble coming of Christ. And our own love for our child has brought a fresh understanding to all the relationships involved in the Gospel narrative: Mary's love for her Son, God's love for His Son, and God's love for the world.”

"Jesus, joy of the highest heaven,

Born as a little baby

Under a wondrous star.

Like us, crying he takes His first breath

Held by His mother, helpless

Close to her beating heart.

Jesus, laid in a lowly manger,

Facing a world of dangers,

Come to turn me a stranger

Into a child of God.

Jesus, King of the highest heaven
Learning to take His first steps,
That He might bring us life.
Like us, knowing our smiles and sorrows,
He showed the way to follow,
A way that is true and right.
Jesus, take away every darkness,
Steady my simple footsteps
That I might in your goodness
Live as a child of God."

Keith Getty and Kristyn Getty
Copyright © 2011

Simply, beautifully, powerfully honoring our precious Savior ~

Linda

Pressure-Cooker Holidays

2011-12-17T11:32:00.002-05:00

"The last three out of four years I ended up sick over Christmas. I honestly don't know if there is a way to reduce holiday stress when your life is already full and busy and then you add in all the holiday stuff. When I think of December I think ugh!”

Click here to discover FAMILY LIFE's 4 DOs and 4 DON'Ts to "pressure-proof" your marriage and your family during this final countdown til the big day.

And be sure to download Dennis and Barbara Rainey's super 14 page workbook/small group guide, TOGETHER FOR THE HOLIDAYS. You'll appreciate the basic principles and hands-on questions that will enable you and your spouse to creatively brainstorm together, creating practical solutions for stress levels, expectations, schedules, and financial demands.

Yes, you can grow closer as a couple and as a family. Even in the midst of this hectic yet holy season.

Linda

- pressure cooker by Anita.Bee -

Brian's Christmas Prayer

2011-12-17T10:30:00.000-05:00

THE TRUTH ABOUT CHRISTMAS

BY BRIAN YOUNG

THERE WAS A TIME LONG AGO WHEN PROPHECIES FORETOLD.

OF A TIME WHEN A KING WOULD COME TO OPEN HEARTS AND EYES.

SOME ONE SENT FROM GOD ABOVE PROMISING A HOPE SO BOLD.

SOMEONE WITH A GRACE AND MERCY WOULD BE A GREAT SURPRISE.

MANY YEARS THEY CAME AND WENT STILL PROMISES THEY CAME.

PEOPLE YEARNED AND HOPED FOR THESE MESSAGES TO SHOW.

FINALLY OVER TIME THE ANGELS CAME HERALDING HIS NAME.

THOUGH HE WAS A BRAND NEW BABE, IT WAS HE THEY WANTED TO KNOW.

YOU MAY THINK THAT ITS IMPOSSIBLE FOR THIS TO COME ABOUT.

IT HARD TO UNDERSTAND BEING MARY WAS NEVER WITH A MAN.

BUT BELIEVERS HAVE KNOWN FOR TWO THOUSAND YEARS THIS WORLD THROUGHOUT

HAVE KNOWN IT'S TRUE FOR EVEN THE CALENDAR SPEAKS THE PLAN.

THERE'S SO MUCH HERE THAT'S BEEN LEFT OUT.

BUT THE ONE THING YOU NEED TO KNOW.

MEETING THE LORD WITH IN YOUR HEART.

THE REAL TRUTH WILL SHOW.

FOR MIRACLES HAPPEN EVERY DAY.

ALWAYS THE SUN AND MOON ARE THERE.

IMAGINE GOD, SPIRIT, AND SON, IN PLAY

FOLLOWING YOU EVERYWHERE.

WHILE WE CANNOT SEE THEIR VISIBLE FORM.

EVEN THE VERY AIR THAT WE BREATHE,

HAS BEEN GIFTED TO US TO INFORM

SO I PRAY THAT YOU ALL WILL BELIEVE.

IN JESUS' NAME, AMEN

- photo by Charles Bray -

A New Drummer Boy

2011-12-11T09:39:00.000-05:00

Meet Sean Quigley, a 16 year old Canadian drummer who played all the instruments, sang the vocals, recorded, directed, and edited this video which quickly became a huge hit on

You Tube, with about 800,000 hits in the first week.

When a reporter asked him about his instant fame, he replied, "I wouldn't say that being recognized is the dream. I just wanted people to remember what Christmas is about. It's not about Santa, it's not about presents, it's about the birth of Christ, and that's what's most important to me right now."

Linda

Holiday Season Control Freaks

2011-12-10T10:34:00.004-05:00

Frazzled and overwhelmed and exhausted and fed up with the demands of Christmastime?

Running around like a crazy person with holiday planning, shopping, decorating, parties, lists, baking, errands, wrapping, cleaning, addressing, and endless trips to the mall, to the school, to the church?

Feel like your family's just hanging out with their feet up while you're left holding the bag?

Over at Relationship Counselor Leslie Vernick's blog, this very common scenario is presented:

"Today’s Question: I’m angry, hurt and tired. It seems like I’m the only one doing all the preparations for making our holiday a nice one. If it weren’t for me, we’d have no tree, no presents, no cookies, and no Christmas dinner. But it’s not only the holidays that I feel this way. I feel like I carry the entire responsibility for everyone’s life to go well. Am I being selfish that I want someone to care about me and my needs once in a while?"

Leslie responds ...

You might be a bit taken back to find how much of this is not all about the family's lack of involvement or apathy or laziness. Could it be ... might it be ... your own need to be just a little bit of a control freak?

OUCH!

See why your energy level is probably at zero here. And what it's doing to your marriage here.

Because in the end it's not about control. It's about powerlessness and pain and fear that needs a healing touch. From the One who ultimately is in complete control.

What better time of year to begin to give yourself {and those you love} the gift of freedom from the tyranny of control? Is it time to begin to release the burdensome ownership of all of life's worries to the One who has the power to lift that heavy load?

Our loving Savior awaits to equip you to move in that direction.

Linda

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free ..."

- Galatians 5:1.

- photo by Monad Photography -

His Birthday

2011-12-09T19:32:00.004-05:00

"CANDLES!"

The two year old's big blue eyes shine with wonder and delight as her little fingers gently caress the twinkling lights on the decorated Christmas tree.

"Yes, they do look like candles," her mama replies.

With simple delight, the little one observes, "For Jesus' birthday!"

Linda

"A little child shall lead them"

- Isaiah 11:6.

What We REALLY Want ...

2011-12-07T14:18:00.002-05:00

If you haven't started Christmas shopping, you're probably thinking about it. And you just might be wondering how you can afford to give presents to all those on your list. A daunting task most years, it's especially true this year, with the economy continuing its trek down the tubes.

There's a good chance that if you're experiencing these thoughts, others might be, too.

Maybe it's a good year to give someone permission. To invite them to skip you when it comes to their shopping list. To give them the gift of freedom to have one less person to spend money on.

Miss Minimalist's ONE LESS GIFT CERTIFICATE is creatively brilliant. And makes the point that needs to be made. That truth be told, most of us don't need one more tchotchke on our tabletops. One more piece of ill-fitting clothing or unused equipment jammed into our already overflowing closets. We don't need more piles to sort through, more stuff to trip over, more junk to accumulate.

Check out her 10 alternatives to an object stuffed in a bag or wrapped with a bow. And I so appreciate her practical ideas on how to give the precious gift of time.

The truth is that many of us are craving more purposeful moments with the ones we love. More focused attention. Heartfelt interaction that lends itself to building memories that will linger much longer than something that comes in a box or a bag.

And less stress that comes from over-the-top gift-giving.

Chances are those priceless moments will be easier to come by if our time's not being spent trolling around the mall. Or shopping endlessly online. Or spending mindless, numbing hours wrapping presents that will soon be forgotten.

Or worrying about those credit card bills come January.

Maybe what might be appreciated most is exchanging simple, handmade gift certificates for some free child care. Shoveled driveways this winter. A pot of nutritious soup. A cleaned house. A handyman visit. A car wash. A foot massage. A home-cooked meal.

You get the idea.

Ready to free up the ones you love from shelling out cash? Go ahead and post that ONE LESS GIFT CERTIFICATE on your Facebook page. Or if you're not quite sure what to say, email the link to this post to your friends and family members.

You just might be the one that starts a long-awaited dialogue. And maybe begin a new trend that allows Christmas to be what it was designed to be.

A simple celebration of our newborn King.

Linda

- illlustration by http://www.flickr.com/photos/mrshawn/328489888/ -

Some Christmas Questions Answered

2011-12-04T10:19:00.000-05:00

CHRISTMAS FACTS AND FICTION

Jesus grew up in an insignificant village named Nazareth.

CHRISTMAS FACTS AND FICTION #2

Was Jesus born on December 25th?

CHRISTMAS FACTS AND FICTION #3

Did the "Three Wise Men" from the East arrive in Bethlehem in time to see the baby Jesus in the manger?

CHRISTMAS FACTS AND FICTION #4

Mary and Joseph journeyed from Nazareth to Bethlehem on Christmas Eve and Mary gave birth to the baby Jesus on that evening.

CHRISTMAS FACTS AND FICTION #5

The Virgin Birth of Jesus

CHRISTMAS FACTS AND FICTION #6

Was there really a special guiding star that first Christmas?

Thanks to Pastor Bob for addressing these questions! Read more of his wise and practical Insights from Scripture here.

Linda

- illustration by Waiting For The Word -

Repeat Performance - Pounding the Pavement

2011-12-03T13:01:00.005-05:00

I'm no economist or political pundit, but I find it more than unsettling that 3 years later, this 2008 post on job loss and search is still incredibly applicable. Because if you're not underemployed or unemployed, you surely know someone who is.

All you have to do is spend a few minutes truly listening to the person who's life has been turned upside down and inside out by the economy. And you'd quickly begin to grasp the immensity of the devastating effects that this national crisis has had on families - not only on their wallets, but their relationships, their health, their self-confidence, their faith.

And, truth be told, some sort of life-altering job upheaval could strike any one of us at any time. You're surely kidding yourself if you think you're somehow home free.

As you read the post, you'll see that I approach this subject wearing three hats - as a counselor, a coach, and a spiritual director. Because this anguish, like life itself, is truly multi-dimensional.

"Job loss. A huge blow to the wallet. To our identity and sense of self. To our plans, hopes, and dreams. And, sadly, in the current economy, something that a good number of us just might have to face. The days of having a secure job are over. The reality is that a pink slip could be placed on any one of our desks at any time.

If you're in that boat, it's natural to be ... "

Linda

- hats by PermaCultured -

A Romans 8 : 28 Postcard

2011-12-01T13:57:00.006-05:00

"Dearest Child,

Everything in your life can be used as a part of My plan for good. Yes, even the bad things. Even the very situation that you think is intolerable or hopeless or unredeemable. Trust Me. This thing, too, will work together for your good and My glory.

How is that possible? It is possible because you love Me, because you have been called to walk in My ways, and you have answered yes to that call. Even now I am in the process of drawing good from the bad. I am committed to taking whatever evil comes into your life and bringing good out of it.

ALL THINGS WILL WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD. NOT JUST SOME, BUT ALL.

Even your own failures and faults and areas of sin are opportunities for Me to work. Commit them to Me. Confess them. Put them under the blood of My Son. Even these things will give you cause to praise Me.

Trust Me in this,
God"
- from POSTCARDS FROM HEAVEN by Claire Cloninger

"We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God:

those who are called according to His purpose"

- Romans 8:28.

Carrying this promise ... for myself and others ~

Linda

Thanksgiving Week Legacy

2011-11-29T13:26:00.006-05:00

I love INHERITANCE OF HOPE! Since 2008, my husband, Tim, and I have been privileged to spend lots of time with families where there's a parent diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. We've headed off on Legacy Retreats to NYC, Disney World, and Lake George, NY.

As I lead the daily group sessions with these parents, I am repeatedly struck by their courageous spirit of endurance that eclipses physical weakness and pain. Distinct lack of self-pity. Soul-moving concern for their children. Our conversations are forged by deep emotions that have no words. And the knowledge that life might be much shorter than they had ever dreamed.

They go home with life-energizing memories, loads of new friends, renewed/new faith, and hands-on tools that enable them to leave powerful legacies to their children.

I go home refocused on what's truly important. And inspired that maybe I, too, can leave a legacy that matters.

- Kristen and husband, Deric -

Every time I connect with her, co-founder Kristen motivates me. She truly inspires me by the way she's chosen to run life's marathon. So today I honor her and all those parents who've been willing to sit in that circle of chairs. To speak and laugh and cry. And be raw and real about their pain, hopes, fears, victories, dreams, and faith struggles.

Linda

P.S. Yes, that's me in the top picture, peeking through the crowd, 7th from the left, back row! ;-}

Safely Grazing

2011-11-27T13:02:00.003-05:00

... from this Sabbath day's journaling.

We are the sheep of Your pasture. The sheep don't call the shots, make the plans, or set the agenda. They follow the Shepherd. Because they instinctively understand that He is in charge. He knows what direction to take them in. He's got the plans and the roadmap laid out ahead.

The Shepherd loves His sheep - they are His and He paid a huge price for them. He knows where water and food are because He is the landowner. He will give His sheep safe passage to the destination He has chosen.

And as they follow Him, they will be safe. Protected. Provided for. And treasured. The all-wise Shepherd will guard His lambs from wolves in sheep's clothing who threaten to kill and destroy.

The sheep may safely graze as they follow their Shepherd with confidence and peace. He will bring them home.

GRATITUDES

1. The lamb gives her control and plans and worries to the Shepherd.

2. The lamb rests, knowing that under His guidance all is well.

3. The lamb is at peace, focusing on obedience and allegiance to the Shepherd.

PSALM 23
{THE MESSAGE}

"God, my shepherd! I don't need a thing. You have bedded me down in lush meadows, You find me quiet pools to drink from.

True to Your word, You let me catch my breath and send me in the right direction.

Even when the way goes through Death Valley, I'm not afraid when You walk by my side. Your trusty shepherd's crook makes me feel secure.

You serve me a six-course dinner right in front of my enemies. You revive my drooping head; my cup brims with blessing.

Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life. I'm back home in the house of God for the rest of my life."

Linda

- sheep from TASCHA'S GALLERY -

The 1 Minute Blessing

2011-11-26T12:03:00.004-05:00

After a long absence of weeks or months or years, you've probably had the experience of arriving at the home of someone who loved you. For a minute or 2 or 3, you are lavished with focused attention. Warm smiles and big hugs. Kisses of greeting and heartfelt laughter ... and maybe even a tear or two.

Life's cares and troubles are left behind as we soak in the

welcoming graciousness, the joyous acceptance, the longed-for grace.

And do you recall those occasions when the much-anticipated arrival of a special someone caused you to literally drop what you were doing as you made a beeline toward them?

How 'bout those sweet moments when those dearest to you took the time to look into your eyes and let you know how much they were going to miss you as you headed

back out into the world?

Author Gretchen Rubin reflects, "When our two daughters were little, they'd greet my husband and me with wild enthusiasm whenever we walked in the door, and they often cried miserably when we left. Most recently, however, they had sometimes barely looked up from their games or homework or books when we walked in or out. It was a relief, in a way, but also a little sad.

And too often, my husband and I didn't give warm greetings or farewells to the girls or each other, either. I had already made a long-standing resolution to {read on ...}

So what would it look like to purposely choose to offer a 1 minute blessing to the ones we cherish as they come and as they go?

On a daily basis.

How 'bout we do more than barely look up from the stovetop or sink? Or give more than a distracted nod with one eye on the TV when the ones we're closest to arrive or depart? What if the words we offer are tokens of life-giving blessing instead of a tiresome litany of the day's woes or an endless harangue of all the things that need to be done?

What would the blessing of a 1 minute greeting or farewell look like for you?

Your marriage? Your family?

Linda

- Norman Rockwell painting by x-ray delta one -

Special Prayer for Operation Christmas Child

2011-11-19T10:54:00.000-05:00

SPECIAL PRAYER FOR OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD

BY BRIAN YOUNG

GOD IN HEAVEN HEAR THIS PRAYER FROM THE HEARTS OF ALL OF US WHO SUPPORT THIS ENDEAVOR.

WE ASK THAT EACH ITEM CONTAINED IN ALL THESE BOXES BE BLESSED IN

MIRACULOUS WAYS BY YOUR GENEROUS SPIRIT. HAVE MERCY ON EACH AND

EVERY RECEIVER OF THESE SHOE BOXES. MAY THEY BE DRAWN TO KNOW YOU

BY YOUR PRECIOUS HOLY SPIRIT. YOU ALONE CAN TOUCH THE LITTLE ONES WHO

GET THEM IN WAYS WE CANNOT FATHOM.

MAY EACH BOX REACH OUT TO OTHERS WHO HAVE NOT HEARD YOUR GOOD NEWS. MULTIPLY THE ONES WHO COME TO KNOW OF YOUR SAVING GRACE BY THE THOUSANDS. YOU ARE GOD ALMIGHTY, THERE IS NOTHING YOU CANNOT ACCOMPLISH.

HAVE YOUR HAND UPON EACH AND EVERY WORKER, DRIVER, PACKER, PILOT, MACHINIST, LEADER. ANY ONE WHO IN ANY WAY HAS DONE OR IS DOING WORK IN THIS PROJECT...BLESS THEM, GIVE THEM MERCY AND STRENGTH TO ACCOMPLISH WHAT YOU HAVE SET THEM OUT TO DO.

GUIDE THE MOUTHS WHO YOU HAVE CHOSEN TO SPEAK BEFORE THE RECIPIENTS WITH YOUR HOLY BOLDNESS.

JUST HAVE EVERYTHING WORK TO BRING GLORY TO YOU, MOST HOLY FATHER

IN JESUS' NAME, AMEN

Thanksgiving Homekeeping Potpourri

2011-11-18T11:23:00.005-05:00

I've gathered a potpourri of homekeeping and hospitality links for the season of gratitude that is upon us. Even if you're not expecting a crowd {or shudder at the very thought}, you'll find some beautiful inspiration and very practical hands-on ideas below, {especially if this whole season is a bit of a stretch for you!}

Ann's striking Thanksgiving in the Country works of art will quickly transport you back to a simpler, richer time. After you savor each one, be sure and view the Thanksgiving Chair video near the bottom of the page.

If Rikki's mouth-watering photographs don't inspire you to hustle into your kitchen, nothing will. Her Pumpkin Shaped Sugar Cookie Recipie, pictured at left, and more gorgeous photos are here.

Laura's common sense 8 Holiday Housekeeping Tips will quickly set you up for success.

If the whole concept of shopping, cooking, and cleaning for a crowd is enough to put you under, you'll probably go for Kathleen's How To Fake a Clean House. {Still looks like cleaning to me!}

Top 10 Things To Do Before a Holiday Party. Betcha never thought of one or two of Melissa's ideas! These creative touches will beckon your guests to feel more at home.

I love how The Nester shows us how to "shop the house, shop the yard, and shop the grocery" to creatively decorate our tables.

And keep Betsy's Thanksgiving Story Starters on hand in case conversation gets a bit boring after eating all the turkey and trimmings ...

A song to focus you on what's truly important in the midst of the confusion and chaos of life.

A simple exercise to keep the gratitude going.

And Gratitude 201 is here.

Thankfully ~
Linda

"Give thanks in all circumstances,

for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus"

- 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

Hauling Our Stuff Around

2011-11-14T13:09:00.002-05:00

Over the years, I've spent countless hours in conversation with women. We often end up talking about all the stuff they're hauling around. And by stuff I don't mean excess purchases and belongings, although issues of accumulation do come up from time to time.

I mean deep pain. Heart-rending woundedness. An ongoing, intense agony that's taken on a life of its own, impacting their emotional well being. Their physical health. Their spiritual life. Trauma that happened eons ago has come to define their identity.

Instead of who they are in Christ.

And instead of Jesus being on the throne, those who've abused or neglected or wounded them along the way reside there. After all, they're the ones calling the shots, setting the agenda, messing with their emotions, running their lives.

The ones who have perpetrated so much damage are fully ensconced in the driver's seat. They have been given permission to take control. And from that vantage point, they have power that no human being ought to have.

Over many hours, we gently handle the hurt, frustration, fear, and disrespect that's come to define their lives, that's kept them from being healthy and strong and vibrant. We wade through the bitterness that sloshes around their souls like bad sewage. We wrestle with the whole idea of forgiveness and what it looks like and what it might mean for their physical and emotional and spiritual health. And how hard it is to venture down that path. We begin to examine what setting up healthy boundaries look like. And begin to grieve the longed for reconciliation that may never take place.

These are courageous women who are much stronger than they realize. And slowly but surely the truth dawns on them. Yes, they really can do all things through Christ
who strengthens them {Philippians 4:13}.

I love Rob Bell's LUGGAGE video. I've lost count how many times we've viewed it in the counseling office. It's that good. As he says so well, "I don't want what somebody else did to me to determine what my life is going to be like."

So if you've been hauling some kind of luggage around and you're just about weary of the whole thing, don't rush off. This clip is for you ...

Linda

"Jesus said, 'Come to Me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens,

and I will give you rest'" - Matthew 11:28 {NLT}.

Still Following Your Heart?

2011-11-13T14:17:00.000-05:00

"We must learn to know the Scriptures again, as the Reformers and our fathers knew them. We must not grudge the time and the work that it takes ...

How, for example, shall we ever attain certainty and confidence in our personal and church activity if we do not stand on solid Biblical ground?

It is not our heart that determines our course, but God's Word ...

How often we hear innumerable arguments 'from life' and 'from experience' put forward as the basis for most crucial decisions, but the argument of Scripture is missing.

And this authority would perhaps point in exactly the opposite direction.

It is not surprising, of course, that the person who attempts to cast discredit upon their wisdom should be the one who himself does not seriously read, know, and study the Scriptures ..."

- Dietrich Bonhoeffer

When it comes to making the decisions that define our lives, it's long past time that we stop relying on our emotions, our culture, the political scene, and the shifting sands of our own life experience to call the shots.

Truth be told, our emotions come and go in the blink of an eye. The ever present media and sappy songs that plead for us to follow our hearts are useless, and only lead to more confusion and brokeness. A not-so-subtle godlessness defines much of our culture and political system.

And our life experience, having often been a nebulous, volitile scenario, is hardly a foolproof guide. It's never been or will be an accurate gauge of what is holy, right, and obedient to God's will for our lives.

All these things are fickle, here today and gone tomorrow. Only the compass of God's Word stands the test of time. Therein lies wisdom, peace, and "everything we need for life and godliness" {2 Peter 1:3}.

So let's pack up all those unreliable factors that have defined our decision making in the past. Truth be told, they've made lousy guides. Let's move ahead, fully embracing God's Word as the Ultimate Guidebook for daily living.

Linda

Savor Psalm 119.

- picture by {karen} -

Hated Jobs, Happy Jobs

2011-11-12T11:14:00.002-05:00

Chances are you're looking for work. Or you know someone who's looking for work. Or you're longing to find something that'll bring in more money or heftier medical benefits.

Maybe deep inside you're longing to spend your days in ways that would bring that sense of satisfaction that comes from directly impacting people's lives. Making a difference. But you're way too apprehensive to step away from a steady paycheck in this economic crisis and risk ending up with nothing at all.

I think you might find these recent job surveys to be a bit thought-provoking. Not sure if I ever considered what a happy job looked like, although I've sure heard people talk about how much they despise what they do.

THE 10 MOST HATED JOBS

1. Director of Information Technology

2. Director of Sales and Marketing

3. Product Manager

4. Senior Web Developer

5. Technical Specialist

6. Electronics Technician

7. Law Clerk

8. Technical Support Analyst

9. CNC Machinist

10. Marketing Manager

THE 10 HAPPIEST JOBS

1. Clergy

2. Firefighter

3. Physical Therapist

4. Author

5. Special Education Teacher

6. Teacher

7. Artist

8. Psychologist

9. Financial Services Sales Agent

10. Operating Engineer

Find out all the details about those hated jobs here. And the happy jobs info is here.

Just a few random observations:

... anyone I've ever talked with wants productive work that allows them to bring home a decent paycheck with medical benefits.

... that large six figure salary might not end up being all it's cracked up to be and in no way guarantees a rewarding career.

... technology might be the wave of the future, but it's not bringing a great level of satisfaction to its workers.

... the demanding, high stress corporate grind that comes with expectations of a 24/7 workweek, managing this and directing that, has the propensity to lead to family problems and medical challenges.

... you are more likely to leave a legacy when you do something that makes a personal difference in someone's life. No one wants to function as a cog in a wheel.

... unleashing your creative juices on a professional level brings a gratification that can't be described.

... if you're spending more and more work time trolling around online, or hanging out at the coffee machine/water cooler, you might need to rethink how you're spending your days ... and why.

Linda

- picture by Tonyolm -

His Desperate Need & Her Greatest Desire

2011-11-11T10:25:00.028-05:00

It was the end of a very long day, filled with back-to-back counseling sessions. Before me sat a Christian couple, well-esteemed in their community and active in serving Christ. And the things my ears were witnessing were enough to make my eyeballs pop out.

Venomous words. Aimed to wound. Kill. Destroy.

Each well-aimed lob had it's desired, devastating effect. Hardened faces reflected pain-filled, wounded hearts. The tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife.

"Oh God," I silently prayed. "Enough already. Where do I go from here?"

{We do alot of silent praying in the office ...}

The Spirit whispered, "Grab that LOVE & RESPECT book behind you." Sitting near the bookcase, I spun my chair around and took hold of the volume that I had only paged through, but somehow knew would be a tool that just might offer this couple in crisis some hope.

Because what I was witnessing bore truth to the two realities that we repeatedly see over and over as we talk with couples:

Women can be incredibly disrespectful to their husbands.

And men can be incredibly unloving to their wives.

And thus begins the crazy cycle that defines so many marriages in crisis.

Author and counselor Emerson Eggerichs writes, "We believe love best motivates a woman and respect most powerfully motivates a man. Research reveals that during marital conflict a husband most often reacts when feeling disrespected and a wife reacts when feeling unloved. We asked 7,000 people this question: when you are in a conflict with your spouse or significant other, do you feel unloved or disrespected? 83% of the men said "disrespected." 72% of the women said, "unloved." Though we all need love and respect equally, the felt need differs during conflict."

God designed and shaped us and knows exactly what we need. So it should be no big surprise to find His wisdom tucked into a little verse at the end of the 5th chapter of Ephesians.

"Each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself,

and the wife must respect her husband."

I'll be the first to tell you that all our clients are not bursting into applause at the reading of this verse. We do alot of honest wrestling as to the nuts and bolts of its implications.

But these biblical truths have hit home for more than a few couples. We've seen more than one relationship turn upside down and inside out within a week or two of beginning to read this helpful guide. With permission, I share a client's thoughts:

Thank you so much for lending us the book. I started reading it today and I already feel convicted to change how I respond to my husband.

5 weeks later she wrote again:

I can't thank you enough for recommending my husband and I read Dr. Emerson Eggerichs' book, Love & Respect. It opened my eyes and my mind to a whole different way of communicating with my husband. Once I made the decision to get out of "the crazy cycle," I realized that I don't want to go back! Using Dr. Eggerichs' techniques, the results were almost immediate. It has changed our relationship for the better. I feel like I'm falling in love with my husband all over again!

Another client wrote:

I just want to send this email as I'm LOVING the LOVE & RESPECT book ... wow ... I think my husband is as well ... just been through the first chapter - and most of the workbook lesson for chapter 1 ... I'm sure I have lots more thoughts to share ... I will as they come ... thx!

I invite you to invest 10 minutes and find out what true love and deep respect is all about. You'll love the father/daughter dynamic as Emerson chats with his daughter, Joy about her conversations with women who wrestle with the whole love/respect concept. Bottom line? Choosing to meet the other person's deepest need has the huge potential to turn a relationship into what you've always longed for but couldn't quite name ...

Joining my clients in being thankful for this life-altering resource ~

Linda

- crazy cycle diagram by Jill Samter Photography -

Repeat Performance - "Ask For What You Need"

2011-11-10T09:30:00.001-05:00

Many of us think that the people around us should have some kind of crystal ball. For some reason, we believe that our family and friends should just intuitively KNOW what we want, what we need.

In reality, they often don't have a clue.

And then we get frustrated/hurt/disappointed/angry when our needs aren't met. We pout. Or do the silent treatment. Or fly off the handle. Or vow never to trust the person again.

Because this unfortunate dynamic continues to be alive and well, here's ASK FOR WHAT YOU NEED, first published on November 10, 2008 ...

"In my conversations, I find that many of us, men and women alike, are reluctant to ask for what we need. We feel guilty for not being able to do it all. For feeling weak. Thinking that we might (heaven forbid!) inconvenience someone. Or that we might come across as not quite having it all together. These thoughts often come from prior experiences when we were rejected, or made to feel small or stupid.

Well, the good news is ...

Linda

Redemption

2011-11-08T09:47:00.000-05:00

"For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins"

- Colossians 1:14.

Let the redeemed of the Lord say so!

Linda

Workplace Faith

2011-11-07T14:38:00.007-05:00

"One of the greatest hindrances to the gospel's effectiveness is Christians who act one way at church and another way elsewhere.

The way we live for God should permeate all areas of life. The workplace is no exception.

The way we act reflects our faith. So if we claim to be Christians, our coworkers, bosses, and employees will equate our attitudes and actions with Jesus.

Do those around you at the office see a positive reflection of God in your work ethic?

Let's look at a scriptural model for the believer to follow. For one thing, we should view ourselves as servants. Next, our true boss is Christ; therefore, we work diligently and with integrity, knowing that our reward is from Him. Then, since all authority on earth is God-given (John 19:11), we should obey our superiors gladly—unless, of course, our boss tells us to do something that goes against Scripture. And finally, all those we work with and for have worth from the Creator, and we should treat them with respect.

Think about how the golden rule — "Do unto others as you'd have others do unto you" —applies here. Putting it a different way, imagine yourself as the boss and ask, How would I like employees to work, even when I wasn't watching them?

Even when jobs or coworkers are hard to like, we are to work as though God is our boss. That means doing tasks with joy, a servant attitude, respect for others, diligence, and obedience to those in authority. Imagine what the workplace could be if all believers approached their jobs this way."
- Charles Stanley

As you face those tough challenges that have the potential to bring out the worst in you, call on the Holy Spirit to bring these inspiring thoughts to your mind ...
Linda

P.S. Start each workday with your focus on Christ! Click here to access dozens of FREE Bible reading plans, devotionals, and other spiritually stimulating writings from your favorite pastors and teachers. I think you just might find one or two that will fit you to a T ...

"Your attitude should be the same that Christ Jesus had. Though He was God, He did not demand and cling to His rights as God. He made Himself nothing; He took the humble position of a slave and appeared in human form. And in human form He obediently humbled Himself further by dying a criminal's death on a cross"

- Philippians 2:5-8 {NLT}.

- picture by andrewacrowd -

Changepoints

2011-11-06T10:35:00.006-05:00

One thing we can count on for sure?

CHANGE. HAPPENS.

Think back to the developments and adjustments in your life this year. Unexpected. Terrifying. Exciting. Disappointing. Hopeful. Depressing. Amazing. Paralyzing.

A few "ifs ..."

If we choose to accept the fact that change is going to happen, maybe we'll be more able to flow through those times of transition without completely heading 'round the bend emotionally.

AND

If we choose to believe that God has designed plans for our future that just might be beyond anything we've asked or imagined {Ephesians 3:20-21}, we just might be willing to stop looking back with all of our woulda/coulda/shoulda's.

AND

If we choose to count on the God who never changes to be our rock and fortress {Psalm 18:2}, perhaps we'll be able to navigate those changepoints with confidence instead of feeling like we're going to be sucked in by the quicksand of life's circumstances.

Life coach Valorie Burton shares 4 key elements in helping us to work through the whirlwind of emotions, to make choices to move through the changepoints, and move ahead to the future.

1. Mourn your loss.

2. Make a decision to move forward.

3. Be open to change.

4. Walk through those open doors.

So say good-bye and grieve. Without that closure, bitterness will, most likely, come calling. And that rearview mirror will continue to beckon. And the sad result is the very distinct possibility of missing the doors that are just begging to be opened.

Linda

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the Lord. 'They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen.
If you look for Me in earnest, you will find Me when you seek Me.
I will be found by you,' says the Lord."

- Jeremiah 29:11-14 {NLT} -

- picture by Edwin's Mixed Bag -

Repeat Performance - "Posturing & Maneuvering"

2011-11-05T11:01:00.001-04:00

{If you've joined the ranks of leadership, or have rubbed shoulders with those who've

donned that mantle, you've most likely seen what Ruth Haley Barton calls

"posturing and maneuvering." Whether in the church or corporate setting,

oft' times it's a fairly subtle dance.

In my 1/4 century + years of serving in all kinds of church leadership roles, I've either seen/experienced or counseled those with incredibly heart-breaking stories of encounters with in-your-face bullying and other forms of jostling for power/control/influence that was anything but subtle.

Truth be told, I kind of expect it in the world's system. But to see this dynamic repeatedly unfold in the family of God? Simply put, it's been more than unsettling and disappointing.

Is nauseating the better word?

The words below first appeared on this blog 3 years ago today, and like every other

REPEAT PERFORMANCE post, they bear repeating ...}

"It is much easier to talk about community - and even try to create community for others! - than it is to actually experience it at the leadership level. The truth is, most of us are not very good at maintaining our commitment to community when we get together to lead something. We find it more natural to resort to the subtleties of posturing and maneuvering and 'working the system' when caught up in the dynamics of organizational or church life. When we experience disagreement, we are better at creating lines of division, voting each other off the island, or leaving each other than ..."

Linda

Christmas Shopping ... on Halloween

2011-11-01T11:53:00.012-04:00

Yesterday was Halloween.

And I began my Christmas shopping.

One had nothing to do with the other. I was out and about, and living far away from everything, I took the opportunity to begin to gather some stocking stuffers at a well-stocked closeout store with lots of impressive deals ... and very few shoppers.

I loved it.

And earlier in the day I was trolling the internet for the perfect gifts for the six little ones in my life. {After a particularly frustrating experience in a big-box store a few years ago, I vowed to never again wander cluelessly through a toy store. Ever!}

Bottom line? When it comes to Christmas shopping, I want four things:

1. Creative, well-thought-out gifts.

2. Quality stuff at giveaway prices.

3. A stress-less shopping experience.

4. A mid-November finish date.

Thanks to the ease of the internet, by the end of the day I had made very good headway into selecting just the right presents and getting their grandfather's seal of approval. No pushing, no shoving, no commotion, no pressure. No jammed parking lots and no shipping and handling. With minimal energy and no wear and tear on my nerves, in a couple of clicks I was able to sit back in my chair with a great feeling of accomplishment.

It doesn't take much to make me happy!

Each year, my goal is to get all the running around done early so that the Nativity Month is as peaceful and serene as possible. That doesn't always happen. And the introvert in me gets just a twinge of horror at the thought of trudging through crowded malls, being jostled and aggravated at every turn by other desperate shoppers, and returning home with overpriced purchases that have little meaning.

I'd rather be sitting in front of a warm fire, under an old quilt, resting and pondering and keeping warm with a hot cup of something.

So if you're brave enough to switch gears from pumpkins to stockings, financial advisor Dave Ramsey's TOP 10 CHRISTMAS SHOPPING MISTAKES are a terrific place to start. {And I love the budgeting forms he shares.}

THOSE MISTAKES?

1. Not prioritizing.

2. Not having a budget written down.

3. Using credit cards.

4. Buying for everyone.

5. Not listening.

6. Not having a thought-out list on paper.

7. Not shopping around.

8. Waiting until the last minute.

9. Forgetting to plan for next year.

10. Forgetting why we celebrate.

Read all the details here.

And if you really want to make a difference and heartily bless someone who needs to have some hope, grab hold of his ideas to give like no one else ...

Believe me, it's not too early to begin planning ahead. The goal? To find December offering you plenty of focused energy to be still and know that the One who began life in a feeding trough is our precious Savior.

Linda

P.S. And here's how I let the non-essentials go last year ...

How's That Quiet Time Going?

2011-10-28T13:55:00.003-04:00

Who among us has it all figured out when it comes to establishing a daily, highly anticipated, heart-changing meeting time with God? Truth be told, most all of us struggle with enthusiastically embracing some kind of regularly scheduled devotions or quiet time.

When was the last time you approached Him with your heart crying out, "I can't wait to get together with You!"

For years I've been fighting an all-or-nothing-at-all approach to my meeting times with God. Either it's a rich and rewarding feast of solitude and silence that takes a significant amount of time. Or it's a pray-without-ceasing kind of day, with little, if any time in Bible reading, meditating over the truths in His Word, or contemplatively journaling my thoughts and prayer to Him.

I know I need to be more purposeful in this, but so often I don't do what I need to do to make it happen.

You too?

If you're an all-or-nothing kind of person, I think you get what I'm saying!

Just this morning I wrote, "It's been a long, very busy stretch since I last picked up this journal ... It's so easy to get lax and lazy, riding through, living off the fat of the land. So easy to be undisciplined and unfocused on what is most truly important. If I was satisfied with less sleep, had less desire to get the laundry going, settle in front of the computer, or run out the door ...

I know that my life needs to be more disciplined toward being fed by Your Word each morning. To feed my soul on a very regular basis instead of such a haphazard manner. To pray purposefully.

I pray that you will prompt me by love, not 'shoulds,' not rules, not legalism. That You would invite me to something joyful and fulfilling, something restful, and oh so rewarding. Remind me often how badly my soul needs to be truly filled. Never let me think that I can simply live off the fumes, the leftovers, of past times with You ..."

And when I finally rolled downstairs and checked my inbox, it made my day to hear what Mindy Caliguire had to say about the need for a daily prayer life that has a bit of structure to it. I invite you to settle in for about 5 minutes and find out WHAT, WHY, and HOW.

"The Art of Living Skillfully"

2011-10-24T14:54:00.000-04:00

"Many people think that what's written in the Bible has mostly to do with getting people into heaven - getting right with God, saving their eternal souls. It does have to do with that, of course, but not mostly. It is equally concerned with living on this earth - living well, living in robust sanity. In our Scriptures, heaven is not the primary concern, to which earth is a tag-along afterthought. 'On earth as it is in heaven' is Jesus' prayer.

'Wisdom' is the biblical term for this on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven everyday living. Wisdom is the art of living skillfully in whatever actual conditions we find ourselves. It has virtually nothing to do with information as such, with knowledge as such. A college degree is no certification of wisdom - nor is it primarily concerned with keeping us out of moral mud puddles, although it does have a profound moral effect upon us.

Wisdom has to do with becoming skillful in honoring our parents and raising our children, handling our money and conducting our sexual lives, going to work and exercising leadership, using words well and treating friends kindly, eating and drinking healthily, cultivating emotions within ourselves and attitudes toward others that make for peace. Threaded through all these items is the insistence that the way we think of and respond to God is the most practical thing we do.

In matters of everyday practicality, nothing, absolutely nothing, takes precedence over God."
- Eugene H. Peterson, THE MESSAGE

I truly believe that our relationship with God should directly impact absolutely every area of our lives. It should turn us upside down and inside out. His passionate, sacrificial love is best seen in His intimate acquaintance with every part of who we are. And that amazing love should play out in every facet of how we live life {Psalm 139}.

His call for us is to pursue wisdom. It's one of the reasons why I counsel, coach, and write. I know that your schedule is busy and that there are many things that call for your attention. Thank you for continuing to invite me into your day, allowing me to share some of the "a-ha" moments that God brings onto my path.

Placing those morsels onto the table of our daily lives gives me great joy! And hopefully, in that process, the complex, beautiful mosaic of who we are is being re-defined and re-shaped to look more and more like the image of our precious Savior, Jesus Christ.

And in the sharing, I'm being challenged to stretch and grow, too.

Linda

"Real wisdom, God's wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings,

not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced ..."

~ James 3 {The Message}

~ mosaic by MissyV110

Rikki Loves Apples

2011-10-18T14:31:00.000-04:00

Rikki loves apples. Picking them.

Cooking with them. {peanut butter apple crisp ... oh yum!}

And especially capturing their essence with the lens of her camera.

I ran into Rikki at an outdoor concert earlier this month. I hadn't seen her since she was a little girl. But a decade later, that little girl has developed into an incredible artist, as seen through the lens of her camera. Whether it's food product and still life photography, or capturing people right where they are, this graduate of the Hallmark Institute of Photography produces work that is simply elegant, breathtaking, and truly awesome.

She's given me permission to use her photos, which you'll see from time to time in the days ahead. And I would love for you to head over to her blog, which is jam-packed with her beautiful works of art ... and lots of yummy recipies.

And if all that wasn't good enough, Rikki is available for work in New York's Hudson Valley

and the Boston area.

pssst ... think portraits for Christmas gifts or design work for your business ...

Linda

Online Dating? Opinions & Cautions

2011-10-17T16:07:00.002-04:00

Online dating.

It's here to stay. Talk to any single and you can be sure that they've got an opinion on this whole scenario. I've heard tales of laughable profiles and creepy texts, of great anxiety and heartbreaking disappointment.

I've talked to more than one woman who's sworn she'll never head back there again.

I also know first-hand of one couple's discovery of true love online. Jonathan and Allison, pictured here, were married in June. {And no - this is not a wedding photo!}

So what do you do if you're ready, willing, and able to head into some sort of serious relationship. And you find that you're soon disillusioned as you realize that opportunities to find a potential soulmate in your neck of the woods seem as rare as hen's teeth.

Christianity Today recently asked the question, "Is online dating for Christians?" An anthropologist, a writer, and a ministry leader weighed in with three opinions:

With Gusto!

No; Trust God

With Caution

Click here for the three opinions.
{And take special note of the wise cautions.}

Online dating? Henry Cloud votes yes.
And John Townsend clues you in on what to look for.

I'm sure Jonathan will be weighing in with his experience. How 'bout you? Click the orange comment link below ...

Linda

"Someone Worth Dying For"

2011-10-14T13:03:00.000-04:00

"You might be the wife,
Waiting up at night
You might be the man,
Struggling to provide
Feeling like it's hopeless

Maybe you're the son,
Who chose a broken road
Maybe you're the girl,
Thinking you'll end up alone
Praying God can you hear me?
Oh God are you listening?

{Chorus}
Am I more than flesh and bone?
Am I really something beautiful?
Yeah, I wanna believe, I wanna believe that
I'm not just some wandering soul
That you don't see and you don't know
Yeah I wanna believe, Jesus help me believe that I
Am someone worth dying for

I know you've heard the truth that God has set you free
But you think you're the one that grace could never reach
So you just keep asking, what everybody's asking

{Chorus}

You're worth it, you can't earn it
Yeah the Cross has proven
That you're sacred and blameless
Your life has purpose

You are more than flesh and bone
Can't you see you're something beautiful
Yeah you gotta believe, you gotta believe
He wants you to see, He wants you to see
That you're not just some wandering soul
That can't be seen and can't be known
Yeah you gotta believe, you gotta believe that you
Are someone worth dying for

You're someone worth dying for
You're someone worth dying for"

~ MIKESCHAIR ~

Dedicated to my clients and friends in Community who are wounded and hurting ... you know who you are ... and He does, too.

Interceeding ~

Linda

Saying Grace

2011-10-13T14:42:00.001-04:00

"You say grace before meals.

All right.

But I say grace before the concert and the opera, and grace before the play and pantomime, and grace before I open a book, and grace before sketching, painting, swimming, fencing, boxing, walking, playing, dancing and grace before I dip the pen in the ink."

Gilbert K. Chesterton

Striving to overflow with gratitude ~

Linda

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances,

for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not put out the Spirit's fire."

- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-19

- picture by graceish -

Straight Talk on Domestic Abuse & Biblical Submission

2011-10-11T11:10:00.015-04:00

Relationship counselor Leslie Vernick's newsletter addressing the topic of domestic violence came to my inbox this morning. This is an ongoing issue to be taken very seriously, and, truth be told, many of our churches need to pull their heads out of the proverbial sand on this horrifically prevailing concern.

And maybe most sadly of all, the children of domestic families soak it all in, watching abuse in its various forms unfold. And in the heart-wrenching process, they become unprotected, traumatically wounded victims themselves.

I have been amazed over the years to hear people make excuses and fail to enact healthy boundaries for what is clearly disrespectful, abusive behavior - whether in a marriage, by adult children, from those in church leadership, and in the workplace. My clients know that I have a zero-tolerance level for abuse in its various forms, and over the years, Leslie's wise perspective, training, and insight into Scripture has been pivotal in shaping my own counseling philosophy. I have taken the liberty of highlighting some points that I consider to be exceptionally worthy of notice in her wake-up call below:

"October is Domestic Violence awareness month. Because so many of us in the church fail to recognize the reality of domestic abuse within the very place we worship, I want to give you some basic information on the difference between a healthy marriage and an abusive one.

The Surgeon General declared that domestic violence is the number one health problem affecting women today. The Christian church has been reluctant to accept the reality of this devastating problem despite the statistic that one in four Christian women report experiencing some type of abuse in her most intimate relationship.

Domestic violence isn't really about a misuse of anger although anger may be a part of the abusers strategy. At its core, an abusive relationship is characterized by a pattern of gross imbalance of power coupled with an attitude of entitlement. One person in the relationship feels entitled to control the other and uses whatever works to gain that control and power over the thoughts, feelings, choices, and behaviors of the other.

Physical force and intimidation can be one means of abuse, but withholding money, spiritual one-upmanship, chronic deceit, verbal threats, demeaning and belittling behavior, isolating someone from his/her family and friends, ignoring and minimizing someone's thoughts and feelings also damage a person's sense of self. These strategies effectively work together to crush someone's spirit and gain greater control over him/her.

This was never God's plan for marriage. From creation, God gave Adam and Eve mutual power and responsibility to rule over creation as well as the freedom to make choices. Healthy marriages are characterized by the foundational elements of mutuality, reciprocity and freedom.

Specifically, a healthy marriage contains mutual care, mutual honesty, mutual respect, mutual responsibility and mutual repentance. Power and responsibility are shared and each individual can express his/her thoughts and feelings without fear of retribution or punishment. There is also the freedom to respectfully challenge decisions and offer different perspectives and thoughts about how to solve a problem.

In abusive marriage theses core elements are missing. There is no mutuality, reciprocity or freedom. Sadly the church has often misinterpreted headship and submission passages to reinforce this power over mentality and as a result enabled entitlement thinking to flourish.

It's true, God put husbands as the head over their wives (Ephesians 5:23), but that does not put wives at the feet of their husbands. Women and wives are described in the Gospel as equal partners and persons to love, not objects to use or property to own. Biblical headship is modeled by Christ's gentle leadership and loving self-sacrifice. Husbands are cautioned not to be harsh with their wives and not to mistreat them, or their prayers will be hindered (Colossians 3:19; 1 Peter 3:7). No leader is biblically entitled to make selfish demands, order people around, or hurt them when they fail. Jesus clearly rebukes that type of leadership style (Mark 10:42-45).

Submission is a discipline of the heart for all believers to practice, not just wives or women. All Christians are called to submit to authority (1 Peter 2:13), to one another (Ephesians 5:21), and to God (James 4:7). Please understand what submission is and what it is not. In Greek, the word submission (hupotassō) describes a voluntary action or attitude. Biblical submission cannot be forced. It is a position believers take when we are motivated by our love for Christ and our desire to please and obey him. Although God commands us to submit to him, obey him, and love him, he never forces anyone to comply with his commands. He gives us a free choice, including freedom to choose badly (like Adam and Eve did).

When a husband bullies his wife, his behavior does not describe biblical headship, nor is her forced "submission" characteristic of biblical submission. The correct terms are coercion, manipulation, intimidation, or rape and she is the victim. Let's make sure we use the right words.

When a woman bullies her husband, the sinfulness and inappropriateness of the interactions are much more obvious to church leaders, but the very sinfulness of bullying behavior is exactly the same whether the abusive behaviors is initiated by the wife or the husband."

Not sure if you're in an emotionally destructive relationship? Take this assessment.

National Domestic Violence Hotline OR 1.800.799.SAFE

Pick up a copies of BROKEN AND BATTERED and THE EMOTIONALLY DESTRUCTIVE RELATIONSHIP.

Leslie answers your relationship questions each week here.

Click here to read more Creekside posts on abuse.

Linda

- picture by shancan1 -

"Being Free to Love"

2011-10-06T16:18:00.000-04:00

"Jesus came to us to help us overcome our fear of God. As long as we are afraid of God, we cannot love God. Love means intimacy, closeness, mutual vulnerability, and a deep sense of safety. But all of those are impossible as long as there is fear.

Fear creates suspicion, distance, defensiveness, and insecurity.

The greatest block in the spiritual life is fear. Prayer, meditation, and education cannot come forth out of fear.

God is perfect love, and as John the Evangelist writes, 'Perfect love drives out fear' {1 John 4:18}. Jesus' central message is that God loves us with an unconditional love and desires our love, free from all fear, in return."

- Henri Nouwen in BREAD FOR THE JOURNEY: A DAYBOOK OF WISDOM AND FAITH

He died to free us from our fears ~

Linda

- picture by philipcdavis -

Angry? 8 Steps to a Healthy Response

2011-10-05T13:26:00.001-04:00

Anger is a natural, biological response, a survival mode that God has created that occurs when we feel threatened. As adrenaline escalates, a rapidly escalating process occurs that can quickly lead to a point of no return. However, we are able to make pro-active choices to interrupt that process and communicate our feelings in ways that are healthy and respectful.

We must claim these two truths:

I never have a right to hurt anyone unless it is in physical self-defense.

AND

When I hurt someone inappropriately, it destroys our relationship and it also hurts me.

STEP 1 - Acknowledge that you have an anger problem.

STEP 2 - Make the choice to accept responsibility for managing your own anger, instead of managing another’s behavior.

STEP 3 - Identify the feelings behind your anger.
Hurt, frustration, fear, or disrespect.

STEP 4 - Identify the first physical sign of anger.
Dry mouth, racing heart, churning stomach, pounding head, clenched fists, raised voice.

STEP 5 - Quickly and quietly take a time-out.
At the first physical sign of anger, without a word, quietly leave the room for at least 20 minutes. Make it impossible for you to show your anger to those around you. Do something physical to reduce the adrenaline and release physical tension. Take a walk, go for a run, or work out. Do not get behind the wheel of a car.

STEP 6 - Cool down and process.
Sit quietly with God. Through prayer or journaling, talk with Him about what you’ve experienced.
- Acknowledge the situation, your feelings, and how you responded.
- Ask for forgiveness for any responses that were inappropriate, unhealthy, or unkind.
- Make a plan to respond in a more positive way the next time you feel hurt, frustrated, fearful, or disrespected.

STEP 7 - Re-engage, listen well, and communicate with love and respect.
Engage in positive interaction. The goals are to improve the relationship and to solve a problem.
- Use respectful words to communicate your feelings of hurt, frustration, fear, or disrespect.
- Use "I" statements, not "you" statements.
- Ask for forgiveness for your responses that were inappropriate, unhealthy, or unkind.

STEP 8 - Pray together.
This might be the hardest step of all. But it certainly can be the most rewarding – and bring you together to talk with the only One who is able to equip you to choose to communicate in ways that are Christ-honoring.

Linda

- photo by Out_of_place -

A Bit of Sabbatical Rest

2011-10-04T10:48:00.003-04:00

I've been pretty much unplugged in recent weeks, with my only computer access coming via a trip to the local library or a jaunt to my parents' house a half hour away. The tiny, vintage 1950s beach cottage that my husband and I call home for 2 weeks each September possesses maybe five electrical outlets. There's none of the amenities that we've become accustomed to. No TV, no phone, no microwave, no washer/dryer, no dishwasher. There's barely room to turn around in this quiet little retreat.

Just the most elemental basics. And we like it that way. Life becomes very, very simple as we look through those old windows out to the sea.

- The Blackie clan -

This time away is a purposeful escape that we yearn for, plan for all year. There was a moment here and there that I missed blogging and trolling the internet, but the time away from the screen was energizing and refreshing and much needed. Lots of walks, conversations, rest, explorations, reading, and journaling. Extended time with God. And that much longed for reconnection with the sea ... and with my family and husband of 35 years.

This bit of sabbatical rest was good for the body, good for the soul, and good for the relationship I have with my heavenly Father.

I spent one evening sifting through all the sermon notes stuffed into my Bible. This journal entry reflects the impact of that simple task ...

"I spend more time copying some of this summer's sermon notes into my Bible. Your Word is so precious to me. How thankful I am for those men and women who have taught me over the years. I am richer with conviction and life change and insight because You've sent them my way. Bring joy to my soul as I reflect on what I have learned on my journey. And daily reveal more truths of Your Word, more treasures of Your heart to me. I have such a long way to go, to grow. And it will only be by Your Spirit that I will in any way begin to bear the image of my Savior, Jesus Christ.

Continue the work that You've already started in my life. Thank You for Your grace and patience with me when I have not been grace-filled or patient. Thank You for not becoming weary with my process of maturing to be more and more like Christ. Quicken my heart, give me a deeper desire to strive for godliness, holiness, Christlikeness. Let me never become bored or complacent or nonchalant about the faith that You are shaping in me. Stretch and grow me, even when it hurts. Conquer my selfish resistance and any sense of self-satisfaction or thinking I might have somehow come close to arriving.

I know I have such a long way to go ... encourage me on my journey to be closer and closer to Your heart."

Linda

God Is Our Hope

2011-10-01T16:36:00.000-04:00

GOD IS OUR HOPE

BY BRIAN YOUNG

GOD IS THE ONLY ONE WE CAN COUNT ON.

BECAUSE HE CANNOT FAIL.

BECAUSE OF HIS OMNIPOTENCE.

WITHOUT HIM OUR HEARTS FLAIL.

YOU THINK THAT YOU CAN CONTROL THINGS.

I UNDERSTAND THIS DEEPLY.

MY AUTISM CONTROLS ME OUTWARDLY.

WHILE GOD IN ME CONTROLS SWEETLY.

YOU CANNOT SEE HIM IN ME.

SINCE THE NOISE AND ROCKING DISTRACT,

BUT I FEEL HIS HOLY COMFORT.

AND HIS HAND ON ME HAS GREAT IMPACT.

SO BELIEVE ME WHEN I TELL YOU.

THAT IT'S HIS HAND GUIDING MINE.

HE WANTS TO BE YOUR ALL IN ALL.

MAKING YOUR LIFE MORE SUBLIME.

HE TRULY IS OUR ONLY HOPE.

IN THIS TUMULTUOUS TIME.

WHETHER THINGS ARE CHAOTIC OR EASY.

HE IS THE ONE WHO MAKES US SHINE.

HE WANTS US TO BE HIS LIGHT OF THE WORLD.

THE TRUTH, SPEAKING HIS HOLY WORD.

SO ALLOW HIM TO CONTROL YOU COMPLETELY.

IT'S THE BEST HOPE THAT YOU CAN AFFORD.

IN JESUS' NAME, AMEN

- photo by Luke-rative -

"Servant Power"

2011-09-27T12:20:00.005-04:00

Ministry leader.

When you read those two words, what's the first thing that pops into your mind?

'Giving, serving, welcoming, forgiving'?

OR

'getting, grabbing, keeping, snatching, controlling, and retaliating.'

Truth be told, examples of both will most likely come to our minds. And leave us either smiling with gratitude and praise, or shaking our heads with disillusioned, broken hearts.

To gain a right perspective, we'd do well to take our eyes off each other, and turn them to our Shepherd Savior who modeled loving, effective, servant power.

Ministry leader Diana Bennett writes, "Jesus was a leader who prepared His small discipleship group to be leaders. Leadership is the art of influence, of taking the initiative, of modeling to others a Spirit filled life worthy of God's calling. The training of the 12 was an ongoing process, for Jesus' leadership had to be experienced as well as taught.

Jesus' style of leadership was contrary to every cultural form of 'getting, grabbing, keeping, snatching, controlling, and retaliating.' His leadership style was modeling 'giving, serving, welcoming, forgiving.' He led effectively, He shared Himself, He spent many hours in prayer, and He encouraged His disciples in the joys and difficulties of leadership. To follow the model of Jesus is to be a servant of all, to give himself away, to walk the way of the cross.

What does a leader look like?

> Able to influence others in a positive way

> Continues to grow in spiritual maturity

> Desires God's will

> Willing to let God have control

> Is humble and vulnerable

> Willing to use their gifts to help others

> Aware of their own strengths and weaknesses

> Nurtures others

> Sensitive listener

> Able to devote time and energy to the task of leading a group

> A servant heart

When Jesus said, 'follow Me,' He called His group into servant power: facing up to failure, dealing with competitiveness, avoiding the divisive spirit, denouncing racial prejudice, and following with a whole heart."

"Be imitators of God ... and live a life of love" {Ephesians 5:1-2} ~

Linda

- photo by Reclassic2 -

12 Motivations

2011-09-21T10:26:00.006-04:00

She's decluttering again! And there's no better time than now to join Laura over at I'm An Organizing Junkie for some homekeeping motivation. Autumn has crept in slowly but surely ... the sun is shining, the leaves are just beginning to turn into amazing shades of red and gold, cool breezes are gently blowing, the kids are back in school, and fresh routines are once again emerging.

So let's open the windows, rustle up some much-needed energy, and take hold of these five easy steps in our continued journey to whittle down our possessions and simplify our homes and lives.

Why bother?

So we can whole-heartedly focus on what's truly important ... a vibrant faith, healthy family life, effective ministry to others. Or that long-awaited emotional healing, personal growth, professional development ... whatever it is that God has for you in this season!

1. Set a Daily Goal

2. Set Up a Donation Station

3. Start With the Easy Stuff

4. Ask Yourself Some Simple Questions

5. Let Go of the Guilt

Click here to scoop up all the motivating details! I love #4's questions if you get stuck in a quandary over specific things/items/stuff/junk/treasure.

And if you struggle with a bit of nostalgia after you say 'adios' to something that was once a part of your life, you'll appreciate Francine Jay's seven tips to minimizing regrets:

1. Photograph Sentimental Items

2. Consider Technology

3. Do a Trial Separation

4. Get Some Money For It

5. Do Good With Your Clutter

6. Value Your Space

7. Put It In Perspective

Five + Seven = 12 Motivations!

May this season be a productive one for you ~

Linda

- photo by widdowquinn -

"A Road Built On Sinking Sand"

2011-09-20T20:53:00.001-04:00

"The danger of spiritual deception is real ...We have been told all that is required is a one-time decision, maybe even mere intellectual assent to Jesus, but after that we need not worry about His commands, His standards, or His glory. We have a ticket to heaven, and we can live however we want on earth.

Our sin will be tolerated along the way. 

Much of modern evangelism today is built on leading people down this road, and crowds flock to it, but in the end it is a road built on sinking sand, and it risks disillusioning millions of souls.

Biblical proclamation of the gospel beckons us to a much different response and leads us down a much different road. Here the gospel demands and enables us to turn from our sin, to take up our cross, to die to ourselves, and to follow Jesus. These are the terms and phrases we see in the Bible.

And salvation now consists of a deep wrestling in our souls with the sinfulness of our hearts, the depth of our depravity, and the desperation of our need for His grace. Jesus is no longer one to be accepted or invited in but One who is infinitely worth of our immediate and total surrender."

- David Platt, RADICAL: Taking Back Your Faith From the American Dream

If the choices you're making aren't fully in line with the faith you claim, if your pursuit of the American dream isn't in integrity with your relationship with Christ, or if you'd like some guidance in developing a radical "One Year to a Life Turned Upside Down" plan, then you just might want to get hold of a copy of Platt's little orange book ... or check out RADICAL here.

Challenged ~

Linda

- photo by Todd Klassy -

Teaching Kids To Love Jesus

2011-09-13T09:44:00.005-04:00

"Place these words on your hearts. Get them deep inside you. Teach them to your children. Talk about them wherever you are, sitting at home or walking in the street; talk about them from the time you get up in the morning

until you fall into bed at night"

- Deuteronomy 11:18 - 19 {The Message}.

~ Brooke & Alexa ~

"Teach all the time:
Young children live in the moment. Help them to learn in the moment by making ...

Teach at a special time:
Try to set aside a special time to read about God. Prepare for ...

Questions and answers:
Listen to your children’s questions, and give quality time to ...

Teach through your life:
You are a living example (or visual aid) of someone who loves God. Set a faithful example of ...

Be prayerful:
Like adults, children need God’s help to grow in Christ and they can learn to ...

~ Lydia, Andrew, Melanie, Katie ~

Be simple:
Young children are not abstract thinkers so be literal and ...

Be specific:
Move from the specific (God loves Ben) to the general (God loves everyone). Use lots of familiar ...

Repeat and repeat again:
You might get tired of saying it, but ...

Be thankful:
Approach God with thankfulness. Model to your children how we ...

Be visual:
Young children learn through their eyes as well as their ..."
- Stephanie Carmichael

Check out all the details here.

Read Stephanie Carmichael and Jessica Green's book, GRUMPY DAY,

with your kids right now!

And here's their book, THE BIRTHDAY PARTY!

Notice that the words from Deuteronomy begin with US - as parents, grandparents, teachers, caregivers, role models. Our faith in Christ must be active and real, deep and passionate before we can teach and model anything that's spiritually vibrant for the little ones in our lives.

Let's tend to our own souls so that we'll have something of eternal value to pass on to the next generations.

Pray, grandparents, pray!

Linda

"Community Is Better Than Any Cupcake"

2011-09-12T09:14:00.001-04:00

Believe it or not, September 12th is NATIONAL DAY OF ENCOURAGEMENT!

After a sobering weekend of observance and reflection laced with sadness, tears, and a bit of fear, some encouraging words and opportunities to give and receive joy and blessing are in order.

{in}courage is an online community for Christian women who want to connect with others of like mind and heart. Head on over there and you'll find all kinds of interactive discussion groups, soul-strengthening articles, a book club, and oodles of fun resources to explore. Here's how it all came into being.

And while an online community shouldn't even begin to take the place of our face to face interactions with family, friends, church, and neighborhood, it sure is a sweet place to visit from time to time!

I might just bump into you there ... be sure to say "hi!"

Linda

"Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching"

- Hebrews 10:25.

The Lord Is Our Shepherd

2011-09-10T10:05:00.000-04:00

THE LORD IS OUR SHEPHERD

BY BRIAN YOUNG

I AM A 41 YEAR OLD AUTISTIC MAN. I ALSO HAVE TOURETTE SYNDROME
AND OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER. I HAD NORMAL SPEECH UNTIL THE AGE OF 2 AND A HALF. THEN I LOST MY SPEECH SLOWLY AND HAD TO TRY A RE-LEARN IT. THIS HAPPENS SOMETIMES IN AUTISM. I AM CONSIDERED FUNCTIONALLY NON VERBAL. MOST OF MY SPEECH IS REPETITIVE AND GARBLED. I USE "FACILITATED COMMUNICATION" TO TYPE. IT WAS INTRODUCED TO ME WHEN I WAS 21 YEARS OLD.

I FIRST HEARD GOD'S VOICE WHEN I WAS ABOUT 1 YEAR OLD. HE HAS COMFORTED ME AND HID ME IN THE SHELTER OF HIS HIGH TOWER SINCE. I MAKE A LOT OF NOISE AND GET VERY ANXIOUS, BUT GOD SEES MY HEART. HIS PURPOSE FOR ME, IS TO USE THIS TYPE OF COMMUNICATION, TYPING WITH ONE FINGER WITH SUPPORT ON MY HAND FROM MY MOM, TO LET OTHERS KNOW THAT HE IS REAL, JESUS IS REAL AND THE HOLY SPIRIT IS REAL. JUST LIKE I AM REAL ON THE INSIDE. OUR OUTSIDE IS TEMPORARY. OUR INSIDE IS ETERNAL THROUGH GRACE.

THE LORD IS OUR SHEPHERD

THE LORD SEES US AS HIS AWESOME FLOCK.

HE CREATED US TO GIVE HIM PLEASURE.

HE LOVES US MORE THAN WE CAN IMAGINE.

TO HIM WE ARE ARE A WONDROUS TREASURE.

WE CAN NOT BE PERFECT IN ALL OUR WAYS.

BUT WE MUST SEEK HIM TO DO OUR BEST.

FOR IT IS ONLY IN HIM CAN WE DO WHAT IS RIGHT.

THUS THEN WE WILL TRULY BE BLESSED.

JUST IMAGINE HIM RIGHT BESIDE YOU EACH DAY.

WOULD YOU BE APT TO WATCH WHAT YOU SAY?

WOULD YOU LASH OUT SOMEONE WHO CUT YOU OFF?

WOULD YOU SPEAK ILL OF SOMEONE WHO WAS AWAY?

GOD EVEN KNOWS OUR DEEPEST HEARTS.

THERE IS EVEN OUR THOUGHTS HE CAN HEAR.

IN HIM WE SHOULD PRAY TO BE CLEANSED OF SUCH.

WE'D WATCH OURSELEVES, IF WE SAW HIM THERE

SO TAKE THE TIME TO IMAGINE HIS PRESENCE.

FOR HIS WORD SAYS IT IS TRULY SURE

TAKE THE TIME TO PUT HIM FIRST IN YOUR WORLD.

AND YOU WILL FIND YOUR WORLD AMAZINGLY PURE.

*** Brian is a treasured family member at The Community at Creekside. To read what people are saying about this Saturday evening house church, click here and scroll down. And if you're ever in the Poughkeepsie, New York area, the WELCOME MAT is always there for you.

Linda

7 Books You've Gotta Have

2011-09-09T10:09:00.002-04:00

Len Boesger says that everyone needs four books.

"DATE BOOK. Your date book (or calendar) is a guide to how you ...

ADDRESS BOOK. An address book may be simply a collection of friends and acquaintances or it can be a tool to ...

CHECK BOOK. Your check book can give you a pretty good idea of what is ...

THE GOOD BOOK ... it is this Book that defines and brings clarity on how we should use the other three."

Read the details of his observations here.

I think that everyone needs 7 books.

All of the above.

PLUS - A journal. Journaling helps you focus. To process the intricacies of life and issues of faith that are impacting you each day. To sift through the myriad of experiences and thoughts swirling through your mind. It provides a safe place to dialogue with God about what you're reading in His Word. And it gives you unlimited space to allow your prayers to flow from heart to pen to paper. This has become a vital spiritual discipline in my life! I share some of my entrees here.

PLUS - A book you're reading to increase your knowledge. Each one of us has some area of interest or expertise. And we owe it to ourselves {and the people we impact} to figure out what that is. And then continue our education in that area.

Counselor/life coach/ministry-related volumes - Faith-based and secular, some took me out of my comfort zone, some made me stretch and ponder, and a few expanded my faith this year:

Love Wins: A Book About Heaven, Hell, and the Fate of Every Person Who Ever Lived

Rob Bell

Knowing Your Value: Women, Money, and Getting What You're Worth

Mika Brzezinski

Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God

Francis Chan

Love & Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately Needs

Emerson Eggerichs

The Heart of Female Same-Sex Attraction: A Comprehensive Counseling Resource

Janelle M.Hallman

How I Changed My Mind About Women in Leadership: Compelling Stories From Prominent Evangelicals

Alan F. Johnson

The Inner Voice of Love: A Journey Through Anguish to Freedom

Henri J. M. Nouwen

Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-being

Martin Seligman

One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are

Ann Voskamp

What Good is God?: In Search of a Faith That Matters

Philip Yancy

PLUS - A book you're reading for fun. Life's not just one big TO-DO list. When was the last time you picked up a great novel or a biography ... and just kicked back and read for the sheer pleasure of it? A few I've read this year:

The Confession

John Grisham

In the Company of Others: A Father Tim Novel

Jan Karon

The Dirty Life: A Memoir of Farming, Food, and Love

Kristin Kimball

The Glass Castle: A Memoir

Jeannette Walls

I'd love to hear what's on your nightstand, desk, or coffee table right now ... click on the little red comment link below - you can leave your name or be completely anonymous!
Linda

- picture by bobhenry -

The Loneliness Disease

2011-09-06T09:26:00.001-04:00

"You can have 1,000 'friends' on Facebook and still be lonely ... Researchers from the University of Chicago have proven it.

They've also explored the dangers of loneliness. Being chronically lonely can cause as many health problems as high blood pressure, obesity, lack of exercise, or smoking ...

It turns out that loneliness causes our bodies to release stress hormones. It interferes with the body's immune function. It impedes cardiovascular efficiency. Lonely adults tend to sleep less efficiently, eat foods higher in fat, and age prematurely. In truth, loneliness acts a lot like a disease.

- jacsonquerubin -

God created us for relationship - relationship with Him and with one another ... 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you,' our Savior says.

Other people leave us all the time. They move to another state to take a job. They come home after work one day and seemingly out of the blue, demand a divorce. Best friends drift apart. Our children grow up and establish lives of their own. Death snatches loved ones away.

No relationship on earth is totally secure. But we can rely absolutely and without question on our Lord's promised presence. He will never leave us. He will never forsake us."

- Jane L. Fryar, GOD'S PROMISES TO A WOMAN'S HEART

*** You're going to want to listen to this song. Click here.

*** Don't even know where to start when it comes to making friends? Click here.

*** Thinking about calling an old friend this week? Click here.

*** Are you lonely in your leadership role? Click here.

There is a huge difference between solitude and loneliness. May you discover the comforting beauties of that truth in this season.

Linda

Hot or Cold ... or Lukewarm?

2011-09-05T16:18:00.002-04:00

In his engaging, refreshing book, CRAZY LOVE, pastor and author Francis Chan pulls no punches when it comes to challenging us to live an authentically radical faith, and in the process of doing so, becoming Christ-obsessed instead of being self-obsessed. Digging into the truths of Scripture in a clearly written, no-nonsense style, he encourages us to get out of our self-satisfied complacency and begin to accurately evaluate how our faith impacts our day-to-day lifestyle. He writes:

"LUKEWARM PEOPLE give money to charity and to church ... as long as it doesn't impinge on their standard of living. If they have a little extra and it is easy and safe to give, they do so ...

- vertical house -

LUKEWARM PEOPLE tend to choose what is popular over what is right when they are in conflict. They desire to fit in both at church and outside of church ...

LUKEWARM PEOPLE don't really want to be saved from their sin; they want only to be saved from the penalty of their sin. They don't genuinely hate sin and aren't truly sorry for it; they're merely sorry because God is going to punish them ...

LUKEWARM PEOPLE are moved by stories about people who do radical things for Christ, yet they do not act. They assume such action is for 'extreme' Christians, not average ones ...

LUKEWARM PEOPLE rarely share their faith with their neighbors, coworkers, or friends. They do not want to be rejected, nor do they want to make people uncomfortable by talking about private issues like religion ...

LUKEWARM PEOPLE gauge their morality or 'goodness' by comparing themselves to the secular world ...

LUKEWARM PEOPLE say they love Jesus, and He is, indeed, a part of their lives. But only a part. They give Him a section of their time, their money, and their thoughts, but He isn't allowed to control their lives ...

LUKEWARM PEOPLE love others but do not seek to love others as they love themselves. Their love of others is typically focused on those who love them in return ...

LUKEWARM PEOPLE will serve God and others, but there are limits to how far they will go or how much time, money, and energy they are willing to give ...

LUKEWARM PEOPLE are thankful for their luxuries and comforts, and rarely consider trying to give as much as possible to the poor ...

LUKEWARM PEOPLE do whatever is necessary to keep themselves from feeling guilty. They want to do the bare minimum, to be 'good enough' without it requiring too much of them ...

LUKEWARM PEOPLE feel secure because they attend church, made a profession of faith at age twelve, were baptized, come from a Christian family, vote Republican, or live in America ...

LUKEWARM PEOPLE do not live by faith ... they don't have to trust God if something unexpected happens - they have their savings account ...

LUKEWARM PEOPLE probably drink and swear less than average, but besides that, they really aren't very different from your typical unbeliever ..."

"I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm - neither hot nor cold - I am about to spit you out of my mouth"

- Revelation 3:15-16.

I know who Christ is calling me to be. And I know those areas where I need to ask Him to help me step it up a notch ... or two.

I've got the feeling I'm not the only one.

Linda

Repeat Performance - Single Moms Answer the Question

2011-08-30T16:02:00.012-04:00

{The following question was asked, answered, and posted two years ago on
August 30, 2009. The honest responses and the endless, ongoing challenges that
single moms face day in and day out haven't changed since then.}

I recently asked a group of single moms this question:

What does the church need to know about

single parents/families?

- Divorce is not contagious. It is ok to ...

- We won't steal your husband. We need ...

- It's not easy. We're often ...

- Some of us never get a break in our 24/7 week, 365 days a year. You probably don't want to be treated or regarded the way ...

- We do not have a disease. Our boys need ...

- We once, too, were in happy families, enjoying ...

Click here to hear their hearts.

Please listen with your heart ~

Linda

Are You Living in a Fantasy World?

2011-08-29T10:53:00.001-04:00

Do you have a "fantasy self"? The incredible culinary whiz. The super-fit, all-star athlete. The award winning musical virtuoso. The fabulously creative entrepreneur.

Acquired a whole lot of stuff along the way to becoming someone you never quite became?

Kitchen cabinets jammed with stacks of unopened gourmet cookbooks and expensive cooking widgets {that were maybe used once or twice}.

A garage packed with all manner of big-ticket sports equipment {from at least a generation ago}.

The cache of musical instruments stuffed in the back of a musty closet or two {from way back in elementary school}.

Overflowing boxes laden with dusty, unused craft supplies {from the '80s}.

Clothes bought on a whim stored in a rarely-opened garment bag {with the tags still attached}.

Painful piles of memorabilia from a love, a friendship, a relationship {that's long since departed}.

Writer and blogger Francine Jay muses, "Do you have a fantasy self? And if so, how much of your clutter belongs to it?

All too often, we hold on to stuff because it represents who we think we should be, rather than who we are. Sometimes our fantasy selves are meant to impress others; sometimes they’re relics of our past; sometimes they’re fantasies about our future.

Whatever the case, it’s important to remember: acquiring stuff for your fantasy self doesn’t make it a reality. Most of the time, it only leads to a lot of “nice” clutter you never actually use."

Check out her list of 10 fantasy personalities.

Any of those descriptions ring a bell for you?

What strikes you when you see yourself in black and white?

Ready to embrace who you REALLY are in this season by saying good-bye to that dream/hope/fantasy that never quite made it?

I've said good-bye to the pasta machine I used once. Hundreds of carefully cut-out, never used magazine recipes stashed in wrinkled old folders. The dozens of once-loved cross-stitch books. The piano that saw hour after hour of faithful practice. Stacks and stacks of paper and cards and notes from eons ago. Photos of people I couldn't even identify. My husband's trumpet from high school. Some collectibles and lots of tchotchkes that have long since lost their charm.

Most recently it was a whole, dusty file drawer of every note and test I ever took, every handout I ever laid my eyes on, everything I ever wrote through college and graduate school. {Yes, I saved a few papers ...}

There's lots more to go. 'Cause I'm not now who I was then.

You, too?

Linda

P.S. #1 Need more motivation? You'll appreciate "Home is not my stuff."

P.S. #2 Check out "101 Places Where Your Clutter Can Do Good."

- picture by Jim in Times Square -

"Rising Up to You, Rising Up to You ..."

2011-08-27T07:30:00.000-04:00

THE SOUND OF MELODIES

Leeland

We who were called to be Your people
Struggling sinners and thieves
We’re lifted up from the ashes
And out came the song of the redeemed
The song of the redeemed
The song of the redeemed

Can you hear the sound of melodies
Oh, the sound of melodies
Rising up to You
Rising up to You, God
The sound of melodies
Oh, the sound of melodies
Rising up to You
Rising up to You, God

We have caught a revelation
That nothing can separate us from
The love we received through salvation
It fills your daughters and your sons
Your daughters and your sons

The sound of Your love
The sound of Your love
Is what You’re hearing
The sound of Your sons
The sound of Your sons
You’ve won Your children
The sound of Your love
The sound of Your love
Is what You’re hearing
Your daughters in love
Your daughters in love
You’ve won your children

The sound of melodies
Oh, the sound of melodies
Rising up to You
Rising up to You, God

Psalm 150 ~

Linda

Shifting Gears Into Fall

2011-08-22T10:41:00.014-04:00

Our family recently returned from our long-anticipated annual vacation. One of the few times in the year that we can spend more than a day together, it was delightfully exhausting, joyfully busy, and the absolute highlight of our summer.

And then, without warning, the countdown to fall seem to begin.

After a final day of partying last Saturday, we said good-bye one last time as the gang headed back to Massachusetts and Maryland. Our sons-in-law both head off to their classrooms to teach today. Our two oldest granddaughters start school tomorrow.

The official beginning of fall might be weeks away, but our family has started the annual move from the lazy days summer to saying hello to autumn.

An email came in from my oldest daughter just now:

GOOD MORNING!!!!! It’s a nice cool morning, I had a great morning with the girls, I had a cider donut this morning, Martha brought in fresh tomatoes and homemade Whoopie Pies, Tom’s back at school and we can start a new routine … it’s going to be a good day!"

Yes, we're in transition. It's time for those new, yet comfortingly familiar routines to begin. The morning air is brisker, the sun is setting earlier. Sweatshirts and quilts are making an appearance and we're trading our flip-flops for sneakers. Back-to-school is the order of the day. Churches are gearing up for their fall programs. Young and old are signing up for sports teams, small groups, new activities, and classes. We're even beginning to make plans for the {gasp!} holidays.

We are shifting gears! Let's do it well!

BACK-TO-SCHOOL ORGANIZATION - Laura provides hands-on coaching, covering everything from clothes and supplies, to routines and a backpack station that just might save your sanity.

FINANCES - Dave sees autumn as an opportunity for a fresh start as he challenges us to incorporate our dreams with our financial goals.

HOME SCHOOL CLASSROOM - Ann's gorgeous, welcoming space is almost enough to motivate me to teach. Or to be a child again.

MINISTRY LEADERS - Ruth begins an important new series by focusing on the rhythms of work and rest needed to prevent us from compassion fatigue.

SCHEDULES - Vicki helps us discover that vital extra hour a day that's been lost along the way, showing us how to tighten up on life's nuts and bolts - morning routines, meal planning, shopping, wardrobe, using technology wisely ... and more.

Please join me in welcoming another season of transition ~
Linda

6 Burnout Lessons for Ministry Leaders

2011-08-21T15:15:00.007-04:00

After talking to countless ministry leaders who are about to fizzle out ... and experiencing burnout myself half a decade or so ago, I am passionate about health in the ranks of church leadership. So I really savored consulting psychologist Steve Bagi's perspective on this always pressing issue.

Based on his own burnout experience and recently posted at the ministry blog Serving Strong, here are the six lessons that turned his life upside down.

I'm thinking there's probably a take-home or two for any who are in non-stop, full-throttle mode as they serve Christ and others.

Steve writes:

Lesson One: Burnout was worse than I expected. I call it a “stew of pain” with ...so many different emotions and thoughts swirling around and bubbling to the surface over a very long period of time.

Lesson Two: Burnout took longer to recover from than I had thought. I was out of action for one whole year. That is a long time to be watching day time TV and wearing pjs all day. However, considering that it took me over twenty years to get there, it was never going to be a quick and easy way out.

Lesson Three: Burnout cost a lot more than I had bargained for. The amount of emotional pressure that I placed on my wife and children was considerable. No wonder my sweet wife also went through something similar after I had started to work again. Then, there is the dollar value of being out of action for so long and perhaps working through the possibility of having to change occupations.

Lesson Four: Many churches and church leadership groups do not know what to do with a pastor who is burning out and churches are reluctant to talk about this growing problem and take on their share of the responsibility.

Lesson Five: Burnout doesn’t have to be the end of the road. Although many times I felt that I would never get back up, God, my family, friends, counselling and medication has really helped me to work through it. Although I am no longer in pastoral ministry, I am even more passionate about serving Jesus and sharing the gospel. I have found it easier to talk to people who aren’t Christians, as being someone who has “crashed” makes me more human and vulnerable.

Lesson Six: The growing world-wide problem of pastoral burnout is a symptom of an unhealthy way of “doing church” with regards to the attractional model under which most churches are structured and the role and expectations placed on the “PASTOR and their family”.

What choices do you have to make TODAY to keep from becoming a statistic?

Linda

*** Be pro-active! More on preventing and treating burnout here ...

- sign photo by Kris Van de Sande -

Repeat Performance - Resume S.O.S.

2011-08-19T15:18:00.002-04:00

{The job market hasn't improved a whole lot since August 19, 2010, so this post certainly bears repeating. If you're looking for work, check out the free resume course, more than 80 resume samples, and the Blue Sky blog through the link below.

Truth be told, in this economic climate, most of us would be well-served to update the presentation of our work history so it's ready to roll. Sadly, one never knows when the day might come when a boss with a 'pink slip' in his hand suddenly appears on the scene.}

"When it comes to the job market, putting your best foot forward (on the printed page, online, and in person) says volumes about ..."

Linda

Boundaries That Work ... For Kids

2011-08-16T12:23:00.000-04:00

I love Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend! Long-time leaders in the Christian counseling arena, they provide absolutely excellent relationship and leadership counsel, in a compelling and non-threatening manner.

Over the years I've taught classes on Boundaries, Boundaries in Marriage, and Boundaries with Kids. The material is so user-friendly and practical that people almost always walk away with some solid tools in their hands. Years later, participants tell me that their lives changed for the better because they've embraced and applied these biblically-based, practical concepts to their everyday lives.

And then there are books on Boundaries with Teens, Boundaries in Dating, and Boundaries in Leadership.

Clearly, boundaries work.

Their website has a super collection of videos, with some substantial help on issues ranging from emotional struggles and relationship challenges all the way to leadership issues and achieving goals and success.

You can benefit from some top-notch wisdom ... and it's free!

It's back-to-school season when our children's well-being is especially in focus. Whether the little people in your life are toddler or school-age, I think you just might appreciate these excellent videos ...

What's the Traffic School You Send Your Child To?

46,000 Warnings!

Put Your Child In Charge of His/Her Quality of Life!

Championing the boundaried life ~

Linda

- photo by sourbrew -

Are You Still Holding Hands?

2011-08-15T09:40:00.002-04:00

Over at 6 Stone Jars, Anthony Buono writes about dating and marriage from a Catholic perspective. In a recent post, he talks about the importance of married couples holding hands ... and what may be happening if this tender touch has faded away over time.

"I believe if you want to know if a relationship in trouble, start by observing if they hold hands. You can hide a lot of things from others as a couple, but you cannot hide the reality that you don’t hold hands when walking together.

Two people in love are going to hold hands. Not all the time, but definitely often. And that is because when you are in love, you cannot help but want ..."

Treasuring that hand-holding for 35 years ~
Linda

- photo by Jaymal -

So ... Who Are You?

2011-08-14T15:55:00.001-04:00

Perhaps one of the most life-altering truths we can claim is who we really are. Not who other people say we are. Not who the old tapes running through our minds say we are. Not who our culture says we are.

Who God says we are. What He thinks about us. Who He says we are to Him.

Knowing His heart for us will change our perspective, our identity, our self-worth, our purpose. It will equip us to forgive, enable our painful experiences to be redeemed, and give us hope for the future.

So let's say good-bye to negative thought patterns, martyrdom, poor self-esteem, victimhood, pity parties, loser mentalities. Let's stop looking for the people around us to somehow provide what we're longing for.

You'll never find it there.

Let's embrace who we are in Jesus Christ. And model something peaceful and holy for those little people in our world who are watching us intently.

The Lover of your soul will unveil the loveliness of who you are to Him as you begin to savor His love letter to you.

Linda

Repeat Performance - Substantial Encounters

2011-08-13T09:43:00.002-04:00

... a few keen observations from noted counselor and spiritual director Larry Crabb led to this journaled response ... which morphed into a post on August 13, 2008 ...

"I think a lesson has been learned. Reading great books and listening to great thinkers can be overdone. Convictions can remain borrowed and never embraced. Silence and solitude give the Spirit opportunity to ..."

Reflectively ~
Linda

P.S. Do check out Larry Crabb's website for top-notch spiritual formation videos, commentaries, opportunities, a reading list and more ...

Conversations 101

2011-08-03T17:23:00.002-04:00

"Conversing well" has been on my heart in recent days. Poor boundaries, limited or non-existent margins, and being too accessible too much of the time have left many good-intentioned people depleted and without focused energy for those one-on-one conversations that can be so life enriching.

This week has been a stellar week for me - I was blessed by three deep, meaningful, soul-searching talks with dear friends. I felt like I had hit the jackpot as we substantially shared from the depths of who we are. I left each of these talks feeling like we listened well. We validated each other. Encouraging words were spoken. Our souls were satisfied. And God granted us the beautiful gift of iron sharpening iron {Proverbs 27:17}.

At the conclusion of one of these breaths of fresh air, one sister in Christ read the following words to me. It was a huge affirmation to the longing I've had for myself and for others ...

"My first priority is face-to-face conversation. If I can be physically in front of someone, I give that person my full attention - ignoring competing distractions of phone calls or anything else that might hinder my focus.

But, if a face-to-face conversation is not possible, I defer to voice-to-voice - normally by way of the phone. But even with that, I have rules. When I'm having a phone conversation, I don't look at my computer screen or engage with anything in front of me, except the person I'm talking to at that very moment. I want to be fully present.

But, finally, if neither one of those options exist, my last resort is screen-to-screen. Using e-mail or sending a text is my last preference - but even then I keep it short and sweet but force myself to be fully present in the written communication I send."
- Gabe Lyons in The Next Christians:The Good News About the End of Christian America

Thank you, my three dear friends, for the refreshing gift of your presence in my life.
Linda

- boat by Greta~adores~pink -