February

The month of love…

How many times do people say that February is the month of love and single's awareness month?  Something one hears often…

Let us not forget about the other important aspects of this month…

We celebrate Black History Month, Women's Heart Health and that silly St. Valentine. But where does love come from?

This year, I choose to focus on my love for my Savior, Creator, Father, Best Friend and God of the Universe. I desire to do the will of God, for my heart to look like His heart…for those around me to know that they are loved, not only by me, but by the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  

Chris Tomlin's "Your Heart" captures it so well…

Does your life reflect Christ's love? Love as Christ loves. 

Do you know?

May God bless you this month, this year, this decade!

Love,

Julie

Oceans by Hillsong United

"Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)"

You call me out upon the waters
The great unknown where feet may fail
And there I find You in the mystery
In oceans deep
My faith will stand

And I will call upon Your name
And keep my eyes above the waves
When oceans rise
My soul will rest in Your embrace
For I am Yours and You are mine

Your grace abounds in deepest waters
Your sovereign hand
Will be my guide
Where feet may fail and fear surrounds me
You've never failed and You won't start now

So I will call upon Your name
And keep my eyes above the waves
When oceans rise
My soul will rest in Your embrace
For I am Yours and You are mine

Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders
Let me walk upon the waters
Wherever You would call me
Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander
And my faith will be made stronger
In the presence of my Savior
[x6]

I will call upon Your Name
Keep my eyes above the waves
My soul will rest in Your embrace
I am Yours and You are mine

For a video of this song being sung live...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLqTZ07ja7g

Hobbies

Hobbies....we all have them...these hobbies can bless others.  God gives us talents and hobbies to help lead others to Him.

The senior pastor at my church is always asking us how we are bettering the world and increasing the population of heaven...How can I populate heaven and plunder hell?  I am trying to use my hobbies, knitting, beading and scrapping to help bring joy to others.  I have made 30 minion hats since November, at least 30 other hats, a dozen scarves and multiple other little projects with my hobbies...each time I sell an item, 10 to 20 percent of the profit goes toward populating heaven, through supporting missions or those working in the mission field.  I love seeing the smiles on kid's faces when wearing my hats and the joy of women enjoying my jewelry.  I never expected to have my crafts in so many places and enjoyed by friends, family and strangers.  I love my hobbies.  They are relaxing, fun and help keep my mind agile.  So many of my friends have worn their hats until they are so fluffy and loved that they cannot be worn any longer...others have added to their hat collection with each new style or type of yarn I use...the possibilities!  Cabbage Patch kid hair hats and brain hats are next to tackle...

Music is the other hobby and love.  Through playing many instruments, I have had musical opportunities with many groups, in churches and other places.  Right now, I am enjoying playing flute with the Albuquerque Concert Band.  I will be be auditioning to become a member of the group in a few weeks and look forward to the adventures that will come with the group.  Shrine Band on clarinet was fun.  I miss playing.  I enjoy music...can't wait to teach another music lesson to my students.  This time we will be learning about Aretha Franklin. 

God is so good!  How can you use your talents and hobbies to populate heaven?

Relaxing Weekends

I was talking with my Mom yesterday and she was reminding me that God has asked us to rest on the seventh day.  Today, instead of grading papers, going to the gym and cleaning house, I chose to start my day sitting in my 26 year old LazyBoy chair, reading my Bible and sipping on some delicious tea.  Sunday mornings have become the only morning to relax.  I love being able to spend an entire day at home, if I choose.

May your week be filled with blessings.

Today…
I made a baby gift for a good friend and co-worker, made a necklace for a co-worker, finished three minion hats for another friend, read for fun, made premie hats to give to a friend of mine who is a NICU nurse, finished some other small projects and REALLY enjoyed my relaxing and still productive Sunday.

This week…
My goal is to be more positive.  God gives me the strength to do whatever comes my way in this life.  If I spend time with Him daily, He will lead me.

Praying your week is filled with joy, laughter and many wonderful moments.
Julie