Ready for that inheritance?

What kind of inheritance are you looking for? I keep waiting for someone to call and let me know I have this great inheritance in England or something. You know, a castle or great lands to go and claim as my own. I don't think that is  going to happen anytime time soon. lol I have been on Ancestry.com searching for my family. I have been able to go back many generations. I have found some wealthy, and some very poor descendants. My families come from Ireland, Germany and England. What a combination, right? My husband says, "Well, now we know where that temper came from."

We look back and wish we came from royalty. We hope there was someone special in our families that played a big role in this world. We know our last name has meaning and we want to know that meaning. We are all searching for who we are and where we came from.

Sometimes this is a great adventure and we find great information making us smile. Others, well, as in my dad's family, I found that they were slave owners. So, that just opens even more questions than answers. I wonder, "Were any of my family Christians? Was anyone praying for their family to follow in their beliefs?"

We often take that word inheritance as a monetary meaning. But inheritance means so much more. It is legacy. It is heart. It something of value that cannot always be cashed in for gold, but is more valuable than any gold we could ever find. It is a treasure trove of wisdom and love. Where are you searching for your inheritance?

Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. He is our Father. He is our inheritance. He has given us life and not only life, but an inheritance with Him. In Him we can find forgiveness, Salvation, and redemption. I found this verse as I was studying yesterday and it just stirred my heart. I am searching for family, for who I am, and where I came from, but really, in Him, I can find all I am just in who He is!

Ephesians 1:1-14 "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints who are in Ephesus, and faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from the God our Father and Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places of Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined us to adoption as sons of Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, but which He made us accepted in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace, which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence, having made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Himself, that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth-in Him. In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, that we who first trusted in Christ should be to the praise of His glory. In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory."

In this verse it holds who I am through Christ. I am adopted into His love, His family. He is my inheritance. I am an heir to His throne! I am His princess. He is my King!! I have to look no further. There is no greater inheritance. I don't have to look for my name in any great book of a long list of kings and lords.

In Christ, He isn't promising me great health, wealth and status. He isn't promising fame and glory.He is promising me life and life with Him!! He lovingly adopted me and paid for my life with the cost of His. In redemption, He is simply saying He will return for me. My ransom has been paid in full. I too was being held in slavery. But the Lord gave His life for my freedom. I no longer bear chains, but am freed in Him. Christ has prepared my home in heaven. Before I was even born He knew my name. He knew me like no other. He was willing to die for me. I am sealed by the Holy Spirit. A seal is something of importance. Families have crests or seals. Mine just happens to be the Holy Spirit! Can you too say that? If you believe you can. If you trust you can. If you give your heart to Jesus you too can find your inheritance in Him! Now, that is something to get excited about!!

Do you know what the Greek word for guarantee can be translated to? An engagement ring! Yes, that ring we all dream of from the moment we are little girls. Christ is the Bridegroom and the church is His bride. How long has He been waiting to court me? How long has He been waiting for me to answer His proposal? I say yes!! What about you my friends? He is calling. Are you ready to answer?

I can look to my Savior and know yes, there were Christians in my family. There is royalty. There was also brokenness and despair. There was greatness and sadness just as there is today, but Christ came to change all that. He came with a purpose. He came with a plan and His love covers all. I have to look no further than Jesus Christ and in Him I can find all the treasure I need to last for a lifetime and on into eternity.

Ephesians 2:8-10 "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is a gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them."

Search beyond your heart for who you are and Christ will show you who you are through Him. He has given us life. A promised future in Him. That is more than any castle or gold can offer. He can bring pure joy. Where can you find your inheritance? Pick up His word, search those pages, those names, those hearts open wide for us to see. Paul? He is there right along with Peter. This is your family. This is my family. Our history is still being written. But we can look back through the pages of His love letter He has written just for us and see He thought about us from the very beginning. Give your life to the Savior today and you too can find your inheritance lasting.

Be vigilant! Faith triumphs all!

1 Peter 5:8-10 "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you."

This is a powerful verse. I am one who is a visual learner. Even when reading, I never just see the words. It is like a portrait being painted before me. So get ready to put on your visual glasses my friends.

Here we are with our family and we are out for an evening of laughter and closeness. We leave the house with smiles on our faces only to find ourselves feeling uncomfortable for some reason. What is that feeling of unsureness? While we are walking about and talking, here comes a raging lunatic. And not only is he blocking our path, he wants to take us down, stealing everything we have away. We stand and we see hate in his eyes. We see a man who wants to not only steal from us, but to kill. He glares at us and wants us to fear him, giving in to all his fiery anger. Does he just want money? No, he wants it all. He wants to take down the man, the head of the family, and then the wife, destroying that leadership. It is then he wants to attack the children. Separating is a game he loves to play. He likes to single one out and make them feel defenseless.

What would you do here in this picture? I know what you would do. You would fight for your family. You would stand and fight for life. You would do whatever possible to take down this man and unarm him. You would bring your family to safety and guard them with all you have. In this picture you would be vigilant. You would be steadfast. You would resist giving in to your fear and dig down deep for strength to overcome.

This is our life. This is our daily life my friends. Satan is out to kill, steal and destroy us at any cost. He knows each weakness. He lies in wait. He is seeking the moment when we are not looking to jump upon us and take us down. If can tear apart the man, the head of the home, then it is easier to get to the wife, the one who stands guard over her children with love. He gets in there where we least expect him and begins to tear apart our family piece by piece. If he cannot get to the man, the husband, he will attack the wife, bringing down the husband along with her. When the parents are fighting for their marriage it is then when their eyes are off their children he comes in and snatches them without warning. Satan is like a lion roaring, out of his cage, hungry and on the look out for the weakest link. He doesn't chase those who are in the pack, but those falling behind. Those not looking. Those who are not aware of their surroundings. This is why we must stand strong in our faith. Never giving Satan room in our lives. He likes to come in unnoticed. He disguises himself and is through the door before we know it unless we are watching diligently.

In our daily walk we get so blinded and we take our eyes off Christ and the moment we do, he is there. Satan is ready to attack. He doesn't attack where we are looking, but from those very blind spots we think are safe. In our faith we get so comfortable. We forget we are not up against flesh, but powers we do not see.

John 10:10 "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly."

We must be watchful and diligent in our faith. We must take seriously the evils around us and be aware of all reality around us. Our greatest help is our faith in Jesus Christ. By digging into God's word we can see and know those spiritual pitfalls and be on the lookout for the trappings of this world. If Satan is cunning and cruel, wouldn't it benefit us to walk closer to Christ? Of course it would. Although we will be attacked. Although trials will come and we will face uncertainty we can do so with the power of the Holy Spirit. We can be rich in our faith and find strength in God's promises. There will come many battles, but my friends, Jesus Christ has already won the war! Satan has no power over Him or over you and I!! The only power Satan has over us is the power we give to him.

We must not walk in fear, but in certainty. We must be hindered by this world's evil. We can live in faith, knowing God is bigger than anything Satan can throw at us. What happens when a raging lion is coming in for attack? Should we run? Running and turning our back will only bring him closer. We must stand and in faith face the hungry beast. Victory will come when we remain grounded in our faith. Remember Daniel in the lions den? Daniel 6. He faced that situation in faith. What about David and Goliath? 1 Samuel 17 As small as David was he was in his faith he was bigger than Goliath. He was ready to stand. He did not turn away, but he was prepared to face anything because he knew God was on his side. We do not run from the fear, but face it in faith.

Ephesians 6:12 "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers of darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places."

So, we know that we are not fighting just men in this world, but the evils behind them, Satan. So, we must guard our hearts and families by putting on the armor of God Ephesians 6:11-20. In our armor we must place on the Sword of the Spirit, which is God's word. His word is mighty and powerful. His word will light our path and guard us against Satan by filling us with knowledge and wisdom. When we do not read God's word, we are allowing Satan the upper hand in our lives. When we give a little, Satan takes a lot. We must live out each day as though we were fighting a battle for our lives. We must be vigilant in prayer. Prayer is power!!

Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

2 Corinthians 4:8-9 "We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed."

Today my friend do not live in fear, but in confidence with Christ Jesus!!

THE INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S BIBLE by THOMAS NELSON

What an awesome BIG RED BIBLE for children. This bible is made for children. It is easily read and explainable for those young readers. There is a dictionary/index in the back filled with valuable information for learning. Beautiful maps and pictures decorate these pages. This bible is simplified as in, some of the words are changed for an easier understanding for those eager readers wanting to learn about Christ. This is one bible they would love to pick up and stay in. The colorful pages draw you in and help tell a story just by gazing at them. There are also footnotes at the bottom of the pages to help the reader have a better understanding. Here is John 3:16 "For God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son. God gave his Son so that whoever believes in him may not be lost, but have eternal life." This would be a great bible for bedtime reading and for Sunday School for the little ones.

This was a gift from Thomas Nelson for it's review.

My path or Yours?

"Show me Your ways, O Lord; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day." Psalm 25:4-5

Show me Your ways. Hmmm. I ask God to show me His ways, but to often than not I think my ways are best, or at least quicker. Oh, Lord teach me Your paths. I ask Him to teach me, but I am willing to listen, to learn? Lead me in Your truth. Here is another one. God speaks in truth and I ask Him to lead me in the same, but some how the truth and my flesh are at war. Do I really want to hear the truth and when I do, do I really believe it? You are the God of my Salvation. I know I have life because of God. He has saved me from the world. This world is not my home. I have another destination and only He can take me there. So, why am I still searching? Do I really think I will find anything better than the God who chose to save my life? I wait on You all the day. Now, here is my biggest trouble. I do not want to wait on anything! I want my prayers answered now. I want my promises given today. So what happens? I get tired of waiting and go off on my own path. Straying away. Getting lost. And forever trying to find my way back. God never left me. He is always at my side. He is wanting to do the leading, but I am forever going around Him and taking the route in my own hands.

 

I want to learn so very much. I want to take His word and let it lead me everyday. His word gives encouragement, strength, wisdom, compassion, leadership, grace, mercy, kindness, discernment and much much more. In His word there is everything I need to learn to walk this journey. We can take off on a hike and what do we do first? We make sure our pack is filled with the necessities for the trek. We have our first aid kit just in case we get injured. We have our compass just in case we get lost. We have a blanket just in case it gets cold. We pack along food just in case we get hungry along the way. We have water for our thirst. We make sure we have the right boots on for the walk. We even wear sun glasses to protect our eyes. We think of everything we need for the day's adventure out, but when it comes to life are we that prepared? Are we thinking about that drive to work? Even before we hop out of bed are we prepared to meet our children in the kitchen for hurried breakfast? Are we prepared to meet up with those friends for lunch? What about when our husband comes through the door at night? Are we prepared to greet him with a smile and love? Or do we just wing it? Do we wake up groggy and sleepy eyed? Tired from no sleep with a weight already on our back? Are we thinking of our to-do list with a heart ready to trudge forward or do we look at it and say, "Ugh! What a day it will be?"

 

I don't really think we prepare for that trip to Walmart, to the drug store, to the restaurant, and all the places that take our feet throughout the day. Even going into the post office. I can choose to go in for my mail and hurry home, or I can think of it as a mission. I can think, "The Lord has called me right here, right now, for a purpose." That purpose might be just to give a smile and a hello. But just think if we prepared first. If we prayed first. Then could we tell our Post Master, "I am thinking of you today. Praying you have a wonderful day"?

 

Instead of sitting in that traffic as the road rage takes over and those words spill out of our mouths and unkind gestures find their way to be exposed, just think of what our ride would be if we prepared ourselves for the journey? Praying for safety. Praying for a calm ride and for those around us? We know our struggles. Why not wake and expose them to the Lord and ask His grace upon us? Ask Him for strength and life? Yes, life! Not just another day going through the motions, but life abundant. Life with a purpose in everything for everything.

 
Too many times I can wake and read God's word and think, "Okay, started out reading, got that out of the way, now let's continue on." Ever been there? You know, those mornings where everything is rushed and you are already weary before your feet hit the floor. Why not just take time for Jesus to wash us in His love and start our day out meeting our Savior? If our time is rushed with Him, then maybe we just need to let something else go so we can have our time with Him.
 
We face so much each day. Some we know and some are unexpected. We can not only pray for those things we know we are facing, but pray for the unexpected. Pray for everything about our day and throughout the day keep communication open with Christ. Why not talk to Him all day long? Sure, we can set aside a time where all is quiet and we can ponder upon His word, but He wants to hear from us more than once a day.
 

You know all those little texts we send? All those emails that go through? Those phone calls throughout the day? Why not keep our line open with Christ, continuing a conversation with Him throughout the day? Can you imagine the day we would have? It wouldn't matter if something came up out of no where. We would be filled with His Spirit and His presence. Too many times I am just off and running and then, it's when something happens that open that line to Christ, calling Him. Why wait?

 

We can prepare our day by putting the armor of God on. Not only for our protection, but for those around us. Every meeting, every glance, every communication can have new meaning. Let's put a purpose and plan to everything. There are no coincidences. God places people in our path for  a distinct purpose.

 

Before we grab for that armor, let's get our heart ready. Let's fix our eyes on Jesus and set our hearts on the right path by placing the beatitudes alive in our heart.

 
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law." Galatians 5:22-23
 
Once we have our heart prepared, may we then take care of even more. Can you really prepare enough? I don't think I have ever heard anyone say, "Boy, I was so over prepared for that meeting." God knows our struggles. He knows the trials coming. He knows exactly what we need when we need it. Remember, He knows our future and sees what's up ahead where our vision is absent.
 

Ephesians 6:11-20 "Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints-and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak."

 
We don't have fear today, tomorrow and the unknown. We can be prepared. We can stand firm in the foundation that Christ Jesus has set before us. We can each moment and fully know that Jesus is leading the way. Wherever the path is going, we can be prepared for the journey if we just take the time to pack all our heart needs and keep our compass pointed heavenward!

A heart that has found more

My heart has been searching for more. My heart has been calling for more. Maybe it has just been the Lord calling my heart to more. I have been praying for God to stir my heart. I have been praying for God to change my heart. To fill me like never before. To give me a passion that I never knew possible. I have been praying for revival. Not just in my own church, but first in my heart. I want to find myself in God's word daily. I want to call out to Him in a new way. I want to be changed into that girl God is calling me to be.   

Today at church our youth pastor, Brad Banderman shared clips with us from his trip to Bolivia. He shared more than clips, but more so of his heart. He could have stood in front of us with no pictures at all, and just looking into his eyes and hearing his words would have given a clear enough portrait. Through Brad's words you could see the love He has for God and for God's people.

First, let me tell you about Brad. He is much more than an associate pastor. His passion goes deeper than being a youth director. He has a heart after God and you can see this in his life. Is he perfect? Far from it. He is one of those crazy guys you love and at the same time you get  aggravated at  his antics. Brad is just that guy who wants to share Christ. He is that guy willing to go the extra mile. He is that guy I have watched grow from a young man on fire for God to a man with a mission, with a purpose, who is driven to succeed in all God's ways.

So, Brad takes this mission trip and returns changed. I had heard bits and pieces of his mission trip, but until today I had not heard the whole story. He shared about the people he met, and the impact they made on his life. He is there to make an impact on them, and an impact I am sure he left. But as he went out to serve he came back with much much more.

As I sat listening to him my heart was stirred. A passion was building and my prayers were being answered. Am I going to Bolivia anytime soon? I don't think so, but you never know with God. Where I am going though? I want to be wherever God is. I want to be wherever He is calling me to be. I am tired of sitting and waiting for things to happen. Just what am I expecting? Am I waiting for God to just bring others to my door? Maybe I am just waiting for God to do all the work. I want to make a difference. Here I am thinking, "Bolivia, wow, I would never survive." I haven't even had the courage to go to my neighbor's house and share the Lord with them. If my fears are holding me back here, God sure enough isn't going to call me somewhere else. My faith needs to be bigger. My fears need to be smaller. I keep waiting for God to change me. It isn't Him I am waiting on, it's been me the whole time.

We never know just where God is going to call us, but shouldn't we be ready for the call? I must first be willing for God to reach my heart. I don't have to travel around the world for a mission. I have one right here in my home town. I have one with everyone I meet! Picture the impact just one person could make with everyone they come in contact with if they are just willing to show their faith! Wow!

Shame came across my face today. I have come into contact with so many lately and I know I did not try to make the impact that I should. I had almost twenty young women sitting in front of me a few days ago and I could have simply said, "Should we pray?" I didn't. I came home astonished at these young women, when I in fact had a chance to make an impact on their lives, but didn't. A few days ago I too was sitting in a restaurant having lunch. There was a couple behind me. Two women, and they were discussing an affair one was having. We were the only ones in the restaurant. I wasn't trying to listen. They were talking so loudly you couldn't keep from hearing. I didn't want to listen. I almost asked for another table. As I sat listening again I was astonished. I really didn't think this stuff happened. I am thinking of television and soap operas. But it does. It happens daily. I walked out of that restaurant thinking, "I just can't believe that." Where was my prayer? Where was my witness? I am not talking about fixing everything in front of me. I am simply talking about praying for everyone I come in contact with. Simply showing others a faith I have and want to share. But until I step out of my box is that going to happen?

I sit in front of junior high kids each Wednesday night. Talking to them is just easy. Sharing with them is so awesome. There are those moments I question if I am the right person to be sitting before them, and I think God has answered that for me. I pray before I meet these kids. I pray for our class and the others. See, for me, being in church is so easy. It's when I walk out that door that I begin to tremble in my faith.

Am I afraid someone will reject Christ or me? Am I afraid I will offend someone or someone will offend me? In this walk with Christ it cannot be about me. I looked upon these pictures that Brad was showing. These people have nothing. The water they drink we would not feed our cattle. The houses they live in? I have seen dogs have better living conditions. Food? Are you kidding me? They are not sitting in a Mexican restaurant each Sunday after church. They aren't worried about shopping at Old Navy's sale. What did they have? Smiles upon smiles. They had laughter. It wasn't the material things in this world making them happy. They were a community, depending upon each other, reaching out to each other. We don't even seem to do much of that anymore. We stay in our own little circles and our happy, contented box.

I want to throw away my circle of comfort and get out of that box holding me in. Here I am complaining all the time about what we don't have. As my husband has been laid off we have gone without a lot, really we have, but nothing compared to others. I always say things can always be worse, but do we really know what that means? When we are hungry we are able to get food somewhere. We can take a shower and get cleaned up. We have luxuries others have never even heard of, much less desire.

What are we doing America? We don't look into the eyes of others anymore. We seem to pass by, thinking only of our own troubles. I can sit before you today and tell you, God has never left me or my family in the midst of a trial. We have struggled, but we have never really known want. God always meets our needs.

I want my legacy to be made of Christ. My epitaph? I want it to say, "Jesus looked good on her." I want Jesus to shine before my life. I want to speak and have others hear Jesus. I want to walk and have others see Him moving through me. The more I keep waiting, the more time that keeps passing. I don't want to look back and wonder, "Could I have done more?" I want to look back on my life and see Christ. I want to serve Him. I want to give. I want more than compassion to reach my lips, but in my actions.

As I have been praying for God to change my heart, today was that day. Today was one of those powerful days that the Holy Spirit just grabed my heart and I knew without a doubt God has some big things in store for me and He has just been waiting for me to get out of that box and really seek Him with a heart desiring more than just giving contently, but giving until it hurts. We were not meant to be content.

Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.

Psalm 42:1-2 "As a deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, the living God."

Psalm 25:4-5 "Show me Your ways, O Lord; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day."

Psalm 19:14 "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer."

Deuteronomy 10:12-13 "And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the Lord your God will all your heart and will all your soul, and to keep the commandments of the Lord and His statutes which I command you today for your good?"

Mark 16:15-16 "And He said to them, 'Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned."

See, today was one of those life changing days for me. Look what happened to me in just spending an hour or so in church today with an open heart. Just what if I spent more time seeking God. More time reaching out. Life is more than me saying I am a Christian, but living out my faith in this world. It's getting involved. It's participating in those things that take time and energy. We can't just sit back and wait for others to do God's work. He has called us for a higher purpose!  Starting right here in my own heart, then reaching my family, friends, my neighbors and far across the land. Our co-workers. The kids we sit next to in school. There is no one without hope and there is no one who is not reachable. We just must be willing to be those open vessels just as Brad is. We must make ourselves vulnerable and be willing to reach out even if no one reaches back. Our job is to plant those seeds. It is God's to bring in the harvest when ready. Are you ready? Are you willing? Today can be the day we make changes that will begin a whole new walk.

Thank you Brad. Thank you for sharing your heart. God looks good on you Brad Banderman!

THE HOUSE ON MALCOLM STREET by LEISHA KELLY

The faith of a child can only bring us closer to Christ when we are in their presence. Little Eliza is a precious girl who has lost her father and is now leaving her home town with her mother. After the death of Leah Breckenridge's husband life changed forever. Leah has nothing left except for Eliza and fears of what tomorrow will bring. Leah has been invited to stay with Aunt Marigold in Illinois, a train ride from Missouri. As Eliza sees the trip as a exciting journey, Leah sees it as one of fear and anxiety. Leah is carrying burdens with her that no one should have to carry, but the through the faith of her daughter, she is beginning to understand that God is there. Always has been. There is a deep fear that Leah carries of trains, after all one did take the life of her husband. But there is so much more that life has taken from Leah. As she gets off the train she meets a young man who is not willing for her to go alone, but wants to help her on her way. This young man is Josiah Walsh. He too lives with Aunt Marigold and is carrying burdens of his own. There is healing in this house. A home where the Lord's presence is strong. Everyone needs an Aunt Marigold in their life. I know I do. Throughout this story we see healing, forgiveness, and grace. Family ties are bonded and painful pasts are broken. This is such a sweet story. What was my favorite character? Eliza, the child of faith. I can learn from this story to have a child like faith. To not be held back in fear, but to trust my Savior. This is one you will adore and one that has such strong meanings. There is so much to share, but then I would be giving too much away and I wouldn't want to do that. Happy reading!

This book was a gift from Revell for it's review.

Leisha Kelly is the author of several bestselling historical fiction books, including Emma's Gift, Julia's Hope, and Katie's Dream. She has served many years on her local library board, continuing to bring good reads and educational opportunities to her community. Once a waitress, cafe manager, tutor, and EMT, Leisha is now a busy novelist and speaker who is active in the ministries of her church. She lives with her family in Illinois.

A MEMORY BETWEEN US by SARAH SUNDIN

Are you looking for a book to warm your heart? Look no further. Sarah Sundin has added book 2 in the Wings of Glory Series. The first was "A Distant Melody". Book 2 moves from the story of Walt and Alley to Walt's brother, Jack Novac. He has a love for flying and has a little too much pride. He comes from a family of Pastors, but Jack feels he has a different calling. A hit occurs to the plane Jack is leading and he is injured.  Jack is brought to the hospital where a lovely nurse, Ruth Doherty, cares for him. As Jack is healing, Ruth's heart is beginning to stir, but she doesn't want to date. There are things from her past that are keeping her from allowing love to touch her. Ruth's story touches my heart. She is not received by the other nurses. Ruth carries a deep beauty that is rare and jealousy is stirred. But Ruth finds a real friend. One she is learning to trust, May. Charlie, Jack's friend, is teaching Jack to humble himself and Charlie is falling for the friend who is reaching out to Ruth. They become more than friends, but family really. The Lord seems to know just what they all need. Ruth is also caring  for her orphaned siblings. She lost her parents and is doing everything she can to care for those who cannot yet care for themselves. Ruth is one of those who has a heart willing to give, but her heart is in need of repair. Who will give Ruth what she needs? As World War 2 is raging on, we get a glimpse of what the men and women of this time are going through. Sarah is gifted at bringing us right there in the air with Jack and in the hearts of those yearning for more. Ruth is a character you fall in love with. She is a survivor and one who continues to press on. Jack sees something in Sarah that he himself is desiring, a heart beyond himself. We see faith grow within these pages. We see forgiveness bring healing, and we see love touch the lips of those who have been for more. I can only say praises for this second book of the series. I cannot wait for the third! Grab yourself a cup of coffee, wrap up warm and you will be in for a ride to another place and time.

This book was a gift from Revell for it's review.

Sarah Sundin is the author of A Distant Melody. Her great-uncle flew with the US Eighth Air Force in England during WWII. Sarah lives in California with her husband and three children.

We have a winner!!!

The winner of the contest from Suzanne Woods Fisher's interview is Ms. Melissa Hollis Keller!! Congraduations girl! You now can add, "The Choice" and "The Waiting" to your collection of great reads!!! Thanks for leaving a comment for Suzanne and I!! You will more than enjoy these books, but love them! Thanks for always leaving your thoughts and sharing your heart!

LETS CHAT FRIDAY with LYNN RUSH

I was so excited when Lynn accepted my invitation to be a guest here at the Nest! I became friends with Lynn on Facebook. Seems to be the place where the Lord keeps blessing me with amazing friendships who make my journey sweeter and are teaching me valuable lessons I am taking to heart. Lynn is one of those girls who inspires. Yes, this girl, with her bike inspires me to keep pushing forward. She inspires me to try harder and not give up, pressing forward. I don't think she even knows the impact she has made on my life. Well, she does now. lol  With Fibromyalgia it is hard to keep going and moving, but Lynn made me look at life through new eyes. She gave me a vision of being healthy, exercising and having fun doing so! So Lynn, thank you for inspiring me not only in motivation, but in writing. My friends, this girl can write! You see a deep passion in her words. Over at her blog she involves her readers and invites them to be part of her journey. I just simply love that about her!  Before we get to our chat, here are a few things about Lynn.

Lynn has both an undergraduate and graduate degree in the mental health field and has enjoyed applying that unique knowledge to developing interesting characters. When Lynn’s not writing, she spends time enjoying the Arizona sunshine by road biking with her husband of fourteen years and going on five-mile jogs with her loveable Shetland Sheep dogs. She always makes time to read a good speculative fiction novel, her favorites being Frank Peretti, PC Cast, Charlaine Harris and Stephanie Meyer.

I’m very active online, so come find me!

Catch the Rush: http://www.lynnrush.com/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/LynnRushWrites

Twitter: www.twitter.com/LynnRush

My Agent: Cari Foulk: http://tribelit.com/

Lynn Rush began her writing career in 2008, since then producing twelve paranormal romance novels. She is actively involved with Romance Writers of America (RWA) and its special interest chapter Fantasy, Futuristic and Paranormal (FF&P).

Here is our chat!! Enjoy and be blessed!!

(Robin)  Lynn, tell me a little about yourself

(Lynn) I’m pretty boring, actually. You can find me sitting around home with the laptop perched on my lap, writing pretty much every day…and yes, even Friday nights! **LOL** But as for the basics . . . I’m thirty-something, been married for fourteen years to my soulmate, Charlie. We don’t have kids, but we have two Shelties, Herky and Maddux.

And yep, they’re both named after things we love: Iowa Hawkeyes (Herky) and Greg Maddux (former Atlanta Braves pitcher).

I’m an exercise nut, logging over 100 miles per week on my bike, and I’m currently training to run a half marathon up in beautiful Sedona, Arizona. So, life is pretty routined, but I love it!


(Robin)  Since you have walked with the Lord has there been a time you struggled in your faith? If so, would you please share?
(Lynn) I would say undergraduate school was when I struggled the most. On my own for the first time, no rules, regulations, and no home church. The group I’d been connected with back in high school was FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes- http://www.fca.org/)

 didn’t have a chapter on my college campus. So, I floundered a little to find out where I fit in. I eventually started up an FCA chapter and got hooked in with some great friends and influences.

(Robin)  Has there been an "aha" moment in your life that has changed your perspective?

(Lynn) There have been a few, but the major one I remember is:

I used to do inline speed skating, pretty seriously for a while. Even had a coach who mapped out my daily workouts and everything. I thought I wanted to try and go pro, get sponsored and “make my mark,” etc. . .

Yeah, well, in 2006 I started getting plagued with unexplained injuries. It was very frustrating, because it was holding me back from what I wanted to do. So, at a race, which I had high hopes of placing and doing really well, I totally bonked.

Yeah, as in choked. Freaked out. Panicked.

I barely finished the race.

It was then that I finally realized that I needed to get my life balanced out. Skating had become my only focus in life. It’d consumed me. But I had a husband, a job, and a family that I’d pushed to the side.

So I’d say that really hit me like a 2 x 4 over the head. But it was good.

(Robin)  Do you have a favorite bible story, verse, song or hymn that gives encouragement when struggles come?

(Lynn) Ephesians 6:12: For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the power of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

***and***

James 1:2-3: Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.

(Robin)  What is one thing you look for in a close friend and what is one quality you hope others see in you?

(Lynn) I look for unconditional support and honesty in my friends. I can be a little stinker sometimes, and I need a friend who will love me through it and not be afraid to call me on my attitude. I hope to be that for my friends as well.

(Robin) What are a few of your favorite books you have in your collection you would share with a friend?

(Lynn) I have quite a few, but This Present Darkness, by Frank Peretti, was the most influential to me in the beginning.

And yes, I’ll admit it: I’d share all the Twilight books Stephanie Meyer wrote with my friends. 

(Robin)  When life seems to go crazy, what is one thing you do to bring comfort and peace?

(Lynn) Hang out with my hubby. I couldn’t imagine getting through anything without him. He and I will hop on our road bikes and ride for a bunch of miles. It’s time for me to think and pray and just…be.

(Robin)  What is one thing about yourself you admire?
(Lynn) Wow, I’ve never been asked this before. Kinda threw me for a loop. I’ve been told I’m a happy person, and I like that. If my smile or positive attitude can help someone else who is maybe having a rough day, then I’m happy.

(Robin)  What are a few of the things you love surrounding you?

(Lynn) I’m sitting in my spare bedroom right now and to my right sits my Bible and a few books I’m reading such as Paranormalcy, by Kiersten White and So Over It, by Stephanie Morrill, so that makes me happy for sure. But one more thing that just makes me smile. . . my sweet dog, Herky, is lying on the floor to the left of my feet! That just makes me happy!

(Robin)  What are your deepest passions?

(Lynn) Being a good wife to Charlie, writing a novel that someone will enjoy reading someday, and making a positive impact on the people surrounding me whether it be the people I know online or my friends down the street.

(Robin)  What is the best advice ever given to you?

(Lynn) “Take the next step.”

After I’d written my first novel I was telling my friend, Michele, that I wasn’t sure what I should do next. I’d never planned on ever being a writer so I was completely clueless.

She just looked at me and said, “Take the next step. See where it takes you.”

So I did, and I never would have guessed it would lead to writing several more novels and getting an agent!

(Robin)  In the legacy you leave, what is one thing you hope out shines before all others?

(Lynn) That I was a loving person.

(Robin) What are you currently working on?

(Lynn) I just finished up Soul Saver (http://wp.me/PkfPH-1LK)

and am starting to toss around a few new ideas for sequels to Wasteland (http://wp.me/PkfPH-13v)

and Violet Midnight (http://wp.me/PkfPH-em)so we’ll see where it leads.


(Robin)  How do you define success?

(Lynn) That’s a great question. For me, it’s using the gifts bestowed upon me to make a difference. Right now that seems to be writing and being a wife. Those are two things I love to do, and I’m going to do them to the best of my ability so I can make a positive impact on people’s lives.

Lynn, thank you so much for stopping in and sharing your heart with us. What a blessing are you and all your life speaks! Yes, I love the fact we can just simply take the next step. I seem to get stuck right where I am instead of moving along. What great encouragement and wisdom in those simple words. Check out Lynn's blog and all she is doing. Take this time to share your heart with Lynn. Leave her a comment letting her know just how she blesses you. May blessings always follow you Lynn!!

LETS CHAT FRIDAY with VANNETTA CHAPMAN

I am finding that the more I am blessed to do interviews with such humble, giving people, the more I am learning about myself. I love hearing the wisdom of others. Letting their words soak in so I can ponder over them.  I love seeing others live their lives for the Lord and serve each moment with a purpose. Not letting one moment pass in waste. I was blessed to read, "A Simple Amish Christmas" for review. If you have not reached for this book yet, you must grab it for the coming season. Grab yourself a warm drink, curl up and begin to turn the pages. It is one you will enjoy and want to pass on to others. I am so happy to have Vannetta here at the Nest. She is one of those woman who just seem to be filled with a great joy that reaches others just by her presence. Joy is contagious and I believe we can catch an abundant amount by this special lady. I simply believe the more we share the more we grow. When we open our hearts to others we not only give a gift for them to treasure, but we too learn about ourselves with each piece of our heart we share. Get comfortable my friends. You are in for a treat.

(Robin) Vannetta, tell me a little about yourself

(Vannetta) I've been writing for 11 years - the first 5 as a freelance writer doing pieces in Christian family life magazines. The last 6 I've been writing novels. A Simple Amish Christmas is my 9th, though it's my first inspirational to be published.

(Robin) Since you have walked with the Lord has there been a time you struggled in your faith? If so, would you please share?

(Vannetta) I wouldn't say there's been a time that I've struggled in my faith. I've been blessed to have a very simplistic attitude in life and in my faith. Of course I have had STRUGGLES, and some of those have been extreme like when I was a single mom, but I always knew God had a plan for me and that eventually, given enough time, I would understand what it was.

(Robin) Has there been an "aha" moment in your life that has changed your perspective?

(Vannetta) Hmm. Of course my attitude has changed as I've grown older. I worry less about trivial things, and I don't hold on to anger at all -- there's simply not enough time left. I turn 48 next year, so I must be close to middle-aged! One "aha" moment in particular I recall was when my son was young and I was a nervous mother. My mom asked me if I trusted God or not, and I thought that was a bit harsh, but she pushed me even more. She said either I believed the things I professed or I didn't, and if I did, then I should rest easy at night knowing my child was safe ALWAYS. That was a real turning point in my adult life.

(Robin) Do you have a favorite bible story, verse, song or hymn that gives encouragement when struggles come?

(Vannetta) Absolutely, Jeremiah 29:11. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future."

(Robin) What is one thing you look for in a close friend and what is one quality you hope others see in you?

(Vannetta) Compassion. I try to be kind and that's what I look for in others - simple kindness.

(Robin) What are a few of your favorite books you have in your collection you would share with a friend?

(Vannetta) Cindy Woodsmall's "Hope of Refuge"

Josh Hamilton's "Beyond Belief"

Max Lucado's "Grace for the Moment"

(Robin) When life seems to go crazy, what is one thing you do to bring comfort and peace?

(Vannetta) I play the piano. It's what I've always done to calm myself, to connect with God, and to just balance those emotions inside.

(Robin) What is one thing about yourself you admire?

(Vannetta) I like that I'm not a whiner. I have a very positive outlook on life, and I have my parents to thank for that - I think it was genetically passed on to me.

(Robin) What are a few of the things you love surrounding you?

(Vannetta) I live in the country now, and I adore that. It's very peaceful. We have deer in our yard, are surrounded by oak trees, and it's just beautiful. I love being able to take a walk out through the woods or go and sit in the hammock and watch the deer.

(Robin) What are your deepest passions?

(Vannetta) People, music, words, my family, and of course my faith.

(Robin) What is the best advice ever given to you?

(Vannetta) "Live your life." I don't even remember who said it, but the general idea really stuck with me - to stop blaming your circumstances, other people, or whatever stands between you and your dreams. It's your life. Live it.

(Robin) In the legacy you leave, what is one thing you hope out shines before all others?
(Vanetta) Grace. If in any small way, what I write and the way I live can point toward God's grace, then I'll be satisfied.

(Robin) What are you currently working on?

(Vannetta) Three books for Zondervan entitled Shipshewana Amish Mystery series. These are fun stories set in Indiana that center around two women (one Amish, one Englisch), a quilt shop, and a murder.

(Robin) How do you define success?
(Vannetta) I think success is when you're able to do what you feel called to do. For me, that's writing, and since I'm doing it - I feel pretty successful. Selling a lot of books would be great too, but real success for me is getting up in the morning and feeling good about what you need to do that day.

Such simple words that leave a powerful impact on one.  I simply love how you bring all things together with such a deep faith. What wonderful words from your mother. Just simply asking, "Do you believe or not?" I want to walk with a faith like that. One with no doubt, only belief in the Savior, trusting Him every step of the way. Thank you Vannetta. You have blessed me today. I know you have blessed my readers. Please leave Vannetta a few of your thoughts letting her know just how you were blessed by her words today.

If you would like to follow Vannetta and see all she is up to just follow these links:

http://vannettachapman.com/

http://vannettachapman.wordpress.com/