My covid Journey — It's a Long, Long Road

 The past weeks of covid Recovery have been hard. 

Shame on me for not coming to you for prayer.

 I was hiding behind the lilac bush

 (which I can not smell, btw), 

too disappointed, 

too sad, 

too tired 

to share the latest test results. 

Forgive me.

 I will hide no more. 

Your prayers lift me up, 

fill me, 

encourage me, and

keep satan from winning the war for my health 

(spiritual and physical). 

Test Result No. 1:

I have no antibodies to protect me from contracting covid again.

A few weeks ago I was so excited I couldn't sleep.

 Free, at last!

 Two weeks after my second vaccine shot, 

 I was released into my wonderful world of 

family, 

friends, 

church, 

speaking events! 

Woo Hoo!!!

Before I could get out the door, 

the e-mail came.

 Research found that people with cll

 (chronic lymphocytic leukemia, which is cancer of the immune system)

 may not be protected by any of the vaccines. 

What? 

I cried. 

I stayed home.

My doctor scheduled a blood test to determine if I did indeed have antibodies.

 Nope! 

Negative!

 Nada!

 Nil! 

Not a one!!!

 No antibodies found after having severe covid, 

receiving convalescent, 

and the vaccine. 

Crushed. 

My heart couldn't hold the tears spilling over my cheeks. 

My dear doctor assured me this test was not conclusive.

 But there is no sure test at this time for cll patients. 

So, I wait.

Travelling down a long, long road.

Each day I walk, read, pray, 

and breathe.

Thankful that 

the God of Hope does indeed fill me with 

all joy and peace as 

I trust in Him.

(Romans 15:13)

Good news!

Researchers are hopeful a booster shot will be available soon for people with immune deficiencies.

 

Please note: The lack of vaccine efficacy applies only to cll patients and those with immune deficiencies. Please contact your doctor regarding your own vaccine effectiveness. 

Test Result No. 2:

I still need supplemental oxygen.

Forty percent of my lungs are damaged from covid.

 Miraculous, but 

 I have not needed supplemental oxygen during the day for many months.

You are all good prayers!!!

We have a God Who heals and He heals me!

I've walked from London to Paris (according to my step tracker),

I mow an acre of grass every week.

Two hour bike rides are the norm.

Life is great!

I abound with energy and enthusiasm.

But, while sleeping 

my oxygen level falls to 76

(normal O2 is 88 while sleeping, 94 while awake).

 Bummer. 

In the hospital I named my oxygen tube "Husband." 

The oxygen tube was warm and cozy and had to stay next to me

 — just like a husband. 

Well, phooey!

My real husband warms me much better, so

please pray I can breathe at night and

rid our marriage bed and my lungs of this incumbrance.

Always thanking God for your prayers for me.

God sent forth an army to restore life.

Thank you.

Thanking God that He breathed into my nostrils the breath of life!

Hallelujah!

I will forever praise Him!

"God formed man of dust from the ground, and

breathed into his nostrils

the breath of life"

(Genesis 2:7)

What Every Mother With Cancer Needs to Know

Oh dear cancer mom, how my heart aches for you. I know the feelings, the fears, the thoughts that go through your mind and rip at your heart. Whether stage 1 or stage 4, questions we can't answer loom large.

How will my cancer and my possible death affect my child? 

 What will happen to my child when I am gone? 

Will my precious ones make it through the pain?  

Fears for our children are stronger than fears for ourselves. In the uncertainty of the unknown, we must cling to the promises of God. Promises not only to us, but promises to our children as well.

"The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you;

He will never leave you nor forsake you.

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)

God is with us and God is with our children. He promises. He will neither leave nor forsake our loved ones.

God doesn't take us and then leave our children alone. He stays. I've seen God's Presence in the lives of children whose mothers died young. Angels seem to encircle them in human and divine form giving needed care and love. Of course mom is missed, but the family survives and is all right because God watches over them. His Presence is sensed and embraced.
    

"For He will command His angels concerning you 

to guard you in all your ways;" 

Psalm 91:11 (NIV)

Yesterday I was blessed to read a son's birthday wish to his mother only months after her cancer death. Derek West's words touched my heart and I'm sure his mother, Corinna Parker Walkowiak, smiled big watching God reveal the Hope of Heaven to her son.

"Happy Birthday, Mom.

 It would have been your 48th here but 

it's your first in Heaven.

 I remember last year having a strong urge to make you a cake, 

even though I hadn't ever made one for your birthday before.

 At the time, I thought it was just me getting older and

 feeling the need to take care of those things on my loved ones' birthdays, 

but in the back of my mind I wondered 

what things might be like this year with your cancer.

When you first died

 I couldn't think much about you being in heaven because

 all I could feel was that you weren't here anymore. 

Thankfully, over the last month or so 

the hope of heaven has been revealed a little clearer and 

I can actually believe today is the best birthday you've ever had.

I miss you so much and 

wish I could make you another cake. 

See your low-key love being the center of attention 

while asking everyone else about how they're doing. 

Enjoy the warmth and ease of being around you.

But it's good knowing you're home.

 Soaking in the greatest celebration everyday. 

Happy Birthday, Mom.
I love you."

Thank you Derek West for sharing your birthday wishes with us. What a tribute to your wonderful mom. Corinna Parker Walkowiak who was indeed special. A healthy woman with a giving heart, she was first diagnosed when she volunteered to be tested as a potential liver donor. Corinna went to Heaven April 25, 2019, age 47. 

May we all have splashes of serenity and peace knowing that God is with us. He won't forsake us and He won't forsake our families. 

Elaine W. Miller's Book on Cancer Releasing in Fall 2018

Dearest friends and cancer warriors,

Cancer surprised me! I was thrown into the cancer community—not by my choice, but by God's plan. Little did I expect to receive some of the greatest lessons of my spiritual life as well as meet cancer heroes whose faith would increase mine.

God placed a desire in my heart to write a book encouraging cancer patients and those who love them to consider:

Cancer is not an obstacle in life, 

but an opportunity

 to love deeper, 

live fuller, 

laugh louder, 

sing sweeter, 

and shine brighter.

I am pleased to announce my new book (cover and title to be revealed in October), releasing in time for Christmas. 

Signing a publishing contract with Living Parables of Central Florida Books.

The book is in the capable hands of the publisher. Thank you to all who prayed me through the book-writing process. You are my heroes, lifting my arms when I had no strength to stand.

Tomorrow Dan and I leave for various locations to rest, love each other and our extended family, and celebrate our 48th anniversary—another anniversary we thought we would never see. How we thank God for His goodness to us and His sweet spirit of peace dwelling within us.

I'm doing great! My blood counts are normal and my heart beats for Jesus! Enjoy every moment, dear ones!

Life is worth living.

People are worth loving.

Smiles are worth smiling.

Laughter is gold.

May splashes of serenity fill your days,

What Really Matters in 2018 — The Condition of My Heart

A peek into my journal lets the secret out. My New Year's Resolutions were different this year. Perhaps it's getting older, perhaps living with cancer, but when I sat to  reflect and write my 2018 resolutions, I chuckled realized my hopes had changed. Gone were my annual lose weight, get organized, exercise goals. Instead, God placed the following in my heart:

My 2018 Resolutions:

To glorify God.

To surrender to Him and His will.

To Trust in the Lord.

To keep my eyes on Jesus.

To die to self and live for Christ.

To be a soldier for Christ.

To share my faith.

To encourage others in their faith.

To live each day to the full.

To not waste time in earthly pursuits.

To praise Him continually.

To pray without ceasing.

To keep the wonder of a child.

To cling to the cross.

To be joyful in affliction.

To shine in the dark.

To hunger and thirst for righteousness.

To love unconditionally.

To live.

 To feel the wind on my face and the grass between my toes.

To not rush through life, but enjoy the expanse of moments.

To smile and bring joy.

To notice children and listen to them.

To love deeply.

To be all Christ created me to be.

To rest in His Arms.

To have no expectations that this world will ever satisfy me.

To live for Christ alone.

At the end of life neither God nor I will care if I lost weight, exercised, or ever got my house in shape. What will matter is the condition of my heart. May our resolutions reflect what God wants us to be instead of what the world entices us to become.

"The Lord does not look at the things people look at.

People look at the outward appearance,

but the LORD looks at the heart."

1 Samuel 16:7 (NLT)

May 2018 be filled with splashes of serenity as we live for Jesus!

How I Felt When Heaven Was Near

Looking back at October birthday photos, I laughed and realized they were a picture of how I felt this past year when Heaven was so near.

A year ago my prospects of enjoying this birthday were slim. In November 2016 my leukemia went from stage 0 to stage 3 and was moving fast to stage 4. Doctors forewarned me that with my genetic make up the leukemia would be fast and fatal.

Dan and I decided to enjoy Christmas with our family and share the diagnosis after the New Year. But, bad news went away and good news arrived in mid December 2016. A new drug was approved by the FDA which effectively controlled my type of leukemia. The week before Christmas Dan and I stood at our bed and prayed as I took the first of my daily three pills (one in the Name of the Father, another in the Name of the Son, and the last in the Name of the Holy Spirit). Voila! In two days my leukemia was shrinking away. In a few months my blood count was normal, and remains so.

So, this year I celebrated the birthday I never expected to see. I feel wonderful and healthy and alive!

Looking back, I must give praise to God for the gift of life He is giving me and answer the question: 

How did I feel when Heaven was near? 

JOY!!! That's how I felt. I didn't choose joy. Joy filled my heart with no effort on my part. Certainly, I had no strength at that time to muster up some fake joy. No. This joy was a joy like I had never felt in my earthly life. Heavenly joy that comes from the Spirit came to me as though Jesus was assuring me that I had a lot to look forward to in Heaven where there would be even more joy! I could hardly wait!!!

"Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy." James 1:2 (NIV)

PEACE. Absolute peace in the knowledge that I was on a trip to Heaven, that Jesus loved me, and that He alone would carry me there. Peace knowing that when I left this earth, He would care for all those who love me and who grieve my death. Peace knowing Jesus loved my family too. He would not take me away unless my husband and children would be all right without me.

"And the peace of God, 

which surpasses all understanding will guard your heart and mind in 

Christ Jesus." 

Philippians 4:7

Happiness!!! Bordering on hilarity!!!  If my days were numbered, I didn't want to spend them sad. I wanted to be happy and surround myself with happiness. I laughed at the days ahead, knowing I was and will always be in the Hands of the only One Who gives perfect delight on this earth and in Heaven. 

  "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at days to come."

Proverbs 31:25 (NLT)

Thanksgiving. God tells us to thank Him for everything. So, I thanked Him for cancer. I thanked Him for the life lessons He would teach me on this journey, for the doors of ministry He would open, the hearts I might touch, the precious moments I had left with my family, the abundant life I had on earth, and the promise of eternal life in Heaven.  

And so I ask?

"Where, O death, is your victory? 

Where, O death, is your sting?" 

1 Corinthians 15:55 (NIV)

Death had no victory over me and it didn't even sting. God was so close I could touch Him. In God's Sovereignty, He allowed me to have cancer, and then He allowed me to be healthy again. Hallelujah! He has given me life. And you too. Let us determine to live our lives with joy, peace, happiness and thanksgiving. Let's fill the world with joy this Christmas season. Will you join me?

Splashing joyful, peaceful, happy, thankful serenity on your day today!

Merry Christmas!

In Remembrance of Those Who Died, Let's Make Our Lives Count

Viet Nam, July 31, 1969,--A day my husband doesn't talk about. His med-evac helicopter was shot down in the middle of a battle in the dark of the night. Ignoring life-threatening injuries of his own, my husband carried three men up a steep ravine to safety. While mortar and small-arms fire continued their attempt to bring Dan and others down, he returned to the the fire-swept ravine to treat the injured.

Dan saved men's lives; but for others he was too late. They died in his arms. Dan held those men to his heart and wondered, Why am I alive and they are dead? He didn't have an answer.

But he did make an oath to the men who died that night: I don't know why I'm still living, but I promise you I'll make my life count in your honor.

Dan never forgot that vow. He lives it every day.


The Silver Star was awarded for his heroism. He shakes his head and says, "I was just at the wrong place at the wrong time." No, Dan. You were right where God wanted you.

God has a plan for our days. Let us make each one count. Never forget some die so we can live.

There was another who bled and and gave His life for us—Jesus Christ. May we live each day aware of that fact and vow that our lives will count for God's Glory and Honor.

Thank you, Jesus; thank you, Dan; thank you all who serve and all who die so we might live. You splash us with serenity with every breath we take!

Let us not forget those who gave their lives this Memorial Day!

When Love Knocks at Your Door

I love my front door!  The hardware previous owners attached to the door of the District Superintendent's Parsonage where I live and love warms my heart!

Precious people have walked through that door. Ravi Zacharias, Presidents of our denomination, International workers from most every continent,  and many grandchildren have knocked that knocker or rang the doorbell.

Do you see the hearts? Do you feel the love? I pray whoever walks through my doors or yours know a love that greets them like a splash of serenity. Our homes should be safe havens of rest from the restlessness of this world. Our houses and our hearts should be a place where Jesus resides and His Love is felt by every passing stranger.

When your family walks through your door, do they feel the love? Or do they enter with dread knowing  altercations await inside. Decide to make your home a house of love today. Have a family meeting and make that decision together as a family. You all want it. Do it.

Jesus said "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me." Rev. 3:20

May Jesus enter your home and your heart today. May your guests and family feel His love!

I'm not a Poet and I Know It. But God Had a Plan When I Married Dan

 

 My goal in life was to marry a plumber

 and live in a house in winter and summer
with white picket fence, not optional.

We would raise our children and treasure our grands,

 attend one church and play in the bands.

 

There was only one problem I didn't foresee.

 I married a man in the U.S. Navy

who knew nothing of plumbing
and seeing the world kept him humming.

 

 Dan saw that military life was not for me

 So we bought our home in the country,

and settled with children numbering three.

 

One beautiful morn God spoke to our hearts

and revealed His plan for our lives.

No more did white picket fences or plumbers entice,

 I would spend my life as a Pastor's wife.

 

 It's been a glorious time
living this life of mine.

 We've loved our life
as Pastor and wife. 

Our homes hold memories galore!
 

We've travelled the world,

 cried and laughed with God's flock,

served til we dropped
without looking at a clock.

 

But now, our life will change in 2014.
 

Dan is retiring and I'm wondering how,

when I know we would never break our vow

to serve and love God til we take our last breath.

 

But God gave me hope and a sweet little verse

that wherever we go,

He's leading the show.
 

You see,

every year in January

 I ask God for a verse that I'll need for that year.

The one He gave in 2014 I'll forever hold dear

and thank God for making our path clear.

 

 

What a splash of serenity

 to know God is in it with me.

So, we'll move in July.

  I hope you'll drop by
 and share some of your life with me.

 

I do see what you are doing Lord.

You won't let us go. 

You're running our show.

Here's what I see:

 

Two new grandbabies due.

Another book to write — maybe two!

Ministry trips to Russia and Bosnia, perhaps Uruguay too!

We All Married Idiots in Spanish will come through,

with hopes of a Russian release. Woo Hoo!

New neighbors to reach.

Lots of speaking to teach

the Way to eternal life.

 

Looking forward to helping marriages with my best friend.

We're already booked to teach a marriage weekend.

 

Disabled veterans hold a place in Dan's heart.

Volunteering at the VA Hospital,

He can't wait to start.

A seminar for elders is a much needed tool.

Dan will be working on this so don't be fooled.

 

We aren't retiring, just following God's plan

He's about to do something new and He already began.

 Isaiah 43:19 is my verse for this year.

I hope you find a scripture you too can hold dear.

Others would love to know
 the verse God gave you
 and how He is leading your show.
 

With apologies to all you poets. Sometimes, I just have to sing!

Merry Christmas 2013 From Our Family to Yours

I love Christmas letters. They aren't as meaningful today since everyone sees everyone's children and daily lives on the social networks. But Christmas letters are about people and Christmas is about people — all the people of the world.

"For God so loved the world that he gave His only son that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16

 

What a gift is the Baby Jesus to all the children of the world.

 

I pray you believe in Him.

 

Here's our Christmas letter:

 





 

Gifts! Gifts! And more gifts! Searching for the perfect gift to bless my loved ones, I realized how futile is this quest. After all, the only perfect gift was given when God sent His Son Jesus to us. There is no other gift that will fill an empty heart like the gift of Jesus to you. We celebrate Jesus this Christmas, and thank Him for other gifts, of much less value, bestowed on our family.

In August 2014 Dan plans on enjoying the gift of retirement. Hoping that gives some more time for activities like this.



 God gifted us with a beautiful retirement home 15 minutes from both of our daughters.We won't move until Dan's present term is over on August 1.

 

 



 Dan and I look forward to our final six months as the Christian and Missionary Alliance Northeastern District Superintendent and wife. A gift, really, serving the fine Pastors and wives in New York State.We thank Him for the gift of ministry He called us to over the past 27+ years, as we anticipate continuing  to serve Him until He calls us Home.

An added blessing is ministering overseas. For the past six years or more we served as Pastoral Care Couple in Bosnia. In January 2014 we'll speak and bring gifts to International Workers in Russia as well as Bosnia. What joy fills our hearts serving the Savior of the world.





My book, We All Married Idiots, was a gift to me and to marriages around the world. There were weeks Idiots was on Amazon's best seller list. In 2014 the Spanish translation releases as a gift to Spanish-speaking couples.

 



My speaking ministry keeps growing like a sweet gift that keeps on giving. Thirty-six people prayed with me to believe in the Lord Jesus as their Savior this year. Each one a gift to God. How can we ever say thanks for eternal life?

Our children are gifts to us. Gifts that bless us more than we ever asked or imagined.

Joanna and Bob are blessed with the gift of creativity and humor as shown in Bob's work at Family Life Network and Joanna's in the classroom. Gracie and Ryan are gifted with strong, healthy bodies, and intelligent minds.  We thank God for them as beautiful gifts to us.

 



Elizabeth and Joe were gifted with a farm this year. Be blessed by her website at www.DandelionsAcre.com  Their gifts abound as baby #7 arrives in 2014. He'll fit right in between the goats, pigs, cat, dog, and 6 lively sibs. Joe was gifted with employment at Family Life Ministries. Thankful. Elizabeth loves delivering the gift of babies at Arnot Ogden Hospital. Their home-schooled brood are sweet-spirited and fun. Check out Lizzy's goat milk products at www.etsy.com/DandelionsAcre. You'll like them. Beautiful gifts.

 

 

Sam and Katie receive a precious gift in 2014 when the Lord presents them with their first child. They moved to Colorado in 2013, and any time we share is a great gift to us. The Air Force will gift Sam with promotion to Major in 2014. Their first home purchase and God providing a good church nearby is a gift a parent treasures.

 

God gifted our family with my mother who celebrated 92 years in 2013. Each day with her is a delightful gift. We love you, Mom, and thank God for the gift of you.

 

Jesus is the perfect gift!  He fills our empty hearts with eternal peace — not a two-week rush of happiness. This Christmas I thank God for Jesus — His Indescribable Gift to us, too wonderful for words.

Merry Christmas Splashes of Serenity,

"Experiencing God's Presence — Learning to Listen While You Pray." A Book Review

 

 

Does God seem far away when you pray?

 

Does your prayer time seem more like sitting on a cold Santa's lap, going through your "I want" list, and scurrying away from the frightening man with the white beard?

 

Do you yearn for more from the Lord? Do you want to sense His presence and hear His voice?

 

Are you without hope?

 

In Experiencing God's Presence: Learning to Listen While You Pray, Linda Evans Shepherd leads the reader into the presence of God and allows your heart to beat with His.

 

Gentle, yet powerful, Experiencing God's Presence teaches using Scripture, Shepherd's personal experiences, and powerful prayers. Your life will change as Linda Evans Shepherd guides the reader into a deeper, more intimate, prayer time face-to-face with God.

 

Experiencing God's Presence ministered healing to my broken heart as I focused on Christ and His will for my life. No more do I shout out my "to do" list every morning. Now, I ask God what He wants to do with me and I listen with expectancy for His answer.

 

Experiencing God's Presence will transform your prayer life! Please buy this book.

 

BACK COVER: God wants to hear from you — but He also wants you to hear from Him.

 

What if every time you had a conversation, your best friend never got a word in edgewise? Your relationship would be less than fulfilling — for both of you! In the same way, a fulfilling prayer life is more than just regularly talking to God. And its more than checking items off a prayer list. God loves us so much that he wants us to draw close enough not only to talk but also to listen.

 

Now, from the award winning author of When You Don't Know What to Pray comes a bold and life-transforming book that will help you nurture a vibrant two-way relationship with God. Linda Evans Shepherd shows you how to develop a dialogue with God, continually seeking him and seeing him at work in your life. Steeped in Scripture and filled with personal stories of answered prayer, this book also includes sample prayers and action steps you can put into practice immediately.

 



 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Linda Evans Shepherd is an award-winning author, a successful speaker, and a radio personality. The president of Right to the Heart Ministries, she is the author of When You Don't Know What to Pray and When You Need a Miracle and the co-author of the Potluck Club books and the Potluck Catering Club series. She lives with her family in Colorado.

 

 

 Splash serenity into your prayer life and read Experiencing God's Presence,

 

 

 



Switzerland Serenity

You aren't seeing things. Look again. This church is above the clouds. Riding in a large, enclosed gondola to the top of a Swiss Alp near Luzerne, Switzerland, we lost our breath at the beauty of it all--the mountains and the church. I have no idea who attends here or how they get there, but God spoke to my heart just at the sight of it.

God reminded me that He loves the whole world. He will build His Church and neither the gates of Hell nor the icey slopes of Switzerland will prevail against it. We will never escape God and He will never forget us. He's there in the bombed-out buildings of Bosnia and He's there in the snow-covered splendor of Switzerland. He loves us and we are in His Hands. Wherever you are, may you know His sweet serenity today.

What does this photo say to you? I'd love to hear.

Sending Splashes of Serenity from snowy and serene Switzerland,

Elaine

I Want to be Found Faithful

 

 

Beverly Ruth Clark

1957 - 2013

 

 Bev and I met several years ago, but we became instant friends last summer. She was one of those people who enters a room and joy walks in with her. Bev had a way of making everyone she met feel special. What a treasure!

 

At her memorial service, her four children sang in Portuguese, "I Want to be Found Faithful" (words below, in English). Bev prayed this prayer for herself. And now her children desire this prayer for themselves.  I sensed Bev beaming with joy as her sweet treasures sang this love song to God and to their mom. Oh, the impact of a Godly mother.

Thanks Bev for bringing smiles and Christ to so many lives. Well done, good and faithful servant.

 

"Eu Quero Ser Encontrado Fiel"

(I Want to be Found Faithful)

Asaph Borba

 

I don't run after great things,

Great works, or great accomplishments.

I don't search for riches

That entice minds and hearts.

But I want to search for the pearl of great price,

The one which has true worth,

and to find the invisible treasure,

That's what I am running after.

 

I want to be, I want to be found faithful.

I want to be, I want to be found faithful.

Faithful to Your Word, faithful to Your call.

Faithful to Your purposes, faithful to proclaim them,

Faithful to worship You.

 

I don't run after great things,

Great works or accomplishments.

I don't search for false riches,

That get lost between generations.

I want to reach the thirsty,

Quench them with Your river of love;

Multiply the talents You have entrusted to me, O Lord.

 

I want to be, I want to be found faithful.

I want to be, I want to be found faithful.

Faithful to Your Word, faithful to Your call.

Faithful to Your purposes, faithful to proclaim them,

Faithful to worship You.

 

Those words touched my heart. Especially, "I want to reach the thirsty, Quench them with Your river of love." 

 

 Today I prayed to be found faithful,  to reach the thirsty, and quench them with God's river of love every day of my earthly life. Thanks Bev for continuing to impact my life for Christ.

 



 If you like, donations may be made to support SEMIBA, the seminary where Bev and Paul Clark ministered in Brazil. Donations can be sent to the address below with Bev Clark Memorial Fund in the memo:

The Bev Clark Memorial Fund

c/o The Christian and Missionary Alliance

P.O. Box 35000

Colorado Springs, CO 80935

Splashes of Serenity and rivers of love prayed for you today,

When the One You Love Dies

Christmas is a time when hurts hurt deeper. Especially if you are facing Christmas without the person you expected to share a lifetime of Christmases. If you are a widow, or you know a widow, there is hope and help this Christmas.

My friend Ferree Hardy, a widow herself (now remarried to a widower), has just released her new book, Postcards from the Widows' Path — Gleaning Hope and Purpose from the Book of Ruth. I love Ferree's explanation to me, "Widows don't need a letter, they need postcards."

For more information, please see Ferree's website and blog, www.WidowsChristianPlace.com. You'll be blessed by both.

I met Ferree at the Montrose Christian Writer's Conference where we sat in the same critique group for five days. I listened as she read Postcards from the Widows' Path. Wow! Ferree has wisdom from God and a way of writing that touches hearts.

Let Postcards from the Widows' Path be a splash of serenity on your life. Check out www.WidowsChristianPlace.com where you'll find people who understand.

Praying for those who hurt this Christmas,

Is God Calling You to Speak?

Terrified! That's what I was the first time I spoke to a public audience. God opened that door for me some 30 years ago and He keeps opening speaking doors. If you ever stand before any audience as a speaker, then you want to be the best you can be for Him. God doesn't want you to be terrified. He wants you to relax and enjoy your speaking journey.

Today I spoke again to Vonda Skelton and www.ChristianCommunicators.com. Our topic is "Does Your Audience See Jesus in You?" Come learn and be the best speaker you can be—one who shines for Jesus.

Listen to internet radio with christiancommunicators on Blog Talk Radio

You'll hear some static at first, but it soon disappears. Be blessed and may your speaking splash you and your audience with serenity that comes from obedience to God's call on your life.

Remembering the Day I Became a Mom

My only goal in life was to be a mom. I remember well the day I gave birth and God gave me a precious gift fresh from Heaven. Thanking God for the joys of motherhood, I share a reflection titled "Cheek-to-Cheek" from my book Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms.

Words fail the feelings in my heart as I anticipate the arrival of my first-born child. Not as eager to greet me, she enjoys her peace and rest in the solace of my womb. I sing to her, talk to her, and jokingly name her "Hank." She is so loved and wanted in my life.

Her stubbornness showing even in her birth, she lingers too long and fights the muscles miraculously working to bring her from my womb into my arms. Hands strapped to my sides in preparation for an emergency C-section, I am thankful to be kept awake and alert. I don't want to miss any of her life. Her first cry brings big tears of joy and relief to me. Unable to move, I plead to see her and to touch this miracle. My arms ache more from desire to put my child in my arms than from the operating table restraints.

A faceless nurse brings still-crying Joanna to me and places our faces cheek-to-cheek. Our tears melt into one as a final farewell to our oneness. I smile and speak a simple, "I love you, Joanna." Her crying immediately stops as she hears the familiar voice of her mother. We are bonded forever. I long to dance through life with her cheek-to-cheek. To never leave her. To always assure her of my love. To share every tear and celebrate every joy.

God is like this. He desires to go dancing through life with us cheek-to-cheek, our tears meltng with His. He is always eager to say, "I love you, my child." How often we resist Him as we seek every road and piece of advice but His. We don't want to be born into His kingdom. We like it in our worldly womb. All the while, He is calling us to Himself, waiting for us to stop struggling in our own strength and to come to Him. He longs to hold us, comfort us, and help us through life's joys and trials. He is our "Abba"—Daddy, and He wants the first dance.

Oh Lord, I remember the joy of holding my first-born child. Remind me that you experience the same joy when I rest in Your arms. I don't want to dance through life without You. Let us go cheek-to-cheek together and let me always follow your lead.

Autographed copies of Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms are available on this website. Thank you.

Blessed Mother's Day! Enjoy the treasure God gave to you when He gave you a child to love,

We All Married Idiots—A Great Small-Group Study!

With the divorce rate around 50 percent for Christians and non-Christians, my heart is broken for broken homes. This was not God's plan when He blessed Adam and Eve with the gift of marriage. He gave us marriage to enjoy not to endure.

Too many endure only so long and then give up too soon for too little reason. Entering a second marriage, they may one day realize, Ugh, this person is an idiot too!

We All Married Idiots encourages couples to enjoy marriage as God intended. One where they esteem their mate as a gift to treasure not as an idiot to tolerate. Doesn't that sound nice? Yes indeed! That's God's will. He wants you to enjoy marriage, not just endure it.

What was my purpose for writing We All Married Idiots: Three Things You Will Never Change About Your Marriage and Ten Things You Can?

I want to change that 50 percent divorce statistic. I yearn to save families from the unnecessary pain of marriages that give up when, with a little more effort, they could have made up. I pray people will see marriage from God's point of view instead of a worldview. I hope couples stop concentrating on the three things they will never change in their marriage and begin focusing on the ten things they can.

Divorce is painful. I hear the children's cries. Do you? You could be that splash of serenity to 50 percent of the world crying behind closed doors.

Fifty percent of your neighborhood and fifty percent of your workplace and fifty percent of your church are considering divorce. Staggering, isn't it? Won't you consider having a small-group study in your neighborhood, workplace, or church using We All Married Idiots? The title will attract them and God will change them.

Purchase  We All Married Idiots at http://www.amazon.com/We-All-Married-Idiots-Marriage/dp/0984765522/. While you are at it, buy two. Make someone's day and give one away! Do it for the children! 

Praying for marriages to survive and thrive!

Grandboys and Dads and Walks and Snakes,Oh My!

 Thirteen years ago today I became a Grandma. Life changed. It got better.

Happy 13th  Birthday, Connor Joe. You are a delight to my life.

 I wrote this piece many years ago after a walk with baby Connor and hope one day it will be published in Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Women.

“In the cool of the evening, the man and his wife heard the Lord God walking around in the garden….”  Genesis: 3:8 (GWT)

“Let’s take a walk!” my grandson, Connor, suggests nearly each time he visits. Our walks take us into make-believe Africa hunting for the pair of stone lions gracing the driveway of a house three blocks away. The owner gave permission for Connor to sit on the lion’s back. He does and “roars” for everyone to hear. It’s fun for a four year old. I love our walks too. They bind us together on life’s journey. I have Connor’s full attention as I tell him tales of my childhood and walks with my dad.

For as long as I can remember, my dad and I took good walks. We walked in his garden. The corn stalks grew way over my head and my dad was my protection. He once commanded, “Don’t move!” Stopped in my tracks, I looked down to see a long black snake at my feet. Walks in the garden weren’t such fun once I realized a snake resided there. In the winter, we walked up snowy hills and rode down on the old wooden Flexible Flyer sled. Dad would lie on his tummy, and I would lie on his back holding on for dear life as we sped down icy slopes. What fun! As we grew older, we had great walks and talks about life and unseen snakes and lions that prowl around seeking to devour naïve young girls.

I have a picture to commemorate one of our best treks. On Dad’s 87^th birthday, we walked 27 holes of golf. Dad shot the best score of his life—two over par. Now that was a memorable day as shown from the ear-to-ear grin on Dad’s sweet face photographed, framed, and placed predominantly on my piano.

It was only a few months later Dad became sick and was hospitalized. We sat together in stillness knowing our days together would soon end. The twinkle in his eye sparkled as his mouth looked up in a grin. “Let’s take a walk,” he suggested. The doctor gave his approval. I think in dad’s heart he pushed himself for one last walk with his daughter. We shuffled down the hospital corridor. With one hand he held onto me. With the other, he held the IV pole. We talked about all the walks we had taken. I said the best walk had been the 27 holes of golf on his 87^th birthday. He disagreed, saying the best was walking me down the church aisle to marry my husband. Our eyes were wet on that day as they were now. I lightened the moment with a joke about his wanting me married so he wouldn’t have to pay my dental bills. But we both knew dad was giving his final blessing and approval of my husband, Dan—the man we both loved.

Dan and I treasure our long walks. Walking together is a priority to keep our bodies and our marriage in good shape. Our hands and hearts touch as we walk and talk about life—how good it has been, and how blessed we are by our love. Sometimes we encourage each other by pointing out lions and snakes the other might be missing. We leave nothing unsaid, for we never know which walk will be our last.

Death can come at any time. It came quickly for Dad. The walk down the hospital hall was our last walk together. Shortly after, Dad held God’s hand and peacefully walked to Heaven.

Must be God likes walks too. “I will walk among you and be your God.” He says in Leviticus 26:12 (NIV). God walked in the garden with Adam and warned him of snakes. God desires to walk with us and us with Him. He knows what lies ahead on our trail and He wants to journey with us, talk with us, bless us, and protect us from lions and snakes. Sometimes, He’ll pick us up and carry us as I do Connor when his little legs grow weary on the rough roads. Most important, I don’t think there will be any disagreement  that the best walk will be that last walk when He ushers His followers to Heaven.

Life is a journey of steps. We’ll meet some lions and snakes along the way. Even so, we should enjoy life’s hike and make sure the people trekking with us know how much we love them.

S.O.S.:  Dear God, thank You for walking with me through all the gardens of life. May I pay close attention to your warnings of lions and snakes and bears, oh my! Let me hear Your voice and obey when You lead me down a path that is Your choosing and not mine. Thank you for treasured times with those I love. Most of all, thank You for the assurance that You are with me, holding my hand, walking with me, and preparing a road for my steps. Keep me from stumbling and when I do, thank You for being there to carry me. I love You, Jesus. Amen.   

May your life walks be filled with Splashes of  Serenity!

The Easter Bunny Can't Save You.

The grave is empty. God took a dead Jesus and made Him alive again! Up from the grave He arose sings in my heart because that is the basis of my faith.

Do you believe it? I do. Some don't believe.

If it is nonsense, then my faith is dead. But it isn't. The body is gone. Jesus is alive! I know. For sure. Why am I confident of my faith? Because belief in Jesus Christ transformed my life and my marriage.  I write about it in We All Married Idiots:

"One hot August afternoon I hit the wall. Too exhausted to keep running, I stood at my kitchen window and cried out to God: 'I can't do this anymore. I need You, Jesus. I know I am a sinner and I am sorry. Jesus, I believe You died on the cross to take the punishment for my sin. Thank You. I believe You rose again in three days. You are alive, and You are my only hope. Jesus, I give my life to You. Do with me whatever You please.'

Well, He pleased to do a lot. My prayer flew out the window taking with it my anger, sadness, hopelessness, and apathy. The Holy Spirit wind blew His peace, joy, love, and, of course, Jesus Himself into my empty heart. Dan came home to a new wife—one filled and overflowing with love for Jesus and for my husband.

God performs miracles when you give up your life to Jesus. It begins with a prayer."

God took my dead life and my dead marriage and made it alive again. He can do the same for you. Won't you pray a simple prayer and give your life to Christ? Today will be your best Easter as you make the most important decision you will ever make. And it has nothing to do with an Easter Bunny .

Easter Bunnies hop away on Easter Monday morning. Jesus stays for eternity in your heart. Hallelujah!!!

Thankful I don't depend on an Easter Bunny for my splash of serenity. A bunny gives me a splash and then it's gone. Jesus fills me with streams of living water and they last forever! Amen.

Happy Resurrection Day!

BAM! I Nail His Hands to the Cross!

Good Friday is here! I don't understand. How did they sing praises to Jesus one day and crucify Him a few days later?

But isn't that what I do every day?

Waking up praising Him for the new day, I open His Book, speak to Him, listen to Him, sing praises to Him, smile, and enjoy the sweet peace of knowing Him.


Energized, I begin my day joyful. Without warning my Cheerios spill and I grumble that there are none left. Walking into my food pantry, I look at the bursting shelves and say There is nothing here to eat.

BAM! I NAIL HIS HANDS TO THE CROSS.

I walk into my packed clothes closet and think I don't have a thing to wear.

BAM! I NAIL HIS HANDS TO THE CROSS.

I think about my neighbor who is sick. Oh, I do need to bake her a casserole, but I have so much to do today.

BAM! I NAIL HIS HANDS TO THE CROSS.

The phone rings. Sigh. A telemarketer trying to make a living. No compassion here. Rudely, I interrupt and hang up the phone too hard.

BAM! I NAIL HIS HANDS TO THE CROSS.

My friend is sad and lonely. I must call her, but I never seem to find time. Although, there is time to watch that mindless TV show and allow actors I'd never invite into my house take a comfortable seat in the family room of my mind.


BAM! I NAIL HIS HANDS TO THE CROSS.

Why is that person driving so slowly? Come on get a move on, I don't have time for this slowness.

BAM! I NAIL HIS HANDS TO THE CROSS.

Looking in the mirror, I notice the gray and the nose too big and the body too fat. I wish I was prettier.

BAM! I NAIL HIS HANDS TO THE CROSS.

The politician I don't favor is giving a speech. I have my opinions! I don't agree with his political viewpoint. I think bad thoughts about him, but have I ever prayed for him as Jesus tells me to?

BAM! I NAIL HIS HANDS TO THE CROSS.

His blood is on my hands.

BAM! JESUS NAILED MY SIN ON THE CROSS! HALLELUJAH! GLORY TO THE KING OF KINGS!!!

Thank You Jesus for shedding your blood for the forgiveness of my sins. Forgive me when I sin and endure so little when you endured it all.

Do we want splashes of serenity in our lives?  May we stop nailing his hands to the cross and start living in obedience to Him.