Gail-Friends

The Miracle of the Toys

2011-12-25T20:28:00.002-04:00

I am pondering...the miracle of the toys.

Ma'gen Da'vid Synagogue had purchased Christmas toys this week for a family with three children. Their mom and dad recently lost their jobs and couldn't afford much this Christmas.

Friday night at the Shabbat service a stranger came in and asked if there were any children we knew of who needed toys for Christmas. Rabbi Jem said, "We sure do!"

The man was the manager of Walgreens. They had collected toys for children and deliveries had already been made, when someone dropped off another big bag of toys. He drove by our building, saw the cars, and just decided to ask if we knew of a need.

What a blessing the children received. It reminded me of the miracle of the holy oil for the first Hanukkah menorah, and also of the miracle of the loaves and fishes blessed by Yeshua. G-d multiplied what we had, and those little children received huge bags full of toys on Christmas morning.

I am continually amazed by The Father's ability to do above what we can ask or think, and of His miracle-working power at work today.

Blessings to you all, dear readers, and I pray you have joy this Christmas.

I'm linking up with Charlotte's Spiritual Sundays

Daybook for Hanukkah

2011-12-23T15:40:00.001-04:00

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... beautiful sunshine, swaying palm trees, birds singing

I am thinking...about our Chanukkah party tonight

I am thankful...that my mom is nearby

From the learning rooms...(if this applies)

In the kitchen...Cream cheese ( I can't seem to buy enough .....) for the dip I just made, for the salmon sandwiches, and fresh-baked cookies and brownies

I am wearing...a sleeveless tank top and jeans, no shoes 'cause it is HOT (in the 80's)

I am creating...gift bags for the children for the party tonight

I am going...to decorate the hall in an hour

I am wondering... how many children will be there tonight

I am reading...decorating blogs to relax for a few minutes

I am hoping...Mama will be able to come here on Sunday for Christmas

I am looking forward to...attending a candle-light service on Christmas Eve

I am hearing...the strangest Christmas song I've ever heard "Take the Long Way Around the Sea..."

Around the house...many, many Chanukkah menorahs to celebrate Yeshua as the Light of the World!

I am pondering...that song I just mentioned...very deep

One of my favorite things...Latkes!

A few plans for the rest of the week: lots of business to take care of for Mama

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

The Light of Hanukkah

2011-12-18T09:43:00.003-04:00

Glowing candles light my grandson's face and dance in his eyes as we light the Hanukkah menorah. He won't remember his first mennorah lighting, but I will. We're making memories that will connect him to his family and to Hashem.

I love the symbols of Judaism because they are powerfully sensory and serve to help us understand spiritual concepts. I've read that children most effectively when they use all of their senses. Chanukkah (and all of the Feasts and Festivals really) are rich in sensory learning:

Placing and lighting the candles - the sense of touch
The burning lights - the sense of sight and smell
The prayers and songs - the sense of sound
The chocolate gelt - the sense of taste
And last, playing dreidyl - teaches Hebrew!!!

Hanukkah teaches several spiritual lessons other than the history of the rededication of the Holy Temple by the Maccabees. My post Yeshua is the Light of Chanukkah gives that history and my post Christmas - Unplugged tells how I celebrate the holidays together.

The term Hanukkah is from the Hebrew root word hanakh, which means "to initiate, to dedicate, to narrow, to educate". When one dedicates, he narrows the use of something and restricts it within specific parameters. He also gives it limited use. The Hanukkah menorah is only used once a year during the eight-day period of the holiday celebration. It has eight branches, as compared to the usual seven-branched menorah. It is different and it is special. The candles are different also, because they are multi-colored as compared to the normal white candles.

The symbolism of the Hanukkah celebration reminds us to yearly rededicate ourselves to be vessals for the holy oil of the Spirit. We are reminded to be set apart from the world, unique, different so as to be remarkable to others. The bright and shining light of the candles reminds us to bring light (truth) to the world.

The holy oil required for the Hanukkah menorah reminds us that we are to be holy. G-d really, really does want us to obey Him. Love and obedience are hallmarks of the believer. We are to love G-d and others. are to obey G-d, and share His teachings with others. The scriptures say:

Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.

Psalm 85:9-11

G-d is not all about love; He is about truth, too. Yeshua said, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments". What commandments was He talking about? The ones in the Old Testament. Yes, our Savior Jesus, is the same G-d of the Old Testament. He also said, "I have not come to do away with the Law, but to fulfill it."

Hashem required that the oil in the menorah be holy. There was only enough oil for the light to burn for one day. It would take seven days to purify more oil. Hashem performed a miracle by making that small amount of oil last for seven more days. This miracle teaches us that depending on His power, we can meet the requirements of his commandments for purity and holiness. His power can accomplish what He requires. The Maccabees committed what they had to Hashem, and He did the rest.

The lessons and the joy of Hanukkah are for our good and for our blessings. It is a holiday and a celebration that teaches us about, and draws us closer to G-d. A much better lesson than Santa Claus (a lie told to children), don't you think? Holiness and dedication to Hashem and His ways are the way to happiness and blessings. That truth is symbolized by the Tree of Life, another spiritual lesson of Judaism. But that is a lesson for another day.

I hope you will take the time to be still and listen to this song about Yeshua - the Light Of The World and worship Him.

I'm sharing over at Spiritual Sundays
and over at
http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Every Day is Precious

2011-11-24T21:36:00.001-04:00

My Mama holding a plaque I made for her a while back.
It says "the heart that gives gathers".
She has always been a very giving person.

(This is a repeat of my post from last Thanksgiving with an update on my Mama at the end)

As I've spent many hours by Mama's bedside over the last month, I've remembered all the things I'm thankful for about her, especially this week, as Thanksgiving approaches.

My mother is known far and wide as a wonderful cook. Holidays in the past always brought out her famous Southern pecan pie, which I remember well. (I stopped eating sugar over five years ago, but I can still remember how good it was.)

On Thanksgiving and Christmas, she always cooked a turkey with dressing and giblet gravy, sweet potatoes with marshmallows on top (Daddy's favorite), turnip greens and roots (my favorite), potato salad (her granddaughter Melissa's favorite), and broccoli casserole (her granddaughter Amanda's favorite).

I never understood what a sacrifice it was to make meals like that until I had to start doing it myself. As Mama grew older, she let us bring some of the special dishes, and then finally gave up cooking all together.

I'll never forget the year I had to make the holiday dinner all by myself. I spent hours shopping, then peeling, chopping, stirring, and fussing over all of those favorite dishes. Wow - it was WORK, and my feet and legs were killing me!!! I realized then what a labor of love those many years of holiday dinners were.

This year, Mama will spend Thanksgiving in the nursing home, and it breaks my heart to think about it. Their food is good, but it's nothing like my Mama's. We'll eat it together, but it sure won't be the same. So, if you still have your Mama cooking for you, don't take it for granted. Thank her for all the hours she has spent in the past to make your holidays special. It's a gift of love and something to be very thankful for.

Update: Mama is now in a nursing home near our home. She has dementia. I cooked the meal today using all of her old recipes, and we brought Mama here for dinner. She ate two plates of food and two pieces of pie. (I think she's forgotten about watching her girlish figure as she is fond of saying) We enjoyed my daughter Amanda, her husband William and my grandson Jonathan being with us for the day.
It was a joy to be together because Every Day Is Precious! I have a plaque on my home with this saying, and I believe it with all my heart.

I'm sharing this over at Spiritual Sundays

Simchat Torah

2011-11-07T15:39:00.004-04:00

The Torah

The last festival of the fall season is Simchat Torah. Although it is not listed as one of the seven feasts and festivals in Leviticus, a tradition has developed over many years to observe the holiday seven days after

Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot). On Simchat Torah, the Rabbi and congregation (who are able) spend all night long studying and celebrating Torah.*

The Torah begins with the letter Bet and ends with the letter Lammed. Put the two letters together and you have LEV- לב, which means "heart." The Torah is an expression of G-d's heart and a demonstration of His great love towards all of creation. By studying it we can look into and understand the “heart” of G-d. Our Messiah Yeshua studied Torah and said:

"Do not think I have come to abolish the Torah or the Prophets. I have not come to abolish, but to complete. Yes indeed! I tell you that until heaven and earth pass away, not so much as a yud or a tittle will pass from the Torah - not until everything that must happen has happened. (Matthew 5:17-18)

Fifteen years ago, I took these words to heart and began to study the Torah. I wanted wisdom more than anything on this earth. My study led me to Messianic Judaism, and to my own personal rabbi to whom I've been married for almost six years now. I can testify that studying Torah has changed my life for the better. I understand G-d more than I did 10 years ago. My life is full of peace. I never imagined I would continue to learn more every year as I study Torah through, but it always happens. His Word is alive and gives life! Halelu et Adonai!

Simchat Torah fell on Shabbat this year, so after oneg, the event began with parading the Torah scroll. The looks on the faces of those carrying the scroll are priceless. (see below) We realize that carrying Torah is a very tangible expression of the fact that we "carry" Torah with us wherever we go. As the Torah is paraded, people follow along behind, dancing and praising G-d. It is a joyous time. While they follow along, they keep their eyes on the Torah at all times...another tangible lesson about how important it is to never turn our backs on G-d's Word.

Rabbi Jem and I were very excited that 19 people decided to spend all night studying the Torah this year. He had a quiz prepared to find out how much everyone knew about the Torah, and several studies. These alternated with eating, drinking, and dancing. Yes, we love to dance. Several of the men did the bottle dance from Fiddler on The Roof. So much fun to watch those guys try to out do each other. (I'm so sorry I didn't get pictures of this.)

Of the 19 people who stayed, 14 made it through until daybreak. After the all-night Torah study, the Rabbi led the remaining faithful to the local diner for breakfast. Sad to say, I was not one of the remaining faithful (although I did join them for breakfast). I had to leave about 11:00. A night owl, I am not. Maybe next year if I take a good long nap that day. Those who stayed were jubilant and very glad they stayed because they learned so much and had a great time together. They all agreed they would do it again next year.

That's me joyfully carrying Torah!

Harry carrying Torah

Big Jim dancing with joy!

Will lifting up Torah with joy!

What joy we realize as we meditate on the fact that G-d has preserved His Holy Word over thousands of years. Yes, He left an instruction book, penned with His own hand. In future posts, I will tell about the joys and blessings of studying Torah.

* The Torah consists of the first five books of the Old Testament: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These are the books given to Moses. These words have been carefully preserved, revered, and cherished by the Jewish people for thousands of years.

I'm linking up with Spiritual Sundays

Join us for Gratituesday at Heavenly Homemakers!

Also linking up to Brag on G-d Fridays

Reflections on the High Holy Days - Part 3 of 3

2011-10-15T21:08:00.003-03:00

Feast of Tabernacles or Sukkot is a time of joy and happiness as we eat our meals outside, sing, dance, and reflect on the blessings of being His children. It is my favorite time of year.

In Leviticus 23:33 - 44, The L-rd commands us to observe this Feast in remembrance of the wilderness experience of the children of Israel. Sukkot in Hebrew means "booths". During this Feast, we reflect on the 40 year journey of the children of Israel from Egypt to the Promised Land. Most people think they lived in tents during the journey, but actually, they built shelters of tree trunks and branches, called booths.

Today, it is customary to build a sukkah in the back yard, to decorate it with fruits and vegetables, and then to dwell in it for seven days. We (the Goldens) don't live in it, but we do eat meals there in the evening. At night, as we look through the leaves and branches above us and observe the moon and stars, we remember G-d's protection of the Israelites and are reminded it is He who provides for and protects us even today.

I'll never forget my first Sukkot, where I attended a re-enactment of the New Testament passage from John 7. Yeshua was at the Temple in observance of the Feast of Tabernacles. On the last day, the kohen (priest) poured water, while praying for G-d to bless the land with rain. As this ceremony was being performed, Yeshua stepped forward and announced, "If anyone is thirsty, let him keep coming to me and drink. Whoever puts his trust in me, as the Scripture says, rivers of living water will flow from his innermost being" In effect, Yeshua was declaring himself to be the "Living Water". Imagine the shock of those who heard these words.

How true these words are in the lives of those who know Him. That blessed spring wells up and flows forth, refreshing the spirit, not only of the believer, but of those who hear and see the effect the Living Water produces in our lives. Yeshua satisfies our thirst and gives us peace.

Another tradition of the Feast of Tabernacles each year is the waving of the lulav. The branches of the palm, myrtle and olive are bound together with the citron. The lulav is then waved to the north, south, east and west as a reminder of G-d's sovereignty over all the earth. He is above, below, and all around us. He is our source, our provider in all things. This is a wonderful reminder each year, and especially so in this time of economic uncertainty. How thankful I am to be His child and for his provision.

This year, we celebrated my birthday along with Sukkot. It was indeed a joyous day for me as I was blessed to celebrate with my Ma'gen Da'vid Synagogue family. They showered me with gifts for my garden, and indulged my addiction to anything to do with birds. I received several bird houses and a beautiful bird bath. I thought I would share some pictures from our combined celebration this year.


The succah - decorated with palm and pine branches, fruits, vegies, and flowers.


hanging the decorations

listening to Rabbi - isn't the sunset beautiful?


some of Ma'gen Da'vid congregation in front of the succah


celebrating my birthday

Cody waving the lulav.

Yom Kippur 5772

2011-10-06T23:02:00.005-03:00

Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) will begin this evening at sundown. This High Holy Day is a time of reflection, repentance, and rejoicing in the grace of G-d. I hope you will read my post from last year about Yom Kippur to understand this holy day better.

The end of the Ten Days of Awe will be sealed with our Yom Kippur service. During that service, we will listen to the Avinu Malkeinu and The Kol Neidre.

I want to share these songs with you, and after you listen to them, I will share some thoughts as we go into this holy day.

Avinu Malkeinu is a song/prayer asking G-d's blessings on the year ahead. The tone is somber because we have come to the service with awareness of our sins.

The Kol Neidre is even more somber, and is about sorrow for our sins, and the forgiveness of G-d. The tone of the song is sad, because we have sinned, and we have grieved our Father. The Moroccan version of the song is so beautiful. I could not get Blogger to upload the video, but you can listen to it at the following link: (The images in this video are of Moroccan Jews. Our Torah scroll is over 350 years ago, and came from Morocco, so this version of the song is very dear to us.) Kol Nidrei

Recently, I heard a very well-known and highly respected Christian minister on the radio say that G-d's grace was not revealed until the New Testament. This minister obviously has never read the Torah. Father G-d's grace is revealed throughout the Torah as well as the Haftorah. His provision for the remission of sins reveals His abundant grace and forgiveness. The price of sin is high: blood. As one reads the Torah, especially in Leviticus, the account of how much blood had to be shed is overwhelming.

Each year, as we read through the Torah, I am filled once again with awe about sin, and about the blood required to atone for it. Therefore, as we finish up the Torah readings for the year around the High Holy Days, I am also in awe of the love and forgiveness of Father G-d. Yom Kippur is a time to think about that grace. To think about my sins. To not take them lightly because they carry a high price: the blood of Yeshua. May I never take His atonement lightly or for granted. May I always be in awe of His grace and of His atonement through Yeshua's blood.

Both the Old and New Testaments declare that without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sins. In the Old Testament the blood of animals atoned for sins. When the Messiah died and shed his blood, He put in place an atonement that covered our sins forever. May His Name be praised forevermore! Halelujah!

I'm linking up to Spiritual Sundays
and Brag on God Friday

Shanah Tovah Ya'll

2011-09-28T23:03:00.002-03:00

Sundown today begins the Jewish New Year! Happy 5772! Jews greet each other with "Shanah Tovah" which means Happy New Year (loosely). The official name of the holiday is Rosh Hashanah. We are commanded in the Torah (Leviticus 23:24) to observe this holiday with the blowing of the shofar. Also, in the Torah, in Numbers 29:1, the holy day is mentioned.

In the synagogue, we will have special readings, a very special blowing of the shofar 100 times, and special foods. We will eat apples dipped in honey, and other sweet foods to signify our desire for a fruitful, sweet year ahead.

With this holiday, we also begin the Ten Days of Awe. It is a time of sincere, deep reflection on our past year, and of instrospection as we seek our hearts for any sins we may have allowed to creep in. During this time, we also ask G-d to show us if we need to mend relationships. The Ten Days of Awe lead up to the most Holy Day of Yom Kippur. I will write more about that in a later post.

I was thinking this week about the great joy I find in observing G-d's Feasts and Festivals. They are times of remembrance...times of reflection...times of rejoicing in the fact that we are G-d's children and blessed in that relationship.

In the lasst few days as I shopped for the special foods for our celebration, I notice that the stores are preparing for another holiday. I won't even mention the name that I consider evil. It makes me very sad to think that even those who call themselves believers ignore G-d's holy days. Churches open their doors on this day and say they are celebrating the harvest, but it doesn't look that way if you observe what goes on that night. Where is G-d in it all? What must He think as he watches people ignore His commands and instead follow the ways of the world? It must make Him very sad.

I was one of those who did what I just described. I was ignorant of G-d's holy feasts and festivals. Then one day I asked G-d for HIS wisdom...not the wisdom of the church....not the wisdom of the world. I wanted HIS wisdom and I began to seek diligently for it. My search led me to Messianic Judaism and to joy and wisdom like I'd never, ever known before. I've been blessed beyond measure and my joy continues to increase along with my wisdom.

I'm sure we all have heard the saying "I want to be like Jesus" as well as "What Would Jesus Do?" Well, dear readers, my prayer for you in the year 5772 is to experience the joys that Yeshua (Jesus) experienced in the Feasts and Festivals...in the study of Torah...and of Judaism.

Shanah Tovah, Ya'll

I'm linking up to Spiritual Sundays
and Brag on God Friday

Thinking of you all, dear readers

2011-09-18T21:18:00.000-03:00

Dear Readers (Gail-Friends):

I haven't forgotten ya'll. I am once again in Jacksonville, helping my dear mom. She is very weak and ill. Please pray for her to understand that she doesn't need to live alone. It is a very emotional time for both of us. I am her only child.

My prayer is to honor her as Torah says. Pray that I will try to understand her viewpoint of not wanting to give up her independence, and of the changes she is facing. Pray that I will be kind, patient, tender, and loving in every thought and action. Pray for her to have peace and to trust Yeshua to lead her through this process. Pray that I will treat her the way I would want to be treated.

Last, pray for my dear husband. He had a growth removed from his forehead and it is quite painful. Pray that it comes back benign. Pray for him while I am away. We are so sad when we are apart. We both feel like a part of us is missing, even though we talk on the phone several times a day.

G-d is so faithful and such a comfort in times like these. I am living in the Psalms....

Answered Prayers

2011-09-04T17:11:00.002-03:00

Thanks to all who have prayed for my mom and for the e-mails of encouragement. They mean so much to me.

My mom is going to rehab today, after being in the hospital for 13 long days. The doctors have been working all that time to adjust her medication to control her heart rhythm. First it would go up too high, then down too low. Finally, I hope (and pray) they have found the right balance. Her condition is called A-fib (for atrial fibrulation) and when the heart races, it takes as much energy as running at full speed. This explains why she has been so tired all the time. They explained also that a pace-maker only controls the slow rhythm. Medication has to control the fast beating.

Thank you, Father, for medications and doctors, and that you are the ultimate Healer.

Please continue to pray for my little mama. She has other health issues and her life is at a difficult stage. My prayer is that she will agree to move in with us so that we can be of more help and support to her. She is 81, but very strong-willed and determined. Pray for her as she faces a difficult change in her life. The doctors have said she will not be able to live alone any more.

Please Pray

2011-08-28T20:46:00.000-03:00

Dear Gail-Friends:

My mother is very ill in the hospital. She has a racing heart and so far, they are having trouble adjusting her medication to control it. Please pray for her. They are calling in a specialist today. Naturally, she becomes very frightened when the racing starts.

My daughter is having eye surgery on Tuesday so please pray for her also.

Also pray for me. I just returned to college to complete my degree. At the age, this is quite a challenge, to say the least. I have a book that weighs over 10 pounds! No problem carrying it to class, though, because no one else does!

I haven't forgotten ya'll and will be posting as always. The High Holy Days are coming up, and I look forward to writing about the joys of G-d's Feasts and Festivals.

Shalom and Love,

Gail

My Prayer Place - Part 1

2011-08-06T23:02:00.002-03:00

The Lord's Prayer Chapel

Sitting high on a hill, surrounded by singing pine trees, calling birds, and busy butterflies is my favorite place to retreat for prayer. In Titusville, Florida, The Lord's Prayer Chapel sits amid The Lord's Garden,and is named for former pastor Peter Lord, of the Park Avenue Baptist Church. The Lord's Chapel is so special to me and I delight in telling how G-d has blessed me with and through this wonderful place.

Prior to moving to Central Florida, I lived in Jacksonville, Florida where a friend introduced me to a system of prayer called the 2959 Plan. This is a personal notebook that leads one through prayers in many areas, such as for our family, our city, our state, our nation, and the world. Through the notebook, I was led to an audio tape ministry of the Park Avenue Baptist Church in Titusville, Florida. For several years, I listened to many great Bible teachers, including Pastor Peter Lord.


Entrance to the chapel

In 1989, due to a job change, I moved to Titusville, Florida, and visited the fore-mentioned church, met Pastor Lord, and was introduced to the beautiful prayer chapel. I visit there often to pray and meditate, and just to be still and hear G-d's voice. The atmosphere is so holy, so anointed with G-d's presence, that I always leave there renewed and full of joy.

Now, dear Gail-Friends, let me take you on a tour. (I am not a photographer, and these photos were taken with my cell phone camera.) The chapel is an octagon, and each upper side beam has a name/attribute of the Father carved into it. The names are:

The Lord Our Sanctifier

The Lord Our Peace

The Lord Our Shepherd

The Lord Our Righteousness

The Lord Our Provider

The Lord Our Healer

The Lord Our Rock

and

The Lord Our Victory

It is thought provoking and comforting to sit still here, and meditate on all that G-d is in my life.

This beautiful scene greets me as I enter the room.


The two alcoves have names of people all over the world who are prayed for by the prayer warriors

This is the alter, The Mercy Seat, where I kneel to worship and pray. It stands at the foot of a beautiful leaded glass cross.

More prayer reminders

Prayers are written on cards and filed in the box. Prayer warriors come daily to take these before the throne.

A beautiful thought as I come to this place of quiet stillness.

I am praying over this today...August 6, during the solemn assembly to pray for America to turn back to G-d.

Outside is the lovely prayer garden....The Lord's Garden

As I enter The Lord's Garden, a sign welcomes me

The garden has benches scattered throughout.

The garden is filled with flowering plants and tress - a dozens of visiting butterflies.

Thank you, Father, for the gift of the Lord's Chapel and for the prayer warriors who frequent that holy place. Thank you for the vision you gave the artists who fashioned the beautiful grounds, the leaded glass cross, the beams with Your Names carved into them, and for the Mercy Seat of your Holiness and Grace. I am a blessed woman to live so near such a special place.

Oh, how I desire to stay on this little mountain top with it's peaceful serenity. I can't stay, but I can take it's peace and serenity with me as I go. Thank you, Father for this blessing.

In my next post, I will share some of the prayers I have lifted to G-d in this place, and the wonderful answers answers He's given.

Shalom!

I'm linking up to Spiritual Sundays

Thinking Correctly

2011-07-27T22:42:00.002-03:00

Philippians 2:5

Torah - source Wikipedia

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Yeshua (Jesus)

This verse has been on my mind for the last few days. Our thoughts are so important. The scripture also says, "As a man thinks in his heart, so is he." So this begs the question: would G-d /Yeshua think the way I'm thinking?

I've also been thinking about how the scripture says, "G-d is the same, yesterday, today, and forever." Yeshua is G-d in the flesh. The same G-d in both Old and New Testaments.

Having grown up in a Christian environment, the focus of teaching was the New Testament. As a little girl, I remember wondering why we didn't study the Old Testament more. I wondered why we did not keep the Sabbath. I wondered why we were not with the Jews, since Yeshua was Jewish.

As a young woman, I wanted to go to a synagogue. I didn't get to visit there until I was in my 40's. I was shocked to see that the inside of the synagogue looked like a church. There was a stage (bema) with a curtain on the wall behind it. I thought, at first, that this was a baptismal pool, but found out later in the service, it was the ark where the Torah scroll was kept.

That visit began my study of Judaism. I visited Israel and was forever changed by the things I saw there. My heart was knit to that land and to the people. I never expected it to happen, but I'm so glad it did. My continued search for wisdom led me to a study of the Old Testament, particularly of Proverbs, and then an in-depth study of the Torah. Who knew this search would lead me to my own personal rabbi? My dear, sweet husband, Rabbi Jem and I were married five years ago.

Being married to someone who "walks the walk" is both wonderful and disconcerting. All of my life I've associated with people who "talked the talk", but didn't live it out. My husband rarely discusses the scripture or G-d outside the bema, but he lives it like no one I've ever known in my life.    He lives the Sh'ma (Deut. 6: 4 - 9), as well as the second greatest commandment (Leviticus 19:18) Jem loves G-d with his whole being and his neighbor as himself. He is always conscious of obeying G-d and of looking for someone to help. He calls it "doing the right thing".

Which takes me back to the scripture quoted at the beginning of this post. What mind did Yeshua have?    Yeshua was G-d in a human body. He didn't change. He is the same G-d who created the world and everything in and around it. He is the G-d of the Tanach (Old Testament): The Torah, the Prophets and Writings.

The study of Torah has shown me G-d's mind....and therefore Yeshua's mind.    I find no conflict between the Old and New Testament when viewed through the lens of the Torah. My study of Torah has given me a discernment I never had in all my years of studying the Bible. Now I understand things Yeshua said that before puzzled me.

My study of Judaism has enlightened me about teachings in the New Testament. I've often heard it said in churches "Jesus is revealed in the Old Testament". I've also found that the Old Testament is revealed in Yeshua (Jesus), and in the New Testament.

Many times, I've heard people say, " I want to be like Jesus". Well then, beloved, stop and think - Yeshua is Jewish, and during his time on earth He studied the Tanach. There is much to be learned through Judaism and Torah study. I know there are those who will say, "that's legalism". I don't see it that way because G-d preserved His Word over thousands of years for our benefit. And how can we say we love G-d and completely ignore the very laws that bring us life?    Blessings flow to those who obey Him. His love is revealed in His Word and I am so thankful to be in His Secret Place.

Psalm 91:1
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

I'm linking up to Spiritual Sundays and Brag On God Fridays

Celebrating our History

2011-07-04T19:01:00.002-03:00

I've never been a history buff, but I married one. My husband, Rabbi Jem Golden, is like a walking, living, breathing history book, complete with dates no less.

Jem often speaks to groups, and I wish you could hear him speak of his fervent, passionate love for America. He is very proud of the fact that men in his family have fought not only in the War for Independence, but in every war America fought up through his own two tours of duty in Viet Nam. These brave men in the Golden family not only fought for Americans' freedom, but also for the freedom of those in foreign countries. I'm very proud of my own family's history in America's wars.

When we married five years ago, I'd never attended a patriotic parade, and quite honestly knew very little about the history of our country. My husband educated me and I began to develop a desire to know more. I started to research not only my country, but also those patriots who fought for our freedom and formed our founding documents: The Declaration of Independence, our Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.

Because of the study both Rabbi Jem and I have done, we are both energized to educate others about the history of our country, especially as it relates to it's Judeo-Christian roots. We are energized because we see a deliberate effort to remove the facts of that heritage from our children. We are soberly aware that there are those who would like to strip not only the history of the influence of the Scriptures on our culture, but also to remove the influence of the Constitution from our government entirely.

Recently, we attended a public reading of the Constitution. Each person attending received a small, personal copy of the Constitution in booklet form. A different person read each section while the audience followed along. The reading of this document was disconcerting because I recognized not only how precious these freedoms are, but also the devious efforts afoot to remove their protections. I took an oath that day to defend the Constitution.

Are you aware that every member of the military takes an oath to defend the Constitution? Our governing members of Congress, our Senators, as well as our President also take that oath. Within the last year, the members of Congress did a pubic reading of the Constitution on the House floor. Some members were outraged and voiced their anger saying it was a waste of time. Others refused to attend. There is also a move among government officials to remove the Constitution and Bill of Rights as guiding documents because they are "archaic" and "irrelevant" to life in our modern society. These are dangerous ideas.

I want to encourage you to study the documents mentioned above for yourself, while noting the references to Divinity. An excellent resource to find and read these and other historical documents is Wall Builders. I hope you will open up this treasure chest that reflects the Judeo-Christian heritage of our country. I am passionate about educating people on these facts.

While researching the U.N.'s Agenda 21, Jem and I learned of plans to change the way history is taught in public schools. The plan is to begin history education at the post-Civil War period. You may scoff at such an idea, but hear me out.

Recently, I had my nails done in a salon operated by a young Vietnamese couple. I told them my husband had fought in Viet Nam. They had no idea what I was talking about. Both, in their twenties, had not been taught this in school or by their parents. I also watched a television documentary recently about Germany which stated that public school students are not taught about Hitler, the Holocaust, or the country's part in World War II. That is frightening, because the same thing is happening in America.

Our country's heritage is rich with the influence of men and women who not only believed in the Bible, but applied it's teachings in forming our country. I hope you will research this yourself, and join the fight to keep these principles in the forefront of our policy making for the future. You may be called politically incorrect, but you will be "fully" correct and will know how to support your beliefs with the facts.

Shalom,

Gail

I'm linking up to Spiritual Sundays
and GratiTuesday

I won! I won!

2011-07-03T20:30:00.002-03:00

One of favorite blogs is Gina's Shabby Chic Cottage. I love the shabby chic style of decorating, and Gina's is one of the best to visit for inspiration. You'll notice her blog is listed on the left side of my blog as one of my favorite links.

Last week, I entered a drawing on Gina's blog for Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, and I won the drawing! Two cans of paint! (thanks, Gina!) I chose the Old White and the Duck Egg Blue. I'm in love with this paint because you do not have to clean or sand the piece before you paint it. The finish and colors give an old, vintage look, which is what I love. My plan is to paint my oak dining set with the white, and to paint some accent pieces in my living room with the blue.

I hope you'll visit Gina's blog The Shabby Chic Cottage to see the project she did with the paint. Also, visit Periwinkle Pass which provided the paint for the giveaway (thank you, Tammy!) to see more projects, the colors available, and how to purchase the paint if you're as excited as I am to try it.

Also, be sure to check out Gina's Transformation Thursdays blog party. (Be sure to scroll on down to see all of the party participant's projects.) That's where I'll be posting the before and afters of my projects. I love to visit this party because I get so many ideas. Only problem is: so many projects, so little time!

I hope ya'll are having a wonderful 4th of July weekend.

Shalom,

Gail

Update on my absence

2011-06-29T14:08:00.000-03:00

I am recovering from major surgery two weeks ago. Praise Hasham, everything went very well, but am having to take it easy for six weeks of healing.

For several weeks prior to the surgery, I was like the white tornado - cleaning everything in sight. I don't know about you, but when I go on a trip or have to go to the hospital (like when having a baby), I HAVE TO CLEAN!!!

My wonderful husband has been so sweet and kind in nursing me. He has to help me up and down, give me shots daily, and change my dressing. He used to be an EMT, so he was well prepared to be a nurse. G-d bless him. He's also done EVERYTHING else around here. I love him so much!

Hopefully, within the next week I will have something to write about. Until then, please keep me in your prayers as I recover.

Love and shalom,

gail

Sing and Celebrate: Shavuot

2011-06-07T21:16:00.001-03:00

Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. Matthew 24:35

Our long awaited package from Israel had finally arrived! Eyes glistening with tears, Rabbi Jem’s hands shook as he opened the carefully wrapped package. Tenderly, he lifted the precious 350-year old Torah scroll from its’ wrappings. Rabbi Jem and I unrolled the scroll and marveled at the soft dear skin parchment and the beautiful precision of the Hebrew letters. We both were overjoyed because the scroll arrived just in time for our Messianic synagogue’s celebration of Shavuot. How appropriate.

Shavuot celebrates two things. First, we thank God for His blessings on the first of the summer grain crops (barley). The festival reminds us that without Him and His provision of sun and rain, we would not have food. Second, we celebrate the giving of the Torah (the first five books of the Bible) to the Jewish people. When this festival comes, there is great celebration because of our love and gratitude for the Scriptures. The giving of the Torah is God’s blessing, for the Word of God is our spiritual food. On the first day of Shavuot, we read the Ten Commandments from Exodus 20 to remind us of the Laws that give us Life. On the second day of Shavuot, we read the book of Ruth, which is the beautiful picture of Yeshua (Jesus), as our Kinsman Redeemer.

As Messianics (believers in Yeshua as Messiah), we also celebrate Shavuot as the day when the Ruach Hakodesh (Holy Spirit) descended on the believers in Yarushalem (Jerusalem). In Acts 2, you will see how Jews from all over the world were assembled for Shavuot. The Spirit came down, appearing as tongues of fire upon their heads, and they all spoke with other tongues (languages). Thus, the Good News about Yeshua was given to people in their own language. Believers received the indwelling of God, and His Word was written on their hearts. He came inside the believers, and gave them power to be witnesses all over the world and to spread the Gospel (Good News). Thus, these believers were the First Fruits of the Ruach Hakodesh.

As Messianic believers, on Shavuot, we celebrate the giving of God’s Holy Word, physically, and the coming of the Word into our hearts, spiritually. Shavuot is a powerful, visual reminder that God’s Law is important to our lives, and that the power to live that Word has been given through the Ruach Hakodesh. No longer does it need to be hard to follow and obey God, because He, Himself, indwells us to give us the desire and the power to follow and obey.

That night, at our synagogue, we celebrated Shavuot and God’s blessing us with our own Torah scroll. Rabbi Jem explained how many years it takes a person to prepare to write a scroll, and how it can take an entire year or more to actually write. We were in awe to learn that a modern day scroll compared to a 1000 year old scroll would be exactly the same. Not one jot or tittle (the very tiniest Hebrew letters) would be different. We thanked God for His Word, and for the faithfulness of Jews who have preserved it for us.

Later, the scroll was carried on the shoulder of our very first congregation member. We followed behind, dancing and singing with joy, waving flags and banners, and rejoicing that God favored us by giving us His Torah, and that He lives within our hearts.

You can see pictures of our celebration of Shavuot 2009 at our website photo gallery:Ma'gen Da'vid Messianic Synagogue - Shavuot Celebration

I'm linking up to Spiritual Sundays

Bird Blessings

2011-05-14T10:48:00.002-03:00

Jimmy Two Shoes

"Jimmy is hen-pecked!" our hostess told us, pointing to a big, healthy looking rooster in a small pen separated from the other chickens. "See his feet? That's where the girls have been pecking at him." Indeed, a closer look revealed his bloody, mangled feet as he scratched at the dirt. I've heard the expression "hen-pecked" all my life, but had never related it to an actual habit of chickens. Hmmm.... I could sense the Holy Spirit speaking as I considered those chickens.

An impromptu visit to a local farm for free-range eggs led to an unexpected lesson today. Jem and I were invited to go out back for a lesson in raising chickens. Our host and hostess graciously showed us around their large chicken coop and shared a wealth of information.

Nora and her husband have only been raising chickens for three years, and have learned many things through trial and error. For instance, some breeds are friendlier than others. The Polish variety, of which they had several, love to be held and petted, but their eggs are quite small. The big Rhode Island Red hens lay large eggs, but are not friendly at all.

I found it fascinating to learn a hen lays more eggs in the summer than winter, and this is related to the more direct sunlight. Most of the hens lay one egg every 24 hours or so. Oh, and if you're not a farm girl like me, you may not know that the hens don't need a rooster to lay eggs. They do, of course, need him if we want to have baby chicks! Don't laugh! Growing up in the city, there was a time I didn't realize this.

It was Jimmy Two Shoes, the big rooster that taught me the unexpected lesson about being hen-pecked. Our hosts explained that the rooster had to be separated from the "girls" because if left to their instincts, they would peck that poor rooster to death.

You know, I think that can happen with wives, too. Over my years of studying the Scriptures, I've learned how important it is to allow my husband to be the "man" and allow him to lead. Also, we wives have a tendency to bring up certain issues again, and again, and again. Hence, the hen-pecking attribute. If we wives persist in these behaviors, our husbands will just naturally separate themselves, if not physically, then most certainly emotionally.

Yeshua said, "consider the birds..." Once again, by doing just that today, I received another "bird blessing": a lesson on living from my feathered friends.

The girls & Nora

Farm-fresh organic eggs

I'm linking up with Spiritual Sundays this week.

The Royal Wedding Party

2011-05-07T22:09:00.003-03:00

You are cordially invited to celebrate the wedding of William and Kate with us on Friday, April 29 at 11:00 am, read the beautifully crafted paper invitation. Well, well, well, now this sounds like fun!

With only a week to get ready, my mind raced with ideas of what a real Royal Wedding party would be like. My neighbor, who is from London, let me know that in the UK it is a tradition to have a block party on the day of a Royal Wedding, and she wanted her friends and family to experience one with her.

My husband, Jem, really go into the whole English theme, and spoke with a British accent for two days prior to the wedding. (Yes, he's funny like that.) He assured me that I really, really could get up at 5 am to watch the wedding on television, which we really, really did. The wedding was beautiful, but nothing can compare to the wedding Princess Dianna put on. I'll never forget seeing her arrive in that Cinderella carriage....but I digress. Back to my neighbor's Royal Wedding Party. It was one of the most pleasant occasions I've ever experienced, so I wanted to share it with you, my dear readers.

I love any excuse to wear a hat!!!

Jem with his pith helmet & flag. (have to represent the USA)

Flags were flying!

Little helpers.

Nose pressed up against the glass.

Beautifully decorated sugar cookies made by Lady Hannah


Real English scones

Lady Hannah with Prince William's groom's cake.

Jack, our butler...he did a great job!

Three types of sandwiches, quiche, three cheeses and crackers.

Pretty cupcakes with real whipped cream and fresh strawberries.

English tea with milk in Royal Dolton cups.

Lady Dianna's favorite: cold tomato-dill mousse with lobster on watercress.

The cookbook from which the recipes were taken.

Yes, William and Kate were there!


We'll have to borrow this to plan our trip to Great Britain.

We had a royally wonderful time. Cheerio and pip pip! G-d save the Queen and all that. Keep calm and carry on...
Happy Mothers Day Ya'll.
I'm linking up to Spiritual Sundays

Passover 2011

2011-04-27T23:09:00.000-03:00

Every year while preparing for our Passover seder, I say the same thing: "Next year, we having it catered!" I figure it must be like childbirth....you forget the pain and only remember the joy! We had lots and lots of joy this year. With 83 people, our joy was greatly multiplied. The many children, including our 1 1/2 year old grandson, made it really fun this year, too.

"Rabbi Jem and I are so tired, we are taking TWO Shabbats this week," I told our Hadassah* group. We did just that. After the seder on Friday evening, we rested for two whole days afterward.

Peeling & chopping apples

Hall preparations

We did a potluck this year for the Passover meal, which turned out very well. The ladies and I had spent several days before the event making kugel* and charoset*. Rabbi Jem and men from the congregation had spent several days preparing the hall, getting the hagaddahs ready and other chores.

Dance team praising Adonai

At the seder, we sang the traditional songs, Dayenu and Eliyahu, but this year, added a new song, "Hallelujah, Our Passover Lamb" which I love. We'll definitely use it next year. Our dance team did two dances. The first, Hear Now, adjured us to pay heed to G-ds commandment to observe the feasts and festivals. The second, Step by Step voiced our promise to follow Him and obey.

Children ready to open the door

Each year, a place is set at the head table for the prophet Elijah, who is foretold to return prior to the second coming of Yeshua. This year, at the appointed time during the service, Rabbi Jem told the children to go to the door, open it, and look for Elijah. When little Hannah opened the door, she shouted, "He's here!" All the children started jumping up and down, shouting, "He's here! He's here!" I was standing at the door, too, and sadly reported that it wasn't Elijah, but one of the members of the congregation who'd stepped outside for a minute. We all had a good laugh on that one!

As in years before, we remembered, we praised Adonai for His faithfulness to the Israelites and to us. We recognized Yeshua in the matzah, the 4 cups of wine, and in many other ways in the readings. The seder is both serious and humorous at times, just like our lives.

At the end of the evening, our bodies were tired but our hearts were filled with joy. Our faith and our hearts were renewed, refreshed and energized. With joyful and hopeful hearts, we ended the seder with the traditional and enthusiastic, "Next Year In Jerusalem!"

*Hadassah is a women's service organization in the synagogue
* Kugel is noodle pudding - a dessert without leaven, traditional Jewish cuisine
*Charoset is chopped apples, nuts, honey & grape juice, part of the seder plate, and symbolizes the mortar the Israelites used to make bricks in Egypt.

Passover JOY

2011-04-21T21:09:00.002-03:00

“Rabbi Jem! I need you to taste test the kugel!” I called from the kitchen.

“My pleasure,” he grinned, and planted a big kiss on my cheek. I love my taste-tester/rabbi. (He’s also my husband.) He assured me that all of the kugels tasted wonderful. I baked two applesauce, 2 cinnamon raisin, and one coconut kugels. Oh, and one sugar free raisin kugel for those of us who don’t eat sugar. That’s a lot of kugel, but with a guest list of 91 for our Passover seder, it takes a whole lot of kugel.

We celebrate the Feasts and Festivals commanded in Leviticus 23, and I've been very busy this week preparing for one of my favorite holidays. Monday, April 19 at sundown marked the beginning of Passover, and tomorrow we will celebrate the Passover seder with friends, family and our congregation at Ma’gen Da’vid Messianic Synagogue.

The seder is all about remembering. It reminds us of the faithfulness of G-d to Israel in bringing them out of Egypt, and is a beautiful ceremony that celebrates and illustrates our L-rd and Savior Yeshua (Jesus Christ). The “Last Supper” Yeshua held with his talmadim (disciples) was a Passover seder , held in the Upper Room the night before Yeshua was crucified (see Luke 22). He went through it with His disciples, showing them that the seder was a fore-shadow of Himself as the fulfillment of G-d’s divine plan of salvation.

The rich imagery of the seder is a beautiful, tactile means of understanding the sacrifice of Yeshua in the following ways: the seder reminds us of the tyranny the Israelites were released from, and is a picture of the bondage of sin Yeshua released “us” from as believers. We eat bitter herbs to remind us of the terrible life we had before Yeshua. The salty water reminds us of the tears we shed in that old life. We remember the plagues and pestilence G-d brought on the Egyptians, and the miracles He worked to save them. Yeshua worked miracles during His life on earth, and is still working miracles for us even now.

We see the lamb shank bone and remember that each family was instructed to choose a perfect lamb. Yeshua was described as “a Lamb without blemish or spot” (I Peter 1:19). We remember that each Israelite family killed the lamb, but were instructed not to break its’ bones. We were then reminded that Yeshua’s bones were not broken when He was crucified.

The Israelites applied the blood of the lamb to the doorpost and lentils of their homes so that the death angel would pass over them. Together, we see that the shape of the application was the Hebrew letter “dallet” which looks like a door, and means “door or path”. Yeshua’s blood made for us the door of salvation. What a glorious picture!

Together, we drink the four cups of wine while remembering that Yeshua’s blood sanctifies us, redeems us, protects us from G-d’s judgment, and makes us part of His family – which is cause for great joy.

The most beautiful picture of all is the matzah: the unleavened bread, with its’ piercings and stripes. We will hold in our hands the reminder of Yeshua who was without sin (leaven), was pierced for our sins, and took stripes for our healing.

As we eat the sweet charoset (apples, nuts and honey) we will be reminded of how sweet our lives are with Yeshua, our Messiah. We will sing, we will praise G-d, and we will thank Him for His Word, for our beautiful Messiah Yeshua, and for the reminders in the Passover celebration.

Each year, remembering the provision of G-d for Israel reminds us that He will meet our needs as well. If He could deliver the millions of Israelites from plagues and pestilence, He can and will protect us today.

Passover is a reminder of G-d’s faithfulness to his people. This year, as always before, I will leave the seder full of joy and praise to Adonai, humming the tunes we sang, and thinking how blessed I am to be called His child.

For even Yeshua, our Passover, is sacrificed for us. (I Corinthians 5:7b)

I'll have pics from our seder next week.

I'm sharing this on Spiritual Sundays

It's a Swan!

2011-04-05T22:44:00.002-03:00

Living near the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge gives me wonderful opportunities to see many different birds, and I've turned into an avid bird watcher.

Recently, my husband and I were riding near the Indian River when I spotted a large white bird near the shore as we approached the bridge. "Stop!" I screamed. "I saw a swan!"

"There aren't any swans around here, " he mumbled with no interest.

"Honey, please turn around. I know I saw a swan. A BIG Swan!"

"Yes, dear..." (that's part of why I love him so much)

He turned around on the other side of the bridge and headed back to the opposite shore. As we pulled into the grassy field close to the water, I spotted the bird standing with his head tucked under his wing. "It's a swan, honey! Look! That's a swan!" I grabbed my phone, rolled down the window, and took a quick picture.


The white bird on the left is the swan. The one on the right is a stork	.

"That's not a swan," Jem said. "That's a goose!"

"It's a swan, I'm telling you! Drive a little closer...slowly, so we can get a better look at it!" I whispered. "Don't scare him away!" We rolled closer and then stopped for a better, closer picture.

The swan raised his head, and looked at us as we rolled closer, and then started walking toward us.

It's times like this when you wish you had a "real" camera! He walked closer and closer and didn't act a bit afraid. I kept taking pictures, until finally he was REALLY close...until he was THIS close!!!!

Oh, my goodness! I was soooo excited! He (I think it was a he...) was just as interested in us as we were in him! I kept snapping pictures and whispering, "He's so beautiful!"

Mr. Swan was REALLY interested in us....He got even closer!

Yes, he got close enough to convince Jem that he was a SWAN!

Mr. Swan stood right near the window for several minutes, looking at us with not one trace of fear. "This is not a wild swan, Jem, " I whispered. "He's tame, and he's thinking we're going to give him some food!" My heart was pounding, I was so excited to be so close up and personal with this beautiful bird. "Dang it! I wish we had something to give him..." Jem started looking for some stray peanuts or french fries on the floorboard, but he came up empty...too bad.

Mr. Swan stood patiently, looking in the window for a few more minutes, and then turned and walked slowly away toward the river to join his stork friends. (I think he probably thought they were funny looking swans).

It was a wonderful day for me as a bird-watcher! We found out later in the week that several swans had been stolen from Lake Eola in downtown Orlando. Undoubtedly, our friend, Mr. Swan was among the stolen birds. Someone must have reported him, because later reports were that all the swans were found and returned to their home. I wonder if it was a college prank.....

I'm linking up to Simple Pleasures
and White Wednesday

Purim this year

2011-03-26T17:16:00.000-03:00

This year, the synagogue put on a play about Esther. Sheila, one of our members, found the play online. We loved it because no rehearsals were needed, costumes and props were up to our discretion, and it was just so easy to do.

Never has there been so much HAM in a Jewish synagogue. Who knew we had actors lurking stealthily in our midst??? Needless to say, we were delighted to find out who they were. The biggest ham (I just can't resist using that word) was, of course, Rabbi Jem, who played the narrator.

Next in line came Jeff, who played King Ahasuerus . Such drama you've never seen!!! Such voice projection!

All of the other cast members were great, ad-libbing, dying laughing, and being silly as children. How we got through it, I'll never know. I think the fact that we didn't rehearse made it much funnier!

Oh, I was part of the two-member choir. We sang great, silly song like Hang Down Your Head Old Hamaan, to the tune of the old song about Tom Dooley. (If you're not as old as many of us in the congregation, you'll have to look it up on YouTube.)

We had tons of food and hours of fun, and games for the children. Everyone agreed it was a great celebration.


The blessing of the children.


The oldest living rabbi (aka Rabbi Jem)


The cast (left to right): Bonnie, Abby, Mallory, Jeff, Deb, Rabbi Jem, Gail, Sheila, Glen & Rich.


Food!!! My grandson doesn't look happy with his hotdog.

Hamantaschen cookies are shaped like a three-cornered hat and filled with apricot, prune or poppy seed filling.


Musical chairs

More musical chairs - Rabbi Jem loves to play!!


Jonathan loved playing toss the golf balls in the buckets...of course he had to taste them.


A lonely hotdog left at the bowling alley.

Did you know that the movie One Night With the King is the story of Purim? To learn more about Purim, check out my previous post For Such A Time As This. Also, this link has in-depth information - http://judaism.about.com/od/holidays/a/The-Story-Of-Purim.htm

For Such a Time as This

2011-03-10T21:29:00.005-04:00

Perhaps you’ve heard the phrase “for such a time as this” and wondered where it came from. The saying is from the Biblical book of Esther, and is associated with the Jewish holiday of Purim. Esther 9:21 tells us this festival is to be observed yearly. Each year, we remember that G-d placed Hadassah (Esther) in place to save her people from destruction. She was willing to take the risk and follow what G-d laid on her heart to say and do. The book of Esther says she was born “for such a time as this”.

Each year, we celebrate Purim with family and friends at Ma’gen Da’vid Messianic Synagogue. Purim is also called the holiday of joy and it is traditional to dress up, and be merry while remembering how the Jews of Persia narrowly escaped annihilation thanks to the bravery of Queen Esther.

Last year, my husband, Rabbi Jem, dressed up as “the oldest rabbi of Israel” complete with a long, grey beard, and read the story of Esther. He was a BIG hit with the children.

Queen Esther aka Amanda

The children in our congregation also dressed in costumes and thoroughly enjoyed making lots of noise while the book was read. It is traditional to "boo" when the villain’s name, Haman, is read, and to cheer loudly when the hero’s names, Esther and her uncle, Mordechai, are mentioned. One of our talented Ma'gen Da'vid family painted this wonderful depiction of Queen Esther that the children could put their faces through and have a picture made. (My daughter, Amanda, had to join the fun!)

Like Esther, each year I am reminded that G-d wants to use me, too, and that we are all born for a purpose: G-d’s purpose. Personally, this holiday inspires me to stand up and speak for G-d when He gives me the opportunity.

I had just such an opportunity within a few days after Purim last year, when I met a Jewish man at a local fundraiser. The young man related a story about a horrible wreck he’d recently survived. With a cracking voice and tears in his eyes, he said, “I don’t know why G-d saved me alive. Is it just to work day after day as a truck driver?”

G-d spoke very clearly to me at that moment: Gail, you are here tonight for such a time as this - to tell him that Yeshua (Jesus) is the Messiah.

Trembling, I spoke softly, “I believe G-d saved you alive so that you and I could have this conversation right now. He wants me to tell you that Yeshua is the Messiah.”

“I just can’t believe a holy and mighty G-d could come to earth in human form”, he said sincerely.

“My husband, Rabbi Jem, escaped death miraculously like you, and he asked that same question of G-d: why didn’t I die? That burning question led him to search for G-d, and it led him to accept Yeshua as the Messiah.” As I spoke those last words, we were interrupted and the conversation with him ended.

G-d had me there at just the right time to answer his question. I pray for him, and I believe He will one day find the wonderful peace of knowing Yeshua as his Messiah. Like Esther, I know G-d used me in that man’s life “for such a time as this”.

******

Purim will be celebrated on March 20 this year. I'll let you know about the fun we have and post some pics.

Shalom and blessings to ya'll.

Linking up to Spiritual Sundays
Join us for Gratituesday at Heavenly Homemakers!
linking up to: Weekend Bloggy Reading

My friend Marnie

2011-03-01T14:03:00.001-04:00

Many thanks to Marnie, who gave me the privilege to tell my weight loss story on her radio show. Here is the link to the show. Marnie's Friends (scroll down to the show for February 28 titled SUPER BUSY: Amazing Women Lose Weight).Three other ladies share their weight loss stories also. I was blessed to have this opportunity as well as to learn from the other speakers.

Marnie is a real go-getter and I've been following her website for many years. You will find a multitude of ideas to help you in ministry. I love her newsletter and recommend you sign up. I've learned so much from her.

http://www.marnieswedberg.com

You can read my story (the Chewing Tobacco Diet) at this link:
http://gailgolden.blogspot.com/2011_02_01_archive.html

Great is His Faithfulness

2011-02-13T13:52:00.004-04:00

How can an experience be both horrible and wonderful at the same time? Because G-d give us power to overcome and have joy in the midst of any circumstance.

"Because of the LORD'S great love we are not consumed,

for His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning. Great is your FAITHFULNESS."
~Lamentations 3 : 22 - 23

As I sat my daughter's bedside hour after hour for six days, praying for her, covering her with the blood of Yeshua, calling on His angels to surround her, I had energy like I've never known. Normally I fall asleep at 10 pm like clockwork. The first night, I stayed by her bed all night. On the following nights I was up till 1 am, and up early the next morning to return to her side. She had called for me to come. She needed me. G-d gave me strength I didn't know I had.

By Wednesday night as we moved my daughter to a new hospital, I felt weary in my body and also in my soul. I felt I couldn't go another step or even continue to pray. Father, help me was my silent prayer.

As I breathed that simple prayer, a new guard arrived at the nearby desk, and immediately turned on his radio. My Father spoke gently, lovingly to me through the words of this song by Steven Curtis Chapman:

His strength is perfect when our strength is gone;
He’ll carry us when we can’t carry on.
Raised in His power, the weak become strong;
His strength is perfect, His strength is perfect.

With tears I prayed, Thank you Father. I know it was You energizing me every day. Thank you for renewing my strength right now! He answered with an energy I have not felt in a long time. I knew I could go on, even if it took all night. I would finish my assignment of love, support, and most importantly prayer for my daughter.

Thanks to all of you who are praying for her. Keep it up. She is getting better every day, although still hospitalized. She will need prayers for the next few weeks as she recovers.

Shalom Alechem (Peace to you)

GGG

I'm sharing this at Spiritual Sundays

please pray

2011-02-08T13:46:00.000-04:00

Dear Friends, Family & Followers (you are my friends, too, even though we've not met in person):

I have been off for a time because my daughter Melissa is very ill.

Please pray for her, and for me as I minister to her. I'll be back as soon as I can.

Shalom,

GG

My porch

2011-01-31T23:18:00.002-04:00

Our pets on the porch...the cat is begging for food from hubs.

My porch is my morning meeting place with My Father.

Each morning, on my porch, I sit still in my white, wicker rocking chair and meditate on the beauty of my back yard: green trees, singing birds, rising sun, and the light breeze waking the trees. He is here. He cares. I praise Him for the beauty of His creation.

Like my prayer mentor, George Mueller, I need to spend time alone with G-d in the morning before I start my day. Like him, I often need the Scriptures in order to “get my soul in a happy state”. Some mornings, I can tell my thoughts are not right because I feel out of sorts – not my usual happy, contented self. Past experience has taught me that He will show me what to do if I am troubled

Following the example of Mr. Mueller, I keep a prayer journal. Getting my thoughts out of my head and on to paper helps me. Sometimes, I whine in my journal. I write it all down in black and white because it’s for His eyes only. Needless to say, over the years I’ve learned my thoughts are not His thoughts. My ways are not His ways.

After journaling, I turn to the Scriptures. I ask G-d to help me through His written Word. Show me the right thought is my daily prayer.

I open the Scriptures to my daily dose of Proverbs, and a verse leaps out! The words speak directly to my immediate need. I tremble in awe of the living G-d…so real…as close to me as my breath. It changes me. It lifts my bad mood. Oh, how it comforts me to know that G-d is near, listening to me, speaking to me.

How thankful I am that, unlike generations before me, I can hold His Words in my hands. His Word is Living Water, quenching my dry soul. It is the Bread of Life, nourishing my hunger.

My time with Him is precious and sweet. I linger as long as I can at His feet, and come away refreshed, renewed, ready to start my day.

The Chewing Tobacco Diet

2011-01-14T15:49:00.003-04:00

A chewing tobacco habit helped me lose weight.

This is me before the weight loss.

Wait! It's not what you're thinking. I'll explain.

I'm a teacher. One morning as class was starting, I noticed one of my teenage students walk past with a big wad of something stuffed in his lower lip. "John, wait!" I called as I stared intently at the bulge. "What's that in your mouth?"

His eyes grew big, and he stammered, "Uh … uh … "

"Are you chewing tobacco?"

"Yes, Ma'am," he said as he looked down, shuffling his feet, his hands clenched in his pockets.

John was my favorite student, a boy with a heart as big as Texas and as tender as a teddy bear's. He had confided in me weeks earlier that he felt God calling him to be a preacher. But I had watched him struggle, trying to be like the other boys in the class. He wanted to be cool, but the Holy Spirit wouldn't let him. While the other boys sinned with relish, John was tormented by his struggles and ashamed of his stumbling. Trying to live in two worlds wasn't working for him.

"Miss Gail, I know it's wrong to dip, but I only do it every once in a while. And all the other guys do it!"

I had to bite my tongue to keep from saying what I thought: If they jumped off the cliff, would you jump, too? Instead, I prayed, "God, please show me how to help this young man. He's going to do great things for you, but he's headed down the wrong roads. Show me how I can be helpful."
Kicking the habit

Over the next weeks, I caught him with a "pinch" in his lip several times and always called him on it. He finally broke down and told me, "Miss Gail, I just love to dip. I love the taste of it, and I love to spit. I know it's wrong and everything, but I've tried to stop and I just can't." His pleading almost convinced me there was no hope.

His honesty poignantly expressed the struggle going on in my own life. Like him, I was addicted—not to tobacco, but to overeating. I was 100 pounds overweight.

God, please show me how to break my own addiction so I can help John, I prayed silently as we stood face to face. Then I had an idea …

"John, give me your chewing tobacco." I commanded.

He looked at me with shock. "What for?"

"Just give it to me. I'll explain later," I said, holding out my hand. Reluctantly, he placed it in my palm with a puzzled look on his face.

That night, I set the pack of chewing tobacco on my kitchen counter and prayed, "God, I know you can help me overcome my addiction. I don't know how. But I'm asking you to do it for me, so that John will see your power to help and believe it for himself."

The chewing tobacco on my kitchen counter daily reminded me to pray, "God, please do for me what I cannot do for myself." When I was tempted to overeat, I prayed, "Help me, God!" He answered every prayer.

Not my willpower, but God's

For the first time, I realized that when I'd tried to lose weight in the past, I'd depended on my own willpower. It never worked for long. I had just wanted to lose weight—I didn't want to change. But this time, God changed me. He gave me the strength to plan ahead by having good foods to eat, and to prepare lunches so I wouldn't hit the fast-food places. I also learned to love foods that I had previously shunned. The weight came off slowly but steadily, and I began to look and feel like a new woman.
To date, I have lost a total of 85 pounds and six dress sizes. It's been amazing to see God change life-long habits and reshape my mind and body.

Naturally, friends and family who visited my kitchen were curious about the pack of chewing tobacco on the counter. I had plenty of opportunities to share John's dipping problem and my prayers that we'd overcome our addictions.

In the past I'd never understood the verse, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Phil. 4:13, NASB). But that verse became very real during the months that God began to work in me. To date, I have lost a total of 85 pounds and six dress sizes. I can honestly say I have not struggled, or suffered, or felt sorry for myself as I had in the past. It's been amazing to see God work in me to change life-long habits and reshape my mind and body. When people ask me how I did it, I tell them about God's power.


Me - after losing 90 pounds!

When John noticed I was shrinking, I told him how his struggle had spurred me on to seek God's help for my own addiction. I recounted how his pack of chewing tobacco played a part in my weight loss. He smiled from ear to ear, but then hung his head and asked me to keep praying for him. I assured him I would.

My prayer is that he will not take as many years to realize this simple truth that I am learning: "I will glory in my weakness, for when I am weak, He is made strong." I still keep his pack of chewing tobacco in my kitchen as a reminder to pray for us daily.

Gail G. Golden is a writer living in Port St. John, Florida.Copyright © 2007 by the author or Christianity Today International/Today's Christian magazine.
Click here for reprint information.

I'm linking to Spiritual Sundays
and the Totally Tuesday Blog Hop

Living in paradise

2011-01-02T19:31:00.004-04:00

Living in paradise is a wonderful thing. Last week, I drove down the River Road as I call it and snapped some pics with my camera phone. I love living near the water, and it soothes my soul to be near this beautiful river. I feel rich when I ride down this road. Just to see the water, the birds, the flowers and tress, and the gorgeous homes is such a blessing.

I hope you enjoy this little tour of my paradise.

As I headed south on the River Road, I enjoyed the white fence, the palm trees and oaks with moss draping a canopy overhead, and then I spotted a roadside fruit stand. Isn't it paradise to have fruit sold on the side of the road using the "honor" system? You pick your fruit and leave the money in the coffee can! I love where I live!

I feel so blessed to see sailboats, wading birds, and most of all, the night-blooming cirius. They only bloom one time and are spectacular. Just another benefit of living in paradise.

The River Road winds around the curves of the river and up and down her hills. There are some pretty high points that look over white sandy beaches - so pretty! We get our "Fall" color in December here in sunny central Florida, so I even get to enjoy the turning of the leaves.

Another joy is seeing the "painted ladies" - beautiful Victorian homes. Here are two decked out for the holidays.

The most beautiful part of paradise is seeing the sunsets. I believe G-d draws near at sunrise and sunset, because I feel such joy to see what He's creating. Thank you G-d for my simple pleasures and abundant blessings. Thank you for letting me live in paradise on earth.

I'm linking up to Grati-Tuesday, Something Beautiful Spiritual Sundays and Siimple Pleasures Fashionably Organized, The Two Savvy Sisters, Emmy's Closet and Sunny Bug

Dance with me

2010-12-23T13:02:00.004-04:00

During this season of worship, please enjoy a beautiful depiction of the love between Yeshua and His bride. My heart overflows with joy as I draw close to Him and glory in the love of my Beloved. He has truly captured my heart. There is no joy like the joy He gives. I pray you know Him like this.

Shalom and blessings to you and yours.
I'm sharing this at Spiritual Sundays, Something Beautiful, Grati-Tuesday, and a Holy Experience

Christmas - unplugged

2010-12-20T14:38:00.003-04:00

As I said in my last post, I am blessed to celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas. I celebrate Christmas very differently than most, and very differently from the way I did it in years past. I read a quote this week that sums up my outlook on Christmas celebrations.

"Whenever Christmas begins to burden, it’s a sign that I’ve taken on something of the world and not of Christ."

Years ago, I read the book Unplug the Christmas Machine that had a profound impact on me. I was a young mother at the time, and completely worn out by "Christmas". I ran myself ragged shopping, decorating, entertaining, being entertained...and you know the rest of the story. After reading the book, I decided to do Christmas differently, and it has evolved over time. Slowly, I began to do gifts differently. I shopped, spent, and decorated less, and began to worship more.

Who is Christmas about, after all? Isn't it about Yeshua? Weren't the first gifts brought to Him? I can remember, as a small girl, feeling like something was missing at Christmas. Yes, I knew and read the story of His birth...but what was I giving Him? My little girl heart knew He was being ignored... in spite of all the decorations, presents, parties, and hoopla. Even as a small girl, I sensed He was grieved.

Somewhere along the line, in my desire to love Him and honor Him, I read about the pagan basis for Christmas. I learned that Yeshua was most likely not born in the winter because the shepherds were tending their flocks in the hills. I learned that the Bible says not to put a tree in your house and decorate it (Jer.10:1-5). And don't even get me started on Santa Claus. I had to ask myself if G-d is pleased by telling children that lie. I have a grandson now, and I much prefer that he learn about G-d's appointed feasts and festivals than the world's. I'm thankful that his parents feel the same.

Yeshua celebrated those feasts, including Hanukkah. He also said, "I have not come to do away with the Law, but to fulfill it." I don't think He meant to stop celebrating His feasts, but to realize in celebrating them that He is the fulfillment of them. They are all tactile, hands-on lessons that teach us about His character and about our relationship to Him. Yeshua is, after all, the G-d of the Old Testament, and He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. If he said we would observe His feasts forever, shouldn't we be doing that and follow His example?

For that reason, I celebrate Hanukkah - with Yeshua as the Light of the World. I observe Christmas as the fact that He was born as a man. I worship Him - not the Christmas tree, or the presents, or the whole machine that Christmas has become. I'm much happier doing it that way.

For me, Christmas is a time of peace and of drawing close to Him. I thank Him that He was willing to become a man and to suffer as we do in this earth, to understand our frailty. I thank Him that He didn't give in to sin so that He could be that perfect offering for sin. I thank Him for His light that has shone in my heart and taken root there. I thank Him for the blessing of being in His family and for the gift of His Word to guide my life. I thank Him for the Ruach Hacodesh living inside me. I am so glad He came.

What's funny about being a Messianic Jewish believer is that sometimes Hanukkah comes before Christmas, and then sometimes it's just the opposite. So, mostly, we celebrate all month long - that Yeshua was born and that He was the Light of the World. We put up blue and white lights and listen to Hanukkah music as well as songs of Christmas that celebrate our Savior's birth. We make special foods and fellowship with friends. Yes, I do give gifts, but they are quite minimal. No more pushing myself to keep up with the Christmas machine. I play music, and go to free concerts that focus on Yeshua. I ride around and look at the lights and worship my Savior. My heart is so full of gratitude and worship.

This video is so wonderful. I hope you'll watch it, and stand up with me and praise and worship Yeshua - the King of Kings and L-rd of Lords. Halelu-jah! (a great Hebrew word that means Praise G-d!). I'm shaaring this at Spiritual Sundays

Yeshua is the Light of Hanukkah

2010-12-03T15:33:00.005-04:00

Let the candle-lighting begin! Yes, Hanukkah started Wednesday night at sundown...and a delightful holiday it is.

I am so blessed to be able to celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas. Granted I don't celebrate Christmas like most people do, but it is a joyful time for me as a Jewish believer in Yeshua (Jesus) as the Messiah.

As Messianic Jewish believers, we celebrate this holiday in remembrance of a great miracle God performed for the Jews. Each night for eight days, my husband and I place colorful candles in a Hanukkah menorah in remembrance of God’s miracle working power.

The holiday originated when Judah the Maccabee and his followers reclaimed the temple from Syrian King Antiochus IV. The temple was cleansed and prepared for rededication. The Hebrew word Hanukkah means "dedication." When the sacred temple Menorah (candelabra) was relit, there was only enough sacred oil to burn for one day. Yet, the oil miraculously lasted eight days until more purified oil could be found. Hence, the expression: “A Great Miracle Happened There”.

Yeshua observed Hanukkah, as recorded in John 10: 22-23: “Now it was the Feast of Dedication in Jerusalem, and it was winter. And Jesus walked in the Temple, in Solomon’s porch.” He was there, in His Father’s House, to observe the Feast of Hanukkah. It is also significant that in John 8:12 Yeshua declared, “I am the Light of the World”. This statement would have great impact during the Feast of Dedication. The Jews knew exactly what He was saying. He was declaring Himself to be G-d.

This week, my husband, Rabbi Jem and I along with the members of our congregation, celebrate Hanukkah together with singing, dancing, food, drink, and much talking together. We remember that our God is a miracle working God. Not just in the Bible, but in our own lives today. It is traditional to sing the song Rock of Ages. Most Christians don’t know this Jewish song which commemorates Hanukkah. As we sing it, we also remember that Yeshua is our Rock of Ages who saves us from sin’s power:

Rock of Ages let our song
Praise thy saving power

Thou amidst the raging foes
Was our sheltering tower.

Furious, they assailed us,
But thine armour veiled us.

And thy word broke their sword
When our own strength failed us

The light (Yeshua) has come into the world, and that flame never dies in the hearts of believers. That holy oil continues to burn and give hope to those of us who have accepted Yeshua into our hearts. I can testify that a great miracle happened in my life when Yeshua came in. In spite of trouble or hardship or conflict, my hope never dies. That oil just keeps on burning, just as it did at the first Hanukkah.

As we remember the traditions of this Feast of Dedication, we have also added a new one: to take this time to rededicate our lives to let the “Light” shine through us. We possess the message so needed by the world.

Tonight, during our service, we will also sing the song "Yeshua is the Light" by Zemer Levav. I hope you will take the time to listen and to remember that His Light can overcome any darkness in your life.

Linked to Spiritual Sundays (Thanks, Charlotte and Ginger!)
Also linked to Sunday Song, and Seasonal Sundays

Thanksgiving Proclamation

2010-11-24T22:30:00.000-04:00

Washington in prayer at Valley Forge

President George Washington proclaimed the first Thanksgiving Day in 1789. Following is that proclamation.

I found it very interesting that he made frequent reference to Almighty G-d and closed it with "the year of our L-rd." Our Founding Fathers were reverent, men who honored the G-d of Israel and His Son, Yeshua (Jesus). Our founding documents are full of references to G-d and our L-rd, and our government was based on Judeo-Christian principles.

I am thankful for this heritage and want future generations to remember our history. I hope you will be blessed and humbled as I am to read Washington's words:

Thanksgiving Proclamation

[New York, 3 October 1789]

By the President of the United States of America, a Proclamation.

Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor– and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.

Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be– That we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks–for his kind care and protection of the People of this Country previous to their becoming a Nation–for the signal and manifold mercies, and the favorable interpositions of his Providence which we experienced in the course and conclusion of the late war–for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty, which we have since enjoyed–for the peaceable and rational manner, in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national One now lately instituted–for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed; and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and in general for all the great and various favors which he hath been pleased to confer upon us.

And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech him to pardon our national and other transgressions– to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually–to render our national government a blessing to all the people, by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed–to protect and guide all Sovereigns and Nations (especially such as have shewn kindness unto us) and to bless them with good government, peace, and concord–To promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the encrease of science among them and us–and generally to grant unto all Mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as he alone knows to be best.

Given under my hand at the City of New York the third day of October in the year of our Lord 1789.

Go. Washington

**************

This my humble prayer also.
I pray you will all have a blessed day of thanksgiving to Almighty G-d.

Love and shalom,

Gail

The wonderful Silhouette machine giveaway!

2010-11-23T22:34:00.002-04:00

Enter to win a Silhouette machine at this link:
http://www.infarrantlycreative.net/2010/11/silhouette-giveaway.html

The girls at Shanty2chic are giving away a Silhouette cutting machine. Check it out at this link:
http://shanty2chic.blogspot.com/2010/11/silhouette-machine-giveaway.html

And, believe it or not, the Thrifty Decor Chick is giving one away, too!
http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2010/11/silhouette-craft-cutter-giveaway.html

Thanks-Living

2010-11-21T18:05:00.003-04:00

My Mama holding a plaque I made for her a while back.
It says "the heart that gives gathers".
She has always been a very giving person.

As I've spent many hours by Mama's bedside over the last month, I've remembered all the things I'm thankful for about her, especially this week, as Thanksgiving approaches.

This year, Mama will spend Thanksgiving in the nursing home, and it breaks my heart to think about it. Their food is good, but it's nothing like my Mama's. We'll eat it together, but it sure won't be the same. So, if you still have your Mama cooking for you, don't take it for granted. Thank her for all the hours she has spent in the past to make your holidays special. It's a gift of love and something to be very thankful for.

P.S. Thanks to all who have prayed for my mother and encouraged me in my efforts to assist her during this time. My mother entered a rehab facility about a week ago. She is not well, but is better. All of her heart and stomach tests have come back with good results. The doctor says he can't find any reason for her digestive issues. So, I would appreciate continued prayer for her health.

I'm linking up to Spiritual Sundays at http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/

Join us for Gratituesday at Heavenly Homemakers!

Answered prayers

2010-10-21T17:22:00.000-03:00

Thanks for the prayers. The blockage was treated and dissolved without surgery. Doctors said it was due to adhesions. After the tubes were removed, her heart began to race. A stress test was done, which turned out well, but they did further tests to determine why it happened. My mama is home now and re-gaining strength. She will have to wear a heart monitor for two weeks. Please continue to pray for her healing and for her strength to return.

Also, please pray for me because I am not a very good nurse. As a teenager, I was a candy-striper at the hospital, and would cry every time I went into a patient's room who was in pain. The coordinator realized I was no good at working with sick people, so she assigned me to the hospitality cart. (This was long ago, so some might not know about it.) The cart was stocked with candy, magazines, etc. and I would push it from room to room, selling stuff. That didn't work either, because I still had to see people suffering. The final position was working in the coffee shop, and I did really well there. So, basically, I flunked nursing, and found out I was good in sales! I loved that little pink, striped uniform, though!

All I can say, is G-d bless nurses.

Please pray

2010-10-14T15:06:00.001-03:00

My mother is in the hospital with an intestinal blockage. Please pray that this will not require surgery.

Here's a picture of my mama. I show it to all of the nurses so they can see how pretty she is without tubes in her nose (poor, thing). She's really mad because they won't give her any food, and her IV is causing trouble, which causes the alarm to go off every five minutes. She didn't get any sleep last night because every time she'd doze off, they'd come in and wake her up. Oy vey!

Reflections on the High Holy Days (Part 2 of 3)

2010-10-03T19:45:00.003-03:00

In my last post, I wrote about the Jewish High Holy Days beginning with Rosh Hoshanah, followed by the Ten Days of Awe. Now, I will reflect on Yom Kippur, which means "Day of Atonement", and is the holiest day of the Jewish year. Atonement means "covered", so it is the day when all the sins of the Jews of the past year are "covered".

As Messianic believers, we are Jews and Gentiles who believe Yeshua (Jesus) covered our sins on the cross by shedding his blood, once and for all, forever. So why observe Yom Kippur? Because G-d commanded it in Leviticus 23:27 "... on the tenth day of this seventh month there shall be a Day of Atonement: it shall be an holy convocation unto you; and you shall afflict your souls..."

The Ten Days of Awe have prepared us for observing Yom Kippur, and we come to the synagogue with humble, repentant hearts. The rabbi and congregation wear white clothing as a reminder of G-d's holiness. The ark curtain and the Torah cover are also white, further reinforcing holiness.

During the service the Kol Nidre is sung. This beautiful, old Hebrew song has tones of sadness and repentence resounding throughout, as a reminder of the attitude we are to have about our sins. There are special prayers and readings done by the rabbi and the congregation. At one point, we read through a long, detailed list of sins. After each sin is read, we pause to reflect on that sin, and to search our hearts for its' presence in our lives, It is traditional to press our fists to our hearts as we confess our sins, symbolizing the pain sin causes.

Each year during the service, I am always amazed to become aware of some sneaky sin that has wormed it's way into my life. This year it was "confusion". How did I forget that I can always come to Him for the right thoughts any time I'm in need? And, I must admit...I hadn't thought of confusion as a sin until that moment on Yom Kippur. G-d reminded me that it is through reading the Word I become sound-minded, and will not fall for the lies of the world through people, television, books, the internet, etc. Forgive me, Father. Thank you for showing me this, and I'm so grateful that Your blood covered my sins.

Also during the service, we have the opportunity to confess our sins to the congregation as a whole, if need be. For instance, if our attitude or words have hurt the group. One person humbly did so this year. We also are encouraged to go to anyone we have hurt to apologize and make amends.

Yom Kippur is a bitter-sweet time. It is bitter because we are sad to be reminded that our sins have hurt G-d and others. It is sweet because Yeshua's blood paid for our sins and brought forgiveness....and sweet because of renewed relationships.

As a Messianic Jew, I observe Yom Kippur, but growing up in a Christian church, I did not now what I was missing. In the late 1990's, with a great desire to acquire wisdom , I began to study the Torah (first five books of the Old Testament). Through that study, I saw what a tremendous amount of blood had to be shed for sins. and gained a whole new appreciation of Yeshua's blood sacrifice. Somehow, the New Testament teachings about His blood did not affect me the way the Old Testament teachings did. In the Old Testament we read in Leviticus 17:11 "For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that makes an atonement for the soul." In the New Testament we read, "without the shedding of blood, there is no remission of sin." (Hebrews 9:22).

Can you imagine having to take an offering to the Temple every time you sin? Now think about that sin that you can't seem to overcome...and having to repeatedly go to the priest and have more blood shed to pay for that sin. I'd never thought about it that way. It puts sin in a whole new perspective, doesn't it? Now think about those sins you weren't even aware of committing. Those sins are still serious and have consequences. We need to be reminded of these things. That is why Yom Kippur is to be observed yearly - as a reminder of G-d's holiness, of sin's seriousness, and of the wonderful forgiveness G-d offers through Yeshua

Up until the destruction of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem in A.D. 70, on Yom Kippur, the blood of animals was presented to G-d as an atonement for sin. Since A.D.70, no blood sacrifices have been made. So what's a Jew to do? Those who do not believe in Yeshua's blood as their atonement, depend on their mitzvot (good deeds) to atone for their sins. Our mission, as Messianic believers, is to share the wonderful, good news about Yeshua, because His blood covered all sins.

May His Name be blessed and praised forever!

P.S. For those who would like more information, there is a treatise on Yom Kippur in the 9th chapter of Hebrews in the New Testament.

Join us for Gratituesday at Heavenly Homemakers!
I'm linking to Spiritual Sundays and
to Something Beautiful

The Blog Guidebook

2010-09-30T14:13:00.003-03:00

Have you heard about the Blog Guidebook? It's a wonderful place to find the type of blogs you enjoy. I love how they break down categories. ( My favorites are decorating and sewing.) There is also an area called "blogging for newbies" I'm loving that because I'm a newbie!

They have a button up top for "link parties" and "giveaways". You'll find a whole new world, once you get started with link parties. Believe me, there is a party for every day of the week. It's also a great way to win prizes! Recently I won a beautiful lavender sachet pillow that was hand embroidered, AND two lovely fragrant bunches of lavender tied in pink ribbons. All of this, just for making a comment on a blog.

You may also list your blog on the Guidebook. It's a great way bring new people to your blog...and to meet new friends.

The Blog Guidebook is a great resource for how-to information. Stop by and check it out. at www.blogguidebook.com or just click on the button above.

Reflections on the High Holy Days (Part 1 of 3)

2010-09-29T18:08:00.002-03:00

The blowing of the shofar marks the beginning of Rosh Hashanah as well as the beginning of the new year in Judaism. So, my dear friends, "L'shanah Tova" which is the traditional greeting we use to wish each other a blessed and happy new year. The holiday began at sundown on September 8. Yes, I know I'm late, but better late than never, right? Happy 5771 (on the Jewish calendar)!!

The Holy Scriptures tell us to observe this holiday. In Leviticus 23:24 it is known as Zikhron Teruah or "Memorial of Blowing (of trumpets). In Numbers 29:1, it is called Yom Teruah "The Day of Blowing (of trumpets)". The Jewish holidays (or High Holy Days) began with Rosh Hashanah, which literally means "Head of the Year".

Our service includes the blowing of the shofar 100 times! I'd said in a recent post that my husband, Rabbi Jem, would be doing it, but as it turns out, one of our members, David Jackson, took his place. Rabbi was coming down with a cold (as was I), so this was a great blessing to have someone who could stand in for him.

The holiday reminds us to think about the year behind us and the year ahead, and begins the ten days of awe. During this period, we are to search our hearts for any sins we've allowed to creep in, and to examine our relationships to see if there is anyone to whom we owe apologies or amends. Those who are medically able also fast during the ten days of awe, as fasting clears the mind, and enables one to hear G-d's voice more clearly.

This year, on Rosh Hashanah, we also dedicated our new Torah mantle and ark curtain. Since the High Holy Days are a time of holiness, we use white as a visual reminder of its' importance. I'll talk more about that in my next post , which will be about Yom Kippur.

As Messianic Jews, we believe our Messiah has come, and his name is Yeshua in Hebrew (Jesus Christ). In studying about this holiday, I think it is interesting to note that it was not until 1500 years after G-d instituted the holiday that it was called Rosh Hashanah. When the Jewish Temple was destroyed in A.D. 70, Jewish practice changed radically. Yeshua changed things drastically because He was and is the fulfillment of the Feast. I can testify that when he comes into a life, it's a whole new world. More about that change, both in Judaism and in my life, in my next post.

I'm linking up to Gratituesday at Heavenly Homemakers and Spiritual Sunday

Feast of Tabernacles

2010-09-22T09:17:00.001-03:00

Our grandson, Jonathan, playing the drum during worship service!

So much has happened since my last post:

Yom Kippur - with some wonderful insights I will be sharing soon. Also will post pics from our service.
Our trip to Washington DC
Our bout with the flu :(
Sukkot - Feast of Tabernacles preparations

I am working diligently to prepare for our BIG celebration of Sukkot this weekend. I love this holiday and can't wait to show you how we celebrate.

I'll be back on Monday!

L'shanah Tovah

2010-09-08T12:12:00.000-03:00

At sundown today, Rosh Hashanah begins - and with it, the beginning of the High Holy Days.

As believers, we are commanded in Numbers 29:1

"And in the seventh month, on the first day of the month, you shall have a holy convocation. You shall do no customary work. For you it is a day of blowing of the trumpets." (See also Leviticus 23:23-25).

The next ten days will be days of quiet reflection for me as I search my heart for hidden sins that may have crept in. I look forward to setting aside my normal activities to focus on listening to G-d's voice. This is a beautiful time of drawing close to the Father, feeling His presence, and hearing His sweet and loving voice.

During the Rosh Hashanah service tonight, my husband Rabbi Jem will blow the shofar. I am always amazed that he can do this because he has a greatly diminished lung capacity due to asthma. It is a testimony of his love and dedication for Adonai. He is a remarkable man empowered by our awesome G-d.

After Yom Kippur, September 17, I will return to the blog-world. Until then, Shalom and Blessings to you all.

I love white

2010-09-02T14:13:00.009-03:00

In my home, I decorate with items that are special to me. Each one has a story. This vignette sits on a table in my foyer, surrounded by framed photographs of my family.

The angel was a gift from a friend and reminds me that G-d's angels are always near me, protecting me and my loved ones. The crystal brooch belonged to my mother and reminds me to honor her.

The little girl praying is actually a night light that I disassembled. Isn't she precious? She reminds me to pray for my loved ones.

The framed scripture is from Isaiah 40:1-2 and reminds me to pray to be of comfort to all I meet. It especially reminds me to love the Jewish people and to tell them about Yeshua the Messiah.
Here's the scripture:

Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your G-d.

Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the L-RD's hand double for all her sins.

I'm linking up to White Wednesdays at Faded Charm:

http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/2010/08/white-wednesday-63.html
and Spiritual Sundays at: http://www.bloggerspirit.blogger.com/
and Simply Beautiful at http://www.aglimpseofbeautiful.com/

Exciting News!!!!

2010-08-28T22:00:00.000-03:00

Recently I discovered the wonderful Silhouette machine. I have so many projects I want to do for the synagogue. I'm imagining worship banners, wall decorations, Torah covers, ark curtains, decorations for costumes for our Davidic dance team.

I am so excited! There are lots of chances out there in Blog-land to win one. Here's where you can find some Silhouette Giveaway contests.

Kara's Party Ideas

Under the Table and Dreaming

Grosgrain

American Crafts

Making it Lovely

You Say Too

TWO GEMS

2010-08-24T00:00:00.000-03:00

A divine appointment in May set two ministers on a path together to restore America to her Judeo-Christian roots.

Pastor Jim Book, of the First Christian Church of Winter Park, and Rabbi Jem Golden of Ma’gen Da’vid Messianic Synagogue of Port St John, met at the Liberty Summit in Orlando where they were both scheduled speakers. Their messages resonated with attendees and sparked a fire that is spreading and leading to speaking requests across the U.S.

Both Jew and Christian have the same message: it is time for ministers in churches and synagogues to lead their members to be politically involved in order to save our country.

Pastor Jim Book speaks about the leaders of the United States being devout Christians and how they quoted Scripture and called on Jesus Christ in prayer. Weaving his message with Scripture, Pastor Jim challenges attendees to return to Godly values and to the Biblical principles of the Constitution.

A believer in Yeshua (Jesus Christ), Messianic Rabbi Jem Golden encourages ministers to trust God to protect them as they lead out to stand up for the obedience God expects of them. Both a Biblical and American historian, Rabbi Jem quotes the Bible as the basis of our founding documents and for the blessings our country has received in the past by applying those principles in government.

These two men of God are prime examples of unfailing leadership as they follow in the footsteps of the leaders of our country who stood for liberty. Pastors and rabbis alike will be encouraged and inspired to talk to their congregations with confidence and courage. Together, these two “gems” give inspiration and instruction on how ONE PERSON CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Pastor Book and Rabbi Golden are partnering to encourage ministers to stand firm on Biblical values and to work on these important issues:
• the family
• the sanctity of human life
• religious liberty
• education
• pornography
• national sovereignty

For more information about having them speak to your group, please contact:
gail.golden@yahoo.com

WHAT CAN ONE PERSON DO?

2010-08-23T23:24:00.002-03:00

I am so grateful to live in America. I'm grateful for a government that allows me to participate in the election and law-making process . I am also concerned abut the direction our country has taken, but grateful, as an American, that I can "put feet to my faith."

Tomorrow is the primary here in Florida. I pray resident voters will consider whether or not their candidate believes in Biblical values.

Our country has strayed very far from what the founding fathers intended. Those brave men quoted the Bible and invoked the name of Jesus Christ for guidance and blessing.

Please remember you are a part of the government (of the people, by the people, and for the people) and you can make a difference with your prayers and when you take action.

Check out the candidates and pray about who to vote for after checking out these voter guides from Christian Coalition:

http://www.ccfla.org/guides.php

Please pray for our country....

Join us for Gratituesday at Heavenly Homemakers!

My Favorite Psalm (Song)

2010-08-11T17:41:00.007-03:00

This is my favorite movie (and song, and Psalm). I watch it over and over again because it expresses greatest desire of my heart - to dwell in the house of the L-rd forever, to praise Him, and to dance in His joy. I hope you'll watch it and enjoy!

Psalm 27

1The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

2When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.

3Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.

4One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.

5For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.

6And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.

7Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me.

8When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek.

9Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.

10When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up.

11Teach me thy way, O LORD, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.

12Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.

13I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.

14Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

I'm linking up with Word Filled Wednesday at the Internet Cafe:
http://internetcafedevotions.com/wfw/
and Cindy's I Owe It All to Him: http://ioweitalltohim.blogspot.com/2010/08/whats-your-favorite-movie.html

My Creative Spirit

2010-08-07T17:04:00.009-03:00

I'm linking up to White Wednesdays over at Faded Charm. Please visit: www.fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com

Creativity is displayed all over my home, and I'm not bound by any decorating rules. If I like it, I make it work.

I like to mix things up and make displays, like shells and rocks, an angel made of soap... you name it.

I like to keep things around me that remind me of lessons G-d has taught me. The rocks were picked up on my trip to Israel in '96. The heart shaped rock has a hole in it. It reminds me of the lesson I learned while in Eretz Yisrael.

When I made Aliyah (ascent to Israel), I understood for the first time what "covenant" meant. I saw G-d keeping His covenant with Israel by bringing His people back and making the land bloom. Until I saw this, I had a hole in my heart about marriage. He healed me there in Israel, and I learned there are those who do keep covenants.

For the next ten years, I learned to love Yeshua as my husband...my Kinsman Redeemer (see the book of Ruth in the Bible). I learned what love, tenderness, kindness, patience, caring and faithfulness in a man meant by spending time alone with Him and in His Word.

Then - surprise, surprise!!! When I least expected it, he brought a wonderful man into my life. I recognized him as a G-dly man from the time I'd spent with Yeshua.

Rabbi Jem and I were married in 2006, and I am so happy!!

We're both very creative. You should see the pics from our wedding!!

I'm linking up to Cindy's "My Creative Spirit" Challenge at: http://cindyadkinswhimsicalmusings.blogspot.com/

You CAN make a difference

2010-08-05T03:42:00.003-03:00

Are you as concerned as I am about the direction our country is going? Do you think, "but what can one person do?"

As a member of Concerned Women for America, I've learned there is so much one person can do. First, please understand that CWA does not promote any political party or candidate. We work to bring Biblical principles into all levels of public policy. There's a cultural battle raging across this country and CWA is on the front line protecting those values through prayer and action.

We focus on six core issues:

the family
the sanctity of human life
religious liberty
education
stopping pornography
national sovereignty

It would be an honor for CWA to speak to your church, or any other group you may be a part of, about what we, as individuals, can do to preserve America. Please pray about this, talk with your leader, and let me know if you would like to have a member of CWA share how one person can make a difference.

Prayerfully,

Gail Golden
Publicist, Concerned Women for America of Florida
321-505-2217
P.O. Box 140063
Orlando, FL. 32814

Please consider a monthly donation to CWA of Florida.

http://florida.cwfa.org

We have to do what we can, where we are, with what we have
to retain government of, by, and for the people...before it is too late.

My Favorite Word - Sh'ma

2010-07-29T01:15:00.017-03:00

"Sh'ma" is my favorite word. It is Hebrew for the word "Hear" and the first word of a very important Jewish prayer. This prayer is both a daily prayer, and one we say weekly in our liturgy on Shabbat (the Sabbath). The prayer is found in Devarim (Deuteronomy) Chapter 6. You can read the entire passage here: http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Bible/Deuter6.html

Yeshua (Jesus our Messiah) referred to the Sh'ma in Mark 12:28 - 34. Also, in Luke 10:25 - 37, He expounded on it and explained how love of G-d is exhibited in caring for our neighbors. Following G-d's commandments is loving to God, to ourselves and our neighbors. His laws are loving and protective of us and society.

The Sh'ma is a call to obedience. Hashem is not telling us just to listen, but to "hear". In the Holy Scriptures, to hear is to obey. Yeshua said "If you love me, keep my commandments." (John 14:15).

photo from Wikipedia

The Sh'ma is printed and rolled up inside a mezuzah, then placed on the doorpost of our home. As we leave the house and come back in, we touch the mezuzah and then kiss our fingertips. This is a reminder that G-d's Words are like honey to our lips. They are so, so sweet.

Recently, Rabbi Jem and I went to the homes of several of our congregation to affix the mezuzah, and bless their homes. One little boy touched the mezuzah, kissed his fingertips, and said, "It really is sweet!" We wholeheartedly agreed.

What is your favorite word? I'd love to hear about it and why it is so special to you.

I'm linking up to Cindy's blog today: http://ioweitalltohim.blogspot.com

Count Your Blessings

2010-07-26T12:07:00.006-03:00

A song from the 1950’s is one of my favorites: “Count your blessings, name them one by one - Count your blessings see what G-d has done”. That song helped me get through some tough times in my life by always focusing on the good. That song, in addition to three gratitude mentors, helped to shape my attitude of gratitude.

First, my grannie, Fannie Griner, comes to mind. Grannie reared 11 children on a farm during the Depression. Although poor by most standards, she always expressed a thankful heart, and shared what she had with others. One of my fondest memories as a child was visiting her. At night, I’d crawl into her big, old, creaky iron bed with the cloud-like feather mattress. As Grannie sank wearily down on her side of the bed, she’d breathe out a whispered, “Praise the L-rd.” She closed out every day that way, no matter how difficult that day had been.

Grannie also taught me to count my blessings. Each night, we’d make a list of all we were thankful for, and I’d drift off to sleep feeling so content. I think her influence helped me to always feel like I am rich, no matter what my bank account says.

Second, my father, John Wesley Griner, greatly influenced my attitude of gratitude.

Daddy taught me to be thankful for little things, like the shoes on my feet. He told me how shoes were the usual gift he and his ten brothers and sisters received for Christmas. Those shoes had to last all year, and if they pinched later on, they went barefooted. He grew up in the Depression, so having enough food to eat, clothes to wear, and a roof over his head were not taken for granted.

Daddy worked outside in road construction all of his life, but always thanked G-d, whether it was rainy or sunny, and never complained about it. One of Daddy’s favorite sayings was, “These are the best years of your life”. Funny, he told me that as a child, a teenager, and as a grown woman with children of my own. He was right in every instance. My father worked extremely hard his whole life, but when he passed away at 75, his last words were “I’ve had a good life.” I feel the same way, even though I’ve faced some daunting challenges along the way. Daddie’s counsel and example made it easier.

Third, my elderly Jamaican neighbor, Carmita Poulson, was perhaps my greatest influence in learning to be thankful. As a young woman, burdened with all kinds of problems, Carmita taught me to be thankful in prayer. Once a week, we’d get together to pray, and Carmita would start out praising the Lord and go on for 30 minutes, thanking G-d for everything under the sun. At first, I grew impatient, thinking my problems were more important than praising G-d. But, I learned from her example.

At 80, she was healthy and strong, loving and giving, and excited to be alive every day. I can still remember her radiant, smiling face and tearful voice as she said, “Thank you Lord, that I can see, and hear, and walk, and talk, and think, and that I have strength to work for You!” Carmita’s influence of gratitude lives on in me, as I now pray that same prayer every day myself.

As I grow older, I am more and more thankful for Grannie, Daddy, and Carmita as mentors, and for their lives that exemplified gratitude. I pray I will set the same example for those who know me.

Do you have gratitude mentors? I'd love to hear about them.

Always be joyful. Pray regularly. In everything give thanks, for this is what G-d wants from you who are united with the Messiah Yeshua. (I Thessalonians 5:18)

I am linking up for Gratituesday - Hope you'll stop by the blog below
Join us for Gratituesday at Heavenly Homemakers!

My Favorite Bible Verse

2010-07-16T11:50:00.001-03:00

I'm linking up to Cindy's challenge to share my favorite Bible verse. That is such a difficult challenge. There are many verses of Scripture I could list. God' s Word is my lifeline, my strength, my food. It quenches my thirst, comforts me, guides me, counsels me, and daily

intrigues me anew.

In Judaism, we read the Torah through every year. I never fail to be amazed that I can read a passage over and over again, and still learn something new. I also read the book of Proverbs monthly, reading the chapter that corresponds to the day. In example, today I read Proverb 15. Today the first verse jumped out at me, and spoke, "Share this with her." I had been talking with someone about how important our tone and facial expressions are when speaking. G-od's Word is alive!!!

But I digress! Back to my "favorite" verse:

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures.

He leads me beside the still waters

He restores my soul.

Does your soul ever need restoring? Mine does. The pressures of daily life can wear me out. I need time in nature (green pastures) and to sit by the water. Being still, watching birds and butterflies, listening to the wind in the tress, looking at the river or a pond calms me down and enables me to hear G-d's voice again. This is one of the places I go to be still and be restored.

This spot is on the Indian River in Brevard County, Florida, near where I live. When I can't visit there, I sit on my patio and look at the pond my dear, sweet husband made for me. He knows how I need still waters.

A part of being restored is feeding on the green pastures. No, not grass, silly! That's what sheep eat. My green pastures are G-od's Holy Scriptures. I read His Word, and meditate on it as I sit still in the wonders of His beautiful creation. Soon, I hear His tender, sweet voice and my soul leaps with joy. My fellowship with Him is so sweet, I don't want to leave. I walk away encouraged, strengthened and at peace.

If you've never tried being still by the water, reading the Scriptures, and listening to G-d's voice, please try it. I know you will be blessed and restored.

I hope you'll visit Cindy's blog and read other's favorite verses.

Shalom Ya'll

Only in the dark

2010-07-11T11:55:00.006-03:00

I want y'all to see a beautiful flower that grows here on Florida’s Space Coast. For years I thought this plant was so ugly. It looks like green snakes growing on the palm trees along the Indian River. The flowers looked like dried up flamingo heads covered with grey hair. Ugly!

Well, one evening just after dark, I discovered that the ugly flamingo head had bloomed and it was spectacular! Some of the blooms are the size of soccer balls. Who knew something that I perceived to be so ugly could be so beautiful?

(See the ugly flamingo head between the blooms? Proper name night-blooming cereus)

G-d spoke softly to me that the cactus is a picture of surrender to Him. Often hard times come into our lives. Hurtful things happen. Pain (both physical and emotional) visits us. We cringe from the ugliness of it. We run away from it. We want it taken away. If we surrender to G-d, something wonderful happens. The thing we thought was ugly becomes beautiful. We learn something about G-d that no one can take away

As an example, years ago I owned a house in another city. I wanted to sell the house and put it on the market. The house would not sell, however. I prayed, I cried, I told G-d I "needed" it to sell. I became angry and told G-d I felt He was doing me wrong. (Yes, G-d can take it when I don’t agree with Him.) It still didn't sell. I surrendered it to Him and accepted whatever the outcome might be. I put the house up for rent, and was blessed with an excellent renter who paid on time and kept the property in good condition.

Several years later, I desperately needed money, and put the house up for sale again. I prayed for it to sell quickly, and thanks be to G-d, it sold in one week.

I learned from this situation that what I thought was "ugly" was really beautiful. The house was preserved for my truly desperate need years later. G-d knew what he was doing. I learned also, that He knows my needs and provides them. I often think my "wants" are needs, but He knows best.

When troubles come into my life, I’m learning to surrender them to G-d. Surrender during dark times, like the cactus flower, seems ugly and frightening. Once I let go though, I discover a beautiful thing – something about G-d that no one can take away from me. I remember, that only in the dark, does the ugly cactus become a beautiful flower.

Shalom Y'all,

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love G-d, to them who are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)

Join us for Gratituesday at Heavenly Homemakers!

The Scent of Lavender

2010-07-03T12:16:00.009-03:00

A couple of weeks ago, I entered a drawing at The Centsational Girl's blog, and I won!

Yesterday, I received my prize in the mail. My husband brought the large box from the mailbox and said, "Here's a package for you, sweetheart, and it smells sooooo good!"

With great excitement, I opened the package, and found a fragrant gift wrapped in white tissue paper. Nestled under the wrappings were a beautiful hand-embroidered eye pillow, and two bunches of fresh lavender tied with pink ribbons. Soooo Delightful!

I love lavender, and this gift was heaven "scent"!!! Thank you, Kate!

I hope you all will stop by Kate's blog to see more of her beautiful creations. You can visit her at this link:

Sisters

2010-06-25T16:08:00.008-03:00

I'm joining a sorority! Yes, at my age... it's the Bloggerette Sorority. We are a sisterhood of creative ladies.

This week our assignment is to use the picture on the blog button on the left in a creative way. I made a decorated basket, which I will show you further down in the post. But, first I wrote a poem:

Sisters we are...
Committed, all...
to follow Thee Creative Call.

I believe creativity is a God-given gift. He is the great Creator, after all. For many years, I have studied Proverbs, and I found this very interesting verse:

Proverbs 8:12 (King James Version)
I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.

To me, "witty inventions" speaks of creativity. I've also heard it said that if we do not follow our creative call, God will find someone who is willing. How many times have you thought of doing something, and found out later that someone else had done it?

Okay, here's my creation(drum-roll please!):

(I wanted to use sepia tones for the photo, but couldn't figure out how to do it. If you know, please tell me in comments.)

And, another part of the assignment...
Here's a pic of me with my creation.
I'm glad Karen is encouraging us to band together as sisters to be creative and to support each other's creativity.

I also want to recommend a great book titled "The Creative Call" by my friend Janice Elsheimer. You will love it, Sisters!

Shalom Ya'll!

All The Wrinkled Ladies

2010-06-12T14:56:00.023-03:00

Have you seen it? Anita Renfroe's take-off on Beyonce's "All the Single Ladies"? Oh my goodness. I laughed so hard - because I so relate to it. Here's the video:

Leave it to Anita to make us laugh about our wrinkles. She always makes me laugh, and she always makes me think, too. Since I'll be turning the big "6-0" this year, I have to face facts..."Face Lift" facts. Like - I'm probably not going to ever get one, so I have to learn to love those wrinkles, right?

Back in the day when I sold Mary Kay, I used to tell the ladies (as they looked in their magnifying mirrors), "Don't worry honey. If your husband is that close to you, he's not thinking about your wrinkles!" And I'd tell them to use upward strokes for their skin care saying, "Ya'll know everything's going south, so you have to start early." Which reminds me. The other day I put on a belt and looked at myself in the mirror. Would you believe there was no space between the belt and my bosom? What's up with that?

Last weekend I went to a reunion of my high school graduating class, where we all celebrated our 60th Birthday. I walked in and thought who are all of these old people? I did not recognize anybody! The lady doing registration gave us name tags, but you couldn't see them without your glasses. (No one had on glasses, so I didn't wear mine either...well, not until I absolutely had to.) So, people were coming up to me saying, "Oh Gail, it's so good to see you!" I was so embarrassed because I didn't know who they were and couldn't read their name tags.

Another thing I noticed was that there were very few grey haired women there. One lovely friend (also named Gail) had beautiful grey hair just like Paula Deen's, which I aspired to emulate. Well, I am so glad I decided to color my hair before I went. Just three days before, I was as grey as a possum. Both of my daughters told me, "Mom, you need a makeover", so I finally agreed. You've heard of going grey over night? Well, I did just the opposite. I finally faced the fact that my hair would probably never look like Paula Deen's because my mother is 80 and is still salt & pepper grey.

So, there we were...all of us without our glasses (some probably had contacts) and our freshly colored hair. We were looking good! I especially admired one gal's color of red. It was just like I Love Lucy's. I admired her courage - and it looked great, too! I think I'll do that color next!

But boy, you could tell how old we were when the dancing started. The band (named Mid-Life Crisis, appropriately) was outstanding. When they played "Give Me Some Lovin", the dance floor was full. That was "the" song to dance to back in the late 60's.Well, by the next song,"You Say It's Your Birthday", the crowd had thinned out considerably, and gasping for air was heard all around. I really related to that line in Anita's song, "thought I'd do a dip, but don't wanna bust a hip!" By 9:00 PM, most of the old folks had gone home to get ready for bed. Trust me, I was ready, but determined to stay till 10:00, I persevered.

We had a really, really good time. Jem and I danced almost every dance. As a matter of fact, Jem danced every dance. There was always a wrinkled, single lady ready to be his dance partner (and sometimes multiples). One friend said my rabbi husband was so much fun, that she thought she might become Jewish! He's always the life of the party, and I am one lucky gal, I tell you! After a two hour drive home that night, by the next morning, we were in bad shape, believe me. While that song, "Give Me Some Lovin'" was running through my mind, I didn't mention it.

Hey, like my daughter, Melissa, said, "You're not dead yet!" That's exactly right. I'm at peace with my wrinkles, my grey hair (underneath the dye), my bi-focals, my poochy stomach, lumpy thighs, and all that. I keep telling myself, "Self, you are not getting older, you are getting better!" Most days I believe it! Others, not so much.

Like one of my 80 year old friends said, "Getting old is not for sissies!" Well, there's only one alternative, honey, so we've got to make the best of it, right?

I'm thankful G-d has let me live this long. I've had a good life so far, and I'm very happy and content. My husband tells me I get more beautiful every day and I believe him. I feel the same way about "all the wrinkled ladies" at the Lee High 60th Birthday Party Reunion. Every one of them looked beautiful...wrinkles and all! (Especially to me, 'cause I didn't have my glasses on!)

Here we are - and I think we all look really good for 60 year old ladies!!! Don't you?

Writing prompt from Mama Kat’s Writers Workshop: A Happy Reunion

The Upper Room

2010-06-03T20:22:00.004-03:00

I am so excited! This week I received my copy of the July/August 2010 issue of Upper Room magazine. My article appears on page 48, and my photo is on the back cover. The article will also be online at www.upperroom.org/devotional on Saturday, August 10.

My prayer has always been to help people understand and draw closer to God through my writing. It is both exciting and humbling to know that people all over the world will be reading this story.

Writing for Upper Room is not easy because the articles are translated into over thirty languages. One must be very careful not to use phrases, words, and ideas that do not relate to those in other countries. For instance, in the first draft of one of my articles, I mentioned "snow-birds", referring to northerners who come to Florida in the winter. The editor said I must rewrite the article, removing those references, because people in other countries would not understand what a "snow-bird" is. Interesting, huh?

The writing for Upper Room must also be very tight. Every word on the page must total no more than 250 words. Believe me, I worked hard for that money. It feels good to reach this milestone, and I feel renewed excitement about working toward my other writing goals.

So, if you subscribe to Upper Room, look for my story, and let me know what you think. I hope you will be blessed and helped.

The chewing tobacco diet

2010-05-25T23:40:00.002-03:00

Click on this link to see how I lost 90 pounds. Yes - it really does involve chewing tobacco....
http://www.christianitytoday.com/tc/2007/julaug/3.31.html
And - check out my book Girl Gab at the link on the left.

Why I started blogging

2010-05-25T18:29:00.005-03:00

Discipline - plain and simple. I wanted to discipline myself to write consistently. There is so much I want to write and think about writing, but don't ever get around to actually writing. So, I started this blog to regularly capture some of that stuff running through my head.

As a published writer, I know I can sell my work when I market it. I hope to use these musings as springboards to articles and/or books, and then market them. Here is a link to one of the stories I've published:
The Chewing Tobacco Diet - http://www.christianitytoday.com/tc/2007/julaug/3.31.html

I've published a book, called Girl Gab, which has some of the articles I've written in the past. The book is $8.00 plus $2.00 shipping and handling. E-mail me at gail.golden@yahoo.com if you'd like a copy.

Hopefully, another book will be published this year containing stories, poems, and drawings.

I'd love to hear from you when you visit, so please leave a comment. And, if you'd join as one of my followers, that would be the cherry on the top!!! Let me know about your blog, and I'll stop by for a visit.

Blessed

2010-05-14T15:12:00.004-03:00

"How are you?" people ask. "I'm blessed!" is my answer, because it is so true.

The Bible says in Psalm 1:1 - "Blessed is the man that walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful." I am blessed because God's Word is my final authority. I have learned not to take counsel from people who scorn God's Holy Word. If someone says, "I know the Bible says that, but..." run, don't walk, away from that person. That person is a sinner and ungodly - they have scorned God's Word.

Verse 1b says of the blessed person: " But his delight is in the law of the Lord (Torah); and in His law (Torah)doth he meditate day and night." Yeshua (Jesus) did this. The New Testament had not been written.

Meditating on Torah blesses me because it is the way of Life and God's instruction manual for success on earth. Everything Yeshua said and did was living out the Torah. He showed us how to walk in obedience to the Father. He was the Father, in the flesh, on earth.

Every time we take the Torah out of the ark and parade it around the synagogue, we are reminded to keep our eyes on God's Word by following it with our eyes around the room, kissing it, and never turning our backs on it. Yeshua never turned His back on the Torah. He lived it, and said, "I did not come to do away with the Law (Torah), but to fulfill it (Torah)."

Verse 3 says, "And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water that brings forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he does shall prosper." What a blessed promise. I know that because I obey God, He will cause me to prosper. Now to the world that means wealth, but that's not it. Prosperity means success in the place I am planted, bearing fruit for His kingdom, by obeying Him.

Many didn't think Yeshua a success. He was hated, accused, killed and buried. But that's not the end of the story. He rose again with victory!

Obeying God sometimes means being hated, accused, and can often cause the loss of wealth, friendship, position - even life. Again, that's not the end of the story. God sees and rewards His chosen ones in ways the world often does not see or understand. He knows the fruit being born for His kingdom and He is pleased.

A Mushy Mother's Day

2010-05-08T22:56:00.004-03:00

I always get mushy on Mother's Day because I love being a mother. When I was about five years old, I asked my mother, "Mama, do you have to be married to have children?" She said, "No." I said, "That's what I want to do." I loved babies, even at that young age, and knew I wanted to be a mother. Other little girls I knew wanted to be nurses or ballerinas. I always said I wanted five children.

When I married at 17, I wanted children right away, but had to wait a while. I lost a baby through miscarriage four years later, and it broke my heart. My first daughter, Melissa, was born when I was 22 and I'll never forget my first glimpse of her. I felt she was an angel dropped straight from heaven. I loved being a stay at home mom, and kept her looking like a living doll every minute of her life, decked out in bows and ruffles galore. I rocked her to sleep every night of her life till she was six years old. In the mornings, and after her naps, I used to stand by her bed, hoping she'd wake up so I could hold her and play with her. She was an easy child to raise and never gave me any problems. Her happy, outgoing nature led her to never meet a stranger and light up a room just by walking in it. Melissa was and is to this day a joy, and I thank God for giving her to me.

Amanda, my second and last child, came along when Melissa was six. Her first year was rough, with sickness and several trips to the hospital. I don't think she slept through the night till she was six years old. Instead of praying she'd wake up, I prayed for sleep - for both of us. I look like a drunk in most of her baby pictures, always from lack of sleep. Amanda was a challenge to raise with her strong will and determination. Many days I cried because of having to discipline her "one more time" for the same disobedience. But, she turned out great! That strong will was channelled into artistic creativity and after that, I just had to hang on to her coat-tails and enjoy the ride. She, too, is a joy, I am so thankful for her!

As a young mother, I read a book that asked me to write down my goals. I couldn't think of one. My goals were met: I had two beautiful children. What more could I want? As I seriously considered this question and prayed about it, I did set some new goals.

I prayed to be able to afford to stay at home with my girls without working outside the home. God helped me have a home-based business, and then part-time jobs for 27 years to accomplish that goal.

I prayed for my girls to accept, love, and obey Yeshua (Jesus Christ). Goal accomplished!

I prayed for my girls to marry godly men who would love them like Yeshua loves the church, and that they would be godly wives and mothers. Goal accomplished! My girls have wonderful husbands and are good wives who love their husbands and their homes. Amanda will celebrate her first Mother's Day this year, and she is such a good mother.

So, my heart is full this Mother's Day - my first as a "Grandmother"! I love my little grandson, Jonathan, so much, and cherish every moment with him, my girls, and my sons-in-love. I love them like my own. I even reached my goal of five children - my girls plus their husbands, and now Jonathan - that makes five! Thank you, Lord!

Stops and Starts

2010-05-07T10:00:00.005-03:00

"God leads by stops as well as starts." A wise woman told me this years ago. It was a new thought for me, but I considered it a word from the Lord and I took it to heart. The statement has become a touch-point for my life. God taught me a lesson through her words that has helped me through the years.

Recently, I happened on a great big stop sign. It was not just red, it was neon red with flashing lights and sirens. STOP! DON'T GO ANY FURTHER. I've learned to follow the signs, so I stopped and prayerfully considered the path I was on. To everyone around me, this path looked good, but in my heart I knew God was telling me to get off it.

This stop involves big changes in my life and a great loss. It involves disappointment. It involves grieving. It will take a while to work through the sadness. I've been through similar stops before. One thing I've learned with the Biblical character, Job, is that God gives and He takes away. And I can say, with Job, blessed be the name of Lord.

I'm reminded of the time, years ago, when I tried to sell a house. No matter what I did, the house would not sell -so I gave up and placed the house as a rental. Five years passed and when I put the house on the market, it sold within the first week. Looking back, I realized it was much better for me that it hadn't sold earlier.

Over many years, I've learned that I can trust God to lead me, so I mind the stops. I'm taking a rest to seek His face and His will, asking Him for knowledge of His will and His power to carry that out. I know His way, and His path is perfect, holy, and pure....and that walking His path brings peace.

Passover Joy!

2010-04-05T12:37:00.000-03:00

My husband, Messianic Rabbi Jem Golden and I celebrate the Feasts and Festivals commanded in Leviticus 23. March 29 at sundown marked the beginning of Passover, and we celebrated two seders this year – one with a group of believers at Patrick Air Force Base, and one with our congregation at Ma’gen Da’vid Messianic Synagogue.

The seder is all about remembering. It reminds us of the faithfulness of God to Israel in bringing them out of Egypt, and is a beautiful ceremony that celebrates and illustrates our Lord and Savior Yeshua (Jesus Christ). The “Last Supper” Yeshua held with his talmadim (disciples) was a Passover seder , held in the Upper Room the night before Yeshua was crucified (see Luke 22). He went through it with His disciples, showing them that the seder was a fore-shadow of Himself as the fulfillment of God’s divine plan of salvation.

The rich imagery of the seder is a beautiful, tactile means of understanding the sacrifice of Yeshua in the following ways: the seder reminds us of the tyranny the Israelites were released from, and is a picture of the bondage of sin Yeshua released “us” from as believers. We ate bitter herbs to remind us of the terrible life we had before Yeshua. The salty water reminds us of the tears we shed in that old life. We remembered the plagues and pestilence God brought on the Egyptians, and the miracles He worked to save them. Yeshua worked miracles during His life on earth, and is still working miracles for us even now.

We saw the lamb shank bone and remembered that each family was instructed to choose a perfect lamb. Yeshua was described as “a Lamb without blemish or spot” (I Peter 1:19). We remembered that each Israelite family killed the lamb, but were instructed not to break its’ bones. We were then reminded that Yeshua’s bones were not broken when He was crucified.

The Israelites applied the blood of the lamb to the doorpost and lentils of their homes so that the death angel would pass over them. Together, we saw that the shape of the application was the Hebrew letter “dallet” which looks like a door, and means “door or path”. Yeshua’s blood made for us the door of salvation. What a glorious picture!

Together, we drank the four cups of wine while remembering that Yeshua’s blood sanctifies us, redeems us, protects us from God’s judgment, and makes us part of His family – which is cause for great joy.

The most beautiful picture of all is the matzah: the unleavened bread, with its’ piercings and stripes. We held in our hands the reminder of Yeshua who was without sin (leaven), was pierced for our sins, and took stripes for our healing.

As we ate the sweet charoset (apples, nuts & honey) we were reminded of how sweet our lives are with Yeshua, our Messiah. We sang, we praised God, and we thanked Him for His Word, for our beautiful Messiah Yeshua, and for the reminders in the Passover celebration.

Remembering the provision of God for Israel reminded us that He will meet our needs as well. If He could deliver the Israelites from plagues and pestilence, He can and will protect us today. Passover is a reminder of God’s faithfulness to his people. This year, as before, I left the seder full of joy and praise to Adonai, humming the tunes we sang, and thinking about how blessed I am to be called His child.

I want a clothesline...

2010-03-28T11:47:00.002-03:00

No, I didn’t say it. Definitely not my thought. One of my 20-something Facebook friends posted it recently, and got me thinking. I pictured her saying this wistfully as she gazes at her backyard, imagining gaily colored shirts waving in the soft breeze and bright sunshine.

HAH! She’s too young to remember laundry without an electric clothes dryer. I, however, have the wrinkles (pun intended) to prove my years of experience in life, and I remember it well. Not many of those memories are fond, believe me.

Honey, let me tell you about life and laundry back in the day! I reared my first child to age six without a dryer and it was hard. I carried the heavy laundry basket to the line and plunked it down. Then, I wiped the wire line down with a cloth, to prevent “mark” on the clothes. Then began the fine art of clothes hanging. Shirts and dresses were hung upside down to expose more of the cloth to the air/sun. Then, the heavy jeans, hung inside out so the pockets would dry. Did I mention all this bending over caused back aches? Then came the towels and washcloths. Drying them on the line made them stiff, not fluffy like a dryer does.

And diapers! I can’t forget the diapers! Yes, we had to wash them and hang them and fold them. And let’s don’t even talk about how we got the poop out of them before we laundered them! Okay, I’ll tell you. It was quite the technique. You held the diaper by one end, flushed the toilet, and dunked the diaper up and down till the poop fell off and was flushed away. Nope – don’t miss that either. Disposable diapers were a godsend, believe me!

Now, let’s talk about hanging underwear on the line. Let’s be real! Today with clothes dryers, if your undies have a little hole, you don’t worry about it too much, right? Well, back then, you couldn’t hang holy undies on the line because your nosy neighbors would see them. They could see them because nobody had privacy fences. Yep, all your underwear was out there for the whole world to see – just flapping in the wind. I remember being completely mortified when I started wearing a bra in the 4th grade, and having to hang them on the line for the three boys who lived next door to ogle. They teased me because I wore “training” bras. By the way, does anybody know what they were being trained for?

Hanging clothes on the line is great when the sun shines. If it rains, you’re in big trouble. You have to run out there and snatch them off the line before they get wet. As a young housewife, many times I completely forgot them overnight, leaving them to be soaked with the morning dew. Can you imagine the nightmare of drying clothes in cold weather? You’d hang the clothes up, and they’d freeze stiff! Yikes!

Which brings me to the next phase of hanging clothes on the line, which is ironing. Back then everything had to be ironed. I’m getting upset just thinking about all of this, so I won’t go into all the work involved in that hateful chore.

I love my dryer – which this month turned 32 years old. I got her when my second child was born. She has been a faithful and loyal friend, drying my clothes, making my towels nice and fluffy, and keeping me from having to iron all these years. Yes, I know she is not an energy star, but she’s a member of the family, and I’ll keep her around because I love her. You can have your clothes lines and your sun-dried, fresh-smelling clothes. While you’re slaving there in the backyard and over the ironing board, I’ll be on to more fun stuff.

Gabbing with Donna Long

2010-03-09T11:41:00.002-04:00

Today, I'll be on the radio show "Light Talk with Donna and Friends". The show airs from noon to 1 pm, on FM 89.3 in the Central Florida area. Donna Long and I will be talking about Girl Gab, the new book I co-authored with my ministry partners Cheryle and Barbara. I hope you'll tune in.

Valentine's Day

2010-02-16T10:11:00.004-04:00

Was your sweetie good to you this year? Mine was...and has been for the past 4 wonderful years.

My husband Jem is a real "gem" when it comes to romance. Even before the big day, he bought me a dozen long-stemmed roses. Then, on the morning of the holiday, he brought me breakfast me in bed, along with the Sunday morning newspaper and some wonderful sugar-free chocolates with a very romantic card. We spent a lovely morning and afternoon together, then went for a drive along the river, followed by a great dinner. What a wonderful, bliss-full romantic day. I felt so loved and pampered - like a princess - which is what he calls me.

Before you start to hate me, consider that it hasn't always been this way. Before I married Jem, I compared marriage to having your teeth drilled without Novocaine! I didn't know it could be good, but God smiled on me when he sent me Jem, my "gem". I'd never known devoted, constant, up-lifting, kind and respectful love. His kind of love just melts my heart and inspires me to show it to others. Jem's love is like God's love. It is always there, never changing, constant, strong, unselfish, and true.

So, tell me about your Valentine's Day. Was it good, or not so much? Do you wish your husband was more romantic? Did he forget? Believe me, I've had some bad ones, too!

Or maybe you could share some tips on leading your husband to be more romantic...like the lady who hung red hearts in every room the week prior to Valentine's Day to give her husband the hint. Sometimes you have to get creative, right?

Here's your chance to brag or vent...

My friend's new book

2009-11-26T19:53:00.000-04:00

My new blogger friend, Gina, at The Shabby Chic Cottage has just published a new e-book. I hope you'll visit her blog at http://www.theshabbychiccottage.net

I love her Transformation Thursday party, and I think you will, too. Gina is so creative. You are going to love her style and her stuff. Stop by and visit.

How pleasant it is...

2009-11-25T18:59:00.000-04:00

"When the rabbi dances....everybody dances!" shouts Rabbi Jem, my husband each Erev Shabbat. Everyone who is able joins him to dance the hora to our favorite Hebrew song, Hene Ma Tov. In English the words are "Behold how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity."

The song ran through my mind last night as our congregation joined with five other local churches to worship God in a community Thanksgiving service. Rabbi Jem joined Methodist and Baptist pastors, a Catholic priest, and a Pentecostal preacher in conducting the service. We worshipped God in different types of praise music, liturgy, and prayer.

My heart swelled with pride as I listened to my husband praise the believers for stepping out of their denominational boxes to worship together. He also encouraged us to work together for the good of the community and to minister to those in need around us.

Unity was a beautiful thing to see last night, and I pray we will go forward as believers together.

Attitude of gratitude

2009-11-05T13:55:00.000-04:00

Years ago, my 80 year old Jamaican neighbor, Carmita, taught me to be thankful. We prayed together often, and she always started her prayer, "Lord, thank you that I can see, and hear, and talk, and walk, and think, and that I have strength to work for you."

Carmita's glowing face, her energy, and her whole attitude toward life flowed from her gratitude to God. I learned from her example, and now start my prayers with those same words. I hope to be like her when I grow up.

Whining and complaining

2009-10-29T11:54:00.000-03:00

We often wonder how the children of Israel could whine and complain after seeing all the miracles God did in bringing them out of Egypt.

Reading Psalm 106 this morning, it suddenly occurred to me - would I trust or whine and complain? A recent change in my life made me realize I would be one of the complainers.

I humbly asked God's forgiveness, and went back to remember all the miracles God has done for me in the past. I got a new perspective and an attitude change.

2009-10-25T12:34:00.000-03:00

Jonathan's first visit to the Punkin Patch yesterday. He's my sweet punkin.

A thought-provoking quote...

2009-10-22T11:00:00.000-03:00

“The devil has seldom done a cleverer thing than hinting to the church that part of their mission is to provide entertainment for the people, with a view to winning them…providing amusement for the people is nowhere spoken of in the Scriptures as a function of the church…the need is for Biblical doctrine, so understood and felt that it sets men aflame.” Rev. C. H. Spurgeon

I'm a happy, blessed woman

2009-10-14T12:42:00.000-03:00

So happy because 1 1/2 weeks ago, I became a grandmother. Baby Jonathan was born 10/2 and he is a beautiful, healthy little bundle of joy. Thank you, Father, for your gift in my old age. Thank you, Lord, that I have a wonderful husband (the best in the whole world) and two beautiful, happy married daughters who have wonderful husbands, too.

Thank you, Lord, for this happy day - my birthday! Breakfast in bed (prepared by my wonderful hubby), phone calls from my daughters, friends, mother, and the beautiful bouquet of flowers I just received from my sweet hubby). Looking forward to more surprises from him (he says) as the day goes forward....can't wait! My cup overflows...

2009-09-06T00:02:00.000-03:00