Happy New Year!

So, what are you doing the day after New Year’s Day? Did New Year traditions bring your family together for black eye peas and collard greens, a night watch service or other celebrations on New Year’s Eve, enjoying parades and football games on January 1st, maybe a hunting or shopping adventure? This first Saturday of 2021 offers opportunities to sleep late, get up early, store holiday decorations, clean yards, even enjoy a day filled with busyness, laziness, or whatever you choose to do?

New Year’s Day can stir emotions dreadfully or delightfully! Some people allow superstitions or negative attitudes to cause anxiety on the first day of a new year. Others enjoy making New Year Resolutions that challenge them to do and be the best they can while living life out loud in love every day of the year!

What resolutions will you be making for 2021? May we delightfully greet each day with hope, joy, and prayers for God to be honored in hearts, homes, government, and all things across America and around the world! Remembering that we are His children, created in His image, and loved so much that He sent His Son to die for our sins, can keep us closely connected to Father, Son, and Spirit!

What a difference we would see in America if people from sea to shining sea would make God first love (loving Him with all our heart, mind, and soul) and love our neighbors as ourselves! With millions of people living in this land we love, (that’s sadly sinking in sin and erupting from within) God knows each of His children by name and longs for us to restore Him to first place in our lives.

One of the best gifts I received for Christmas was from my sister, Mary Gaye. She gives generously from a tender, caring heart! Her shopping skills enable her to find perfect presents for me and many other people she enjoys giving gifts to throughout the year. When I began tearing paper from her last gift this year, her smile broadened as I pulled a journal from the box that read: Paper Sunday.

A colorful cross and verse from Isaiah 43 “ I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” were on the book’s cover.

The title page increased my joy with these words, “This journal belongs to Becky. As you journey through the pages of this journal, our hope is that you would have a deeper understanding of how much God loves you. He sees you, cares about the details of your life, and knows you by name.”

With family watching, I held the journal close to my heart with visions of writing in it dancing in my head. Reading the first page’s message - “Merry Christmas 2020 to my dear sister and best friend, Becky!” - strengthened our sisterhood cord of love and respect for one another even more. Then, tears wet the page as thoughts of friends whose siblings were spending their first Christmas and New Year in Heaven. Oh, the joy of having a brother and/or sister to share life with and give gifts that will forever live in our hearts, even after one of us goes Home.

My sister’s final instruction to understand the personal touch and precious teachings in my journal was to read the Bible verse on the first three journal pages. Squeals of joy rang out as I read: Becky, the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end’ they are new every morning. Lamentations 3: 22-23; Becky, come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28; So, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, Becky, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31

My sister’s gift seems to be the perfect ending for this New Year’s story. The message on the cover reminds us how important we are to our good, good Father. “ I have summoned you by name; you are mine” and ‘whatever you do, (insert your name here) do all to the glory of God”!

While we wonder what in the world will happen in America and across the planet this year, we can rest assured God will be with us, so we need not fear. Let us rise up and stand on the promises of Christ our King. Journal thoughts, live right, let bells of joy and honor for Jesus ring.! Write our love stories bravely and beautifully with God the main character. Walk in faith and lift up our voices in unison to sing… Glory to God in the highest, peace on earth, and praise Him in everything! Happy New Year to everyone. Thank you for faithfully reading the messages God puts on my heart.

David's Plight - Our Own Individual Plights

David penned Psalm 27 in the midst of great distress and anguish as he was being attacked by his enemies.

Are you under attack by your enemies today? What are you actively doing to come out of the cave and claim victory?

The following verses come from David and Psalm 27. Take time to read each one. David knew he could not defeat his enemies by himself. And, neither can we!

Pray, meditate and claim victory through Jesus Christ who has the power to pour into you - strength, forgiveness, purity, courage - any stronghold that has come against you!

"The Lord is my light and my salvation—

whom shall I fear?

The Lord is the stronghold of my life—

of whom shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1 NIV

"For in the day of trouble

he will keep me safe in his dwelling;

he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent

and set me high upon a rock."

Psalm 27:5 NIV

"Wait for the Lord;

be strong and take heart

and wait for the Lord."

Psalm 27:14 NIV

Beyond the Imagination

How do you see God? Have you imagined Him as a grandfather figure, a man of color with a broad smile, or a huge figure with light illuminating from head to feet?

The Creation of Adam, a painting Michelangelo created on the ceiling of the sistine chapel in Vatican City, shows God and Adam extending their arms toward each other with their index fingers nearly touching. The painting portrays God as an older, white-haired man with a strong body build - reaching out to Adam, the primary symbol of humanity. Seeing that ceiling painting in person would be awesome but I get to see a smaller version of The Creation of Adam every day at Tim’s Gift. A friend gave me the print years ago; every time I look at it I think of my heavenly Father and good friend with imaginations of what He looks like, what Heaven will be like, even how it will be when we all get to heaven. Knowing it will be glorious as we sing and shout the victory, there will be so much to take in that we have imagined and prayed for all our lives.

Words from Psalm 102:25 remind us of HIs majestic power and presence in our lives.

“In the beginning, you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands.”

Trying to imagine how He hung the moon, stars, made the seas - you and me...our feeble minds fail to see just how great is our GOD!

Listening to His words give comfort as we imagine with thankful hearts for Him being the Great I Am. Can’t you just hear God saying, “I am rest for the weary; I am peace for the storm-tossed; I am strength for those without strength; I am wisdom for the foolish; I am righteousness for the sinful; I am all that the neediest soul on earth can want; I am exceedingly abundantly beyond all you can ask or think.”

God is way beyond the limitations of our - the children He created - imaginations. No one can truly depict HIs being, just as nothing we ask for is beyond His power to provide. What is the greatest thing you believe God could do in your life?

Being involved in a local BIble Study has given such insight into just how awesome and great is our God. Karry Godwin teaches the Word in a way one can imagine Jesus smiling and sitting in the empty seat left among us for social distancing. My heart raced with emotion one night when a gentleman in attendance spoke of his love and admiration for God. He shared how his close relationship with the Lord has lit up his life with opportunities to serve and share love and help in ways he never imagined. His life is a testimony of God’s amazing grace as he serves the Lord in ministry doing things to honor God and help His hurting children in ways beyond imagination. His faith glowed in his smile while sharing how nothing would surprise him that God could do. Believing beyond imagination is wise and wonderful as we only tap into a small sphere of what God can do when we trust, obey, and seek Him through the good and bad as we go along our way!

The past nine months have given a glimpse of God’s goodness in grieving seasons when storms, sickness, sorrow, and sad ways of living and governing are rampant in our nation. We look around and feel as if we see only imperfection: crime, poverty, illness, tragedy, rioting, looting, dishonesty, scheming, killing, dishonoring God, Goodness exists also, but never makes headlines! And we want to see something that is untainted by the failings of humanity. That ‘something’ can only be GOD! So, we try to create a picture of Him - and it, too, is tainted by our being human! Are we wrong to try to picture God? No, but we need to realize that as we try to picture God, He is saying to us, “I am so much more”!

It is our duty to love and to ‘go and tell’ of Jesus and His wonder working power, while realizing God is so much more than what we think! He is truly beyond our imagination!

People have realized Martha minded living has loomed and left us groping for pieces of time for the Lord and loved ones. Family time has flourished during the Pandemic with plenty of time together to talk, dine, play games, worship, watch sunsets, enjoy early morning coffee, and do as Mary and Jesus did: just sit and share stories!

Stories from the early seventies when Tim and I were so in love and looked forward to date nights with nothing important to do or nowhere committed to go pop up in my heart as I end this story about God being beyond anything we could imagine. Tim would pick me up at Weaver Dorm at Methodist University. We always headed to Pizza Palace for a special meal, back to campus where he parked his Chevelle and we listened to our favorite song, “It’s Just My Imagination”! There were seasons when being together looked bleak but we never stopped imagining and believing we would be together.

After enjoying music on Tim’s eight track tapes, we walked hand in hand to the small campus chapel. The intimacy with God was beyond imagination in that sacred place. We talked for hours of what we dreamed of and prayed for the Lord to do in our lives. Often, we sat in silence with his arm around my shoulder and the Holy Spirit giving peace beyond understanding - to our ‘young and in love’ hearts! We could not imagine the plans God had for us; yet, in His perfect timing plans panned out! We enjoyed 38 years together with blessings beyond what we ever thought possible...truly beyond our imagination.

What about you? Are you seeking sweet peace and joy that come by loving the Lord beyond imagination? He promises He is exceedingly abundantly beyond all you can ask or think. So, let your imagination roll and reach out to your heavenly Father with stories He is waiting to hear. His amazing love can’t be explained,but we will know we are One with Father, Son, and Spirit!

That’s the way it is with God’s love, once we experience it. The world will know, our love for Him will show as we pass it on. Remember, it is not just our imagination! God is real and waiting to enter your heart, won’t you ask Him to come in and dine with you? Then, you’ll see it’s beyond the imagination what God can do!

By God's Grace...

By God’s Grace, we are bidding farewell to October with grateful, grieving, giving hearts.

October 2020 has been a month filled with heartbreaks and hallelujahs. Many people tested

positive while many tested negative for Covid, teachers and students have been consumed with

virtual and in person schoolwork, there have been weddings, funerals, family reunions, church

activities, family vacations, and celebrations marking milestones.

Has your October been been filled with giving, grieving, and grateful times that you continue to

mull over in your mind? With November dawning, doors of opportunity will be opened for all of

us to stand up for Jesus, live by His example, pray for people and our nation, do kind deeds for

those in need, give generously, and love deep and wide...wherever He leads!

Pictures on this page share generous people who loyally supported Tim’s Gift 10th Annual Hope

Project Golf Tournament on October 23rd through sponsorships, playing golf, donating time as

volunteers, and prayer partners who believe and encourage as months fly by and God blesses

in ways beyond measure. We are humbled by the outpouring of support that enables us to

continue giving help and hope to people in need here at home.

In October 2017, a dear friend won the half and half drawing at the Hope Project Golf

Tournament. When I handed him the envelope with $1,270., his grin lit up the room with a sweet

spirit I’ll never forget. Then, he did something that got God’s attention and brought happy tears

to my eyes. He gave the entire amount of money he won back to Tim’s Gift. We had a long talk

that day about life and how things happen along the way as we grow older. Looking back, I

realize God was giving us a special time together to sit and talk, as Mary did with Jesus.

This year there was no half and half drawing or inside gatherings with everyone filling the dining

room for fellowship and food. We took every precaution to make the day of golf enjoyable but

most of all safe for everyone involved. God blessed us with beautiful weather, twenty one

teams, generous sponsors, gracious volunteers, and His powerful presence throughout the

entire event. The day after the tournament, I drove to the home of my dear friend who gave

back the money he won in the half and half drawing in 2017. He is battling cancer with his wife

by his side and Hospice helping in this tough time in their lives. Sitting in my car as rain

pounded and my heart raced, memories of Tim’s battle with cancer brought tears. My desire to

see them waned as I remembered how happy we were when people came but how hard it was

as cancer took its toll. So, I placed a card with a check from Tim’s Gift inside their back porch

and stood in silence remembering growing up together, celebrating his marriage to my best

friend, growing old together hardly ever seeing one another, the special time we shared the day

he showed the true spirit of giving back, and knowing he was inside his home fighting cancer

bravely without one complaint...just grinning and bearing it with a heart of gold. And in that

moment of reflection, it was by God’s Grace my heart felt the joy and pain of gratefulness,

grieving, and giving... all wrapped in one package labeled...LOVE!

Are you flourishing?

"May the Lord cause you to flourish, both you and your children. May you be blessed by the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 115:14-15 NIV

The verses in Psalm 115 are so uplifting and encouraging. Yes, Lord, we do ask you to help us to flourish, along with our children. We want, we need your blessings Lord.

"Flourishing" is found in Philippian's 4:10, and can be translated as 'renewed' or 'revived' - returning to a former state of being.

"I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it." Philippians 4:10 NIV

"But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me hath flourished again; though ye always cared, ye lacked opportunity." KJ21 (The 21st Century King James Version is an updated version of the KJ Version published in 1994.)

God can help us to flourish again, We can be renewed through him. Stop clawing your way out. With your back against the wall, release the struggles to God. He can take our current life situations and help us to heal, take action, be forgiven....whatever it takes to rise above our ashes.

Lord, help us through our struggles... battles....the fight. Allow us to heal, be renewed, flourish once again under your unconditional love.

His Radiance Upon Us!

The rainbow is such a beautiful promise and gift from God! It is a wonderful sight after a storm full of lightning, thunder and heavy rain.

"Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.” Genesis 9:16 NIV

There are seven colors attributed to the rainbow. Spiritual symbolism for three of the colors are: Violet is the ancient royal color and therefore a symbol of the sovereignty of Christ. ... Red evokes the color of blood, and therefore is the color of martyrs and of Christ's death on the Cross. Red also symbolizes fire, and therefore is the color of the Holy Spirit. Green is the color of growth.

God promises us many things and His word is the truth! The following verses help us to have hope, trust and faith is our Heavenly Father, his son Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. We can boldly press forward knowing He is with each of us on the paths of our lives.

"Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken." Psalm 55:22 NIV

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV

"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." 1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV

"The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:14

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Dragonflies - A Wonder of God's Creation!

There are many species of dragonflies. (more than 5000 per Smithsonian Magazine) God had a great time when he created this family of insects! He made them with such brilliant iridescent colors. They feed on other insects (one being the mosquito) and are fast, agile fliers.

The dragonfly is viewed as more than an insect. The following is an excerpt taken from the Dragonfly Ministries, a nonprofit organization out of Texas:

"The dragonfly is a symbol of growth and development. She is her strongest when she stays close to her source of strength, the sunlight. As she absorbs warmth from the sun, she reflects it through her wings for the world to see. We are much like the dragonfly, created to grow and develop into all God has purposed for us. We are our strongest and best when we stay close to our source of strength, the SON light. As we absorb His light, His Holy Spirit teaches, guides, and shines through us so others are drawn to Him. The dragonfly serves to remind us we too can reflect the light of Christ in a darkened world by letting His Son shine through us. Will you be a dragonfly for God?"

dragonflyministries.com

"For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ." 1 Corinthians 4:6 NIV

By God's Grace...

Summer 2020 has been filled with blessings beyond measure. Burdens have bombarded as we, the people of Sampson County, stand strong together in Christian love, pray, not allow any form of division to spoil His plans for us to prosper - put personal agendas aside - step in faith - shine as unified believers with our focus on THEE - and let our little (we love JESUS) lights shine - SAMPSON STRONG - for all the world to see! Then, people put in places making harmful decisions and people living in hometowns and hurting places across America can see what God can do when we keep our focus on THEE ...and take it off ‘we’! Pictures on Tim’s Gift/ Learning Station page (provided by a Good Samaritan in our hometown) portray the joy of Sonshine Kids from The Learning Station sharing Jesus throughout Sampson County during Summer 2020. These children prayed with people, shared seven hundred fifty cards at businesses and with people who came to Tim’s Gift for help - - with 2 Chronicles 7:14 and their personal messages of hope on them, made and gave away hundreds of heart cards that said, “Good News - Jesus Loves You”, and praised and worshipped the Lord every day, enjoyed trips to Papa Pete’s Family Farm, and are presently decorating three hundred bag for Helping Hands to use in a community event to honor those who serve Sampson strong! By God’s Grace… CIndy Byrd - owner and manager of Dominoes in Clinton - and I have shared thirty years of growing a close friendship (we are sisters in Christ) and our businesses. Cindy’s love for the Lord, her family, employees, and customers shines brightly as she humbly serves and happily helps people God put in her path. During Summer 2020, Cindy, her daughter - Ashley,and faithful team at Dominoes teamed up with Tim’s Gift to share pizzas and prayer with HEROES throughout our city and county. Giving a ‘shout out’ to Cindy for her beautiful benevolent spirit of giving, example of hard work and strong faith, and taking time to tend to things that matter most…(as Jesus did) - listening, loving, and looking for ways to help people wherever He leads! Thank you Cindy for believing in the power of possibilities through Prayer and Pizza… and being a faithful friend!

PIZZA & PRAYER
By: Cynthia Byrd, owner of Dominoe's

When the idea of "Pizza and A Prayer " was being formed, Becky's sister came by the store (Domino's) this particular day. She was working on a fundraiser. We began to talk. It was the first time that I had heard the entire story of how Tim's Gifts was created. It was a touching story. I had this desire to give food to people in need, but didn't know exactly how to go about that. When I told her sister this, she went to Becky and told her about our conversation. Becky had the means and the way to get pizza to folks and I had the product. We put our ideas together and with a few trial runs, it evolved into how it's done today! I just wanted to give to folks who may need a meal or may need to know that people DO care about others. Sometimes it's the small things that a person may say or do that makes a big difference in someone's day or life. Just a small kind act means so much, and sometimes we don't even know how much it may really mean to that person. Life can be so hard and difficult at times.

Secure In His Strength!

"It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure." 2 Samuel 22:23 NIV

We all need extra strength these days...just to make it from one day to the next! The strength we are talking about is 'supernatural strength' from our Lord!

We can be living our lives walking into a storm, living within a storm, or walking out of a storm. Right now, each of us may be battling several storms at once. The Covid-19 pandemic has us all living within a storm at once. How we handle our lives daily is where we may differ.

Where are you going to get your daily, (sometimes hourly) dose of strength beyond your own supply?

In the the book of Isaiah, chapter 40, he speaks of having hope in the Lord to renew our strength. Do you believe you can call upon our Lord, asking him to help you through the storm? It is in your own heart and mind that belief and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ takes hold.

Are you weary? Are you physically sick? Are you caring for someone who is sick? Are you hungry? Do you feel tired or paralyzed with the events in your life?

It is our Lord's supernatural strength that can lift you above your circumstances and give you his power and strength to take another step, pressing forward. Call upon his name today, renew your hope and trust in Jesus. He truly does give power to us who are weak. Amen.

What are you anchored to right now?

Parasailing over a body of water allows a person to 'fly' while being tethered/anchored to a boat. You get to experience a sense of flying freely! The exhilaration you feel is the rush of flying in the air over water, yet knowing you are tethered to a boat that moves with you, there is a sense of trust and confidence of safety.

In the parasailing example, you might feel a sense of freedom, yet you know you won't be in harms way as you are still connected to a boat and can safely 'land' in the water close to the boat or shore.

When you are anchored in your faith, you live with hope and belief that when you surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, you can look to him to be your anchor!

Life anchored with Christ can be just as exhilarating! As we read the Bible, and get to know his words, his instruction, we grow in grace, in faith and in our walk with Jesus Christ and His Glory! His unconditional love is unwavering. We are under his covering and that is anchor that is secure! Amen!

People in your life may look to you as anchor for them! When you are walking in the Lords' love and light, his peace shines through you and is a beacon to others. You can be an anchor of love, encouragement, calmness, peace and grace. Ultimately, Christ is your anchor, thus allowing you to extend his anchor to others to tether their lives to in confidence!

"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain," Hebrews 6:19 NIV

Mending Broken Hearts

How can you mend a broken heart ? The tune and words to that song have played over in my mind after watching news reports that surely break hearts. Natural disasters and horrific happenings plague the planet God put in place for us to call home until our time here ends. God’s heart breaks when His children never ask Him into their hearts and pass away unprepared to spend eternity with Him in Heaven. Words no one wants to hear when reaching the pearly gates are, “Depart from me; I never knew you”! Hopefully, this story will encourage the writer and readers to ponder what breaks God’s heart, how to handle broken hearts, and most of all the urgency and importance of asking Jesus into our hearts and being prepared to meet Him when God calls us Home.

David wrote in Psalm 34:18 that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit”!

In 1 Peter 5:7 peace comes in these words, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Words of comfort are also found in Joel 2:25 “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.”

David writes the same message in Psalm 147:3, probably singing it loudly and playing his harp for all to hear. “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” This verse is starred in my Bible and heart as favorites!

Heartbreak is truly an emotional wound that can only be healed when we honestly seek healing. When we do the inner work it takes, God will put His children’s hearts back together again. It doesn’t happen without our effort and God’s help, unlike Humpty Dumpty when he had a great fall off the wall. All the king’s horses and men couldn’t put him together again in the nursery rhyme we learned as children. However, God promises to bind wounds and heal the brokenhearted and is a promise keeper.

God is our source of power, courage, joy, and peace. He provides us with the healing we need after a break-up or break-down! He helps us work through our pain and loneliness, giving us hope when everything seems lost.

When we meditate on heart healing scriptures, we find rest and peace in God’s word. The peace not found in the world where broken hearted people can be misled and manipulated by those not connected to Christ.

John 14:27 explains how to calm our fears and soothe our hearts.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

As Christians we aren’t exempt from pain and heartbreak. When God’s children live these lyrics, ‘nobody knows the troubles I’ve seen’ - HIs heart is broken too. He promises to never leave or forsake us. When we ask in faith ... we will receive.

Has your heart been broken once, twice, or more times than you can count? Do you deal with pain and problems nobody knows about? Are you living life in fear of what can happen to you and your loved ones in a world plagued by sin, sickness, and sad situations? Doctors can help, caring people can listen and advise, family members can seek ways to sooth our sorrows, but we must stand up in faith and face whatever our lot - believing all will be well with our souls. Divine help, hope, and healing is possible when we put our trust in God.

Revelation reveals troubles, heartache, and horrible happenings in end times.

No one knows what life will bring before time here ends, but believing the Bible and being prepared should reign in homes and hearts, even broken ones. When we put our trust in God and listen to the Helper (Holy Spirit) guiding and comforting within…global healing and happiness is possible. Then, peace - beyond belief - can spread beyond barriers that separate God’s children from one end of the earth to the other.

God’s Word says, when we humble ourselves and honestly call out to Him for help...HE will hear and heal our land. Then, praise can replace panic and we can sing in one accord...let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.

Help in Times of Trouble

Who do you trust and turn to in times of trouble? Where do you seek time with God and prayer in terrific or troubled times? Rising early (on a March morning when time springs forward), after tossing, turning, and thinking of this tumultuous season we are in, I settle in a cozy chair by the window in my son and his wife’s high rise apartment in the middle of Manhattan to write what stirs from within...what will happen in our world as things spiral out of control? Where are we safe? How do we witness during times like this?

As the city - home to millions of people from all walks of life- awakens with smells, sights, and sounds different from what we wake up to in our hometown. Worldwide woes can isolate people in fear or unite us in faith. We chose to sing…”Oh, the troubles I’ve seen or Through it all I’ve Learned to Trust in HIM”

Comfort comes, knowing God (a promise keeper) will never leave or forsake His children but will allow suffering. Job suffered immense loss but stayed true to God who blessed Job beyond measure ...in His perfect timing - not in Job’s timing! Job loved and grieved the family he lost, but stayed faithful to His heavenly Father who blessed Job with another wife and children to color his world with love...after loss. God can do the same for all His children...IF we embrace Job like faith, stop blaming God and people for our plight, let go of painful pasts, step in faith to HIs plans for the rest of our lives, and let our little lights shine...LOVINGLY!

How can I count the ways I love my blended family and look forward to times we are together? My never ending thankful list (like yours) proves the power of closely connected families through terrific and troubled times. Jack Johnson’s song rings in my ears as shadow’s from the rising sun are cast on skyscrapers touching the blue sky…”It’s better when we’re together”!

Closing my computer for an early morning cup of coffee and conversation with my son quenches my thirst and hunger for time together. Loved ones can stay closely connected even when living far apart. Oh, the joy of sharing time with those we love and the One who loves all His children! In a world saturated with troubles and an epidemic spreading like wildfire, we must remain faithful not fearful...and stay connected! Yet, many circles will be broken and connections lost as people pass away from coronavirus in countries all over the world.

Troubled times in our world, Jack Johnson’s ‘Better When We’re Together’ song, time with my son, and an early morning church service - Clint and I walked ten blocks to attend - stir this story. What stirs your early morning stories… your Sunday morning stories? Sensational start up sights and sounds (meditating, reading the Word, praying, laughing, listening, hugging, encouraging one another, worship, coffee brewing, cars zooming, cows mooing , praising the Lord and loved ones, and sweet spirit flowing) can connect and keep us in one accord. When closely connected to Father and family, we are assured of staying CHARGED UP - a FAVORITE in their sight... morning, noon, and night!

Clint promised attending Trinity Baptist Church would be awesome as we walked past amazing sights on the streets of New York City. Entering the historic church, we were greeted with smiles and elbow bumps, praise music and free worship, sweet spirit and closeness to Christ and HIs children flowing .

Sharing words (I sang and scribbled in my journal) from songs the praise team surely chose, ‘for such a time as this’ still stir within as I write this story. Hopefully, each reader will feel the powerful praise message too. “In every season Your grace has been enough, and I’m trusting the best is yet to come. Your Presence is an open door; we want and need You, Lord, like never before!”

The preacher’s calm, caring delivery of a timely message was comforting inside my heart and the church where we felt like family, not strangers. Conviction to be faithful not fearful and control anger pounded as he read verses from Proverbs. The powerful words of truth for all people were... like the shot heard around the world... needed and hopefully heeded!

The song Shiloh P.H. Church choir sang at Rise Up rang in my ear during offertory.. “He has fire in HIs eyes and a sword in HIs hand and is riding a white horse across this land. And He’s calling out to you and me..Will you ride with Me”? The words in each verse say, “Yes, Lord, We’ll ride with You”! Oh, that people of all countries and creeds would put aside petty differences and prejudices and get prepared for eternity. God is getting our attention with this pandemic storm. We can get HIs if we make things right in our hearts and homes and say ‘yes, Lord, we will ride with you’!

Trying to read my notes from his sermon, I share in faith the message will resonate in your hearts as we humble ourselves to God and ask for help! Words of truth from a song SHiloh P.H. Church Choir sang at Rise Up came to mind during offering.

“Today, we gather at Trinity Baptist Church (153 years old) in New York CIty - where millions of people seek light in a hard, dark time. This church has been a spiritual guide through many troubled times - like Depression years, wars, twin tower tragedy, and now, worldwide coronavirus epidemic. We will not close our doors but open them to people to come, to pray and ponder in solace. How do we actively witness to our community in a season most close up? We can be salt and light to all people - be practical but not prejudiced. Life is to be lived by faith in happy and hard seasons. “

Completing the service with scheduled communion seemed risky. Clint whispered, Mom, is it safe with pieces of bread others could have touched?”

Pondering in my own heart, I wanted to go forth but wondered also about spreading of germs. Before I could answer my son, the pastor politely invited all who wanted to partake to come forth. “He said, “Being cautious and careful in this hard time is important. He held up a small, individually wrapped package and showed how to open the top portion for the bread representing Christ’s body and the bottom portion which held the wine (juice) as the blood He shed for our sins. Clint and I shared communion and a sacred experience with strangers who seemed like family as we shook the pastor’s hand, departed the beautiful old church, and talked while we walked home about the sermon, sharing communion, and seeking faith instead of fear in the pandemic we face.

Hopefully, sharing this personal story during a perilous time, even in our little corner of the world, will help each of us to heed the messages within and share them with family and friends:

Spend precious time with the Lord and loved ones. Embrace words of songs that can bring us closer to our Father and families for: it really is “Better When We’re Together” and we should be prepared and sing, “Yes, Lord we will stand up and ride. We will ride with the armies of heaven.”,refuse to hide in fear but stand strong in faith, do not close our doors but open them to people to come, pray, and worship, actively witness without prejudice, pray, and be salt and light to all people in this hard time when the enemy would like to have his way! Our main focus in unity is knowing Jesus loves us and God promises never to fail or leave us! And we know Who wins in the end! Amen.

United in Love

Since the end of March, Tim's Gift Tuesday morning prayer has been held at the Learning Station. The Holy Spirit fills the room as adults and early morning Sonshine Kids gather to lift up the name of Jesus Christ! The children are prayer warriors! When prayer requests are shared, verbal prayers from adults and children rise up! There is a mix of age, as well as male and female and race. These morning corporate prayer times are full of love and unity. There are no barriers. The warriors know the battle is spiritual and it belongs to the Lord. Amen! So many situations and people are prayed over. We know the angels rejoice and join in the prayers, praise and worship time that happens each Tuesday morning!

If you are interested in joining Tuesday morning prayer, please join us at 6:30 a.m. Please bring a mask to wear. We have hand sanitizer.

"Until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work." Ephesians 14:13-16 NIV

Gentleness

Gentleness grows greater when, by God’s grace, we embrace His greatest commandment and live out loud in love by His Son’s example. Jesus’ gentle spirit drew people to Him, especially little children. Who among us emulates gentleness to all people? Is the Lord near when we encounter people He puts in our paths? Do gentle spirits shine in the way we act and react in a world where Satan seeks to destroy lives and stop every little light shining for Jesus?

Philippians 4:5 says, “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.”

People’s lights in the city and county we call ‘home sweet home’ are shining for Jesus as we stand strong for faith, family, and ‘fruit of the spirit’ living!

Surely, the presence of the Lord is near as we celebrate good living and great things happening for God throughout our city and county. The Lord was near as Pat Montgomery, the speaker at Rise Up - Refuel, invited all the little children present to come up to her potter’s wheel. Her gentleness oozed like anointing oil, as she allowed the children to help make a broken piece of pottery become beautiful again. Fifty plus children of all ages and color were drawn to Pat’s wondrous ways and wheel. I sat amongst the sea of children in awe of God as His spirit filled up Heritage Hall. Pat’s gentle spirit and great message of a Potter who made us and will never throw away the clay, even when we are broken and choose to fall away, kept us focused on the Potter and refueled with His love.

Do you need to be refueled with a gentle touch from the Potter to reshape your life and rekindle your love for the Lord? He will never fail you and is waiting to enter your heart; what is your answer to Him. The Lord is near! By His grace, let your gentleness be evident to all!

The Lord is Our Refuge!

Here we are welcoming the month of June! Each of us have stories to share of what we have experienced in these last couple of months. We have a number of similarities, but also some differences in what we saw, felt, heard and spoke.

Have you felt oppression during the quarantine? You may have started to go 'stir crazy' at home, maybe by yourself or just with family. You may have allowed media stories to occupy your time - impacting your mind and heart, your mental and emotional state. Restrictions put upon all of us that we were not used to living may have led to feelings of oppression.

Calling upon our sovereign Lord to help us through these tough and very real experiences and feelings will save us! The enemy wants us to wilt under oppression. He wants us to live stagnant, not able to move, to wallow in oppressed circumstances vs. taking steps of faith and following the Lord through the murkiness and out on solid ground. We can heal from his guidance, grace, mercy and love. Surrounding ourselves whether in person or virtual with strong and positive people will also be an element of the antidote!

“And if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.” Isaiah 58:10 NIV

Memorial Day

Memorial Day – Deep Respect, Honor, Sacrifice and Loving Memories

Today across our nation, we celebrate Memorial Day. This is a national holiday where we can each honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season. (https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/memorial-day-history)

Tim's Gift celebrates Memorial Day with our community. If your loved ones sacrificed their lives for our freedom, we stand with you in honoring their lives and are so thankful for their courage and strength.

“I believe our flag is more than just cloth and ink. It is a universally recognized symbol that stands for liberty, and freedom. It is the history of our nation, and it’s marked by the blood of those who died defending it.”

– John Thune

What Are You Going To Do?

"When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” John 8:7 NIV

What Are You Going To Do?

Did you pick up the biggest one in the bunch? How many are you planning to pick up and hurl at the person? You are bursting with possible anger, frustration, disappointment, sadness, hurt, embarrassment, or bitterness. With your heart and mind full of judgement, how many stones will you need to throw to make you 'feel satisfied'?

Will one stone, or many, really take away and heal what is in your heart and mind? Is your judgement and emotions really about the person you are in front of? Did you not just sin this morning? Are you prepared to receive stones thrown at you for your decisions, your actions?

We don't know what Jesus actually wrote when he kneeled to the ground. If we were standing there, accusing the woman of adultery, perhaps he was writing each of our own names and a recent sin beside it.

In our world, we may not physically cast stones at people, but in our minds we do. We take a look and cast an opinion, as if we know a person's story just by what they look like. Or, we see or hear of a decision a person made that led to sin, and we create a haughty mindset.

We are all sinners and have fallen short of the glory of God. But each day dawns new, and our Lord forgives our sins when we go to him with repentant hearts. Let's leave the stones alone. Let us all seek our Savior in all we say, think and do. AMEN!

"Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst." 1 Timothy 1:15 NIV

"And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." 2 Corinthians 3:18 NIV

Witnessing to Others Along Our Way

How can we lovingly witness to people along our way in a world where many are looking for love in all the wrong places? Witnessing (in a sweet spirit - not pounding and pushing forcefully, but leading like Jesus did sheep He witnessed to - is pleasing to God! Studying His Word and seeking ways to witness - sharing the Light in a dark world - is wise! There is power in the blood and bringing the lost into a loving relationship with the Lord and loved ones!

As you read these Bible verses, may their messages massage your heart with a tenderness to witness along your way.

Mark 16:15 “And he said to them, “GO into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.”

1 Peter 3:15 “But in your hearts honor Christ as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you, yet do it with gentleness and respect.”

Matthew 5:16 “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in Heaven.”

Acts 1:8 “But you will receive power when the Holy SPirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and in Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

2 Timothy 1: 8-12 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in the suffering for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel…”

Matthew 9:38 “Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”

1 Peter 3:2 “When they see your respectful and pure conduct!”

King David’s message in the fortieth Psalm will surely set our hearts on fire to witness.

“HE put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the Lord.”

When life dulls the light within and diminishes our witness for Him, we must diigest the Word and do the things we did when we first fell in love with the Lord! The same applies to the love of our life (if he/she is still here with us) and family members hungry for ‘the way we were’ before life dealt lemons, leaving us lost in sadness and sorrow. When we lose touch and become disconnected from the Lord and loved ones...witnessing along our way will be hard, even on a good day.

God can minister to others through our personal witness and profound out of the box (boat) ways. When my sister and I traveled home from Illinois after a wonderful graduation weekend for her children, finding a pet friendly hotel seemed impossible. Finally finding a room, we settled in for the night in a beautiful place owned and operated by a Christian family who understood the principle and power of witnessing for the Lord. In each room, they placed precious witnessing cards for their guests to read and remember their stay in a place where the Holy Spirit was right at home.

The card’s message witnessed to me as I hope it does to you.

To Our Guests,

“In ancient times, there was a prayer for “The Stranger within our gates.” Because this hotel is a human institution to serve people and not solely a money making organization, we hope that God will grant you peace and rest while you are under our roof.

May this room and hotel be your “second” home. May those you love be near you in thoughts and dreams. Even though we may not get to know you, we hope that you will be comfortable and happy as if you were in your own home.

May the business that brought you our way prosper. May every all you make and every message you receive add to your joy. When you leave, may your journey be safe.

We are all travelers. From “birth until death” we travel between the eternities. May these days be pleasant for you. Profitable for society, helpful for those you meet, and a joy to those who know and love you best.”

To My Readers,

May this message resonate within ...refreshing our love, refueling our faith, and renewing our lives for HIM! Now is the time for all God’s children to come to the aid of Christ...Rising Up for what is right, ‘Remembering our 1st Love’ with all our might, Realizing He is coming soon...morning, noon, or night, and Reaching out to strangers within our gates and loved ones within...letting our lights shine as wonderful witnesses for HIM!

Unexpected Blessings!

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Earlier this year, Ms. Sheila stopped by Tim's Gift to find out if there was a toilet safety bar set available. Unexpectedly, she was in a position to help care for an elderly family member coming home from the hospital.

God showed up big time! We had just received a donation of the very same product that morning from a dear friend of Tim's Gift! Bless God!

The donation had come in with the kindest heart. The gentlemen said, "You have helped me so much. I don't have much to give but this. Can you use it?"

There were no toilet safety bars in the inventory, so the item was eagerly received and the giver was so genuine. It reminded us of the widow and the two coins she offered up in the Book of Mark.

"But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents." Mark 12:42

This man had shared what little he had. It was such a humbling, joyful testimony of his love and faith in Jesus Christ.

So, when Ms. Sheila stopped by with the specific request, it was truly a time to rejoice in our Lord. Out in the parking lot, we learned more about Ms. Sheila and her family situation. We prayed and afterward, she had tears and shared how much she really needed this time. God again blessed her with His love, encouragement, super natural strength, renewed faith and courage!

God uses any person, situation, event and activity to the glory of His Holy name. Let us rejoice in His timing, in His unexpected blessings, in His mercy, grace, forgiveness, peace and love!

"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

Mother's Day

Are you STIRRED UP TO ACTION facing fears, cleaning out your heart, and giving special tribute to your mother? This story stirs with urgency that we, God’s children who are blessed beyond measure, could be missing the mark of loving our neighbor, honoring our parents, and keeping God our first love! Do we consider ourselves Good Samaritans while traveling life’s highways; yet, we walk past those in need and turn our heads like the Levite and Priest? These are the things we do or don’t do that matter most to the Master? Feeling convicted as I face fears while stepping into new seasons, I humbly share this story with a repentant heart for times I have missed the mark and gratefulness for God’s grace.

Opening one of my old tattered journals to a page where my handwriting (which looks like my mother’s writing. Do you do things or have traits like your mother?) was a wake-up call of serious, sinful living in hearts and homes across America and three important truths we should keep stirred up in our hearts. May you be convicted -as I was - upon reading them and take seriously how unconfessed sin, overextended schedules, and conforming to ‘times in which we live’ can keep us from being our best for the Lord and loved ones. Are our hearts stuffed with hidden sin that spoils true love for our heavenly Father and family He gave us to love and cherish until death parts us? Are we ‘In Touch’ with God’s Word and Jesus’ ways or are we ‘Out of Touch’ and in danger of missing blessings here with family and eternity in Heaven? Now, is the time for all of us to get our hearts and homes in order and closely connected to Christ our King and precious family…before we run out of time and our eternal reservation will not be honored with THEE!

May the ten old yet relevant writings in my journal resonate with loving conviction an urgency to make things right with God and loved ones in hearts of every person reading this story. While writing, I have put myself through the wringer: confessing, praying, crying, praising God, and promising to stay “In Touch - up close and personal” with Him and the people He has put in my life to love… even those not so easy to love! I promised to do what I do with a loving attitude, be passionate and purposeful not silent and scared to share the good news, to honor the Sabbath, and to enjoy the rest of my journey. Oh, what a time of cleansing and repenting it’s been in my heart and house. I even vacuumed with cries of despair and songs of joy ringing out louder than the sounds of my vacuum cleaner. Oh, how precious to talk with Jesus, unload all your troubles, confess your sins, praise Him out loud in love, and feel closer than ever to HIM!

Ponder and pray over the ten things below. Seek God’s guidance and get stirred up to action deleting or adding things that can make a difference in your life…and the lives of those who color your world with love:

1. Are you wrapped up in something stealing time from the Lord and loved ones?

2. Do you honor the Sabbath and feed lovingly God’s Word and ways into your loved ones’ lives?

3. Does your mouth say ‘yes’ while your heart says ‘no’?

4. Do you have a fear of ‘missing out’ and of being ‘away from your phone’?

5. “A gracious woman attains honor” Proverbs 1:16 Gracious is kindness, patience, tactfulness, elegance, appreciation, and favor. Do we extend these qualities to others beyond what is expected or deserved?

6. Being gracious is a choice. The first step to being gracious is to be grateful! Everything important we have is a gift so we can be gracious to others. Am I gracious or grouchy?

7. Be Kind - it makes people loyal and committed to you. Am I kind or hateful?

8. Dishonesty is distorting the truth and hiding the truth. It can destroy relationships with others and God.

9. When we fear God, we gain the greatest treasure in the universe. “Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasures and turmoil with it.” Proverbs 5:16

10. Blow dust off our hearts and GET STIRRED UP TO ACTION…’for such a time as this’ - when Jesus could return any time or call us Home in the twinkling of an eye!

As we celebrate Mother’s Day, may all of us ponder how our mother, step mother, mother in law, or mother figure by choice has impacted our lives? Take time to show love and honor for them whether they will be celebrating with us here or they are celebrating with God in Heaven. Mothers are precious in His sight and hear things that go bump in the night. They love deeply and look after things that may never be seen or appreciated by loved ones they are attending to…until they are no longer here. Motherhood is a gift from God with eternal rewards.

“Mothers are like glue. Even when you can’t see them, they’re still holding the family together.”

Enjoy spending time together or mulling over precious memories while gratefully acknowledging the gift God gave you to honor, love, and cherish…your MOTHER!