Today, a gift

I struggle this morning with what to write and realize that I have not even shared WHO I am. So, I will start from the beginning. I am the second of three children born to a young couple in Tucson, Arizona. I am the baby, having a sister 18 mo. older and a brother that passed shortly after birth. Baby, funny how birth order dictates how we live our lives without even knowing it. I have always been on the spoiled side and have felt, well, somewhat entitled. My daddy came to know Jesus before he passed from this world to LIFE in eternity with his Father in 1999 and mother gave her life to the Lord at 72 years of age and is living for him today. Growing up as a child, I thought that my parents were the best parents in the world; even thought my daddy was very hard. He always seemed angry and I remember feeling sorry for him as he didn't seem to have any friends. Both mother and daddy worked. Even back then, the second paycheck was essential. Sis and I didn't have all the things we wanted; however, we never lacked for the things we needed. Mother and daddy sacrificed for us. They were the best they knew how to be; however, as I look back, I realize that they were missing an essential element in their relationship; a personal, individual commitment to Christ. I can remember it like it was yesterday. There was a time where choices made changed the lives of two little girls forever. The details are not important, neither are they edifying to speak. What is important, is that our family fell victim to the schemes of the enemy, Satan himself and only because he was allowed by a loving, all knowing God. It's true that all things work together for good for those that Love God and are called according to his purpose. Today, I praise him for the trials he has allowed and will allow in my life. Lord, use me today, for your glory!

Death, Life and Hope

It's been a very busy week since my last post. Never too late doesn't seem exactly appropriate for this post, as for one, it is too late. Patrick Poteat took the life of his wife, Kalyn Denise on January 5, 2010. They were married a very short time and struggled as many young couples do. What could have prompted this attack? That may be a question without an answer, as Patrick himself doesn't seem to know. As family members struggle with the loss of their daughter, granddaughter, sister and niece, Patrick struggles with the loss of his wife. I wonder what he thinks, how he feels and if he sleeps at night. The torture he endures daily must consume him. For Kalyn, it is too late, not so for Patrick. Where there is breath, there is life; where there is life, there is hope. Hope in Salvation, for life eternal for peace in this world despite this despicable act. How will he ever forgive himself?  Will he ever forgive himself? How will he survive a 15 year to life sentence in California's maximum security prison? These things cross my mind and weigh heavy on my heart. I commit to pray for him everyday, along with the rest of my kids. Some would wonder why I care and would be very angry if they knew I felt this way. I attribute the condition of my heart to a spiritual gift of mercy that the Lord has blessed me with. I praise HIM for the ability to love. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! To God be the glory!

Still getting started

Today, I purpose to write....something. I guess something is better than nothing. It has been a challenge to get this blog going but, I am determined. Each morning I wake and look into the mirror, searching for some value. No, that is not exactly true. Some days I can't even bring myself to look. I know I won't like what I see so I protect my feelings and go on with my day trusting that I will be of some value to someone! Other times I look and it doesn't seem as though anyone is looking back. Just emptiness and exhaustion. I wonder when or if (this side of Heaven) I will ever feel complete. Does the Lord allow us to feel this way or is it the enemy that beats us down? Do these feelings stem from a physical imbalance or is it strictly spiritual? I pray each day that the Lord use me, somewhere, somehow in someones life and mostly that he will love my children through me. It is a complete surrender to a calling that has escaped me most of my life. I would die for them and today I die to self. Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit, live and love a lost world through me. Use me to your Glory! In Jesus name. I got a phone call today from an old friend. She shared with me how much I had done for her over the years....strictly setting an example, sharing Gods Word and love. I am extremely thankful; however, I give HIM all the Glory!  Tomorrow is another day and another opportunity to share. Blessings,