The road less traveled...

Today I took a walk.  The winter woods had a fresh skiff of snow.  I saw the adventures of Mr. Fox, a rabbit, and a deer as I followed their tracks.  I discovered their secret travels all over the woods.  The stream laughed as it tumbled over rocks.  The crows complained about my presence with their sharp warning "Caw, Caw, Caw!"  A jay scolded as I hiked past.  In the distance I heard the muffled hoot of an owl. 

I was disconnected from the busy rush of the world and it's troubles.  No text messages, no calls, no TV or radio news.  It was wonderful.  I was connected to another world.   It matters not what the troubles of the day may be nature carries on with her work.

I took my peaceful moment with me and cherished it, savored it, and enjoyed it.  I found myself resting in the knowledge that God is sovereign and He will carry on his purposes.  "Let not your heart be troubled for I have overcome the world".

How do you disconnect?

Good, Gracious, and Grateful

I love these three ideals:

As defined by The American Heritage Dictionary (1976)

Good adj. -1. having positive or desirable qualities. 2. Not spoiled or ruined. 3.Superior to the average. 4. Of high quality. 5. Attractive 6. Beneficial. 7. Valid or true. 8. Pleasant; Enjoyable 9. Favorable 10. Of moral excellence; upright 11.Benevolent;kind 12.Valuable 13. Loyal 14. Well-behaved; obedient. (from the Middle English- god)

Gracious adj.- 1. Characterized by kindness and warm courtesy.  2. Characterized by tact and propriety.  3. Of a merciful or compassionate nature. 4. Characterized by charm or beauty. 5. Characteried by elegance and good taste. 5. Fortunate or prosperous.  (from Latin, agreeable, or good will)

Grateful adj.-1. Appreciative of benefits received; thankful. (from Latin- pleasing)

What are your ideas on promoting these in your family?

Simply beautiful.

Last night we attended a Live Nativity at the Bridge Between Retreat Center in Maribel, Wisconsin.  It was a dark and foggy night.  As we traveled across the back roads of Wisconsin  we wondered there would be anyone else there.  We arrived to find that many others had gathered for this very special worship service.

The old barn was packed to the brim.  We sat on hay bales with other Christ followers and soaked in the quiet and joyful atmophere.  Exactly two strands of white Christmas mini-lights decorated the old barn.  The chickens, lammas, ducks and geese were present but quiet, captured by the Holy hush.

The service began.   Readings and acappella Christmas Carols were shared.  The children gathered for a Christmas story entitled "Who is Coming to our House?".  A costumed Mary and Joseph entered in answer to the story's question.  An enthralled audience was delighted with their baby (aka. Daniel) who portrayed the Christ Child.  The service was concluded with more thoughtful readings and singing "Joy to the World".

I think that this is the most unembellished and meanful Christmas worship experience I have ever had.  I was stuck by it's beauty and simplicity.   The hope and knowledge that Christ's Church is eternal and not engulfed by the troubles that beseige our world sprung up in my heart.   It is easy to get caught up in the trappings of our religious experiences and forget the simple message of redemption. Christ's church is eternal and therein lies our future and hope.

How do you keep Christ in Christmas with your family?

Where to find the diamonds...

In the darkest caves of life are where the real gems are found.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perserverance.  Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.  If any of you lacks wisdom you should ask God who gives generously to all without finding fault..."
James 1: 2-5

What gems have you discovered during your darkest moments?