Cynthia Roemer's Blog, page 11
April 3, 2021
The Imperfect Made Perfect
Have you ever noticed we humans have a tendency toward the negative–the little flaws and imperfections that mar the perfect? Give us a white wall with a small mark on it, and our eyes will naturally train toward the speck. We notice fuzzies in the carpet, dust on the furniture, and a ding in the car door.
But we don’t stop there. We’re hard on ourselves as well. It’s the one curl that tends to “boing” out of place that drives us batty. Or the extra pounds we gain around holidays that pull our attention.
Movie/book reviewers and critique groups often concentrate on finding flaws and areas in need of improvement. Not that that’s bad. It’s how we grow as people, or determine if a movie/book is worth the money we spend. Yet, it seems we’re always scrutinizing something or someone.
In the same way, God once noticed the dark spots on our souls. With each sin, the mark grew deeper and more prevalent. Yet, instead of condemning us in our weaknesses, He hatched an eternal plan to forever rid us of the darkness of sin. A plan for redemption.
Since the dawn of time, the Lord knew we would need a Savior. When Christ came to sacrifice Himself for us, He took all the blackness of sin upon Himself. Every misdeed, every act of hatred and strife that would ever be, attached itself to Him on the cross.
His death marked the defeat of sin in our lives. His resurrection forever erased the dark spot on our souls, washing us white as snow. His sacrifice made the imperfect ~ perfect.
Now, because of Christ, we can stand clean and pure before the Father. When He looks at us, He no longer sees dark spots on our souls. Only the whiteness of grace and mercy.
What a beautiful picture of salvation for those who believe! We have reason to celebrate this Resurrection Sunday and always, because of Christ’s love and sacrifice!
Have you been washed clean by Christ? If not, I invite you to read Jesus’ life-changing story of redemption in the Gospel.
Inspirational Novels
Cynthia Roemer’s PRAIRIE SKY SERIES: Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie Inspirational Historical Romance
~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.
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March 24, 2021
HARD LESSONS LEARNED
Sometimes life deals us some hard lessons. For me, this past year, my hard lessons have come in the form of cancer. It’s been a rough road with chemo, targeted therapy, and surgeries (one yet to come). But, the Lord has used this trying time to teach me some valuable truths.
LESSON #1 ~ SERVANTHOOD
One of the biggest blessings I’ve experienced during this trial is the outpouring of love and support from my local community and my writing community. I’ve been overwhelmed by the gracious display of support from friends, neighbors, even those I barely know, who have rallied around me and filled my heart with encouragement.
Such selfless giving has inspired me to want to give back. It it my prayer the Lord will use my cancer experience to encourage and strengthen others who are facing similar health issues. Not only that, I want to be among those first in line to give to those in need, to provide a meal, say a prayer, fill a need.
Jesus said the greatest among us are those who serve. It’s my prayer that I can gain a servant’s heart toward others and bring blessing as I, myself, have been blessed.
LESSON #2 ~ QUALITY TIME
This all hit during the height of the Covid pandemic. My two grown sons still lived at home and were out in the work-force. Since they’d had co-workers who had tested positive to the virus, they decided to move out to limit my chances of being exposed. Within a week, they were gone, and the house seemed so empty.
In addition, my husband and I felt it best to worship at home and I also asked for an extended leave from my part-time library job while I underwent treatment. The isolation from my boys, church family and co-workers proved nearly as harsh to me as the cancer diagnosis. On top of this, my dad had passed away just weeks prior to my diagnosis. I felt such huge loss.
How I longed for some word from my boys–a FB message, phone call or visit. It brought me such joy whenever I heard from them or one of our church family members. What a blessing it was to have someone drop by with a meal. Then, it hit me. How the Lord must long for us to spend precious moments of our day with Him.
I’m as guilty as anyone at rushing through my devotion or prayer time to get to what I hope to accomplish. But when I saw how I yearned to hear my sons’ voices or have them stop by for a visit, I envisioned God with that same longing to spend time with me. Now, I strive to give Him a few extra unhurried moments of my day, just to let Him know how much I love Him.
LESSON #3 ~ MAKE EACH DAY COUNT
The last lesson the Lord taught me is that my days are numbered. My life is not my own. I belong to Him, and if I expect to remain on this earth, I need to be certain I have reason for being here. I need to make each day count for Him. After all, if I’m not fulfilling some purpose, what is my need for being here?
If I can encourage someone through my writing, brighten someone’s day with a smile or kind word, lend a hand to someone who’s struggling, I count my day worthwhile. Making an eternal difference in others’ lives is what life is all about.
When we view our lives through Heaven’s eyes, we see much more than earning wages, buying the newest gadget, or just going through the motions of living. God has a plan for each of us. It’s up to us to live intentionally and make each day count for Him.
INSPIRATIONAL NOVELS
Cynthia Roemer’s PRAIRIE SKY SERIES: Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie Inspirational Historical Romance
UNDER THIS SAME SKY
~ BOOK ONE
UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES
~ BOOK TWO
UNDER MOONLIT SKIES ~ BOOK THREE
~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.
The post HARD LESSONS LEARNED appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.
February 12, 2021
A Valentine Weekend Deal
I’m excited to share a special deal with you! In honor of Valentine’s Day, my publisher is offering all three books in my Prairie Sky Series for $0.99 each February 12-15th!
If you haven’t had the opportunity to read them, now is the perfect time to nab them. If you have read and enjoyed them, consider gifting them to a friend.
PRAIRIE SKY SERIES
Set on the backdrop of the Illinois prairie in the mid-1800’s, my Prairie Sky Series weaves timeless tales of faith, love, and redemption. The three-book series takes readers on a journey of the heart, with unforgettable characters that inspire and captivate.
From the beauty of the Midwest prairie to bustling river towns and pre-Civil War tensions, the Prairie Sky Series holds adventure and hardships, along with a touch of humor, intrigue, and romance.
GET $0.99 DEALWishing you a very Happy Valentine’s Day!! May you be blessed by these faith-filled stories!
PRAIRIE SKY SERIES
The post A Valentine Weekend Deal appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.
February 10, 2021
A VALENTINE FROM GOD
Did you know we have a Valentine from God? I’ve posted this before, but feel it bears repeating for those who may have missed it.
As the only female in our household, I take a lot of teasing when it comes to watching romantic or inspirational movies. What I call moving, my husband and sons call sappy! While I’m gearing up for a good cry, they’re snickering and staring, wondering why I’m puddling up.
Guys just don’t get how we women can get so caught up in the emotions of a scene. “It’s just a movie, Mom. It’s not real,” my oldest son reminds me time and again when something tugs at my heart. Yet a good flick can pool me up quicker than slicing an onion…even if I’ve seen it dozens of times!
What is it about movies that touches our souls and moves us to tears? It’s the power of love. Whether it’s the love between a boy and his dog, a mother and her child, or two star-crossed sweethearts who’ve been torn apart, a good story can reach into the depths of our beings and draw us into the characters’ lives.
Yet, nothing touches my heart like the amazing love of Christ. No greater love story has ever been written than that of Jesus coming to earth and giving His all for us. God sent us the greatest Valentine anyone could ever give–redemption through His Son.
A magnet on our refrigerator bears the most memorable Valentine message ever sent…a Valentine from God.
John 3:16 shares the full measure of God’s love for us. Jesus bore our sins to give us a way back to God. No greater love story could ever be told.
As you celebrate Valentine’s Day, take a moment to thank Jesus for His awesome gift of love and salvation.
**Have you ever considered Jesus as your Valentine?
INSPIRATIONAL READS
Cynthia Roemer’s PRAIRIE SKY SERIES: Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie Inspirational Historical Romance
UNDER THIS SAME SKY
~ BOOK ONE
UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES
~ BOOK TWO
UNDER MOONLIT SKIES ~ BOOK THREE
~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.
The post A VALENTINE FROM GOD appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.
January 27, 2021
After Winter Comes Spring
After winter comes spring!
Don’t those words just breath hope and vitality? The winter season can be long and hard, with its dark nights and cold, often dreary days. And yet during this time of rest and dormancy, the Lord is working to renew and restore the earth and its vegetation, so that when the warmth of spring comes, new growth will appear to revitalize and fill the earth.
The same is true for us. The Lord uses the winter seasons of our lives (times of hardship, times of waiting) to prepare our hearts and strengthen our souls for what lies ahead. During the low times, He is hard at work in ways we can not see or fathom.
WINTERTIME LOWCurrently, I’m enduring a wintertime low, a bout with cancer and chemo that has me feeling weak and drained, but not defeated. Each day is a struggle, but I’m keeping my eyes fixed on the One who has the power to heal, renew, and restore. His strength alone can see me through this. Springtime is coming, and I need only to trust Jesus is working something beautiful out of this dreariness.
It may not seem so now, but we have the promise that, if we place our trust in Him, we will emerge stronger, healthier, and more vibrant of soul, and prayerfully body!
The waiting may seem endless, but the Lord is faithful. He will bring about His flawless ways in His perfect time. Winter may be long, but spring is coming! Hold onto that promise!
“You are my strength, I sing praise to you; you, God, are my fortress, my God on whom I can rely.” (Psalm 59:17).
**Are you struggling through a hardship or season of waiting? What Scripture gives you comfort and strength to see you through? I’d love to hear it.
INSPIRATIONAL SERIES
Cynthia Roemer’s PRAIRIE SKY SERIES: Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie Inspirational Historical Romance
UNDER THIS SAME SKY
~ BOOK ONE
UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES
~ BOOK TWO
UNDER MOONLIT SKIES ~ BOOK THREE
~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.
The post After Winter Comes Spring appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.
January 20, 2021
Surrendering Our Will
What does it look like to surrender our wills to Jesus?
John the Baptist was a different sort of fellow. Dressed in a garment fashioned of camel’s hair with a steady diet of locust and wild honey, he seemed an unlikely candidate for a forerunner of Jesus. And yet, Christ claimed “among those born of women there is no one greater than John.” (Luke 7:28)
People came in droves to be baptized by John in the Jordan River. Among them Jesus. Though some may have gone out of curiosity, John’s message of hope and renewal kept them coming back. But regardless of his popularity, he never ceased to point his followers to the coming Savior.
“A person can receive only what is given them from heaven. You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Messiah but am sent ahead of him.’ The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. He must become greater; I must become less.” (John 3:27-30)
His followers may have been surprised by his answer, but John knew all along his time of ministry was limited. He was called only to pave the way for the Christ. When the time came, he humbly stepped aside to give Jesus the limelight. Maybe that’s what we need more of today–stepping away from our agendas and giving Jesus more control.
Such dedication may take a lifetime to achieve, but each day, we should strive to give ourselves over more fully to Christ.
For Christ to increase, I must decrease, which means more of Him, less of me in my…
Relationships
Attitudes
Decisions
Finances
Speech
Workplace
Ambitions
Time
It’s a constant battle to submit our will to Him, but when we do, our lives become so much richer and fuller than if we insist on our own way.
What area of your life do you need to surrender more fully to Jesus?
GIVEAWAY
If you haven’t yet entered my January Giveaway there’s still time! I’m giving away a print copy of Book 3 in my Prairie Sky Series, 2020 Selah Award winner, Under Moonlit Skies! Just click the button below to learn more!
Inspirational Series
Cynthia Roemer’s PRAIRIE SKY SERIES: Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie Inspirational Historical Romance
UNDER THIS SAME SKY
~ BOOK ONE
UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES
~ BOOK TWO
UNDER MOONLIT SKIES ~ BOOK THREE
~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.
The post Surrendering Our Will appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.
January 13, 2021
January Giveaway!
January can seem a long month as we settle into a new year after the holidays. So, I thought it would be fun to host a giveaway! I’ll be giving away a SIGNED, PRINT COPY of my Selah Award-winning novel Under Moonlit Skies to one of my Author Newsletter subscribers (US addresses only)
She had her life planned out ~ until he rode in~
Illinois prairie ~ 1859
After four long years away, Esther Stanton returns to the prairie to care for her sister Charlotte’s family following the birth of her second child. The month-long stay seems much too short as Esther becomes acquainted with her brother-in-law’s new ranch hand, Stewart Brant. When obligations compel her to return to Cincinnati and to the man her overbearing mother intends her to wed, she loses hope of ever knowing true happiness.
Still reeling from a hurtful relationship, Stew is reluctant to open his heart to Esther. But when he faces a life-threatening injury with Esther tending him, their bond deepens. Heartbroken when she leaves, he sets out after her and inadvertently stumbles across an illegal slave-trade operation, the knowledge of which puts him, as well as Esther and her family, in jeopardy.
NOT TOO LATE TO SUBSCRIBE
If you aren’t yet a subscriber, no worries. Just click the button below to link to the sign up form. Feel free to leave a comment below to let me know you’ve signed up or if you’re already a subscriber.
As a Newsletter Subscriber, here are a few of the benefits you’ll enjoy:
Receive monthly updates on my personal and writing activitiesinsider info into my characters, books, and upcoming novels.Fun stuff like Giveaways, Quiz Questions, and Historical tidbits.THANK YOU!
ENTER THE GIVEAWAY
TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY, COMPLETE ANY OR ALL OF THE OPTIONS BELOW BY OR BEFORE MIDNIGHT JANUARY 22! WISHING YOU THE BEST! I LOOK FORWARD TO SHARING UNDER MOONLIT SKIES WITH ONE OF YOU!
(Sorry – due to postage this giveaway includes US addresses only)
Cynthia Roemer’s PRAIRIE SKY SERIES: Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie Inspirational Historical Romance
UNDER THIS SAME SKY
~ BOOK ONE
UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES
~ BOOK TWO
UNDER MOONLIT SKIES ~ BOOK THREE
~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.
The post January Giveaway! appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.
January 7, 2021
A Recipe for the New Year
Have you ever wished there was a secret recipe for the New Year? Most of our New Year’s resolutions stem from a desire to improve our physical well-being through weight loss, a toned body, or healthier lifestyle. While such resolutions are important, wouldn’t it be wonderful to find a way to boost our spiritual well-being and ensure all could be well with the world?
With all the hatred and animosity overtaking our world, it’s no wonder our hearts long for peace and a fresh start. How the Lord must ache when He sees the violence and discord that plagues our land. If only brotherly love and good-will could replace all the bitterness.
EQUIPPED TO STAND
The good news is, it is possible. The Lord has equipped us with all we need to stand against the evil forces of Satan and his dark demons. God’s Word assures us “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12)
If we could only take that verse to heart, stop fighting against each other, and start working alongside each other, how much healing that would bring!
INGREDIENTS TO STRENGTHEN
So I’ve concocted a New Year’s Resolution recipe, one that I believe contains all the necessary ingredients to strengthen our inner selves. The best part is, you can enjoy all you want and the only weight you’ll gain is spiritual heft!
Perhaps if each of us works at cultivating small changes within ourselves, those changes will ripple out into our families, neighborhoods, and communities. Maybe eventually, even our nation and possibly the world!
The Lord is noted for taking something meager and making it into something meaningful. May this year be the one where we choose to give ourselves more fully to Him to work His way and will!
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION RECIPE
Combine: 2 cups of faith, 1/2 cup of prayer, 2 teaspoons of positive attitude, 1 Tablespoon of patience, and a dash of humility. Mix in the Fruit of the Holy Spirit until smooth. Bake in 350 degree oven of God’s Word until golden brown. Enjoy the wholesome, fulfilling goodness within.
“Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” (John 6:35)
Happy New Year and may the Lord enrich your days and months ahead!
**What’s one way you plan to enhance your relationship with the Lord in 2021?
Cynthia Roemer’s PRAIRIE SKY SERIES: Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie Inspirational Historical Romance
UNDER THIS SAME SKY
~ BOOK ONE
UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES
~ BOOK TWO
UNDER MOONLIT SKIES ~ BOOK THREE
~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.
The post A Recipe for the New Year appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.
December 30, 2020
2021 ~ Looking Ahead With Hope
As 2020 grinds to a close and 2021 begins, we look ahead with hope in our hearts. No doubt about it, it has been a rough year for all of us. Social distancing has robbed us of time with family, friends, co-workers, and activities. Worse yet, loved ones in hospitals and nursing homes have been starved of the support of their family members.
Businesses have suffered economic backlash from Covid restrictions. Isolation is the norm, especially for elderly shut-ins and those most at risk. Healthcare workers are weary and drained from overwork. It appears no one has gone untouched by the effects of this pandemic.
PERSONAL BATTLES
I’ve had my own personal battles this year with the loss of my dad and a cancer diagnosis for both my husband and myself. I’ve undergone two rounds of chemotherapy thus far with more to come, along with upcoming surgeries, and a year of targeted therapy and possibly radiation.
But even with these challenges ahead, I’m looking forward to 2021 with hope in my heart. That the Lord will bring comfort and healing, and a new lease on life. Already He is molding my heart, teaching me how to lean on His strength instead of my own.
I’ve been told the first round of chemo is the most frightening. And while I won’t dispute that, I’m not so sure it is the hardest. After undergoing the side effects from the first round, I dreaded the second round all the more because I knew what was coming.
JESUS IN THE GARDEN
In a way, that sense of dread has deepened my understanding of the anguish Jesus experienced in the Garden of Gethsemane on the eve of His crucifixion. He knew what was coming, and His heart was filled with sorrow with what He must go through.
“Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.”
Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” (Matthew 26: 36-39)
Jesus knows the hardships we endure. He suffered more than any of us could ever bare. And yet, He did it willingly for our sake, not because He wanted to, but out of His great love for us and for the Father. How comforting to know we have a Savior who is acquainted with grief and understands our struggles.
As we turn the page and begin a new year, may we take comfort in knowing how great our Savior’s love is and the extent He went to demonstrate that love. And may that truth fill you with HOPE in the New Year!
**Have you ever experienced a hardship that gave you a clearer sense of God’s presence?
INSPIRATIONAL HISTORICAL NOVELS
Cynthia Roemer’s PRAIRIE SKY SERIES: Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie Inspirational Historical Romance
UNDER THIS SAME SKY
~ BOOK ONE
UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES
~ BOOK TWO
UNDER MOONLIT SKIES ~ BOOK THREE
~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.
The post 2021 ~ Looking Ahead With Hope appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.
December 17, 2020
THE STAR, THE SERVANT, THE SAVIOR
The Star of Bethlehem has been a source of mystery and wonder through the ages. December 21, we’ll have the opportunity to view Jupiter and Saturn coming into such close proximity that they will appear as one bright star. This phenomenon hasn’t happened to this extent in over eight hundred years!
Some are calling it the Christmas Star, and indeed there was a similar instance of not two but three planets merging at around 1 AD, when Jesus would have been born. Was it a phenomenon of perfect alignment of planets that created the Star of Bethlehem as some speculate? Or did the Lord place an entirely new star in the sky to honor Jesus’ birth? Likely, no one will ever know.
But, whichever it was, the fact remains that God used the star to draw the Wise Men to the Savior. Jesus’ birth was a miracle in every sense of the word. And yet, I marvel at just how simple and unassuming Christ’s entry into our world was.
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
Jesus’s humble beginnings here on earth were a precursor of His ministry of servanthood. How ironic that the Son of God left His glorious home in Heaven to be born in a humble stable? From His birth to the cross, he demonstrated a life of servanthood.
Scripture says their was nothing extraordinary about his appearance (Isaiah 53:2). Born to a meager family, He had no wealth, no political importance, not even a home to call His own. And yet, people from everywhere flocked to Him like a moth to a flame.
SERVANTHOOD
Jesus’ entire ministry centered on servanthood ~ meeting the needs of others by placing them ahead of Himself. When His disciples shooed away children, Jesus told them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” (Luke 18:16).
The night before He would be crucified, He continued teaching and admonishing the disciples, demonstrating the art of servanthood by washing their feet. What a powerful picture of servanthood–the greatest “Man” that ever walked the earth lowering Himself to the most humble position!
DRAWN TO JESUS
From His humble birth to His ministry to His resurrection, people were drawn to Jesus’ powerful presence. Wise men still seek Him today. Do you know Him as your Savior and friend? I pray so. I hope you’ll set aside time to gather with family to read the Christmas story in Luke 2, As you do, may you feel the fresh aroma of His presence at Christmas and in the days to come!
Do you have a family tradition that puts Christ at the center of your celebration? I’d love to hear about it.
Cynthia Roemer’s PRAIRIE SKY SERIES: Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie Inspirational Historical Romance
UNDER THIS SAME SKY
~ BOOK ONE
UNDER PRAIRIE SKIES
~ BOOK TWO
UNDER MOONLIT SKIES ~ BOOK THREE
~Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
**Connect with Cynthia Roemer on Facebook, Goodreads and Twitter.
The post THE STAR, THE SERVANT, THE SAVIOR appeared first on CYNTHIA ROEMER ~ INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR.
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