HONOR REDEEMED by LOREE LOUGH

Loree Lough as brought us the second installment in, "The First Responders Series", entitled, "Honor Redeemed". Now, before we begin, I would encourage you to begin with book one in the series, "From Ashes To Honor". I have had the great pleasure of reading both of these titles and I can tell you that they are at the top of my favorites list!

If you have read the first book and got to those last pages and thought, "Wait, it can't end like this", don't worry. We get to see, Mercy and Austin, return along with with more amazing characters. Just a hint.. your going to love their story! 

Now we are introduced to Honor Mackenzie and Matt Phillips. Once again, I fell in love with these characters. Yes, Loree, takes us through the journey of those lives touched by 9/11. We see the scars left behind and the struggles these characters must overcome.

Book two is just as AWESOME as book one in this series! I love how Loree names her characters to fit the story. We meet, Honor, in this book and she comes across as being tough and hard. We soon understand why. Both, Honor and Matt, come with pasts that seem to hold them back from trusting and letting go. Honor is a huge theme in this story.

Again, Loree, brings these heroes to life right before our eyes. We see them at work and we see how their job isn't just a job, but a part of them. They almost define themselves by the service and sacrifice they give. Honor works with Search and Rescue and Matt is a reporter, with a background as a First Responder. When they meet you would think they were worlds apart, but they have much more in common than they realize.

Once again, Loree, takes us on a journey through the depths of pain and into the days of joy. We see these characters come to life before our eyes. Loree has the gift of allowing us to feel what the characters are experiencing. This story brought me to tears on more than one occasion.

If you haven't picked up a book written by Loree Lough yet, you are missing out, my friend. She is gifted with the pen and you will not soon forget the pages that bring faith alive.

Watch for book three,"A Man of Honor" out in fall of 2012.

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

Loree Lough:

In addition to more than 70 books in print, Loree Lough has coauthored the devotional Be Still . . . and Let Your Nail Polish Dry. Loree’s articles have appeared in major newspapers and magazines, and she is a regular columnist for Christian Fiction Online. Loree lives near Baltimore with her husband and a ‘fraidy cat’ rescue dog.

Enjoy the book trailer!!



FROM ASHES TO HONOR by LOREE LOUGH

When you pick up a book penned by Loree Lough, you know your in for a special treat. She has the ability to take you back in time. She has the gift bringing you to the heart of a character as they experience falling in love, facing struggles and coming to terms with loss. You find yourself cheering on the characters that she brings to life. When they feel joy you cannot have a grin on your face. Loree takes you are on a journey. A journey you won't soon forget. She sets the stage and your off, turning pages all night.

She has written, "From Ashes To Honor", book one in her new series , "The First Responders". Loree takes us back to that day we will never forget. It's that day we now have imprinted on our hearts forever. 9/11 was a tragedy that rocked our world, but brought us together, stronger than ever before. It made us very aware of the sacrifices of those First Responders and the families they have at home waiting each time they leave out on a call.

In this first book, Loree, brings us to know two characters with very different experiences. One who was there in the towers and one helping those First Responders to cope with the nightmares that plague them. This book isn't just about the day of 9/11, but the years following and this day lives with those involved in many different ways. They want to move forward, but guilt overcomes them as they try to forget.

We meet Mercy and Austin. Two people who I fell in love with instantly. Although I wasn't there that day, I could feel their pain. Deep pain. One in a building, another watching, knowing her job was about to get harder. As Austin tries to overcome his pain, Mercy, holds a pain that has been kept hidden as she reached out to others. For me, both of these characters were heroes.

Something I loved was how, Loree, named the character, Mercy. All throughout this book we see God's mercy move. We see Him at work in the lives of those who believe and in the lives of those choosing not to.

If you haven't read a book penned by Loree Lough yet, I encourage you to begin with this remarkable series. It is one you will never forget. I am one of her biggest fans!

Stay tuned for book 2, coming out soon. Watch for the title, Honor Redeemed. Another you will fall in love with, my friends!

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

Loree Lough:

In addition to more than 70 books in print, Loree Lough has coauthored the devotional Be Still . . . and Let Your Nail Polish Dry. Loree’s articles have appeared in major newspapers and magazines, and she is a regular columnist for Christian Fiction Online. Loree lives near Baltimore with her husband and a ‘fraidy cat’ rescue dog.

Take a peek at the book trailer!

The Winner of subMISSION is..

The winner of Zeke Lam's new book, "subMISSION", is Amanda Sikes! Congradulations Amanda! You are going to love this book! I'm so excited for you! As soon as I gather your information, Zeke, will send out this gem to you.

Thank you to all those who left comments and visit my Nest. If you didn't catch our interview here is the link to my chat with Zeke.

http://robinsnest66.blogspot.com/2011/12/lets-chat-friday-with-zeke-lam.html

Just a girl trying to live for Christ

I have made the choice to surround myself with everything about Jesus. If you go to my facebook page you will see scripture after scripture. You will see quotes on encouragement and living the Christian life. Each day I write about my walk with Christ. I share the blessings and the struggles before me. I have my Bibles surrounding me at home. Some are open and others I have placed in places where they always catch my vision. But as I do this I am anything but perfect. I am not trying to put on a show and have others think I'm something I'm not. I am a girl who loves Jesus and is living each day trying to bring glory and honor to Him. Most days I struggle in this area. How about you? After all, aren't we real?

I have days where I don't pick up my Bible. There are Sundays that I choose to stay in bed. I get angry. I say things I shouldn't. Ugh..there are days where curse words seem to roll off my tongue with ease. I get caught up in gossip just like the person sitting next to me in my pew. I have a past and I live with regret. I look back on my life and clearly see where Jesus was present and the times I pushed Him out of the way because I thought I knew the road before me better than He.

For me, this doesn't make me less of a Christian. Can you really be less or more of a Christian? I'm not so sure. We seem to judge one an other's walk on what we see before us. We are always searching for fruit present in the lives of those around us, but not everyone shows all they do for Christ so all can see. Some are quiet about their work. The ministry before them. But there on that day you make the wrong choice is someone standing in judgement. "Hm, I knew she wasn't a Christian." Sound familiar?

What about those days when no one is looking? What about that car ride to church? That late night when your child doesn't come home on time? That car that cuts you off and almost causes a great accident before your eyes? We all falter in our steps, so why do we try to keep those hidden from view? We walk in church like we are the perfect family. Nothing is wrong in our lives. Everything is great. For me, this makes me sad. Is this where those in the world see Christians as hypocrites? Is this where some get the idea that we think we are better than others? Why can't we just be real? In us being real, I think we can make a much greater impact for Christ. People need to see us in our struggles and see us turn to Christ for inspiration and encouragement. They need to see us live real lives. Christianity isn't a show. It's a walk. A way of life. We have nothing to be ashamed of as long as we are trying with all our heart to follow Him.

Jesus knows my heart. He sees what others do not see. He sees me at my weakest point and when I am basking in joy. He sees those texts and listens to my phone calls. He sees me deep in the night and during the day light hours when others are around me. He knows what music plays on my radio and what movies I watch. Again, Jesus, knows my heart.

He knows that each day I am determined to live for Him. He sees me make decisions, right or wrong. I have learned I cannot live my day for others. I cannot search for acceptance in others. I am not going to find the encouragement in others that I need so very much. Every day I hear Him calling me closer to Him. He knows I'm not perfect. He knows each and every area I struggle in daily.

We are a work in progress. We can never forget that, especially when we look at others. There is no great and small in God's eyes. We are His children. Children He is cheering on to succeed in life. Not success as the world sees it, but success in faith and service. Success in being the child of God He has created me to be. Even when I make a mistake, I am to brush myself off and get right back up again. He doesn't want us to stay down. He wants to see us soar and soar for Him. This is how others are going to come to know Christ as their Savior. Not through perfect people. Not through people putting on a show, but real, down to earth people, who make mistakes. Those very people that live with a past and have regrets. In our trying to be perfect we lose Christ somewhere along the way and our walk becomes about us, not Him.

Are you struggling at this very moment? Maybe your holding in anger issues that have not be settled yet. Hurts that you are wearing like a winter coat. Jealous thoughts about those around you. Judging instead of giving grace. Our hearts bleed and sometimes it's hard to stop the flow. I encourage you to lay all your struggles before God today. Give Him all those things that are tripping you up along the way. Those folks who judge you and talk about you behind your back. Give it all to Jesus today and allow Him to empty you of your regrets. Allow Him to wash you with His grace and cover you with His mercy. His love is wide and far reaching.

Our mistakes are not the end of the world. Jesus can take ash and turn it into beauty. But first we must be honest before everyone. In sharing with others, it gives those around us encouragement to share. Pretty soon, the grace of God is being wrapped around us and He comes alive through our lives. Take off that mask of perfection today and be real to those around you, allowing them to see Christ alive in your life as you seek to serve the One who came to give you life.

"I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them."

Psalm 139:14-16

 "But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

1 Samuel 16:7

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."

Ephesians 2:10

Your name is written there!

Have you thought much about your name? Many can't remember names. They remember faces and then try with all their might to make a connection. That would be me! I am horrible with names. I will never forget a face though. For this very reason we make up business cards not just with our information, but with our photo added. It gives that person something extra.

A few years ago my husband and I were in a local store doing our shopping and a woman waves to us. We kindly wave back with a smile. She approaches us and just begins talking as though we were old friends. She asked us all about our children and what we were all up to. We conversed with her also. After a twenty minute conversation, I look to my husband and he looks to me and we say at the same time, "Who was that woman?"

Some of you might be thinking, "Well, why didn't you just ask her who she was?" Now looking back, that would have been our best bet, but at the time, she knew us so very well, I didn't want to appear rude. So, after some chatting, we finally figure out who this woman was chatting with us. It was then we remembered her husband and sweet children. Does this ever happen to you?

This brings me to Christ. Isn't that cool how everything always brings us right back to Him? I LOVE it! As I have been reading my study Bible, I came across a few verses in the book of Revelation that just stood out to me like never before. I want to share those verses with you now, so you can understand this new revelation of mine.

"Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it from whose presence earth and heaven fled away, and no place was found for them. And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged from the things which were written in the books, according to their deeds."

Revelation 20:11-12

"He who overcomes will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."

Revelation 3:5-6

To begin, we have a God who knows our name before our first breath has ever escaped us. Think of how important our name is to our God. We have a God who never forgets our name. Our name is written in the book of life before our name is written in bold on our birth certificate. That's pretty amazing stuff.

See, for many years I have assumed our name was written in the book of life when we accepted Christ as our Savior. At that moment we know Him as our personal Savior, our name is written in the book of life, but as I study, that simple isn't true. Which brings me to that wonderful light bulb moment of joy. For me, this was even more exciting.

We have a God who loves us so much He gave His life for us. (John 3:16) The coolest part for me is the fact that my name was written in the book of life already before I ever knew my Savior. He was already interceding for me. He was already going to His Father in heaven on my behalf, calling me to Him. He has always been with me. He has repeated my name to His Father more times that I could ever imagine. I can sit back in awe of the conversations they have probably had about me. The prayers that have been ushered to my Father's ears brings me to my knees in humility.

My name was written in the book of life in hopes that I would accept the Savior who loved me before I was ever born! Think about it. God was the first person to ever write your name! This gives new life to hope more than ever for me. It gives me even greater conversation to bring to others.

We see verses before us that speak of our name being blotted out of the book of life. This always puzzled me. Then it hit me. A name can only be blotted out or erased if it was written there before hand, because once saved always saved. Our name is blotted out of the book of life only and only when we take our last breath and have not accepted Christ as our Savior.

Can you imagine that moment for God when He must erase a name He has been praying over and seeking for all the years they have been alive? Can you see the sadness in His eyes? The hurt He must feel? He has been waiting for you, you whole entire life, dear friend!

It humbles me to know that each and every word and deed that has come from my life will be judged. Not against my standard, but against God's. My mouth will be shut and unable to make excuses. Once in front of my Savior all my excuses are gone. He has showed me His grace and has given me His mercy.

Now, this is a deep issue with many facets to study, but we can know one thing for sure. We have a God who loves us. We have a God who wants to spend all of eternity with us. Eternity is something I cannot even comprehend. I don't have to understand everything. I just must have faith. As I read my Bible, the Holy Spirit is quick to show me just what I am to uncover and understand.

So, my friend, you can hold security in the fact that today your name is written in the book of life. The rest is up to you on whether or not it will remain there. For your name to remain in the book of life you must first accept Christ as your Savior, second believe that He is the Savior, and third, confess your sins to Him. (Romans 3:23-26)

For me, one of the most wondrous gifts is the fact that He chose me! I didn't choose Him. He chose me and gives me the free gift to either accept Him or to reject Him. Friend, I pray that today you accept Him. With Him your life will be forever changed and you will have a name that will never be blotted out from the book of life. Eternal security in Christ is the greatest gift we could come to realize this season as we celebrate His birth.

So, what are you learning in  your time of study? Are you searching for answers to questions you have held onto for some time now? Seek Christ today. Search His Word. He will show Himself to you, as He does to all who seek to know Him.

Stop looking outside and take a good look inside

We often look out our windows in wonder of what life would be like elsewhere. We look next door at all the happenings and wonder, "What would it be like?" We look outside our window and wish for something else. We get caught up in all the chores, the complaining, and struggles and just wonder, "If I were somewhere else, what would it be like?"

We can get into a disagreement and rush out the door into our car, taking off down the road, in hopes of getting miles away from the hurt. We look at all the days brings and some times it's just too much to bear, so we dream of elsewhere.

We see the cracks in the ceiling and the dust on the Bible and wonder why things are the way they are today in our life. We ask ourselves, "What if I would have done something else? What if I would have made different choices?" It's like we forget to see the sun shining through the clouds. All we seem to see anymore is the rain pouring down. Not even an umbrella could keep us dry. No shovel could dig as deep to get us out of our pit.

We tend to think things are so bad, until we finally look out the window. Can you see them? The neighbor fighting for their life as they battle cancer? The couple married for twenty-five years, now divorcing over an affair that just seemed to happen? The young boy who gets into his car every evening with a beer trying to drown out all his pain he no longer wants to carry? The teenager afraid to go to school because the bullying is so terrible. They are now overtaken with the thoughts of others to ease the pain. Should they or shouldn't they? The mother without sleep, who doesn't even remember the last day she slept, who stays near her sick child with an illness no one can understand.

Do you see them all? Right out your window are people hurting with hurts that fill this world with pain. Families hungry that have lost their jobs and haven't found hopes of finding a job. The addictions, the abuse, the tears that hide during the day, but fall at night when no one is looking. Can you see them?

My friends, pain is pain. We all feel it. We all know it very well. But dear one, count your blessings. There is always one who is in dire straights worse than what we can imagine. Our worst day is their best day! Give that some thought.

I think our windows need a little cleaning and we need to get a new view. There are days I drive to town, my radio up loud and my hand lifted in praise. I pull into my drive way and just sit there, with the music playing and tears streaming down my cheeks in praise to my Savior.

I was one of those girls looking out the window once. Now, I am that girl who cannot get enough of what's inside my windows. Sure, life isn't perfect. Trouble knocks at our door. Struggles come in all different shapes and sizes, but I realize the blessings before my eyes and refuse to take for granted all that God has blessed me with today.

My home is filled with warmth, laughter and most of all, the love of Christ. Home is my safe place. It's the place filled with memories of children growing up. It's the place where God has grown me into the woman I am today. How can I not be in praise of Him?

We seem to look for those big things in life. Those shockers that knock us off our feet. We wait for the miracle to happen before we give praise. But in reality, it's those small gifts that mean the most. When we fill our home with Christ, there is nothing that can remove the love in our home. He has the power to fill each room with gifts of glory. A sleeping child. A giggle. The quiet of the night. Can you see them? No matter what your circumstances are, His blessings are alive and well in our home. Just step outside for a bit and look in. Stay there for a while and soak it all in. You will see all that you have been missing. Don't get overly excited about all that's outside. Remember to look in and praise God for all you do have!

"Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again-rejoice!"

Philippians 4:4

"Be thankful in ALL circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus."

1 Thessalonians 5:18

"Don't worry about anything: instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."

Philippianss 4:6-7

LETS CHAT FRIDAY with Author ZEKE LAM (Book Give A Way)

Hello there dear friends, it has been a while since I have brought Lets Chat Friday to life, hasn't it? Well today I have a special treat for you. A guest who has just written a book and has much wisdom to share. I just know you will be blessed as, Zeke, answers questions that most would like to know, but never get the chance to ask. It is my hope that you will get to know, Zeke, a little better, and find great blessings in this chat with him. So, grab yourself that favorite cup of coffee and have a seat. You are in for a treat!

Lets Chat Friday

with guest

Zeke Lam

It's a pleasure to have you join us, Zeke. Could you tell us a little about yourself?

I am 27 years old and have been married to my beautiful wife, Kathleen, for 6 years. We have three children (4, 2, and 2 months) that we love very much. I have ministered since the age of 18 as a youth minister and evangelist. In addition to this, I operate a small business which constructs ornamental concrete such as flower pots, bird baths, etc. I also help out with the family furniture business when time permits. We are passionate to see Christ glorified through our lives, and constantly remain seek to use our lives to share the Gospel. This has led our family all over the world. Our most recent “adventure” involved us literally driving to a town in Texas, renting an apartment, and seeking the Lord. Although we knew nobody or anything about the place, God gave us an entire church fellowship in 2 days! This turned into an incredible 7 month stay that is surely not finished yet.

I would love for you to share your testimony with us. Always love hearing just how one came to know Christ as their Savior.

As a child, I occasionally attended church with grandparents. Although I heard and received the Gospel there, real transformation did not occur until I began attending a nearby Christian school at about the age of 13. I this environment, I received a steady diet of the Word, and by the age of 16 or 17, God really began to draw me nearer. The adolescent seasons were absent from my life because some serious family illnesses required me to mature quickly. Seeing the loss of loved one’s opened my eyes to the reality of life and death. By 18, I decided to follow the Lord in baptism and begin serving in youth ministry. God continues to use us daily for the advancement of His Kingdom.

Has there been a time in your life where you thought God wasn't present?

The only time I struggle with thoughts such as this is during seasons of transition or change. Sometimes I want answers so quickly, but God desires me to wait and listen. In the midst of seasons such as this, I have to war against such lies that God is not present in my life.

We all struggle and have our ups and downs in our journey through life. Has there been a time in your life where you wanted to give up, but you felt the Lord's presence and through His mighty strength you not only made it through, but learned a great lesson?

My family and I recently finished a journey where I placed more on us than should have been. In addition to family, ministry, and job, I took a full time load of college courses. There were times within those three years that I felt like giving up. It got so exhausting and created tension on many levels. God’s grace led us through and we did learn many valuable lessons. Perhaps the greatest lesson was the one which Jesus spoke to Mary and Martha. Don’t let your serving become a distraction to your relationship with your Savior.

If you could go back to that young man you were at 18, what advice would you give yourself knowing all you know now?

Pursue and obey the voice of God no matter what others think. Never allow the opinion of man to interfere with your obedience to God. Pace yourself, and prepare for battle. No where you are going to stand before you have to stand there.

What are a few of your favorite things you love surrounding you?

My wife and three wonderful babies!

I would love for you to share with us your newest project and how you came about writing this gem.

My current vision is to continue with a SUBMISSION series. The idea for this book was directed by the Holy Spirit as I contemplated the devastation of compromise in our society. In the church, the government, families, and my own life, there is a serious disconnect in relation to Biblical submission. We claim to know and understand the voice and commands of God, but when it comes to exercising these beliefs, we are coming up short. SUBMISSION focuses on leading the Body of Christ worldwide to return to Scriptural obedience.

What advice would you share with someone going through a trial today?

Keep the faith, knowing that God “works everything together for God to those who love Him and who are called according to His purpose.”(Romans8:28) Although you may not understand this trial, God may indeed be positioning you and preparing you for a “such a time as this” moment. Remember, He knows exactly what He must take you through to get you where He needs you to be. Trust that your Father is positioning you for His glory.

What encouraging words could you share with someone facing loss at this time in their life?

Only God is able to provide the level of comfort and peace that you need. Nobody has the “right” words in which to bring healing to your hurting heart. In moments such as this, God promises us that we can “fear no evil” because He comforts us. Commit time to seek Him in an intimate way, and His peace will cover you. Praise Him day and night with lifted arms. Worship always brings me great comfort and peace.

If you could invite three people to have lunch with living or gone from this earth, who would you invite and why?

Gideon- Love to hear about what it was like to prevail with just 300.

D.L. Moody- As one of my heroes, I would love to get Godly advice and wisdom.

Grandfather- I miss him, and would enjoy fellowship.

What are some of your favorite books you have in your collection?

Biographies on preachers, evangelists, missionaries, and people who have given their lives for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, Heavenly Man, The Calling; books of this nature draw me most.

If you could change one thing about today, what would it be and why?

The out of control pace of our society. I would like to slow things down in life to allow families time to sincerely enjoy their time in Christ. Keeping pace can be exhausting, and many times it is the one’s we love most who suffer from this. Don’t get me wrong, I love to work and serve the Lord, but we must be careful about missing His agenda because we are so busy with ours.

At the end of each day what is it that you hope you have accomplished?

At the end of each day, I want to be able to say that I gave my all for Jesus. Whether it is as a husband, father, minister, or pastor, I want to see Christ glorified in every area of my life. In short, each day I desire to fulfill the Great Commission.

What is a typical day in the life of Henry Lam?

Prayer, Bible reading and study, writing, working, discipleship, parenting: Each day is so very different. Most days I commit several hours working with my concrete business to provide income for my family. In addition we minister actively in our church and community.

How do you define success?

For me success is measure by how faithful and committed a person is to the calling that God has placed within them. Whether it is a mega church, small street ministries, being stay home mom, etc. if a person faithfully submits to the calling of Christ in their life, they will be successful. It may be insignificant and an apparent failure to the eye of man, but from the eyes of God, success is measure by obedience.

What is the most empowering advice you have ever received?

Be a man of passion with compassion.

We often think of just the here and now. In your legacy, what is it that you hope to leave behind imprinted on the hearts of everyone you have touched?

I hope to extend the name of Christ throughout this world. If I could leave a legacy imprinted in this world it would be this. Be willing to live your entire life under a level of submission that will make you look crazy and Christ look good. In our homes, places of work, ministries, etc. surrender our lives to Jesus and let Him shine through us.

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

Close friends sacrifice for one another. They have each other’s best interest in mind, which many times may include correction. I pray that others see in me a genuine spirit of love and care to see those around me experience the love of the Savior.

When you were a youngster, what were your dreams growing up? Have those dreams reached your wildest imagination or has God placed you on a different path?

I had the typical dreams of being a hero or sports star of some sort. Never in a million years did a picture happening what the Lord is currently performing in my life. So needless to say, my life has taken a dramatically different path than what I pictured as a youngster.

Could you share some advice on how we can have a successful marriage? Be a successful father and friend?

Being a successful father, friend, or spouse hinges upon our ability to think less about ourselves and more about that other person. This is submission at its finest. All selfishness and pride must be crucified, and we must be willing to love with the best interest of the other person in mind. Sometimes this requires us to be humble and vulnerable. Another aspect of being a successful spouse of parent is leadership. True leaders do so by example, and it is critical that those whom the Lord has entrusted us to lead can visibly see that we practice what we preach. Saying one thing and doing another is devastating to those who look up to you. My advice: Lead by example out of a heart of love with the best interest in mind for the other person’s outcome.

Give a Way!! Everyone loves a Give a Way, right? Well, Zeke, is blessing one of you readers with a copy of his newest project, subMISSION, released early December. All you must to do enter is leave a comment for, Zeke, and the winner will be announced next Wednesday December 14. In your comment please leave your email, so you can be reached, to receive this gem that is sure to bless you.

Zeke, it has been a pleasure getting to know you. Thank you for blessing us with such wisdom. Such gems to walk away with and help us on our journey with Christ. I'd love to have you return for Thursday's Treasure. A segment where you can write a guest post and share it with my readers. Sweet blessings to you, Zeke. May you be blessed today as you have blessed me, along with my readers.



You can find, Zeke, and all he is doing at subMISSION Ministries.

THURSDAY'S TREASURE with guest writer DEBBIE DILLON

The Work of His Hands

Written by

Debbie Dillon

Each year I resurrect the old candy dish and relive the memories that make it dear. It holds laughter and love of family, cherished Christmases past spent in a much simpler time.

Proudly displayed on Grandma’s Christmas table since the 50’s, it’s held all sorts of treats from candied maple nuts to chocolates, to peanut butter cookies and old-fashioned ribbon candy.I remember Grandma’s swollen fingers as she tied the ribbon to the top to make it more festive. The ribbon remains, and always will, just as she tied it her last Christmas with us.

It’s this time of year when I miss her the most – when my own bones and joints scream with the cold. When the wonderful aromas drift from my kitchen and I sense her warmth, almost hear her voice, and imagine that gleam in her eyes.

I consider the many hands at work this time of year; those that know more work than leisure – those unaccustomed to such things as paid vacation days.

I think of the many hands folded in prayer, searching through thin, warn pages of God’s Word for just the right verse, just the right answer to ease the worry and fatigue. What will the New Year bring?

God bless the hands that add a little water to the soup to make it reach to every mouth around the table.

I think of precious little ones learning, kneading, and straining to see above the counter. And how they look to the more skilled hands that offer guidance and instruction; hands that help make a house a home; a place of refuge and peace.

"Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God."

(Titus 2:3-5) NIV

These are the hands that work love into every task. They bring forth moments that steal away little pieces of the heart forever. They hold and comfort, nurture and protect.

As with the hands that first brought forth life and spun the world into being, we can’t undo the work of the Lord – can’t unravel the work of love when it’s born of a sincere heart and embraces another.

"The heavens declare the glory of God;

the skies proclaim the work of his hands.Day after day they pour forth speech;night after night they reveal knowledge."

(Psalm 19:1-2) NIV

May the Lord richly bless the work of your hands!

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas, from my heart to yours.

Debbie Dillon is a wife of 23 years, mom to two teenagers (2 dogs, 4 chickens and the source of all her gray hair; the nasty parrot who sits outside her kitchen window). She’s a church secretary, freelance writer and author of her first book, “Walking in Son-Light,” and founder/editor-in-chief of Christian Women’s Voice Magazine. She’s a coffee drinker, chocolate devourer, dog lover and follower of Christ. If she’s not burning dinner or out in the garden apologizing to her plants for not watering….again, she’s most likely at her blog, the Writin’ 4 Him Café (Writin4him.blogspot.com).

Debbie, blessings to you, sweet friend. I pray you find treasures of God's blessings around every turn as you enjoy this season of His rich blessings upon His children. I just love this post. What wonderful memories you have of your grandmother. This is such a hard season for so many and this is a post to teach us to treasure even the smallest of gifts of those we love. You have an open invitation to come back and join me at the Nest. You have blessed me today as I know your writing has blessed everyone who has joined us today.

Friends, pop over to Debbie's blog and see all she is up to today. Even in her busy schedule, it is clear that she places her love for Christ above all else. For this reason, He completely shines through her and all she does.

Friends, I also invite you to join, Debbie, at her new women's magazine, called, Christian Women's Voice. Just click and it will take you directly to her magazine, that I might add, is amazing! Here is the link if that works better for you: http://christianwomensvoice.org/ You can also find, Debbie, at her blog, Writin' 4 Him Cafe. You too, can find her on facebook!



Color It Up New

This morning I was browsing through my photos on facebook and realized all of my pictures over the last year are all totally different. I am different from my hair style to the glasses I was wearing. Hair color and more.

A friend popped in and we began chatting about how we enjoy the ability to change our blog themes. I tell you, I am definitely a girl of change. I was looking at that as if something was wrong with me. That is until a wise woman popped in and shared with me how good change was for the soul.

I began pondering those thoughts. We can get in a rut can't we? We do the same thing every day. Every weekend we do those same chores. We wear the same style of hair for years. We watch the same television shows and so on we go without change. Ever wonder why we get bored so easily?

There is nothing wrong with change. In fact, if we aren't changing can we really be growing into the person God has created us to be? We can't ignore change either. This December I will be forty-five years old. Goodness, change is here. Over the last few years I have really noticed how my heart has grown. I notice more and more when I am in a rut and that is a place I don't want to be. I guess that would kind of be like living in a dry land in search of water.

If your finding yourself in a rut today, don't be afraid of change. Get out there and do something different. Are you living your dream or have you just been coasting along in fear that you will misstep and fall? There is nothing wrong with changing that career. Going back to school. Searching for that church to call home. Pick up a new book. Move your furniture around. Switch things up for goodness sake.

We can get so used to the same pattern in life that we begin to miss out on the new blessings God has for us. If we never visit a new coffee shop we will never meet new people. God never meant for us to just take the same steps each day. Look at Paul and his journeys. His mission trips took him to many different places.

If your tired of doing the same thing day after day there is no one to blame but yourself. Switch it up! Sure, we still gotta do those chores and dinner still must be on the table. Make something you have been dreaming of having. Turn up the music while you sweep that floor. You might just take off that extra ten pounds your carrying around.

Call up an old friend and invite them to lunch. Take in a new show. Start a new hobby. One you never imagined doing. Go as far to share it with a friend! It's okay to treat yourself to something new. I just purchased a new study bible. You are the only person keeping you in your rut. You wanna learn more, buy a new bible. Grab a pastor's sermon from on line. Ask a friend to begin a Bible study with you.

Color adds to our life. It's okay to get outside the lines. In trying something new, you might find a new favorite. Life is too short to spend your time stuck in a rut. We then find ourselves complaining each day about life. Don't allow your life to pass by with regret. Get up and make change possible today. Do today what you wished you had done yesterday and do it with a smile!

"The only difference between a rut and a grave is their dimensions."

Ellen Glasgow

"The purpose of life is a life of purpose."

Robert Byrne

Bread and Water Seem To Go With Everything

There is nothing like the smell of fresh bread in the oven. A scent unmistakable. It's a scent everyone knows. It just smells like warm love, doesn't it? Just from a few ingredients the aroma takes over your entire home. No matter how you slice it, fresh bread is delicious. It's filling and goes well with everything.

When you sit down at the table to enjoy a family meal the question arises, "Hey, where's the bread?" To my dismay, it is still in the oven, warming and now ready to bring to the table. Everyone reaches in and smiles. Bread just seems to make you smile, doesn't it?

“Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”

John 6:35

Bread is so filling, it could be your only meal. At least for me it could be. Sure, you could add a sliver of butter or some fresh jam, but all alone, it is delicious. As you sit at the table and look across to your guests, you pass the bread around asking, "Would you like a slice?" Now, that is just something inviting.

I have a friend who is the most amazing cook I know. She always has something baking in the oven and when she is making bread you just feel giddy inside as you anticipate that first bite. The aroma just takes you home to a place of security and peace. 

"Jesus answered and said to her, 'Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again; but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life."

John 4:13-14

Have you ever been out on a hot day and a friend offered you a drink of cool water? There is nothing so refreshing when you are dehydrated from the elements around you. I love a cool glass of water, but something even better is a drink from a cool, fresh spring. The water is pure and it quenches your thirst and cools the body. Leaving you refreshed.

Did you know that as you sit down to bask in your dinner of fresh bread the best drink you could ask for is water? No matter the dinner before you, water allows your pallet to taste everything and enjoy what is before you. The pureness of the water brings out the flavors in all that you about to taste.

If you are on a weary journey looking for rest the very thing you need is food and drink. After you have had your fill you are then able to find rest. When we ready for a hike, we make sure we have water in our pack. We need that hydration to make our journey complete. We not only want to make it to our destination, but we want to make it back home. Just that filling will do the trick.

When we have guests in our home we always ask, "Would you like something to drink?" That too makes friends feel at home. It allows them to know that you really do care for them. Your willing to serve them in order to make them feel loved and welcome.

Fresh bread brings people together. Water is inviting. Jesus is our Living Bread and He too is our Water of Life. Without Him something just seems to be missing. Just like the bread on the table or the glasses filled with drink. He adds so much to life. He is the Servant before us filling us with all we need. He gives abundantly. With Him we will never hunger or thirst again. Just taste and see, my friends!

"Give us this day our daily bread."

Matthew 6:11

"And whoever in the name of a disciple gives to one of these little ones even a cup of cold water to drink, truly I say to you, he shall not lose his reward."

Matthew 10:42