A Servant-Hearted Christmas

Even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28

Last night, I sat and made my grocery list. The week of Christmas adds quite unusual things to the page. For example, I will put at least one stick of butter in everything I make this week. And only once a year do I ever intentionally write "Snowflake Ritz" or "Peppermint Extract" on my list.

It makes me so giddy! My shopping list tells me that the time has come! Company is on the way! In a few short days my home will be loud with crazy, excited cousins, laughter, big hugs and way too much food. You and your family should come. Really. There will be plenty.

And as I prepare my home and bake my dishes, I can't help but think of Jesus coming to us; His underlying intention and motivation - service.

The Son of Man came to serve us.

As you are busy this week stirring your last batch of Chex Mix, wrapping gifts, dusting your home, changing sheets for guests, your grocery budget bursting with all of the extras, just remember...you bear the image of the Baby who came, not to be served, but to serve.

Serve (diakoneō)- to be an attendant, domestic, to wait upon a) to minister to one b) to wait at a table and offer food and drink to the guests c) of women preparing food

Look at that definition. The word used in Matthew 20:28 literally means to serve as one offering food and drink to guests. Sweet Jesus came to wait on us. To offer us the bread and drink that would indefinitely satisfy. His very character is that of a servant. Giving His life away for others.

"True service finds it almost impossible to distinguish the small from the large service. Where the difference is noted the true servant seems to be often drawn to the small service, not out of false modesty, but because he genuinely sees it as the important service. He indiscriminately welcomes all opportunities to serve. True service rests contented in hiddenness. It does not fear the lights and blare of attention, but it does not seek them either. Since it is living out of a new Center of Reference the divine nod of approval is completely sufficient." -Celebration of Discipline, R. Foster

This week, I pray my heart is to minister as Jesus did. Selflessly. Discreetly. Joyfully. Putting others' needs before my own. Giving my life away for my family and ultimately my Savior. Rejoicing in the Babe who came and paved the way. Proving to be the perfect example of service and humility.

Merry Christmas, sweet readers. I am unspeakably thankful for you. It is an honor to serve you here. I pray your home is full of the love of Christ this Christmas. Sweet Emmanuel. He is with us!

(And speaking of indiscriminate service... "Thank you! Thank you!" whoever put this on my porch. I love it.)


Blessings! Blessings!

Rockin' Around The Angel Tree

This year, my mother-in-law suggested that in lieu of buying for the adults in our family, we put our dollars together and use that money towards a family in need. Love. It. (And love you, Vicki)

So we did. And God was faithful to bring a family in need to our attention. We were able to buy for three family members. The boys learned so much from this act of service. (Setting aside your own desires in the toy aisle is quite an act of humility for a little boy!) This isn't something they could have gathered from me reading to them during a breakfast devotional. I am so thankful to the Lord for allowing them this experience. I pray this seed of service and giving will continue to grow in their heart.

Angel Tree ministries is a common gift-giving program this time of year and is made readily available at mall's and local retailers. Angel Tee is a Prison Fellowship program that connects parents in prison with their children through the delivery of Christmas gifts. In most cases, local church volunteers purchase and deliver gifts and the Gospel to children in the name of their prisoner-parent. The deadline for purchasing gifts is tomorrow, actually. Where has the time gone? Click here for more details.

I'd love to hear of similar things you are doing with your family this Christmas...

December Ideas: A "Twist" on Advent Dinner

Advent is a season in which we are invited to watch and wait for God's arrival among us - making it a time of intense yearning and deep longing. It is a time filled with hope and anticipation.

Advent is the time where we take heed of the words of Jesus, "Therefore, keep watch because you do not know on what day your Lord will come." So during the days and weeks ahead, may we pay very careful attention, lest when he finally arrives, we miss him altogether." -J. Branch

Once a week, we plan a family meal in honor of two things: Lighting the Advent Candle and hanging the week's Jesse Tree Ornaments. Each activity preparing our hearts and re-centering our focus on Jesus.

Our Advent dinners are a little "fancier" (pronounce real country - Fain-see-er) than usual. I pull out Mamaw's Christmas china and make a fun dessert (I rarely make dessert)! It is during dessert we read Scripture and let the boys decorate the Jesse Tree.


A shoot will spring forth from the stump of Jesse, and a branch out of his roots. Isaiah 11:1

A Jesse Tree is decorated each week, with ornaments or objects that represent Old Testament events from Creation to the Birth of Jesus. The ornaments are traditionally handmade, but I've not had the time to make my own - so I bought a kit at the Christian bookstore. Maybe next year. Each ornament is added everyday during Advent, with explanations of the symbols and a brief verse of Scripture from the story represented. We find ourselves more consistant to hang several at one time.
And just to clarify that my family is completely cheesy, we finish our evening singing songs and dancing. Oh yes we do. Twistin' for Jesus! THE BOYS LOVE THIS. LOVE IT. (so does mommy) Last Sunday, after we had finished the official festivities of the night, the older boys sat at the table singing songs together. Euphoric.

It is a sweet and unifying time. We plan on inviting a couple of families to join us for our dinner and dessert, as well. The boys have each chosen one family to come and join us. How fun! They are so excited!

"Advent is a season in which we watch and wait. It is a time in which we are filled with hope and with longing - hope that our Creator will finally intervene, and longing that he will enter into this world and set everything right once more; restoring all things to their creation intent." -Jim Branch 2010

Oh, I couldn't agree more. This is one thing I love so much about Christmas. So many things about it are a small taste of "all things set right." Wholesome music. Family. Selfless, excited giving. Pulling the attention away from ourselves and gearing it towards others. Casting our eyes and energy to their appointed place - Jesus.

Does your family celebrate Advent?

One Necessary Thing for the Holidays {II}

Imagine yourself standing in a long checkout line at Target. To pass the time you begin to browse the magazines. You have no children with you, the nanny has them all at home practicing violin (hey – this is fiction…let’s make it good) so you grab a “grown-up” candy bar to share with absolutely no one.

You notice that headlining the cover of Cosmopolitan magazine reads this tagline, “The One Thing Necessary For Everything You’ll Ever Need.”

Hmmm. What in the world would that be? Quite a lofty statement, isn’t it? Who has the authority to say such a thing?

Well, unfortunately for Cosmo, that one thing has already been determined. The Word is already out – about 2000 years ago actually.

So instead of thumbing the magazine to page 103 to read more, simply flip to Luke 10:41, 42 with me this morning.

Martha, Martha you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her. Luke 10:41a, 42

Last post we asked of Mary, “Tell us Mary. What is this one thing that will never be taken from you? What drove you to the floor that evening at dinner. What had you figured out that Martha had not?”

Today, we get our answer. Stick with me as we break this down.

One Thing (heis) : that one which is required to be singled out from a certain number

The “one thing that is necessary” must become uncommon from the number of other things buying for our attention. The One Thing is to be “singled out.” Given special attention. Set apart as other.

Necessary (chreia) : to supply what is absolutely necessary for life; for the edification of the soul, of which this is special need. (read that again)

Friend, if we take it all away - Every possession we own, every dollar we make, every relationship we have, every success we achieve, every plan on your calendar, the upcoming holiday preparation...take it all away and we are left with our longing souls and a satisfying Savior. He is the One. Nothing else will do. Mary understood that Jesus was absolutely necessary for her life. He edified her soul. He met all of the special needs within her.

Mary has chosen the good portion. V 42

Our life is simply a conglomeration of the choices we make. Little bitty “what’s for dinner” choices up to the big “who will we marry” choices. We are given the freedom of choice all of the time.

This story of Mary and Martha is not just a story about busy Martha in the kitchen. This story is about the contrast of choice.

Chosen (eklegomai) to pick out for one’s self.

Martha and Mary both had a choice to make. Jesus was with them both. He did not come more in favor of Mary. He didn’t come to see only her. Mary had to make a conscious choice to sit at his feet. Martha could have chosen the same.

Does this mean that Mary is better that Martha? No. Martha could have still worked in the kitchen and her choice could still have been to rest in Jesus. The picture portrayed of Martha and Mary is a representation of the heart choices we all make. Martha’s service to Jesus was not a bad thing. We are called to serve others. And we are also called to sit at the feet of Jesus.

This passage is not about Martha getting “caught up in the preparations of a meal. It is about choosing between what is good and what is better.” –Bible Gateway.

Jesus words to Martha are not condemning or unkind. He is compassionate to our sweet Martha, Martha.

He didn’t condemn Martha. He commended Mary.

Mary has chosen the good portion. V. 42

Good: Insures salvation to him who choses it.

The definition of good is significantly more poignant that our flippant use of the word. Good, as used here is to define the good choice of salvation. Do you see the word “choice” again?

Portion: an assigned part or provision.

Don't miss this...Jesus Himself is our assigned provision. The God Head provided us a Savior from the throne of Heaven. He came and assigned himself, meeting the demands and longings of our souls. He is the One Thing. Jesus. Our cup and portion forever. Psalm 16:5
Yes, he is our assigned good portion. He will never be taken away from us. But we must choose Him. Initially as our Savior. And every moment after that.

Like Mary, we must learn to rest at the feet of Jesus. Even if we are scurrying in the kitchen, filing papers at work, loading a dishwasher, sitting in carpool, wrapping Chritmas gifts, carving a turkey…our heart can still rest at the feet of Jesus. We can still enjoy his presence. We can still offer praise to His name - giving thanks to the fulfillment of our soul. We can still choose the good portion – every second of the day.

Will you choose Him today?

He is the One. The One Thing Necessary.

The Fall of June Cleaver

An excellent wife who can find? - Proverbs 31:10

Last night turned ugly.

The evening started very well. Cool weather. A pot of soup on the stove. Brent walked in the front door to a happy wife in the kitchen and happy kids playing in the back yard.

We all sat at dinner and shared our Friday highs. Afterwards the boys threw football with daddy while I cleaned the kitchen. Bliss.

The kids came in for baths as I folded laundry. (June Cleaver never had it so good.)



Brent said, "Hey, I think I'll go get us a movie. I would enjoy some alone time. A little solitude to refuel."

Great idea. A movie. A refreshed husband. A calm, post-bedtime house. Love this idea.

So he left. I headed downstairs to make popcorn for the boys.

Well, I don't know what happens from the top of the stairs to the bottom, but a blissful night with children can turn to chaos in 0.2 seconds. Amen? In the blink of an eye, the boy's blissful behavior turned to fighting and name calling. The hush of my happy home became crying and crazy. And whose fault was all of this?

Brent's.

How could he leave me at bedtime? Arguably the most difficult part of the day! I'm tired, they're tired. And I'm now left to break up fights, read bedtime stories, brush teeth and do this all alone. Poo.

I call him. (Bad idea.) "Where are you? Are you almost done? I am struggling here. Could you come on back."

"Yes."

And he comes home. Long story longer, I should have never called. He needed that time. I needed to leave him be. I'm a big girl. I can handle fussy kids at bedtime. I've done it 1,000 times. I just shouldn't have called. (So much for June Cleaver.)

Was he mad? No. Was he frustrated? Very much so. I don't blame him.

An excellent wife who can find?

Excellent: (chayil) Virtuous, strength, might, efficiency, ability, force, power, leader of the army, upright, integrity, as the strength of a tree.

The word excellent means woman of strength. "It is the same word used to describe the character of Israel's Judges indicating that they were able and well qualified for their profession. So it follows that a wise woman is able and qualified for her work, has command of her own spirit and is able to manage others. She is a woman of resolution who, having chosen godly principles, is firm and faithful to them." - Dillow, The Creative Counterpart

Last night, I did not have command of my own spirit. I turned into a big baby and placed undo blame on my husband. I was not acting as one well qualified for my job.

Too often I get that "Well, I don't get a break" attitude towards Brent. And that's not fair. Nor is that really true. The Lord gives me several opportunities to refresh throughout the day. I don't always take them, but He always offers me rest. Rest only found in Him.

Dillow writes, "A strong bond of faithfulness and trust must have existed between the woman in Proverbs 31 and her husband. This trust can be applied to her husband's confidence in her ability to manage the household affairs: he knew that she was competent and that when he returned from his work each evening, he would find the home and family not in chaos but in order. Which of these situations does your husband find when he walks in the door."

Umm.

Brent, I am so sorry. I confess that I was not being compassionate towards your needs last night. I was being selfish. Forgive Buster?

An excellent woman who can find? Well, not in my house last night.

But today, I revel in the mercies of a new day. In faith, I am woman of strength in the power of the Holy Spirit. So are you.

Oh, how I need the Lord. My goodness.

In my own strength, I wuss out with fussy boys at bedtime. But in HIS POWER, I can lead an army.

A Long Run. And a New Couch.

The date was 10-10-10 of last year. The weather was picture perfect Autumn. Crisp, clean air. Ripe leaves ready to touch ground. And this morning my mind was made up. On 10-10-10, I wanted to run 10 miles....By golly.

I remember this run, not because it was 10-10-10. Not because it was a picture perfect Autumn morning. I remember this run because it was one of the few runs in my life that everything felt "right." My joints ran smooth. My lungs felt strong. The road didn't seem as if it would never end. My Ipod was fully charged. I was pleased with my pace. But, best of all, God met me on the course that day. Go ahead, call me a complete flake. But my 10 miles on 10-10-10 was worship.

I felt God's presence with me. And it was quite remarkable. Memorable. Prayerful. I remember praying, Lord, I love this so much. I love to run. And I love being with You. How fun to be a running coach. A Christian running coach! Wow, to run alongside someone but yet encourage them in their faith, as well. (Hold on it gets cheesier) I could even quote Scripture while they ran! Hebrews 12! Throw aside every weight that entangles you! Run with endurance the race before you! Look to Jesus! Be steadfast. Your feet are fitted with the good news of the Gospel! Whoo hoo! Go go! You can do it!"

I once told our friend (and boss), Britain about this little pipe-dream/prayer of mine. Britain warned me that if he ever finds me running up behind him yelling Hebrews 12, he might have to punch me.

So my cheesy, silent dream of becoming a "Christian Running Coach" was never publicized. I never spoke of it to anyone except Brent and jokingly Britain.

The Lord, however, did not sit on this little prayer.

Fast forward a couple of weeks to the YMCA on a Monday morning. Circuit class. 9:30. My friend Tisha, mid-workout, asked me this very question. "Becky, I was wondering, would you consider something? I would like for you to coach me. I want to run another marathon and improve my pace. Maybe you could work me up a plan to help do this. And I could do some sewing for you. I know you've talked of having your couches reupholstered. I could sew and you could train. We could barter."

I about died, I tell you. "Let me think about it...3-2-1...YES YES YES YES YES!!!!"

How neat is that? So we did. We bartered training for sewing.

But as the Lord works, he always has immeasurably more. Come February, she found out she is expecting a baby. Which threw a welcomed wrench in her marathon plans, but we continued working out. And a barter became a couch, and a marathon became a baby, and this little pipe dream of mine on 10-10-10 became one of the sweetest friendships in my life. (I just adore you, Tisha!) I learn so very much from this soon-to-be mommy of six. Godly, grounded, motivated, consistent, enthusiastic - just a few words to describe her. Not to mention she is one adorable and fit pregnant lady.

But listen. The story gets better. After the couches were complete...she continued to have vision for my house (did I mention she is an interior designer, too?) and I continued to have workouts for her little pregnant self. So we continued to train and sew and train and sew...

And I proudly give all Glory and Honor and Praise to the Lord for the beauty he has bestowed on my house and in my heart because of this sweet woman of God.

Wanna see?

This was my house before Tisha. Nothing bad. Just a bit dated. And vision-less.

Hello red plaid couch.


Pictured from the front door. There's Brent. Hello Brent. And lots of red.


Whoa. And more red. The kitchen has by FAR undergone the most transformation. I can't wait to show you.


Funny story about these curtains. I did end up selling them on Craigslist. And the lady that bought them owned a funeral home. She planned to hang them in her funeral home. Why didn't any one tell me that I had funeral home curtains hanging in my dining room?

(I will have you know that I never quoted Hebrews 12 to Tisha during a run. Just thought I'd throw that in. LOL.)

To see the "after" pictures, come back tomorrow...Fun!

Diary Of A Fantasy Football Wife

Ethan was a six-months-old and Grant was barely three when Brent tried to explain.

"It's a draft. And I have to be on the computer at the same time as all of the guys I'm playing against. It is time sensitive. I need to be online with all of them or I will miss out on the players I really want. The computer will choose for me and that could be bad. Also, before the draft starts, I need some time to think through exactly who I am going to choose."

I was listening. But this is what I heard.

"I know you have been with a nursing baby and a needy three-year-old all day. I'm sure you've been pooped on, spit on, hit on and screamed at, but nevertheless, at 7pm I am going upstairs into my office and shutting the door. You may not see me for the rest of the night. You will be handling bedtime and bathtime alone. I hope you were able to sneak a nap today."

Confessions of a Fantasy Football Wife.



This game, so harmless and fun, was my enemy. Pulling for a favorite NFL team was now a thing of the past. Every team, every game - an opportunity to score points. I didn't get it. I just didn't get it.

It has taken time, years obviously, for me to come to grips with the truth that Brent enjoys Fantasy Football. He enjoys it because it is not just about football. It is a conglomeration of male bonding, healthy competition and the love of the game. All three bring Brent joy.

And if Fantasy Football brings Brent joy, then it brings me joy, too.

The two will become one flesh. Ephesians 5:31

His league is my league. His team is my team. Instead of being his biggest opponent, I need to be his biggest fan.

Tuesday night, I sat and listened as Brent told me all about his draft. He's taking a different route this year, just so you know. His strategy is different. This just might be his best draft yet. {smile}

I want to support my man. In everything. I want him to know he is a great dad, a great husband, a servant leader, full of grace, full of love and one heck of a Fantasy Football Coach.

So what if it takes him away for a few hours here and there. I can deal. My quality-time-love-language will just have to wait. He does so much for his family. Shame on me for taping my toe over this. It really is harmless. These guys don't even bet money.

Here's to another Fantasy Football season! I'm pumped for you Brent. Forgive me of my selfishness over the years.

I get it now. I get it.

And don't be surprised if I am running around the house screaming for Chris Johnson to trip over his shoelaces when he’s about to score a 78-yard touchdown. I just don't want him to cost your team the title.

Day 31 of Prayer! Sending Out The Farmers...

A heart for missions

Last week at the pool, I had the great privilege of meeting a little boy who had recently come home from Ghana.

At the age of three, he was adopted into a Jesus-lovin' family of six. Mom. Dad. And four older brothers.

I spoke with the mother about her adoption experience. "Yes, our family is actually going back to live in Ghana. We are committing to two years. We are all so excited!"

Her oldest boy is fourteen and they stair-step down from there. "How do your older boys feel about the move?"

"We had a family meeting and told them the calling their daddy and I both heard from the Lord. We told them, 'you all are not going with us as missionary kids.'" She smiled, "'You are going as missionaries.'"

Mmmm. That is powerful.

Children
"Lord, please help my children to develop a desire to see your glory declared among the nations. A desire to see your marvelous deeds among all peoples."



Let no one despise you because of your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love , in faith and in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12

It is never too early to instill in our children a ministry mindset.

Jesus didn't say, "When you turn eighteen, Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations..."

Jesus says. GO. Make disciples. Matthew 28:19

I pray my boys see themselves as missionaries. Everywhere they go. There is always an opportunity to minister. Always. At school. At the gym. On the soccor field. At the pool. Even at church...do ministry. Serve others. Bless others. Sow seeds of love, encouragement, compassion, service, hugs, pats on the back....sow, sow, sow.

A new school year is beginning. For some of you that beginning is today. Let this be a year of casting vision. This is the year of sowing seed. I want to encourage my boys to see themselves as little farmers. Little disciple makers. Little missionaries. And for Ethan (age 5), I might need to clarify a few times exactly what that means. But it is not too early to learn.

Even a rising kindergartner can sow seeds. "Go on little farmer. Sow seeds of love today. Help your friend with his back pack. Give a little girl the seat you would really like to have. Help your buddy open his Gogurt. Sow sow sow."

The harvest is plenty, but the workers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into the harvest. Luke 10:2

Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!" Psalm 96:3

Myself and others
"Lord, please help me and _____________ develop a desire to see your glory declared among the nations, as well. Give us a desire to see your marvelous deeds among all peoples."

God bless you today, my fellow farmer.

Mason Jars for Jesus - Giving Away My Best

I look forward to July for this reason.



Limelight Hydrangeas.

The prized possession of my not-so-green-thumb. Aside from my children, and a few untasty tomato plants, they are the only thing that I've had part in growing.

My vases wait in anticipation every year longing for their long stems.



And if I cut them at just the right time, they will dry and remain beautiful all year long.

Yesterday morning, I opened my curtains and there they stood to greet me. I swear they stand tall, knowing they are center stage of my sun-beaten backyard.

The neighbor that lives behind me has mentioned how she admires them, too. I have been waiting for them to grow bigger before I cut them, giving her a bouquet that would dry and remain for her all year, as well. I grab my shears and take to my plant.

And as I start to cut, I start from the bottom. Choosing the smaller of the tree - not wanting to taint the view I enjoy from my kitchen window.

I hear the Lord, "Cut from the top. Cut the best ones for her."

Some say they don't know when the Lord is speaking, and I agree, His voice can sometimes be hard to discern. This morning not so. I knew it was Him - because this one was hard."

I start to dialogue in my Spirit.

But these are beautiful, too. Just smaller.

"Off the top. Give your very best, Becky."

The Lord knows me well. Cutting flowers was only a picture of my giving heart. I offer myself to the Lord, I offer my life, my kids, my money, my service, but oftentimes my sacrifice is from the bottom. I want to hold the top for myself. I withhold my best for fear there won't be any left for me.

Then I hear further instruction...

"Give them all away. Every flower. Everyday, cut a bouquet to give. Until they are gone. Sacrifice your best, everyday."

All of them?

I come in from my backyard and Brent looks at me. "What are you doing?"

"The Lord wants me to give my flowers away. All of them. Today, He wants Kelly to have these."

(Brent must think I'm crazy.)

So before eight o'clock yesterday morning, I drop these off on Kelly's porch.



This morning, I think of Abraham who waited his entire life for a child. He was 100-years-old when Isaac was born. Abraham loved him so. Isaac his prized possession.

Can you imagine how Abraham felt when he heard the Lord say, "Take your son, your only son--yes, Isaac, whom you love so much--and go to the land of Moriah. Go and sacrifice him as a burnt offering on one of the mountains, which I will show you." (Genesis 22:3)

And Abraham did it. He got up the next morning and obeyed the Lord. Thankfully the story ends well, but imagine the obedience involved in the "getting up the next day and going" part. I could just cry at the thought.

But the Lord asks similar of us. With our children, much like my Limelights, although we have watered and fed and grown them, they are not ours. We will be asked to give them back. To send them out into the world as a blessing to others.

So on a very small "Abraham scale", I cut my prized limelights, practicing the art of sacrificing my first fruits - my very best for the Lord.

Cutting flowers in Jesus' Name. Who knew?

In every area of my life - my money, my love, my time, even my children, I give it all back to Him. For His Name. For His Glory.

Be blessed today. And if you see me coming towards you with a mason jar of flowers, you'll know why.

31 Days of Prayer: A Servant's Heart (And The Winner Is...)

Children

"God, please help my children develop a servant's heart, that they would serve wholeheartedly, as if serving the Lord and not men. "

ME ME ME

"God, please help ME operate with a servant's heart. Let me serve my family, my friends, my church, everyone I encounter, let me serve them as if serving YOU."

Even as I typed this post, I was interrupted three or four times. "Mom, will you get my blanket? Mom, I'm hungry, I want cereal. Mom, Mom, Mom."

I wanted to say, "Guys!! Mommy wants a quiet time. Leave me alone!!" But then I remembered my own prayer. Umm. Hello Becky. Be a doer of the Word.

Every cup of milk poured, each toy picked up, every pair of boxers you fold, every time you clean the counter top, wipe a bottom or toast a waffle .... this too is for the Glory of God. We have such sweet opportunities to serve Him (wholeheartedly) in many ways today.

Lord, let me be mindful of this Biblical Truth.

Giveaway Winner!

Congrats to "DM" (a.k.a. Debra) for winning Mercy Me's CD "Generous Mr. Lovewell!!! I pray it blesses you so! Thanks to ALL of you for participating and sharing your heart.

Serving Others - Without Obligation

Show Your marvelous loving kindness by Your right hand. - Psalm 17:7

My service to others should always be motivated by love.

Not love I "muster" up, but genuine love, from the depth of my heart.

In my own efforts, this is hard to do. Practically impossible at times. Especially when I have worked for forty-five minutes preparing a meal for my family, everything finally in place, each drink poured, every condiment in easy reach, and before the fork can touch my lips, "Mom, will you cut off my corn?" or "Can I have bread, too?"

A bit begrudgingly, I rise. My food growing colder by the second.

I serve. But not with "loving kindness". Not with "marvelous" compassion.

But with sass.

Ugh. This is not love. This is love seasoned with guilt. A little extra force as I butter the bread. An exerted huff as I cut the corn off the cob.

"Mommy wants to eat, too, you know."

Charles Spurgeon wrote, "When we give our hearts with our alms, we give well, but we must often plead to a failure in this respect. Not so our Master and our Lord. His favours are always performed with the love of his heart. He does not send to us the cold meat and the broken pieces from the table of his luxury, but he dips our morsel in his own dish, and seasons our provisions with the spices of his fragrant affections. When he puts the golden tokens of his grace into our palms, he accompanies the gift with such a warm pressure of our hand, that the manner of his giving is as precious as the boon itself."

Oh, read that again. I could just cry.

The pressure He applies to our hand as He presents us a gift is a precious as the gift itself.

Oh, Jesus. Let me serve like You.



Serving - without aggravation. Not with exasperation. Nor motivated by duty or obligation.

Lord, let me be motivated by selfless, Christ-centered affection for the recipient. Be it my husband. Be it my children. Or even more difficult right now, my grandmother, whose situation is growing more complex by the day.

Let me die to myself. And love like Jesus.

"It is impossible to doubt the sincerity of Christ's charity, for there is a bleeding heart stamped upon the face of all his benefactions. He giveth liberally and upbraideth not. Not one hint that we are burdensome to him; not one cold look for his poor pensioners; but he rejoices in his mercy, and presses us to his bosom while he is pouring out his life for us." - C. Spurgeon

Let our lives be poured out as an offering, not only to God, but to all those His Sovereignty places in our path.

Lord, give us grace to show "marvelous loving kindness" motivated by affection only your Spirit can give.

Prayer Request: Today my grandmother will undergo back surgery. Pretty major surgery for any 90-year-old person. Please pray for Sweet Ethel today. She has been in so much pain for so long. She's beyond ready to be done with her discomfort. Thank you.

Love you all so.

Easter Week Activity: Maundy Thursday

Experience your own Maundy Thursday foot-washing ceremony. Fill a bucket with water. Grab a few towels, gather your family, and share the story found in John 13:1-17. Then take turns washing each other's feet and praying for one another.



Jesus, rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin...



...and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.



Grant asked, "Mom, why would Jesus wash his disciples feet? He was their King. Shouldn't they be washing His feet?"

Peter had a similar question.

He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, do you wash my feet?" Jesus answered him, "What I am doing you do not understand now." Peter said to him, "You shall never wash my feet."



When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, "You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should do just as I have done to you."



"Mandatum novum do vobis ut diligatis invicem sicut dilexi vos."

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you. John 13:34

Maundy is derived from the Latin translation of this phrase: Mandatum: A new commandment I give to you.

Maundy Thursday. The day before Good Friday.

A day set apart, to serve.

A day set apart, to love.

Just as He loved and served us.



The boys giggled and truly enjoyed this activity.

But I could see something much deeper.

Unity through servant hood.

An sweet affection for each other.

Brent asked, "Ethan, how did it feel when Grant washed your feet?"

He laughed, "It tickled!"

Brent rephrased, "How did you feel inside your heart?"

He smiled, "Loved."

Easter Week Activity: The Bread Of Life

I have good news for you.

Very good news.

Carbs are good.

Very good.

Jesus says, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger..." John 6:35

Today, the boys and I made bread.



A sweet friend is expecting a baby, and who kneads nourishment more than a pregnant woman?

As the boys basted with butter, I asked questions about...whatelse?

Bread.



Why is bread so good for us? Why do we need all these good grains?

Why would Jesus refer to himself as the Bread of Life?

The boys concluded, "Jesus makes our hearts healthy, like bread makes our bodies healthy."



We also read Matthew 26:26.

Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; this is my body."

Jesus' body, broken for us. Thank you, Lord.

The boys also made Easter pictures for our friend and her family.

Grant asked Brent to outline a donkey for Jesus to ride into Jerusalem. "Thanks, Dad!"



I love that my boys not only practiced baking bread and serving others today...

...they learned deep spiritual truths.

Jesus - the Giver and Sustainer of life.



Give us this day our daily bread. Luke 11:3

(p.s. That is one great donkey!)

(This activity was inspired by Thriving Family magazine.)

Knocking At The Door Of My Heart

This morning, I was startled out of a sound sleep.

Knock, knock, knock.

Loud and alarming.

A quick gasp. Head off of my pillow.

The clock read 4:00. Exactly.

I strain my ear through the silence. My husband sound asleep beside me. He heard nothing.

I hold my breath and listen. And listen.

Nothing except the shush of white noise from the boy's room. The buzz of a fan above me.

But knocking? None.

I lower my head slowly to my pillow.

Then I hear, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." Luke 11:9

Jesus.

Whispering to my heart. Knock, Becky. Seek me. Rise up and come. It is time. Walk through the door that I have opened. Knowing now who was knocking. Not at the front door of my house, but standing on the front stoop of my heart.

I obediently wrap my robe around me and go down to make coffee. (I'm pretty sure that is the first thing I was to do. Make coffee. Right?)

I come, Lord. Seeking.



Seek (zēteō): to aim at. To strive for; desire. To crave. TO SEEK TO PROMOTE THE GLORY OF GOD.

Yes. To promote His Glory. My deepest desire.

Lord, this weekend I walk. With boldness, as Your Word says, through an open door. A retreat that You prepared, in your Sovereignty, before the foundation of the world. When I was being knit in secret, You were event planning. This weekend. For me. And for the twenty-seven other ladies who will come. We come...seeking to promote Your Glory. We come... Craving. Desiring. Striving to enter into your rest. Anticipating Your meeting us there. Expecting your Holy Spirit to fall upon us. Thank You. In advance, thank You.

Will you pray?

Today begins a weekend retreat for the women of God who attend Fellowship Bible Church, Knoxville. Will you pray over us? Pray for God's Spirit to fall, for His Word to move and touch our lives. Please pray for our protection. Please pray for our speaker (ahem) that she would be less so He could be more. Pray God would knit our hearts to His and to each other.

And speaking of open doors, the Lord continues to point me towards the She Speaks conference this coming July. If you, too, are still praying about God's plan for you as a speaker, writer or women's ministry leader, then this conference may be a great opportunity. Ann Voskamp's is offering a scholarship to the conference on her blog this week. Visit here for more information.

I am learning to act on my God-given passions. And never to ignore His prompting. Heaven forbid me to miss Him. Ever.

A Taste of Heaven

Some would think that a house full of women, closed in confined spaces for a full weekend might mean trouble. Conflict. Comparison. Catty-ness. Cruelty. And they might be right if watching some reality show on Bravo.

But, put thirty or more women, Jesus-lovin' women, in a house together. One full weekend. And what do you get?

Heaven.

Just a taste. But Heaven still.

If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like‑minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Philippians 2:1&2

It is amazing how all these women (some not pictured because they had to leave early), can come from their different lives, different homes, different families, and drive up in different cars, and leave, two days later, all of the same spirit and accord. Like‑minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.

Sisters in Christ Jesus.

A true family. An undeniable spirit of sisterhood that can only be explained in the things of God.

The Lord took us all, gently by our hands, and ushered us into His Presence. His Word, moving us into His rest, into deep refreshment, led to repentance and longing to remain in Him.

This morning the only way I can say it is....It was the bomb.

How's that for poetic?

Thank you PepMoms, for having me.

And as Andrea Engle prayed...there really are just "no words."

Love you all.

Christmas Goals 2010

Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace among men. Luke 2:14

We have arrived at the threshold of Christmas. December 23rd. The hustle and bustle is arguably at its peak - food is being prepared, last minute gifts purchased, traffic is absolutely crazy and I am finding myself getting a little lost in its shuffle.

Yesterday I sat down at the kitchen table holding a green sharpie and a Christmas tree post-it note.

Staring at my to-do list, I said to Brent, "I am feeling overwhelmed."

It read: *make Oreo balls *fold laundry *shake out rugs *drop off presents to Amanda *get turkey from Mamaw *wrap three gifts *vacuum out the van *drop off dry cleaners

(It's amazing what will overwhelm a person. Silly, I know. )

Brent took my list, grabbed my sharpie and marked off four items. "I'll do these."

Ahh. Sweet man of God. What a relief it was for him to take those off of my holiday plate.

This morning I have reflected on yesterday's to-do list and Brent's sweet intervention. And I think I best be setting goals for the next two days or I will miss it all.

Christmas goals 2010.

I sense that the Lord wants to take my Christmas tree post-it, grab hold of my green sharpie and scratch it.



He wants to say, "I'll do these. You do this: *abide in me *enjoy my presence *sing Christmas hymns of praise *hug your children *kiss Brent *read the Christmas story *serve your family *refresh in my Spirit *celebrate *simplify."

Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace among men. Luke 2:14

So my goals for the next two days: Glory and Peace.

#1 Glory - I want to give glory to God in the highest.

I want to make every effort to give him honor and praise. Every table setting, every dish prepared, every present wrapped - for His glory. Every hug, every spoken word, every song sang - for His glory. I want this to be the Christmas of washing feet. Let me serve my family, both young and old - for His glory. Let my hands be His. Oh thank you, Jesus.

#2 Peace - I sense deeply within me that I need to lay hold of my peace. The enemy wants it, you know. He does not, I repeat, does not want your focus to be Christ. He wants to steal your focus - make Christmas about busyness and stuff. Don't do it. Make a conscience effort right now. Your focus is Jesus. My focus is Jesus.

Within two days I spoke with four people...people anxious about relational drama at the holidays. Family can be hard. Lay claim to your peace. Jesus is your focus. Love them. Tell them how happy you are to be with them. Forgive them. Wash their feet. Let love and peace be your motivation.

Let the fruit of the Holy Spirit be your Christmas dish this year - Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control! Galatians 5:22

Who could resist?

May my and your Christmas be marked by Glory and Peace this year.

Happy Birthday Jesus and Merry Christmas to you.

Lord, I ask you to bless all those who have read this today. Fill them with your Spirit. Let them abide in your great love for them. Let them rest in the simplicity of a baby in a manger and all that Christmas was meant to be. Thank you for Jesus - The Word made flesh (John 1:14). In Jesus Name, Amen.

If the Proverbs 31 Woman had a yard sale...

This is the weekend. The annual Crenshaw Yard Sale. Friday and Saturday 8-1. Come one come all!

Every November, the signs go up, in hopes to raise extra money for Christmas shopping. The Lord has been good to bless it every year.

But, preparing this week has brought the Proverbs 31 Woman to mind. Often. I think of her - bringing her food from a far, rising while it is still night, providing food for her household and her maidens, buying a field to plant a vineyard, sewing, feeding the poor, making linens and fine clothing. (v.10-24)

My goodness. This woman.

I wish King Lemuel would have given us a little more detail.

I want to ask her: Did your kids scream at each other while waiting in line to buy fabric? Did they ever complain about what you fixed them for breakfast? Were your maidens so thankful for you? Did you ever want to grumble, carrying your food from so far away? Did your kids walk all that way, too?! Did they gripe about it? Did you ever prick your finger on a needle and let a bad word slip? And what about that vineyard? When did you find time to do all that?

I am realizing that she could not have possibly done all of this in her own strength. No way.

She had to rely heavily on the Lord. Dying to herself, her frustrations and her unmet expectations. Dying to feelings of entitlement or the need for extra sleep. Did she ever just want a big 'ol pat on the back?

Preparing for the sale, as silly as this sounds, really makes me appreciate this woman.

A yard sale is a lot of labor. Frustrating labor. And my flesh has rebelled often. You can imagine - the boys coming behind me, putting things back in their room (Mom! Don't sell this!), my signs have broken, Brent has had to work alot this week and the kids want to "help" me tag (No, that old VHS is not worth $5).

But this woman inspires me to work with willing hands (v.13). To be diligent, strong and joyful.

To serve well, to labor long and to love the Lord with all of my heart, soul and might (Deuteronomy 6:5).

Working a yard sale or working a vineyard - we are ultimately working for the Lord.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as if working for God and not for men. Colossians 3:23

May He be glorified today. Even in my silly yard sale.

Love you all.

My Most Valuable Inheritance

There are two words I never care to see on my caller ID. Especially in the middle of the night.

LIFE LINE

Yes, Life Line, as in the Emergency response system for seniors. The medical alert button my grandmother wears around her neck. The button she only presses in desperate need.

Friday night my phone rings...1:30AM. One guess what it reads.

"Yes, this is Life Line calling in regards to your grandmother. She is being transported by ambulance to UT Medical Center."

*Pause*

Many of you know that we care for Mamaw. She doesn't live with us, but there are days she probably should. She is 89-years-old and is the most valuable inheritance my Mom left me upon her death.

And my most challenging still.

I have said time and time again that there is a reason that God did not intend for us to care for infants and widows in the same season of life. There is a natural progression of life stage that was disrupted by my mother's cancer...and now we are left trying to figure out how to make it all work.

If a widow has children or grandchildren these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parent and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God. 1 Timothy 5:4

I also see why God stresses the importance of caring for the widows. It had to be a Biblical mandate or no one would want do it.

It is hard.

Not that I love her any less....if anything I love her more. But caring for the widow is hard. Taxing. Frustrating. Time consuming. Exhausting.

But like most things in life that are the hardest....they are also the most rewarding.

Never before did I think I would know so much about Medicare, hip replacement, high blood pressure, pinched nerves, Nexium, constipation, indisgestion, Ensure, supplemental insurance, back pain, bowel movements or refer to vomit as "upchuck."

I see how many people in my parent's generation are presently caring for their mom and dad as a full time jobs. It could very easily be a 40+++ hour work week.

But instead of seeing this responsibly as a blessing that pleases God, our culture has turned it into a burden.

Get this...

Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultess is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world. James 1:27

Wow. How straight forward can He get? God sees looking after orphans and widows as pure and faultless. The word "pure" in the Greek is katharos and means to purify by fire; like a vine cleansed by pruning and so fitted to bear fruit.

Oh, is He ever pruning me. Pruning me of selfishness, self-centeredness, conveinence and pride.

And what does it mean to keep onself unstained by the world? Why would that be in this verse?

Unstained means keeping a commandment without alteration. Spotless. Free from censure; irreproachable. Above rebuke. Free from judgement involving condemnation. Without the act of blaming.

Do you know how many times I've been looking for someone to blame for this? "Why me? This isn't how its suppose to be. I'm too young to be caring for the elderly. If it wasn't for my mom's cancer. Why won't someone help us out more? God, what were you thinking?"

Yes, I may be keeping the comandment to care for the widow, but I don't always "live above reproach" about it. I don't always serve Mamaw without placing blame - On cancer. On mom. On God.

Forgive me, Lord. I didn't realize.

*Unpause*

So off I go to the ER. And there she is. Sitting upright in a triage bed, holding a bloody towel up to her nose.

"Mamaw? What happened?"
"Hi baby. I'm so sorry you had to come. My nose started bleeding and I couldn't get it to stop. I didn't know what else to do."

I've never been so thankful for just a nose bleed.

Yes, we were in ER, all night long, for a nosebleed. But I am so thankful. As we sat there and waited I just listened to her. And watched her. And thought, "One day, sooner than I like, she won't be here. And I will have to wait a lifetime to see her again. What a blessing to care for her. What an honor to wipe her bloody nose and lose a night's sleep."

One day I will wish I could.

Perspective.

I have never done this before...but could I ask you all to pray? We have had Mamaw's house on the market for seven months. We are trying to sell her estate and move her closer to us. To be able to care for her better. Will you join me in praying that her house would sell and we could move her soon? Thank you.

Sing to God, sing praise to His name - rejoice before Him. A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows is God in his holy dwelling. Psalm 68:4,5

Love love love to you all.

Summertime Sanity #10 - Serving Others

Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Psalm 119:105

I woke this morning with a children's song in my head. I even hear the sweet little jingle as I type, and the lyrics are the above verse...over and over and over. The more I hear it, the more I reflect on its lifelong truth in every single area of my being.

In Greek, Your Word, as used in this verse, means speech or speaking. God is currently speaking (present tense) to us through His Word. Right now. Isn't that a beautiful way to look at it?

The Word is alive and speaking. And He wants me to hold it up, as if a lantern, to light the path of life He has for me. And my feet are to follow behind Him.

Not in front.
Not beside.
Behind.

Mmm. So good.

Summertime Sanity #10 - Serving Others

This is going to sound horrible, but my boys are extremely narcissistic. By nature, they are self-centered little creations that tend to think this life is all about "me me me." Luke doesn't say much, but he's got, "ME! ME!" down pat.

Well, honestly, so do I. I'm constantly having to remind myself that this life is not about me me me. It is about Him Him Him. And serving Others Others Others.

In the book, Sanity in the Summertime, Arp writes, "Summer is a perfect time to help our children get out of their own world and view the needs and problems of others. Galatians 6:10 can become a reality in their lives: "So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all men."

"In our nation of plenty, too often our children's attitude is 'what can I get?' instead of 'what can I give?' A child who can walk and talk is old enough to begin learning to care about others."

Arp then gives four basic steps to be worked through to teach our children the gift of serving others.

1. Pray
2. Teach what Scripture says.
3. Being an example.
4. Taking them through the process.

Arp gives several suggestions of different ways to serve others - visiting a nursing home, running errands for the elderly, making cards for hospital patients, using a Children's Day to make gifts for the grandparents, sending a box to missionaries, etc. These are all so so good.

The boys and I prayed about who the Lord would have us serve or bless before we started. That day we noticed a family had just moved in down the street. Three little girls, all seemingly the same ages as my boys, playing in the driveway. Yes. Our answer!

Teaching what the Scripture says - Arp gives several great scriptures all relating to serving others. I want to go through all of them with the boys (a great devo idea for the mornings!). I will post the list at the bottom of the page. But Hebrews 13:16 says "Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased." What could we do good for our new neighbors? How could we welcome them well and share the love of Christ with them? The vote was unanimous - cookies!

I showed the boys what to do, then let them take ownership. Precious.

Who could resist?!

I am so excited to say that the Lord has really blessed this little act of service! The neighbors have just moved from Missouri and didn't know a soul. We have had a play date several times since, the kids play so well together and I just adore the mom (bonus!). It has been a great teaching opportunity for the boys to see the fruit of their labor. The Lord really blessed it.

Not that we give so we can receive, because we don't, but it did work out that we all made sweet, new friends from this act of serving others.

God is so good.

Love to you all!!

Scriptures for Service:

Hebrews 13:16

Isaiah 58:10-11

Leviticus19:32

John 15:12

Matthew 25:40

Luke 3:10-11

Colossians 3:23-24

James 2:15-17

Galatians 6:10

1 John 3:18