There was a time when Halloween didn’t seem quite so frightful. Churches had alternative celebrations, and some still do. Others just want to separate from this time completely for it has become so dark.
This is a picture from the 80’s. Sally’s friends dressed as cheerleaders and as a ballerina. Sally wanted to make her own creation. She disappeared into the bedroom and when she finally appeared, I couldn’t figure out what she was. Upset, she said, “Mom– read the sign!” It said “Moses, Moses, take off your shoes.” Then I realized she was the burning bush. I thought: Perfect. Let’s not focus on the deeds of the devil but skip right over to the holiness of God.
I’m taking a break this week, headed to Seattle for a granddaughter’s wedding and family reunion. I’ll also see our own Patti! But I will be back the first Sunday in November and we will have a month of Thanksgiving with the help of the Psalms. Then we’ll head into Advent.
But until I see you again on Nov. 5th, let’s overcome the evil of Satan and pray, share, and encourage one another.
Come here, share praises, confess sins, and petition the Lord for your own heart, for Israel, for Ukraine, for our leaders, for the hearts of your loved ones — and we can join you, at least silently. And we can take off our shoes, at least in our hearts, for we will be on Holy Ground.
Dee, I’m praying for you as you spend time with family and with our Patti! Could you give her a hug for me?
The Lord has surely blessed our women’s luncheon this past Sunday! We have approximately 91 women who joined us in worship and time in the Word. Ir was an Ephesisans 3:20-21 experience. As a result, we have 2 Bible Study groups starting today using Lifeway’s study, “Grateful”. I am excited to see the wonder-working power of God as a few are unchurched or not walking closely with God( an observation not a judgment).
I would appreciate prayers for these 2 groups. Two other women are helping me lead.
It is only for 4 weeks and in the sovereignty of God, the length must have been one of the draws for these women. Thanks!
What a wonderful Praise, Bing!! Glory to God our Father in heaven! I pray that many come to know Jesus in a deeper way, abiding in His love! I am so excited to see Dee! Hugs back to you!
Thank you, Ladies, for your encouraging words. I have been pretty much overwhelmed with the richness of the kindness of God to me and to our church family. We have 9 women in the morning study and 12 in the evening. The evening group consists of most women who either do not come to our church or don’t go to church. Pray for me, Krystal, and Sheila who are leading. It brings me joy to come here and know that you are praying for me/us.
This post made me smile! You reminded me of how I ever first found your blog, in Oct. 2009. I’ve still saved the email I wrote you and your kind, wise responses back. I had asked you about Halloween and part of your reply- (I was “Elizabeth” back then!) “Elizabeth — when my children were young, I did let them dress up, but nothing to do with the occult. I remember Sally went to a church party dressed as a burning bush. I think it is okay to take them to a few neighborhood homes or friends to trick or treat. I know He who lives in us is greater than he who is the world…”
SO happy you get to see our dear Patti. Really wish I could jump in your suitcase, but as Bing said–hug from me too!
Oh, I love that you kept this email from Dee, dear Lizzy! She has blessed us all with her abiding love of God. Hugs back to you! So happy to spend time with Dee. I still remember our meeting at Bible study all those years ago.
I’m eager to get back in to this group of fine ladies, led by our wonderful Dee. I’m fully retired now and trying to figure out my ‘new’ routine.
Dee safe travels to you and have a ton of fun with you family.
Julie, I retired 2 years ago so I get what you said about the “new” routine. So far, it has been fun for me. You will find your groove in due time. smile.
Oh Dee! I love that Sally was the burning bush. Wow. I remember that picture from a few years ago 😉. I am impressed that she knew enough of the Bible to think that costume up. The grands know a lot of the Bible, but I’m not sure they would think to make a costume like that. Unfortunately, kids don’t make up their costumes anymore. Sometimes it was hard to think of one; it took some real digging. Good for the brain.
I’m happy you will see Patti. Please tell her hello and make sure to hug her hard for me!
My family continues to be in the midst of turmoil. I am very sad about that. I won’t share the details, for there is enough pain in our world right now. The devil is sure prowling. I am trying so hard to keep my focus on God. I think it is working! I haven’t had a lot of sleep; I keep waking up in the middle of the night with thoughts that are important to the situation; things I need to do to help it out. The Holy Spirit is right there! He is guiding me and it is so sweet. Oh what a tangled web we weave. No sleep, but definitely actions to be taken. Thank You Jesus, and BACK OFF SATAN! Any prayers for Sarah and my husband would be greatly appreciated. Peace in our hearts, remembrance of what and how God wants us to act. For Him to turn ashes into beauty, and (especially for me) how to know exactly when to act, like Queen Esther (my idol!), and exactly what to say. He loves us more than we love each other. I know this. We are His. But, life really hurts at times. Thank You Lord.
P.S. I am so glad you are taking a break! Have a safe trip!
I will be praying for you, Laura. Satan surely is wagging his tail in many families these days. May God keep you in His peace. Praying for Sarah and your husband.
Praying, dear Laura. Those sleepless nights of tossing and turning can be so very hard. He sees and knows and loves and is able to deliver. I’m thankful for you and your steadfast love for our Lord in the midst of the very hard.
Blessed by what I read here. Dee, praying and asking God to bless your time and travels. Patti is still on my regular prayer list. So good to see Julie and Lizzie. We have missed your input.
Bing what joy and answer to prayer about your ladies luncheon and the ensuing bible studies. Trusting God to continue to do a good work. You are a faithful steward of your gifts and He will continue to be absolutely faithful to you.
My family is gathering this weekend at a neutral location. There have been some tensions with my kids but I trust God is working. Last night my oldest daughter backed off on some strong opinions toward our oldest sons’s family. She is her mother’s daughter. 🥴. I see God working in her heart. But praise God I have kept quiet about some differences and committed this time to God.
I agree Laura that we are living in an evil and oppressive time. But for God!! Praying for your family situation and asking God to intervene. He will show up in answer to our prayers.
I look forward to continuing the Thanksgiving study with you all.
Thank you for your continued prayers, Bev. I so appreciate them during this very difficult time. God is so good and I see His hand in my life, daily. I, too, agree with Laura and I will be praying for each of you on this blog in the coming days. The evil ones certainly is coming after families. How I pray that the Lord will place a hedge of protection around each of the families represented here. He is our all. I have missed each one of you so much and I hope I to be back more consistently . Praising God for each of you dear friends in Christ.
Bev, thanks for the encouragement. This blog is such a sweet and safe place to share our joys and our prayer concerns. My husband and I are hosting his 2 sisters and their small families for Thanksgiving. I am praying for a relaxing and enjoyable time together.
Thank you for this testimony, Bev. I think most families endure conflict within, but I’m thankful that is where God can show up in wondrous ways and teach us so much of Himself.
I’m so thankful to have had a safe flight, be here with Patti, my lifelong friend who took me under her wing when I burst into tears at my first Bible study so long ago in Seattle. She is pampering me with amazing meals (she once did a cooking show on the 700 Club with Sheila Walsh) and her lovely home. (She’s an artist) You wouldn’t know all these things as she is so humble. She does need prayer for a very hard situation in addition to her overcoming her fresh grief as a widow. I’ve passed along your hugs!
Dee, so happy to hear about your flight and time with Patti! I did not know she was the friend who took you in many years ago in that story you wrote and I read somewhere. Patti is a treasure, indeed!
Please, please give her a hug from me, too! It’s my dream to meet dear Patti in person one day, but it might have to wait until Heaven. I’m so glad you can be with her. Safe travels to you, dear Dee. Hope the wedding is lovely!
I’m in Seattle for a grand-daughter’s wedding tomorrow and have much to be thankful for. My children and spouses have arrived safely and we are in a beautiful VRBO in the mountains (North Bend) and we’re planning a family church service as there are so many of us. We’re going to do the water into wine miracle at the wedding — the Lord gave me the idea in the night. The weather has been, is, and should be sunny, a minor Seattle miracle. My grand-daughter, Analise, is marrying a believer and they want to do “musical” missions after they pay off their school debts. I’ve had some sweet one on one time with family I rarely see. So much to be thankful for.
I also had a wonderful visit with dear Patti who despite her grief lavished love on me! She and Lizzy have much in common both in personality and pain, and I love to see bondings happening on this blog.
Appreciate prayer for us to honor Him in all our conversations and for those who don’t know Him to see reflections of Him in us, and come to the family service if His will.
Dee, praying for the wedding and for Jesus to be reflected in your family. For God to draw the invitees to attend the family service. for you and your family to be refreshed in your bodies and spirits. Love you, too, and all who are here.
Thanksgiving: My husband and I attended our sister church (their young pastor does the early service at our church every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month) for their morning service today. It is a small rural church consisting of farmers and their families. Richard came mainly to play the piano and we had a hymn sing before and after the message. What joy to sing familiar old hymns; there were 4 little ones there who each requested a special song. We ended the service with Jesus Loves Me. It was a very special God Hunt and Jesus’ surprise!
I heard you quite a while ago on Family Talk with Dr. James Dobson. I scribbled down your web address and just came across it in a pile of papers. So, here I am. ❤️🙏
It’s Monday morning and as I read down through the blog this morning and everyone’s comments it felt like a bit of a family reunion hearing from each person expressing love and catching up a bit on lives and happenings. Miriam’s comment about looking forward to probably having to wait until being in Heaven to meet Patti made me think what a wonderful time it will be when someday this group will have an opportunity to gather and meet in Heaven. We will be able to praise our wonderful God and Savior together and reflect on how He taught us his Word and answered many prayers on our behalf. Life is hard but for God and we know Jesus is King of Kings and Lord of Lords and we are part of His Kingdom. I too am so grateful for this group and the friendship and prayers. The time my family had together this past weekend was good and God blessed us. With family sometimes it can feel so bleak but it’s good to be reminded He is always at work in answer to our prayers. Dee, You have made me curious about turning the water into wine miracle?? 😊
Bev-your words this morning lifted my heart. Thinking about our future Home together where we will gather together, what joy is ahead! Reminds me of one of my favorite passages–
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” 1 Peter 1:3-9
Bev and Lizzy, what a day that would be when we can get together in Heaven! There might be a booming voice saying, “All ladies in Dee’s blog while on earth, come over this way and enjoy the long-awaited reunion!” Of course, Jesus will be in our midst.
Bev, glad you mentioned Dee’s comment about turning water into wine. I was curious when I read that line but forgot about it until I read your comment!
Hahaha! I love your “blue light special” announcement, Bing! Am I too old? Do you remember those at K-mart???
I too wondered about Water to wine…
Ernema Boettner
October 31, 2023
Laura, yes, I remember those announcements at K-mart and did not realize they were called “blue light special”! Hahaha, The founder/owner. Mr. K may end up in our corner of heaven looking for the one who infringed on his catchphrase!
Miriam Matson
November 3, 2023
Can’t wait for this announcement on the loud speaker of Heaven! ♥️
Bev Jensen
October 31, 2023
Lizzie,
Thank you for the reminder of that wonderful passage of scripture. 💕
I feel so connected to you all and glad to be praying for you too. Thanks so for the prayers for the wedding — it went off beautifully. The couple went to a charismatic college and the prayers and “toasts” were beautiful and long. : ) They are well loved, well prayed for, and well blessed. Funny story my son told was when the future groom called and asked to have dinner with my son and daughter-in-law. John thought, “How nice!” But being in the middle of a big project forgot all about it for two weeks. When his wife asked if he’d responded she said, “John! He wants to have dinner! He wants to ask for Analise’s hand!” Poor guy! But he waited patiently.
Prayer request:
The evening Bible Study group will have its second meeting tonight. I have been made aware that a few ladies there are unchurched (more than I have thought of) and one lady does not own a Bible! I have taken things for granted. I also have been sensing mixed feelings of joy and sadness. Joy that they are in a Bible Study; sadness for this one special person who did not have a Bible and I have known her for many years now. She and her husband and three kids do go to a church. Would you pray with me that hearts tonight will be pliable like playdough (thank you, Lizzy!) and ears open to hear the sweet voice of Jesus? Would you pray for a Jesus surprise tonight? Thank you, dear friends!
Dawn, thank you for your kind thoughts. They all came back except one who had a schedule conflict. It went well and I felt like the ladies were more open to sharing. Sheila, my co-leader, led last night. God is working in our midst!
I am so encouraged that you are having this Bible study, Bing!
Ernema T. Boettner
November 3, 2023
Missy, thanks for your encouragement! I wasn’t sure how this study would turn out for the evening group as I hardly knew most of the ladies who had been coming. But as I am learning here from Dee and all of you, I just need to obey and let God do His wonderful work of drawing women to Himself. It is good to acknowledge that it is all about Him and not me. (Smile)
The Jesus’ surprise for me was to hear a few ladies share from their hearts about their struggles with family and say they are trusting God to help them. I can sense an uncertainty in their voices if He would help but also sense a fire being kindled and their hearts warming to the person of Jesus.
On the heels of last weeks’ message from Paige, I’d like prayer that my love for the scripture and reading the word would be rekindled.
I have noticed that I think to myself that I already “know all of this” when I read familiar passages, yet through the teachings of people like Dee, Paige Brown, Tim Keller, CS Lewis and many others I learn so much more than I originally understood.
What I desire is the discipline to read the word itself and to not only read it when I am doing a bible study or listening to a sermon, but to read it on my own, to see what God wants to say to me at that moment.
Dawn-this is beautiful and I pray it for you and with you for myself. “What I desire is the discipline to read the word itself and to not only read it when I am doing a bible study or listening to a sermon, but to read it on my own, to see what God wants to say to me at that moment.”
Lord, thank You for the desire we have that is only because of Your Spirit, help us when our flesh is weak to carry out that desire and seek You in Your Word daily.
I pray the same, Dawn. That is one of the many things that I love here. Dee and all the others she has introduced us to have given me a love for the Word. And like you, I need the discipline to read it for myself and see what God is telling me.
Dawn, Like you I desired to read the Bible on my own and see what God wanted to say to me. In the past I have read the whole Bible through several times following some format that required specific daily readings in order to finish in a year. It tended to have the effect of becoming dutiful for me. To get it done. So just in this past year I gave myself permission to read at my own pace and decided it was only important I be reading every day. Someone I listened to suggested reading scripture everyday and when a verse stands out to you stop and write it down and just meditate on that verse. So in the recent months I started reading the Gospels beginning in Matthew and that is what I do. I am now into Luke and plan to just continue on through the whole New Testament. Somedays I read longer passages, some days just short segments but I am really enjoying my daily time reading God’s Word and I do it first before anything else. Kind of sad I gave gotten this old before finding a good pattern for me. But guess its good to never be to old too learn new ways.
I so much agree with you, Bev, about it seeming to be a duty, something to check off daily. But yet I do also see the benefit in. My own life of having a task to check off as it had compelled me to do it so often when the business of the day seemed to prohibit the time. I’m doing much of my “reading” lately with the Dwell app and am so thankful for this. I so much miss my quiet time of reading and journaling, but God knows my season of life raising kids and working as a single mom. My reams of journals are now being kept in my heart, but I long for the day when I can physically write them again. I’m “reading” the Bible chronologically again this year and it has been such a blessing to see the whole story of redemption unfold. The best story EVER with the saddest chapters but the happiest ending!
Great ponderings on Scripture! We begin tomorrow with the first of our Psalms for November with Psalm 46 and a great brief message from Michael Reeves when he takes verse 8 and talks about the difference between reading Scripture and beholding it. Seems like the Lord is preparing our hearts for this.
Dee, looking forward to the Psalms as well as listening to Micheal Reeves again. This is a God hunt for me as I listen to his message tomorrow. Whatever it is will beautifully tie up with the lesson Paige gave on why we study the Bible and also a great segue for the Bible Study I am leading. Beholding the Scripture not just reading it! Wow!
Oh, How blessed I feel to read all of your meaningful posts and scriptures! I am so thankful for all of you beautiful sisters in Christ! What a glorious reunion it will be in heaven, when we all meet at His feet to Praise His Holy Name! It was such a blessings, as always, to spend time with you dear Dee! Thanking God for so many answered prayers for the wedding. Such a cute story about the future groom coming to dinner! I love Dawn’s prayer and I pray that for Dawn and for all of us. I am so excited to learn to behold scripture, rather than just read it. Thank you Father for all these beautiful women, who love you so. May all of our hearts be opened to You through this lesson. Thank you for Dee and bless her in all that she is doing for your kingdom.
74 comments
Dee, I’m praying for you as you spend time with family and with our Patti! Could you give her a hug for me?
The Lord has surely blessed our women’s luncheon this past Sunday! We have approximately 91 women who joined us in worship and time in the Word. Ir was an Ephesisans 3:20-21 experience. As a result, we have 2 Bible Study groups starting today using Lifeway’s study, “Grateful”. I am excited to see the wonder-working power of God as a few are unchurched or not walking closely with God( an observation not a judgment).
I would appreciate prayers for these 2 groups. Two other women are helping me lead.
It is only for 4 weeks and in the sovereignty of God, the length must have been one of the draws for these women. Thanks!
What good news, Bing — and I will give Patti a hug.
What a wonderful Praise, Bing!! Glory to God our Father in heaven! I pray that many come to know Jesus in a deeper way, abiding in His love! I am so excited to see Dee! Hugs back to you!
So excited to hear this Bing! I will pray 🙏🙏🙏
91 in attendance! How wonderful! I will be praying for the bible studies and the women leading them.
Thank you, Ladies, for your encouraging words. I have been pretty much overwhelmed with the richness of the kindness of God to me and to our church family. We have 9 women in the morning study and 12 in the evening. The evening group consists of most women who either do not come to our church or don’t go to church. Pray for me, Krystal, and Sheila who are leading. It brings me joy to come here and know that you are praying for me/us.
Bing–Love your heart for these women, and hearing how the Lord is at work! Praying for you, Krystal, and Sheila as you lead!
Dee, you are such a blessing in your continuous zeal to minister the Word to others. I wish I lived closer and could be in your Bible study!
Sorry! I meant to say “Bing!”
This post made me smile! You reminded me of how I ever first found your blog, in Oct. 2009. I’ve still saved the email I wrote you and your kind, wise responses back. I had asked you about Halloween and part of your reply- (I was “Elizabeth” back then!) “Elizabeth — when my children were young, I did let them dress up, but nothing to do with the occult. I remember Sally went to a church party dressed as a burning bush. I think it is okay to take them to a few neighborhood homes or friends to trick or treat. I know He who lives in us is greater than he who is the world…”
SO happy you get to see our dear Patti. Really wish I could jump in your suitcase, but as Bing said–hug from me too!
Amazing you have that e-mail from 14 years ago! And another hug for Patti. Will see her tomorrow, Lord willing.
Oh, I love that you kept this email from Dee, dear Lizzy! She has blessed us all with her abiding love of God. Hugs back to you! So happy to spend time with Dee. I still remember our meeting at Bible study all those years ago.
Seeing you here made me smile!
Lizzy, it is good to see you back here! you have been here 14 years! I am thankful for Dee and for you and all the others who are here.
I’m eager to get back in to this group of fine ladies, led by our wonderful Dee. I’m fully retired now and trying to figure out my ‘new’ routine.
Dee safe travels to you and have a ton of fun with you family.
Wonderful, Julie — love to have you back!
Happy you are back Julie!
Welcome back, Julie. I join you praying for safety and smooth travels for dear Dee.
I love seeing you back!
Julie, I retired 2 years ago so I get what you said about the “new” routine. So far, it has been fun for me. You will find your groove in due time. smile.
Oh Dee! I love that Sally was the burning bush. Wow. I remember that picture from a few years ago 😉. I am impressed that she knew enough of the Bible to think that costume up. The grands know a lot of the Bible, but I’m not sure they would think to make a costume like that. Unfortunately, kids don’t make up their costumes anymore. Sometimes it was hard to think of one; it took some real digging. Good for the brain.
I’m happy you will see Patti. Please tell her hello and make sure to hug her hard for me!
My family continues to be in the midst of turmoil. I am very sad about that. I won’t share the details, for there is enough pain in our world right now. The devil is sure prowling. I am trying so hard to keep my focus on God. I think it is working! I haven’t had a lot of sleep; I keep waking up in the middle of the night with thoughts that are important to the situation; things I need to do to help it out. The Holy Spirit is right there! He is guiding me and it is so sweet. Oh what a tangled web we weave. No sleep, but definitely actions to be taken. Thank You Jesus, and BACK OFF SATAN! Any prayers for Sarah and my husband would be greatly appreciated. Peace in our hearts, remembrance of what and how God wants us to act. For Him to turn ashes into beauty, and (especially for me) how to know exactly when to act, like Queen Esther (my idol!), and exactly what to say. He loves us more than we love each other. I know this. We are His. But, life really hurts at times. Thank You Lord.
P.S. I am so glad you are taking a break! Have a safe trip!
I will be praying for you, Laura. Satan surely is wagging his tail in many families these days. May God keep you in His peace. Praying for Sarah and your husband.
Thanks Patti. Big hugs (( )).
I’m always praying for you and your family, Laura.
Father, I do ask that You will give Laura, Sarah, and Laura’s husband wisdom to overcome the evil one. In Jesus Name I pray
Thanks for the prayers everyone 🥰 The end of the week is much better than the beginning.
Praying for Sarah and your husband. Amid your hurts and challenges, God is big. He is walking with you.
Laura–prayers for you and Laura and your husband. You model such faithfulness, here and in your family.
Praying, dear Laura. Those sleepless nights of tossing and turning can be so very hard. He sees and knows and loves and is able to deliver. I’m thankful for you and your steadfast love for our Lord in the midst of the very hard.
Blessed by what I read here. Dee, praying and asking God to bless your time and travels. Patti is still on my regular prayer list. So good to see Julie and Lizzie. We have missed your input.
Bing what joy and answer to prayer about your ladies luncheon and the ensuing bible studies. Trusting God to continue to do a good work. You are a faithful steward of your gifts and He will continue to be absolutely faithful to you.
My family is gathering this weekend at a neutral location. There have been some tensions with my kids but I trust God is working. Last night my oldest daughter backed off on some strong opinions toward our oldest sons’s family. She is her mother’s daughter. 🥴. I see God working in her heart. But praise God I have kept quiet about some differences and committed this time to God.
I agree Laura that we are living in an evil and oppressive time. But for God!! Praying for your family situation and asking God to intervene. He will show up in answer to our prayers.
I look forward to continuing the Thanksgiving study with you all.
Thank you for your continued prayers, Bev. I so appreciate them during this very difficult time. God is so good and I see His hand in my life, daily. I, too, agree with Laura and I will be praying for each of you on this blog in the coming days. The evil ones certainly is coming after families. How I pray that the Lord will place a hedge of protection around each of the families represented here. He is our all. I have missed each one of you so much and I hope I to be back more consistently . Praising God for each of you dear friends in Christ.
Bev, thanks for the encouragement. This blog is such a sweet and safe place to share our joys and our prayer concerns. My husband and I are hosting his 2 sisters and their small families for Thanksgiving. I am praying for a relaxing and enjoyable time together.
Thank you for this testimony, Bev. I think most families endure conflict within, but I’m thankful that is where God can show up in wondrous ways and teach us so much of Himself.
I’m so thankful to have had a safe flight, be here with Patti, my lifelong friend who took me under her wing when I burst into tears at my first Bible study so long ago in Seattle. She is pampering me with amazing meals (she once did a cooking show on the 700 Club with Sheila Walsh) and her lovely home. (She’s an artist) You wouldn’t know all these things as she is so humble. She does need prayer for a very hard situation in addition to her overcoming her fresh grief as a widow. I’ve passed along your hugs!
I will be praying for her. My former co-worker, sister-in-law and Patti all became widows within a few weeks of each other. Such a hard situation.
Dawn-so sorry for all the loss around you too with your former co-worker and sister-in-law, praying for you now as you care for them.
So happy you made it safely and are with your sweet friend! My heart is happy for you both. Friends are so special in these sad times. Prayers abound!
Dee, so happy to hear about your flight and time with Patti! I did not know she was the friend who took you in many years ago in that story you wrote and I read somewhere. Patti is a treasure, indeed!
Thank you all for praying for Patti. She is in a time of turmoil but I trust she will be back soon!
Please, please give her a hug from me, too! It’s my dream to meet dear Patti in person one day, but it might have to wait until Heaven. I’m so glad you can be with her. Safe travels to you, dear Dee. Hope the wedding is lovely!
You may already have seen this article from “Life in the Gospel”. But in case you haven’t, I thought this was an excellent article by Rebecca McLaughlin. https://quarterly.gospelinlife.com/how-gospel-community-can-overcome-loneliness/
Bing! I love that article. Thank you!
Thank you for this excellent article, Bing!
I’m in Seattle for a grand-daughter’s wedding tomorrow and have much to be thankful for. My children and spouses have arrived safely and we are in a beautiful VRBO in the mountains (North Bend) and we’re planning a family church service as there are so many of us. We’re going to do the water into wine miracle at the wedding — the Lord gave me the idea in the night. The weather has been, is, and should be sunny, a minor Seattle miracle. My grand-daughter, Analise, is marrying a believer and they want to do “musical” missions after they pay off their school debts. I’ve had some sweet one on one time with family I rarely see. So much to be thankful for.
I also had a wonderful visit with dear Patti who despite her grief lavished love on me! She and Lizzy have much in common both in personality and pain, and I love to see bondings happening on this blog.
Appreciate prayer for us to honor Him in all our conversations and for those who don’t know Him to see reflections of Him in us, and come to the family service if His will.
Love you all
Prayers for the wedding and for His blessing on their marriage, for sweet family time. What a joy to be able to celebrate a godly wedding together!
Dee, praying for the wedding and for Jesus to be reflected in your family. For God to draw the invitees to attend the family service. for you and your family to be refreshed in your bodies and spirits. Love you, too, and all who are here.
Thanksgiving: My husband and I attended our sister church (their young pastor does the early service at our church every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month) for their morning service today. It is a small rural church consisting of farmers and their families. Richard came mainly to play the piano and we had a hymn sing before and after the message. What joy to sing familiar old hymns; there were 4 little ones there who each requested a special song. We ended the service with Jesus Loves Me. It was a very special God Hunt and Jesus’ surprise!
I heard you quite a while ago on Family Talk with Dr. James Dobson. I scribbled down your web address and just came across it in a pile of papers. So, here I am. ❤️🙏
So glad! We’ll start psalms for Thanksgiving next Sunday, Julie.
It’s Monday morning and as I read down through the blog this morning and everyone’s comments it felt like a bit of a family reunion hearing from each person expressing love and catching up a bit on lives and happenings. Miriam’s comment about looking forward to probably having to wait until being in Heaven to meet Patti made me think what a wonderful time it will be when someday this group will have an opportunity to gather and meet in Heaven. We will be able to praise our wonderful God and Savior together and reflect on how He taught us his Word and answered many prayers on our behalf. Life is hard but for God and we know Jesus is King of Kings and Lord of Lords and we are part of His Kingdom. I too am so grateful for this group and the friendship and prayers. The time my family had together this past weekend was good and God blessed us. With family sometimes it can feel so bleak but it’s good to be reminded He is always at work in answer to our prayers. Dee, You have made me curious about turning the water into wine miracle?? 😊
Bev-your words this morning lifted my heart. Thinking about our future Home together where we will gather together, what joy is ahead! Reminds me of one of my favorite passages–
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” 1 Peter 1:3-9
Bev and Lizzy, what a day that would be when we can get together in Heaven! There might be a booming voice saying, “All ladies in Dee’s blog while on earth, come over this way and enjoy the long-awaited reunion!” Of course, Jesus will be in our midst.
Bev, glad you mentioned Dee’s comment about turning water into wine. I was curious when I read that line but forgot about it until I read your comment!
Hahaha! I love your “blue light special” announcement, Bing! Am I too old? Do you remember those at K-mart???
I too wondered about Water to wine…
Laura, yes, I remember those announcements at K-mart and did not realize they were called “blue light special”! Hahaha, The founder/owner. Mr. K may end up in our corner of heaven looking for the one who infringed on his catchphrase!
Can’t wait for this announcement on the loud speaker of Heaven! ♥️
Lizzie,
Thank you for the reminder of that wonderful passage of scripture. 💕
I feel so connected to you all and glad to be praying for you too. Thanks so for the prayers for the wedding — it went off beautifully. The couple went to a charismatic college and the prayers and “toasts” were beautiful and long. : ) They are well loved, well prayed for, and well blessed. Funny story my son told was when the future groom called and asked to have dinner with my son and daughter-in-law. John thought, “How nice!” But being in the middle of a big project forgot all about it for two weeks. When his wife asked if he’d responded she said, “John! He wants to have dinner! He wants to ask for Analise’s hand!” Poor guy! But he waited patiently.
Cute story, Dee! So glad the wedding went beautifully. Looking forward to the Psalms study.
Prayer request:
The evening Bible Study group will have its second meeting tonight. I have been made aware that a few ladies there are unchurched (more than I have thought of) and one lady does not own a Bible! I have taken things for granted. I also have been sensing mixed feelings of joy and sadness. Joy that they are in a Bible Study; sadness for this one special person who did not have a Bible and I have known her for many years now. She and her husband and three kids do go to a church. Would you pray with me that hearts tonight will be pliable like playdough (thank you, Lizzy!) and ears open to hear the sweet voice of Jesus? Would you pray for a Jesus surprise tonight? Thank you, dear friends!
Although I am reading this after the study, I pray that the ladies who have attended will have their ears opened to hear the word.
Dawn, thank you for your kind thoughts. They all came back except one who had a schedule conflict. It went well and I felt like the ladies were more open to sharing. Sheila, my co-leader, led last night. God is working in our midst!
I am so encouraged that you are having this Bible study, Bing!
Missy, thanks for your encouragement! I wasn’t sure how this study would turn out for the evening group as I hardly knew most of the ladies who had been coming. But as I am learning here from Dee and all of you, I just need to obey and let God do His wonderful work of drawing women to Himself. It is good to acknowledge that it is all about Him and not me. (Smile)
The Jesus’ surprise for me was to hear a few ladies share from their hearts about their struggles with family and say they are trusting God to help them. I can sense an uncertainty in their voices if He would help but also sense a fire being kindled and their hearts warming to the person of Jesus.
On the heels of last weeks’ message from Paige, I’d like prayer that my love for the scripture and reading the word would be rekindled.
I have noticed that I think to myself that I already “know all of this” when I read familiar passages, yet through the teachings of people like Dee, Paige Brown, Tim Keller, CS Lewis and many others I learn so much more than I originally understood.
What I desire is the discipline to read the word itself and to not only read it when I am doing a bible study or listening to a sermon, but to read it on my own, to see what God wants to say to me at that moment.
Great prayer request, Dawn. Lord, may it be for Dawn and all of us!
Dawn-this is beautiful and I pray it for you and with you for myself. “What I desire is the discipline to read the word itself and to not only read it when I am doing a bible study or listening to a sermon, but to read it on my own, to see what God wants to say to me at that moment.”
Lord, thank You for the desire we have that is only because of Your Spirit, help us when our flesh is weak to carry out that desire and seek You in Your Word daily.
I pray the same, Dawn. That is one of the many things that I love here. Dee and all the others she has introduced us to have given me a love for the Word. And like you, I need the discipline to read it for myself and see what God is telling me.
Dawn, Like you I desired to read the Bible on my own and see what God wanted to say to me. In the past I have read the whole Bible through several times following some format that required specific daily readings in order to finish in a year. It tended to have the effect of becoming dutiful for me. To get it done. So just in this past year I gave myself permission to read at my own pace and decided it was only important I be reading every day. Someone I listened to suggested reading scripture everyday and when a verse stands out to you stop and write it down and just meditate on that verse. So in the recent months I started reading the Gospels beginning in Matthew and that is what I do. I am now into Luke and plan to just continue on through the whole New Testament. Somedays I read longer passages, some days just short segments but I am really enjoying my daily time reading God’s Word and I do it first before anything else. Kind of sad I gave gotten this old before finding a good pattern for me. But guess its good to never be to old too learn new ways.
I so much agree with you, Bev, about it seeming to be a duty, something to check off daily. But yet I do also see the benefit in. My own life of having a task to check off as it had compelled me to do it so often when the business of the day seemed to prohibit the time. I’m doing much of my “reading” lately with the Dwell app and am so thankful for this. I so much miss my quiet time of reading and journaling, but God knows my season of life raising kids and working as a single mom. My reams of journals are now being kept in my heart, but I long for the day when I can physically write them again. I’m “reading” the Bible chronologically again this year and it has been such a blessing to see the whole story of redemption unfold. The best story EVER with the saddest chapters but the happiest ending!
Yes Dawn! I tend to not know where to start when it comes to reading the Bible. It’s as though I need someone to tell me where to go.
Great ponderings on Scripture! We begin tomorrow with the first of our Psalms for November with Psalm 46 and a great brief message from Michael Reeves when he takes verse 8 and talks about the difference between reading Scripture and beholding it. Seems like the Lord is preparing our hearts for this.
Dee, looking forward to the Psalms as well as listening to Micheal Reeves again. This is a God hunt for me as I listen to his message tomorrow. Whatever it is will beautifully tie up with the lesson Paige gave on why we study the Bible and also a great segue for the Bible Study I am leading. Beholding the Scripture not just reading it! Wow!
Oh, How blessed I feel to read all of your meaningful posts and scriptures! I am so thankful for all of you beautiful sisters in Christ! What a glorious reunion it will be in heaven, when we all meet at His feet to Praise His Holy Name! It was such a blessings, as always, to spend time with you dear Dee! Thanking God for so many answered prayers for the wedding. Such a cute story about the future groom coming to dinner! I love Dawn’s prayer and I pray that for Dawn and for all of us. I am so excited to learn to behold scripture, rather than just read it. Thank you Father for all these beautiful women, who love you so. May all of our hearts be opened to You through this lesson. Thank you for Dee and bless her in all that she is doing for your kingdom.
Amen, Patti, to what you said! Glad you are back here today! I love the women here, too! I have grown so much spiritually by being here.
Patti — so very good to see you back. Praying for you so much.