Deborah L. McCarragher's Blog, page 12

The Love Boat - Don't Miss It !

Okay - I'm showing my age here...
The Love Boat                   
Some of us remember watching this funny show every week in anticipation of the next exciting relationship or failed love attempt. Each member of the crew had a role in fulfilling the guests’ wishes and plans aboard their majestic vessel.  Nothing was too difficult for the stewards, cruise director or the Captain.

What if you were expecting to take a romantic cruise on Valentine's Day?  Think of all the planning, preparations and care you would take to make sure everything was perfect!  Can you just picture it?

You might tuck away a surprise card and a little sweet treat for your man.  You probably packed that silky red blouse and little black skirt, along with the glitzy shoes for dinner. Maybe you grabbed that gorgeous necklace he bought you last year for your birthday to proudly wear that evening. 

Wow – so much preparation goes into your vacation, but how about your Spirit woman?  
I Peter 3:3-4 says, “Do not let your beauty be that outward adorning of arranging the hair, of wearing gold, or of putting on fine apparel; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible ornament of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.”


Valentine’s Day is all about showing love to your spouse, parents, children, and those you care about the most.  As a Christian woman there is only one way to love your husband… with the love of Christ.  This Valentine’s Day give your Heavenly Father a gift that will keep on giving – namely – the decision to love your husband as God intended while you are living in a spiritually mismatched marriage.

What is love?  In the Greek New Testament there are (4) forms of the word "love" ~

Physical Love (eros)  The common Greek word from which English derives the term erotic, which is properly used to describe the love of physical attraction when it is between married couples (e.g. Song of Solomon).
Family Love (storge)  The fondness people share for their relatives, especially love between parents and children. Can also refer to great affection such as Paul’s passage in Romans 12:10, “be kindly affectionate to one another” which combines storgewith philo (philostorgos).
Affectionate Love (philia)  This is a form of love that is not commanded by God, but rather based on our reaction to different types of people – brotherly love. 
Love of Choice (agape)   This is the love of God – and is what God calls us to do at His command – by choice.  It is love of the highest order.  In John 3:16 the verb “loved” expresses this concept of agape.
Let’s assume for the sake of our example that we would already love our husband with the physical, family, and affectionate love.  Often what is the most difficult thing to do is to love them with God’s agape love . 
Below is an excerpt from my book “Mission Possible” Chapter 4 - Painful Reality
As a “child of light”, you begin to see life differently through God’s filter.  Things of the world no longer satisfy, excite, or challenge you. Your sights are set higher. Part of that is reflected in your relationship – as a wife, friend and lover. There unfortunately are things that you begin to dislike about him. We are to “love the sinner, but hate the sin.”                There were times I had to pray, “Lord, give me a desire for my husband… help me to love him with Your love, because I don’t like him very much right now.” Remember, you have to “take every thought captive, unto the obedience of Christ” (II Corinthians 10:5). Give it to God and then you will have peace.
Colossians 3:12-14 exhort us to “…put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering, forgiveness and above all – put on love, which is the bond of perfection.”  Paul admonishes us to put on, by a deliberate effort, those things which exhibit the very nature of God.  That is what is truly attractive to our spouses and the world outside. “Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.”  (Proverbs 31:30)
This Valentine’s Day , whether you go on a cruise to an exotic location, or if you are at home for the holiday, be sure to show your husband God’s love in your words, actions and thoughts.  Pray for God to bless him and to reveal Himself to him in an unusual way. 
Our husband is our gift from above – our completer, not our competitor. God wants our focus to be on our spouse and our marriage on that special day that many celebrate LOVE.

Enjoy this blast from the past - The Love Boat theme song!










Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

R E S P E C T ... Who Needs It? Part 2

God does not stipulate that my husband must be a believer to be respected.

God expects me to reverence and honor my husband in my actions, words and thoughts, no matter the circumstance.  Ouch!
“Familiarity breeds contempt” is something you might say if you know someone very well or you experience something frequently.  That contempt might be shown in your attitude if you stop respecting them.

Our body language is one such thing that can speak volumes to our spouse about our lack of respect.
The Apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians 5:33, “Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.” 
Genesis 3:1-24 gives us the behind the scenes narrative of Adam and Eve's fall from grace. Back in the garden Eve exerted influence that was misused and it harmed her and Adam’s standing with each other and with God.  Her “desire” was to lead their relationship. She had exhibited a lack of respect by not submitting to his God-given authority in their marriage.  Now God was instructing her that Adam would take on that role and lead in their marriage.
Respect for your husband ignites the fire within his spirit man to enable him to love you in a God-ordained way. 
“Out of respectfor Christ, be courteously reverent to one another. Wives, understand and support your husbands in ways that show your support for Christ.”  Ephesians 5:22 [The MESSAGE]
I Peter 3:1-2 tells us that even when an unbelieving spouse does not obey God’s Word, they may be won over to God “by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chase conduct accompanied by fear” [ respect ]. 

Can you think of a time when you blatantly disrespected your spouse?  Did God lovingly "correct" you and have you genuinely repent?  How did your spouse respond?
The “love chapter” in I Corinthians 13:1-13 teaches us how God’s love shown through us to others can make an impact in all relationships we are in (e.g. husband and wife, parent and child, siblings).  As we mature in Christ, we must put away the childish things.  Many times those things are the perception that we have the right to be right, thinking we are justified in our words or actions, and feeling like we are the victim in our circumstances.
The Lord gently and methodically showed me my venerability in parenting.  I was showing preference within my family relationships that was unhealthy and potentially damaging to my marriage.  He allowed me to view my behavior as rude and provoking.  I had been “puffed up” in my thinking and was not showing love and understanding for my mate’s position in the matter. 
I had violated much of what Paul spoke of in the very verses I read during devotionals on countless occasions.  I Corinthians 13 can attest to what our love walk should look like.  I was not showing love when I yelled at my husband that evening.
Image credit: - 123RF Stock Photo
This is the conclusion of the matter:  I was wrong in how I handled the whole dilemma.  
As my husband got more irritated during the day and into the evening, I should have affirmed his feelings and his lingering anger at our son’s irresponsibility.  However, I also should have communicated to him that we have all had days that just didn’t work out the way we thought they would.  Grace should have been extended to all parties, and I needed to keep my emotions in check without making a critical error in judgment.
I have confessed my behavior and manipulations to the Lord, and I have released my resentment towards my husband to Him as well.  I want to please God and show the respect my husband is due – no matter what the outcome is for me.  God has that covered.  I need to trust in His Sovereignty and let Him work out the details.
I was also reminded [by the Lord] that our son observed my outburst, and that can have an effect on his future relationships.  He knows I am a Christian in a spiritually mismatched marriage.  I am to model Christ's behavior and leave the results with Him.  I don’t need to insert my flawed thinking into the mix.  I need to trust and obey.  I need to relinquish my rights to my own feelings of being justified and God will convict my husband of his shortcomings.
There is only one thing more painful than learning from experience, and that is not learning from experience.  ~Anonymous








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com


If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

R E S P E C T ... Who needs it? Part 1

Some of you might identify with my sentiments here.  You might even agree with me in principle.  But more importantly – what does God have to say regarding the matter?
Respect  can be defined as:  the act of giving particular attention; to consider worthy of high regard; the quality or state of being esteemed; to refrain from interfering with.
I’m going to share a personal story here that occurred during this past holiday season.  God has spoken to my heart about what took place.  I feel it could be a conversation starter as well as thought provoking for those in a spiritually mismatched marriage.  
This is Part 1 of 2  ~
My husband and I were enjoying our adult son’s two week visit along with his 3 yr. old daughter. He had been on deployment for 9 months and was on leave before heading back to his duty station.  Things were going great and we loved watching him interact with his toddler daughter after the long separation.
A couple of days after Christmas he went golfing with a friend and promised to return in time for me to go to work half a day.  I kept our granddaughter in the morning and we agreed he would meet me in town after his golf outing.  But things didn’t quite work out as we planned.
Long story made short – 18 holes ended up taking much longer than he anticipated, and to make things worse – he forgot to leave me the car seat for our granddaughter.  Needless to say, I couldn’t go to work or transport his daughter anywhere.  As the day wore on, my husband’s temper reflected it proportionately.
By the time evening rolled around our son was approaching the last hole on the golf course and still had to drive back to his friend’s house to get his car and the car seat.  By now my husband was fuming and our dinner plans to meet the rest of the family were in jeopardy.  The holiday season was not so merry…
It shouldn’t have happened, but it did.  I was making excuses for our son and trying to be the peacemaker in our home.  Family members were waiting for us to join them in town and the plans had been changed multiple times.  My husband was livid with our son for being irresponsible and for his lack of proper planning.  
When our son finally returned home (over 4 hours late), I was waiting with our granddaughter when my husband informed me he wasn’t going with us.  He got in his car to leave to go get something to eat and at that very moment our son pulled into the driveway - blocking him from leaving.  That did it.
Image credit: - 123RF Stock PhotoMy husband started yelling from inside of his vehicle while I was trying to put our granddaughter into our son’s car.  Our son wasn’t aware that his dad was so angry.  Then I saw the look on his face as he was caught in the crossfire of his dad and me fighting.  Once we were on our way to meet the others, he asked me why dad was in such a foul mood.  I had to gently but firmly explain to him what led up to the night’s messy ending.
In our 30+ years of marriage we hadn’t traded barbs with each other verbally like that in a long, long time.  I shouldn’t have yelled back at him, but I was so angry and he was so out of control over what I thought was an insignificant thing.  I realize now that I made things worse by downplaying the whole event while telling him to, “just go and leave us alone!”
I would like to take this opportunity to say that our son is a great young man and a wonderful father. He is responsible and thoughtful.  He simply made an error in judgment that day that had ugly ramifications.  He was out of his element after being on deployment for 9 months, and he was here visiting us instead of at home in his normal environment and routine. 
Later that evening we were all “walking on egg shells” as we skirted the issue in order to keep the conversation civil.  By the next day – my husband and I briefly discussed what had happened and I felt the Lord convict me of my bad behavior the night before.  My son apologized for any inconvenience he caused us and I apologized for acting in an ungodly fashion to my husband.
Now – let me say that I felt completed justified in what I had said and done during that episode of “behaving badly”.  Isn’t that exactly what we do when we know we are not honoring God (or our spouse) while we are angry.  Ephesians 4:26 says, “Be angry, and do not sin”; do not let the sun go down on your wrath…” 
The parent / child relationship really doesn’t change that much as the years go by.  I found myself taking sides again with our son instead of my husband, something I had repented for long ago (I thought).  Okay – am I the only one who regrets putting preference for my child over my spouse?  Am I the first wife to show disrespect by marginalizing my husband’s opinion for that of my own?  Wow – why was I so selfish and controlling with my words?
We will continue this discussion in Part 2 next week.  I want to share with you what the Lord spoke to my heart in the weeks following this family occurrence, and how I hope to make adjustments in my thinking and behavior in the future. 
Come join me next week for a look at how God turned  something hurtful  into something hopeful...






Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com 

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Truth or Consequences? You Have A Choice...

There are sins and there are secret sins - but there are no hidden sins from the Lord.

Is there something you'd rather not reveal to your family about your past?  Perhaps you stuffed a personal memory deep down into your psyche - hoping it would never surface again. 

Are you staring full-face at the consequences of your past sin?  Maybe you came from a background full of cheap and dishonorable actions. News Flash:  God already knows about it...so confess it and move forward!



There may be a situation in your marriage that will require a hard choice to be made. Your spouse might have done something that deeply hurt or offended you, and now you are faced with a dilemma: respond in a Christ centered way, or the world's way, which inevitably leads to remorse.  

You may be harboring resentment towards God for something you think He should have done differently in your marriage or family.  Maybe you're upset because you were sure you heard from God, and now you doubt yourself and His plans for you. 


It's time for Truth or Consequences - God's Way
Here's a great example of what happens when we allow ourselves to be disillusioned...

In II Samuel 12:1-12, King David was confronted by the prophet Nathan over his horrific sin.  This included lusting after and taking another man's wife, purposing to frame him for the pregnancy, and eventually plotting to kill him to cover up his own sin.  David was oblivious to the fact that it was him that the prophet was speaking of in the story he was telling the King.  God directed Nathan to tell David, "You are the man!" 

After declaring to David that God had indeed blessed him, and would have done even more to exalt him in the eyes of Israel, Nathan proceeded to deliver an admonishment to the King directly from God, and pronounce a prophesy of doom on him and his household for the evil he had done. David was at a crossroads and he had a choice to make.  He admitted the  secret sins  and wailed, "I have sinned against the LORD."   

At that moment, Nathan said to him, "The LORD also has put away your sin; you shall not die.  However, because by this deed you have given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also who is born to you shall surely die."  It was a horrendous penalty to pay for his sins, and it involved an innocent victim.  King David chose rightly because he admitted his sin and accepted the consequences. He knew who God was and His righteous character.



David wrote many of the stirring Psalms that we so dearly embrace and recite in times of despair.  He used the time of restoration after his fall from grace to extol the virtues and mercies of God for all to reflect upon.  He spent countless nights praising his LORD and giving thanks for the mighty hand that guided him into truth and grace, as he sought to live out his days as a " man after God's own heart ."   David pleaded with God to punish him, but not the child.  However, God's Word stood and David accepted the consequence.  He showed a level of maturity that we need to embrace.  What David did right was to " shut himself in with God " and reflect on what had transpired.  

II Samuel 12:17-18 tells us that David spent one week quiet before the LORD, and didn't even leave his house!  When you are distressed and in deep despair, get alone with God and His Word .  Do some true soul searching.  Bring all of your hurts and disappointments to Him. He will  regenerate  your thinking to line up with His thoughts, and align your will with His.  Instead of letting disappointment overtake him, David ultimately accepted the circumstances and praised God for them.  


What took place next is amazing.  Verse 20 tells us that, "David arose from the ground, washed and anointed himself, and changed his clothes; and he went into the house of the LORD and worshiped."  

David arose in the newness of God's grace, and came forth from the grave of self-pity and defeat.  
He was regenerated by God's promises and the timeless truths from His Word.  David was sure he would see his son again in the ages to come. He confidently said, “While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept; for I said, ‘Who can tell whether the Lord will be gracious to me, that the child may live?’ “But now he is dead; why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.”  David forgave himself and was at peace with God once again.


Isaiah 61:3 declares the LORD will, "console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness..."   Psalm 30:5 states, "For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning."  

David saw the dawn of a new day in God's sovereignty.

When we have come face to face with a crisis that tears at the very core of your being, that is when we must go to God and lean on His mercies, and gain strength from Who He Is.  Rest assured that His grace will be sufficient and His power adequate to sustain you in your weakness (II Corinthians 12: 9-10).


There is freedom in forgiveness. May we also be gracious towards God and release Him from our human judgments and expectations. 

Bless the Lord oh my soul…








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. 

Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

Happy New Year - - - Happy New "You"

Optimism runs high at 12:01 am.  The New Year is here!  Another chance to start fresh!  What will you do to make 2013 a year of "new beginnings"?

Did you make a New Year's resolution?

Some of the more popular Top 10 Resolutions that we make are:

~ Spend more time with family and friends~ Commit to a new diet and eating choices~ Give more to charity – time and money~ Learn something new~ Make time for fitness~ Get out of debt~ Get organized
Most people resist change, but I say, "Change is good!"  Isaiah 43:18-19 says this: “Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”
As Christians, we are new creatures in Christ. We have a new beginning. We can establish new habits that are godly and useful. We can find new inspiration and a fresh new revelation as we read and study God’s Word. Who doesn't like the idea of a clean slate – a chance to start over?
The Apostle Paul instructs us to know Christ in a newintimate way.  That kind of spiritual intimacy caused him to, “…press on and lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me” (Philippians 3:10-12). We have a revelation from Christ that brings a fresh, spiritual comprehension, which in turn gives us apprehension to live out our Christianity with boldness. 
Our confidence cannot be in our flesh, but in the power of God. Look to Him with the expectation of what He can do in us and through us. As Paul states in verse 13-14, “but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
In the book of Revelation, John tells us that those worshiping before the throne of the Lamb will sing a new song. In his vision he gazed upon a new heaven and a new earth.
What a great lesson for the "New You" and our new life resolutions. Look forward, not backwards. Keep your eye on Jesus and the heavenly goal. Pattern your new ideas and habits on what the Word teaches. Model yourself after your Maker and Master. Fix your gaze upon Jesus…He is all you need to walk in the newness of life.


Frances Ridley Havergal wrote the hymn Another Year Is Dawning in 1860 as a celebration of New Year’s Eve and looking forward in faith to God’s blessings. What a beautiful tribute to what a new year can hold in store for us…
Another Year Is Dawning
Another year is dawning:Dear Father, let it be,In working or in waiting,Another year with Thee;Another year of progress,Another year of praise,Another year of provingThy presence all the days.
 Another year of merciesOf faithfulness and grace;Another year of gladnessIn the shining of Thy face;Another year of leaningUpon Thy loving breast;Another year of trusting,Of quiet, happy rest.
Another year of service,Of witness for Thy love;Another year of trainingFor holier work above.Another year is dawning:Dear Father, let it be,On earth or else in heaven,Another year for Thee.
What are you facing this year?  Do you wrestle with a looming financial situation?  Are you dreading a changing family dynamic? Do you anxiously await a medical report or future surgery? Is your marriage looking like something out of a horror movie? Take heart... Jesus specializes in new beginnings!

Here’s to a new year full of hope and anticipation in what God has in store for you!
The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace. (Numbers 6:24-26)





Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. 

Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

Gold, Frankincense And Myrrh - Your Gift Is Precious Too!

"After hearing the king, they went on their way. And there it was - the star they had seen in the east! It led them until it came and stopped above the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed beyond measure. Entering the house, they saw the child with Mary His mother, and falling to their knees, they worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their own country by another route."   (Matthew 2:9-12 HCSB)



KING


        GOD


              SACRIFICE




What do these three words mean to you this Christmas season?
As a Christian, they should stir your heart and stretch your soul. When you really contemplate the weight of their meaning and the stature of their significance, you can't help but fall to your knees as did the wise men of old.


Matthew 2:1-2 records details of the magi’s visit from the East to pay homage to the newborn King as follows:  Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.”
Traditionally we celebrate the magi’s worship of our Lord – otherwise known as Epiphany – in January, but I wanted to highlight it during this season of giving.  The three gifts offered represent Jesus Christ as our King, Priest and Prophet.  Scripture references are Daniel 9:24-27, Deuteronomy 18:15, and Psalm 110:4.  
Some church historians, particularly in the West, have named the three magi in Scripture as: Melchior, a king of Arabia who most likely was the oldest of the kings; Balthasar, a king from Saba (present day Yemen); and Caspar, a king from Tarsus (present day southern Turkey).
Their unusual and highly valued offerings were:  Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh.

Gold was a gift befitting a king. In the book of Exodus, the tabernacle in which God Himself dwelt housed various items which were either crafted from solid gold or overlaid in gold. 


Gold itself is symbolic of royalty and wealth, and is representative of heaven’s grandeur on the streets of gold mentioned in the book of Revelation. 
 Frankincense is for a Priest and was a chief ingredient in the incense which was to be burned continually in the tabernacle.  In the book of Revelation the prayers of the saints are rising to God’s throne as burning incense. 
Myrrh is for a Savior who died for the world.  Myrrh was a chief ingredient in the anointing oil used in ceremonial rituals to dedicate kings and prophets to the Lord’s service. It was also used in the burial process along with other herbs and spices to preserve the body as mentioned in John 19:39.

You say, “What can I bring Jesus?”  I’m not royalty… I’ve not traveled thousands of miles to see Him… I don’t have an extravagant gift to hand Him.  Ah – but you do. His desire is to have your heart this Christmas season…

This Christmas season celebrate remembering that JESUS is the reason for the season...


We Three Kings of Orient Are  
[written by John Henry Hopkins, Jr.  in 1857]










Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

Mary, Did You Know? A Christmas Favorite

A young girl anxiously awaits her baby. The Angel who had visited earlier assured her saying, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God."Imagine what went through her mind as she and Joseph, her betrothed, journeyed to the city of his forefathers for the mandated census which had been decreed by none other than Caesar Augustus himself.The rich lush fields and meadows surrounding Bethlehem, or as it is known in Hebrew, House of Bread, is where Ruth, Jesse and David lived, overlooking picturesque valleys and farmlands, as sheep grazed on the hillside. This is the birth place of the Baby, Who would later boldly declare, “I Am the Bread of Life” (John 6:35; 51). This is where the shepherds had received a message from an angel of the Lord. They were to go and seek out the newly born babe, and pay Him homage, right there in their own backyard. The Lamb of God was born in a stable a short distance from where flocks of sheep were bedded down for the night.  When they shared what the angel had said to them with the new parents and others, everyone marveled. Scripture tells us that “Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19). I imagine Mary looked lovingly down at her baby boy and whispered, “Welcome to the world, my Son. Be at peace. Your dad and I are here. We love You so much!” I’m sure she vividly recalled the moment when an angel of the Lord visited her with the announcement, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” She no doubt shook her head as she remembered him saying, “And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS . He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” What a journey it had been. She had surely seen the Lord God move in miraculous ways since that first greeting by His holy messenger.  Here is how I imagine some of the more memorable moments she most likely recalled from 

 – After they circumcised their infant son, Mary and Joseph journeyed to the Temple in Jerusalem to present Him and redeem their firstborn as the law required. They were unexpectedly met by a holy, devout prophet named Simeon. Being moved by the Spirit, he took the child into his arms and blessed God saying, “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, according to Your word; for my eyes have seen Your salvation which You have prepared before the face of all people, a light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.” She and Joseph were taken aback and marveled at his words. (Luke 2:21-33) – Mary no doubt remembered how Joseph lovingly brought Jesus as a boy into his carpentry shop as soon as he was able to follow simple directions. He had built him a small bench and gave him his own set of tools to use. She smiled as she recalled the days he spent building little tables and stools. Then, when he turned twelve – Joseph make him a full apprentice in the shop. What a proud day that was in their household! Ever since the incident in Jerusalem, Jesus had been humble and submitted to them in Nazareth – gaining wisdom, stature & favor with men and with God. (Luke 2:51-52)
– During one of their many trips to the Holy City for the Feast of the Passover, Mary and Joseph, supposing Jesus was with their relatives on the return trip, discovered He was missing. Upon circling back to the city, they discovered Him three days later sitting in the midst of the teachers, engaging them and inquiring about the holy scriptures. She and Joseph were amazed, but concerned, asking him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously!” Of course, she readily recalled His answer, “Why is it that you sought Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” (Luke 2:41-49)
– After Jesus was baptized in the Jordan, He had several disciples join Him. Just a few days later she had attended a wedding in Cana of Galilee with them. She remembered how embarrassed the family was about running out of wine before the festivities had ended. She recalled telling her Son about their dilemma, and His reply of, “Woman, what does your concern have to do with Me? My hour has not yet come.” Though perplexed, she instructed the servants,“Whatever He says to you, do it.” Well, what a celebration that was! Not only were the guests enjoying themselves, but the master of the feast was so impressed by the bridegroom’s choice of wine, he publicly commended him about saving the best for last! Of course, she and the disciples knew Jesus had done the miraculous – all as a manifestation of His glory for their benefit. (John 2:1-11)
– Mary had seen and heard so many incredible things while Jesus ministered throughout the region, but none could prepare her for that terrible day when she would watch the unthinkable – His crucifixion on Golgotha. Her Son had endured unspeakable torture and humiliation before His death, and yet, He lovingly presented her to His beloved disciple John to care for as his own mother. She could not comprehend such a selfless gesture as He hung suspended between life and death. Her Son had indeed been a special  gift of God … (John 19:25-30)
Be blessed by this touching rendition of "Mary, Did You Know"










Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

Three Christmas Children's Books To Buy For Your Kids or Grandkids

Are you looking for a book for your children to read this Christmas season?  

Here are three books written by fellow John 3:16 Marketing Network authors that will not only bring a smile to their faces, but teach them timeless Christian values and lessons that will stay with them for a lifetime...
Paperback or eBook
First:
The Donkey And The King is a story of love with Christian symbolism and allegory. A donkey named Baruch longs for an easier life beyond the stable. He dreams of a life with no heavy burdens and no one to tell him what to do.

After leaving the safety of the stable, the donkey becomes lost in the wilderness, but the King sends him a friend. With his new friend, a sheep, the donkey sets out on a journey that you won't forget.
Each page is beautifully illustrated with the word "good" hidden in the artwork. Children will learn that everything works together for good to those who love the King. The Donkey and the King will warm your heart and fill you with God's unconditional love.

You can purchase the eBook and paperback versions here on  Amazon

Also, the cast of animals including Baruch (the donkey), Lowly (the pig), Much Afraid (the dog), and others in The Donkey And The King - all befriend a troubled 14 year old girl in Seventh Dimension - The Door , Lorilyn's just released YA fantasy book on  Amazon


Lorilyn Roberts is a Christian author who writes children's picture books, adult nonfiction, memoirs, and a young adult Christian fantasy series, Seventh Dimension. The first in the series, The Door, has just been published (October 2012). 

Lorilyn graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Alabama, which included international study in Israel and England. She received her Masters in Creative Writing from Perelandra College and is also a graduate of the Institue of Children's Literature.

Lorilyn is the founder of the John 3:16 Marketing Network, a network of Christian authors who are passionate about promoting books with a Christian worldview.  You can visit her Blog here .


Second:
Santa's Birthday Gift is  a book that ties two holiday traditions into one inspirational tale of wonder - as Santa brings gifts to baby Jesus. The cleverly-written, rhyming book reveals Santa's adventure from toy maker to star follower -- right into the heart of Bethlehem where he meets Baby Jesus in the manger. Delivering toys to a king is a touching experience for both Santa and readers alike, as they discover where the tradition began. 

Santa makes a promise to Jesus to bring gifts to good boys and girls each year on Jesus' birthday. This delightful story is engaging and delivers meaningful lessons using recognizable nativity characters, and of course, Santa and Jesus.  Sherrill's inspiration for this book came from her granddaughter who, after hearing the Christmas story, asked, "But where's Santa?" 

Santa's Birthday Gift is available from the Cure JM Foundation website which donates 50% of the purchase price to finding a cure for JM.  To learn more about this incurable disease please watch this  YouTube video  


Sherrill Cannon is a mother of four and a grandmother of ten, and is now an Award-Winning Best-Selling Author.  She has been writing poetry since before she could write.  Her books teach children virtues like good manners and caring for others.  

A real-live Eloise, I grew up in the Willard Hotel in Washington DC (my Dad was the manager), was married and lived in Northern Virginia for twenty years where my husband and I raised our four children.  We recently celebrated our 52nd wedding anniversary, and are now retired.  We travel in our RV from the east coast to the west coast each year to spend time with our children and grandchildren.

You can purchase Sherrill's book as a paperback or ebook on  Amazon  &  visit her  Website  here


Third: The Runaway Christmas Tree  is a classic story in the making and is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. It will take you on a journey of discovery and surprise, making it a favorite for years and years to come.
The story begins when the Kent family decides to have a real Christmas tree this year and will not, in any way, settle for an artificial one. 

The family travels to Nick’s Magic Christmas Tree Grove where they can pick and chop down their very own tree. While there, they purchase a tree that they appear to be magically drawn to, but at the same time, they get a little more than what they bargained for. They wanted a real tree, but exactly how does one define “real”? That is precisely what the Kent family is about to find out! 

You can purchase this cute book on  Amazon   &  visit her  Website  here


D. Washington-Jones was born in Lena, Louisiana. She teaches business and economics courses in the Social Sciences Dept.of NSU-Natchitoches. 

The Runaway Christmas Tree  is Dorothy's first book, but she has also published articles in her field. She has won various awards in education from the Police Jury, the Black Heritage Committee, the Mayor's Office and the City of Natchitoches. 

In 1994-1996, Dorothy wrote a religious column for her local newpaper. She has also written business plans and seminars. Her writing style is that of humor, self discovery and adventure.



Finally - Here is a cute Children's Christmas Poem 
to  enjoy  with your kids and grandkids

The Friendly Beasts
Jesus our brother, strong and good,
Was humbly born in a stable rude;
And the friendly beasts around Him stood,
Jesus our brother, strong and good.
"I," said the donkey, shaggy and brown,"I carried His mother up hill and down;I carried her safely to Bethlehem town,I," said the donkey, shaggy and brown.
"I," said the cow, all white and red,"I gave Him my manger for His bed;I gave Him my hay to pillow His head,I," said the cow, all white and red.
"I," said the sheep with the curly horn,"I gave Him my wool for His blanket warm.He wore my coat on Christmas morn,I," said the sheep with the curly horn.
"I," said the dove from rafters high,"I cooed Him to sleep so He would not cry,We cooed Him to sleep, my mate and I;I," said the dove from rafters high.
And every beast, by some good spell,In the stable dark was glad to tell,Of the gift He gave Emmanuel,The gift He gave Emmanuel.
[Traditional children's Christmas carol dating from the twelfth century.]







Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

The Magnificat - God Had A Plan All Along

My soul magnifies the Lord , And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.  For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed.  For He who is mighty has done great things for me.  And holy is His name.  And His mercy is on those who fear Him.  From generation to generation.  He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.  He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly.  He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty.  He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy,  As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.

     The Magnificat  (Luke 1:46-55  NKJ)


Two women connected through deep family roots.  One old and unable to conceive.  The other a young virgin.

Yet, just prior to the utterance of one of the most famous songs ever sung, these two devout Jewish soon-to-be mothers had a common bond that went beyond their physical condition.

Elizabeth was most likely Mary's cousin and her name means "God is my oath." She was born of the lineage of Aaron, and was the wife of Zacharias, who was a priest of the division of Abijah - an order appointed by King David for temple service (I Chronicles 24:10).

Mary was descended from the house of David.  She was told that her Son would receive "the throne of his father David," and also because Christ is described as being of "the seed of David according to the flesh" (Acts 2:30 ; Romans 1:3).

When Mary visited her kinswoman Elizabeth in the hill country of Judea both women were excited to see each other.  Mary had been told of Elizabeth's advanced stage of pregnancy by the angel Gabriel, and no doubt Elizabeth had heard of her close relative's betrothal to Joseph and their baby's impending birth.

However, it was when Mary greeted her that Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and the revelation of the Christ child was made known. The fact that the baby within her - the forerunner to the Messiah - leaped for joy inside his mother's womb is indicative of the Lord's plan and how perfect it is.

Elizabeth and Zacharias were faithful, righteous and devoted to God. Zacharias served in the temple according to custom.  While the whole assembly of the people were praying outside, he was in the sanctuary of the Lord burning the incense.  An angel of the Lord appeared to him - standing to the right side of the altar of incense.  Zacharias was startled and overcome with fear, but the angel [Gabriel] said to him:

"Do not be afraid, Zacharias, because your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will name him John. There will be joy and delight for you, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord and will never drink wine or strong drink. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit while still in his mother's womb. He will turn many of the sons of Israel to the Lord their God. And he will go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of father to their children, and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous, to make ready for the Lord a prepared people."

This news foretold the fulfillment of Isaiah 40:3-5 - "the voice of one crying in the wilderness".  After the birth of their beloved son John [the Baptist], Zacharias would prophesy, "...And child, you will be called a prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare His ways, to give His people knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins..."  


Mary was visited by the angel Gabriel in Nazareth in the sixth month of her cousin's pregnancy.  He said to her, "Rejoice, favored woman! The Lord is with you... Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Now listen: You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will call His name Jesus.  He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end."

After it was explained to her that the Holy Spirit would come upon her and the holy One born to her would be called the Son of God, Gabriel reassured her saying, "And consider your relative Elizabeth - even she has conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called childless. For nothing will be impossible with God."

It is that last part of Gabriel's announcement that I personally love the most... Nothing is impossible with God.   Both women received their miracles. Jesus Himself reiterates His promise to us - "With men it is impossible, but not with God, because all things are possible with God" (Mark 10:27).


One woman's promise fulfilled was another woman's fulfilled promise. 

A dead womb became the life giving incubator for the world's most infamous preacher, who willingly "decreased" that the Savior of the world might "increase" and take upon His shoulders the sin of all mankind.

And a young woman willingly submitted to her Lord, fulfilling prophesy and being the first face He beheld as He opened His eyes for the first time on earth in human form.

God had a plan all along...



Enjoy the performance of this Christmas classic by Josh Groban











Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. 
Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

Thanksgiving is Everyday for the Christian

Image credit 123RF Stock Photo Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him (Psalm 34:8).

During this Thanksgiving season - what are you most thankful for? Is it something to do with your family, your workplace, or maybe your place of worship?  Do you express thanksgiving for big things as well as the little things?  Do you vocalize what you are thankful for to your family, friends and most importantly, to God Himself.

As Christians, we are to develop and display a grateful heart.  We are told in Psalm 100:4 “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.”

Thanksgiving is likely based on the traditional “first thanksgiving” harvest meal shared in 1621 at the Plymouth Colony Plantation by the Pilgrims and a group of Native Americans.

The first Thanksgiving feast lasted three days providing enough food for 53 pilgrims and 90 Native Americans. The feast consisted of fowl, venison, fish, lobster, clams, berries, fruit, pumpkin, and squash. William Bradford noted that, "besides waterfowl, there was great store of wild turkeys, of which they took many”, probably gave rise to the American tradition of eating turkey at Thanksgiving.”
Thanksgiving is generally observed on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States. This holiday provides a valuable opportunity for the strengthening of family bonds, expressions of gratitude, and a reminder of God’s rich blessings.

As Christians, we acknowledge God’s goodness and provision in our expression of Thanksgiving. God’s Word implores us to give thanks to Him. Both Old and New Testament books of the Bible encourage us to have an attitude of gratitude. Psalm 50:14 tells us to, “Offer to God thanksgiving.”  Psalm 95:2 says, “Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving...”  In Philippians 4:6 the Apostle Paul declares, “…in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.”  
One of my favorite psalms is 136.  It begins with verses 1-3 - thanking God for His Goodness.  "Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. Oh, give thanks to the God of gods! For His mercy endures forever.  Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords! For His mercy endures forever."  So much we have to be thankful for!  
Thank Jesus for your salvation.  If we had nothing else to be thankful for, that would be sufficient!  Oh, how we thank Him for rescuing us from certain destruction and eternal doom!  In II Corinthians 9:15 Paul says this,“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” 
This Thanksgiving, make it a priority to focus on faith, family, and giving.  The blessing we receive from meeting the needs of someone else is huge.  Give to your local shelter, or volunteer your time.  Do something different as a family, and make a memory by serving others in your community.  Help distribute gift baskets at church to the needy, or invite a co-worker who doesn't have immediate family nearby for a home-cooked meal and fellowship.  

Please enjoy one of the greatest praise songs ever sung -
Give Thanks With a Grateful Heart 










Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com