The year, 2005. In-between navigating through life, work, home responsibilities and the busy schedules of our fifteen, thirteen, ten and seven-year-old, I found myself with a pen in my hand, paper on the desk, and a story in my heart that I wanted to share.
Once just a thought, placed on some paper, fast-forward seventeen-years later (and those years went fast) as I write this blog, that story is finally sitting in a pod on the printing press waiting for its turn to be born. A real book with pictures and all, Sheli, a loving story about a Shepherd and His sheep, that I pray will bless the curious child in all of us.
We may wonder at times why God allows brokenness to enter our lives. It has been my experience that when this happens, I am drawn closer to the Lord, our true shepherd for strength, hope and joy. Life will always have its ups and downs, but what a beautiful mystery it is to know, that in struggling one can find a renewed faith in knowing that God has a plan.
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. [Jeremiah 29:11-13]
Many things have happened, changes and stories have taken place over these past seventeen-years; nonetheless, One Ingredient remains the same. God’s steadfast love endures forever and this truth echoes throughout time. As we turn the pages of life, may we experience the healing truth of God’s awesome grace and knowledge of the awe-inspiring love that He so desperately awaits to give us all!
Perhaps this is the year a new story or and old one, will be born through you!
A teacher is not so much responsible for what our students know, but more so for the seeds we plant to help them grow.
Father in the Name of Jesus, by the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, be with us, direct our path, fill us with the riches of Your grace, transform our mind with a healthy balance that is good for our body and soul. Guide us with Your gracious love, that we may press forward to being all that You created us to be. In Your Holy Name we pray… Amen
Words can either speak life, or words can speak death. As a matter of fact, Proverbs 12:18 puts it this way, “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” The stakes are high. Our tongues can build others up while administering great comfort, or they can tear them down while igniting grievous wars.
As an inspired Christian writer, I love to learn the meaning of words and of course the most powerful of all words, the wordof God. As a Teacher/Catechist, I write to share what I have learned and experienced in hopes that it may be applied in a helpful way. Like every noteworthy boxer, behind him stands a great boxing coach. The boxer’s training is crucial to his success, while he maintains a balanced diet, time for adequate rest, and education; together they work towards the same purpose. In an even more extraordinary and vigorous way, the Third Person of the Blessed Trinity (The Holy Spirit) stands beside us; filling us with unlimited teachings, rest, recovery and wisdom. While we are living our lives training to be all that we are created to be, prayer (Conversation with God) and studying His word (the Holy Bible) we find a new strength to fight for our right to love, all by God’s powerful grace.
Note: God created man in His own image… Though our color, mindset and personal attributes may differ, if our skin were punctured, we would all bleed the same. In that same way, it was by the blood of Jesus Christ that we have received the greatest gift of all. Truth, sacrifice, passion and love came through one God in the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity, giving us the opportunity and privilege to become one with Him and each other.
We belong to a living God. An all powerful God, an awesome God who is filled with love, compassion, patience and wants us to partake in just that. The Scriptures are given to us to lend a helping hand by those who walked before us; teaching on what to look out for and how to achieve a successful outcome in any situation. Our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being is a priority in God’s Word, and He will give us His strong arm, to see it through.
Here are some of those treasures found in the Word of God that not only educate us, but give us the tools needed to fight better:
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10
“For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12
“In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 6:16-18
May we be like the well-watered garden which thrives because the roots are firmly planted in God’s love. I once heard this pearl of wisdom. I hope it opens your eyes and gives you the desire to fight back with the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit:
“Satanwas going out of business, all his tools were up for sale, what an array, hatred, envy, jealousy, pride, and one tool priced much higher and more worn out than all the rest. When asked what this tool was, it was said ‘discouragement’ and when asked why is it priced so much higher than all the rest. Satan replied, “because it’s more valuable to me than all the rest.”
Whether it’s personal, or in our relationships, in our families or in our world, Jesus came to save. It is not always easy, with the different lives we lead and the different circumstances. Yet, no matter how tough the battle, our God will bring us through it and the celebration will be grand. Our God is closer than the breath we breathe and here to pick us up, restore us, cleanse us, break us free of the chains of all deception and bring us back to His loving arms. It’s time to fight for what is true, honorable, right and pure… such things should be thought about, talked about and declared. Christianity is not a one-man show, God has included all of us in His Divine plan!
“Let your ears listen to wisdom. Apply your heart to understanding. Call out for the ability to be wise. Cry out for understanding.” Proverbs 2:2-3
For the battles we face are real and very active. No one knows more about our situation than our God. I Thank God everyday that through His magnificent love and faithfulness the punches are thrown for us. Pray For The Ones You Love, is a song that I have written about God’s healing power and redemptive love:
PRAY FOR THE ONES YOU LOVE
Brother, brother, brother – why are you doing this to me, I believed in you – now I sit here helplessly. You told me to take a hit, it would surely do me good. Now, my life is ruined and I miss the neighborhood. This jail cell is cold and I can’t believe what I’ve done. What am I going to do, my life had just begun.
Sister, sister, sister – why are you doing this to me, you told me to share my body with everyone that wanted to see. Now I hold this baby as we sit here on the street. I can’t afford to feed him, and I’m not sure who his Daddy could be.
Mother, mother, mother – why are you doing this to me, you gave me up, I was not your priority. Your life meant more to you than holding me in your arms. I sit here feeling so lonely, I don’t know where I belong.
Father, father, father – why are you doing this to me. I trusted you as I sit here anxiously. You said you’d be at my game, but I heard you were with another. I saw the tears in mothers’ eyes. Father don’t you love us.
Child, child, child – listen to me. The world can be so crazy if we don’t know who to seek. We can’t keep blaming everyone for how we feel, we need to call on Jesus. He will show us what’s real. He will take our sorrows, and our burdens too. All we have to do is call out and He will see us through. All our weaknesses He will turn into strength. All our sadness is a stepping stone to help bring comfort to someone else. All our troubles, He will teach us something new; all our emptiness He will make us feel full. Don’t you worry, He’s got you in His hand. Just call on Him, He is the living “I AM”.
Child, child, child – I promise you, He will show you right from wrong – repent of your sins and pray for the ones you love.
A teacher is not so much responsible for what our students know, but more so for the seeds we plant to help them grow.
Father in the Name of Jesus, by the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, be with us, direct our path, fill us with the riches of Your grace, transform our mind with a healthy balance that is good for our body and soul. Guide us with Your gracious love, that we may press forward to being all that You created us to be. In Your Holy Name we pray… Amen Sweet blessings always,
Deanna Danielle
Deannadanielle.com
“May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so great you will never fully understand it, and may you be filled with the fullness of life and power that comes from God.” (Ephesians 3:16, NLT)
Warning: This bridge has the capability to bring out the best in us, or knock us to the ground!
Since‘How‘ is a question concerning the way or manner in which something is done or achieved, I believe it’s a word worth looking into. ‘How‘ is the bridge to questions getting answered. It can challenge us to identify new problems, lead us to research further, or to connect in a new way. What lies on the other end of this bridge called, ‘How‘ is determined by the way we view it. From new opportunities to fear, knowledge to despair, this most commonly used word is a powerful asset to our next steps. Simple yet influential this three letter word, can change the course of life for one, or for all.
“What makes you come alive?.. Go and do it!” These are the words that came to me, accompanied by the thoughts of a friend and her concerns for her son. “How can I help him?” she asked. That evening during prayer, her words echoed once again. This time, the word, ‘How‘ triggered my curiosity even further. Contemplating its meaning, I decided to look up its definition and connection. What I found was that this most often used word is action-packed in a way that it has not only changed the way people live, but has also assisted in changing the course of history!
For example:
George Washington Carver an agricultural scientist and inventor who developed hundreds of helpful products using peanuts, sweet potatoes and soybeanshad a great interest in knowing ‘How.‘ His pursuit in this innovative word, led him with zeal to a path of writing down his findings in agricultural bulletins such as “How to Grow the Peanut and 105 Ways of Preparing it For Human Consumption” along with many other ‘How‘ to do it, journal entries. From a heart for helping others, to the National Inventors Hall of Fame, with faith and prayer, George Washington Carver, integrated ‘How‘ into his life and that ripple effect has inspired and educated the lives of many.
Mary was a 1st century Galilean Jewish woman of Nazareth, the wife of Joseph and, the virgin mother of Jesus, who’s attentiveness to ‘How‘ lead her becoming the Mother of God. “Greetings, favored one. The Lord is with you…” These are the words the angel spoke to Mary, followed by ‘how‘ she would bring forth a son, and that, “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.” Mary responded with, “How can this be, seeing I am a virgin?…” God had a plan and Mary had an important role to play in the Incarnation of the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity. Mary’s “‘How‘ lead to God’s invitation conveyed by the angel (Luke 1:26-38). Mary’s role as mother of God places her in a unique position in God’s redemptive plan. The greatest rescue story of all time started with love, truth and Mary’s determination to know ‘How‘, this changing the course of history and assisting in saving the world and that includes you and me!
‘How?’ For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life! (John 3:16)
So, what are your goals, your dreams, your aspirations? Come alive and go and do it! Just remember to start with this awesome privilege and gift we all have, and that is to carry everything to God in prayer.
A few fun facts about the word ‘how’:
It’s worth 9 points in the Scrabble game
It’s the Native American greeting
It’s a question word that can be an adjective, a noun, a conjunction or an adverb
It’s a unique member of ‘The 7 club’ Who, What, Where, Why, When, Whom, ‘How‘
It’s good at making friends, knowhow, however, somehow, nohow, anyhow, howsoever, howdy…
A teacher is not so much responsible for what our students know, but more so for the seeds we plant to help them grow.
Father in the Name of Jesus, by the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, be with us, direct our path, fill us with the riches of Your grace, transform our mind with a healthy balance that is good for our body and soul. Guide us with Your gracious love, that we may press forward to being all that You created us to be. In Your Holy Name we pray… Amen
Sweet blessings always,
Deanna Danielle
Deannadanielle.com
Get all the advice and instruction you can, so you will be wise the rest of your life. Proverbs 19:20
When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?” “Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked. [John 5:6-9]
Whether we are struggling mentally, physically, emotionally or spiritually, Jesus comes to us with the same question, “Do you want to get well?” As the man with the condition was called to action, so are we.
This week in class I spoke with my students about the reason for the season of Lent and the many treasures that are found in the Scriptures. With strips of paper, tape and a pen, we linked together a chain of H.O.P.E, reminding us to Help One Person Everyday. Through this activity we learned what our very own call to action is. That prayer, fasting, and almsgiving offers us all a very special opportunity to grow in our relationship with God and that the love, mercy, kindness and healing touch of Jesus can work in and through us.
For God so loved the world that He gave His One and Only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the Name of God’s One and Only Son. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God. [John 3:16-21]
God is calling us in a very special way to receive His incredible gift this Easter. His love is like gentle rain, bringing a multitude of benefits and opportunity for us to grow and learn in many different areas of our lives. This creating reason to feel better about ourselves, along with the strength needed to reach out and help others, while intimately connecting with our God who created us and cares so much about us. This truth is found in the Cross. After all, it truly wasn’t the nails that kept Him there, it was the eternal love He has for you, me and everybody.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. [2 Corinthians 13:14]
A teacher is not so much responsible for what our students know, but more so for the seeds we plant to help them grow.
Father in the Name of Jesus, by the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, be with us, direct our path, fill us with the riches of Your grace, transform our mind with a healthy balance that is good for our body and soul. Guide us with Your gracious love, that we may press forward to being all that You created us to be. In Your Holy Name we pray… Amen
Sweet blessings always,
Deanna Danielle
Deannadanielle.com
James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
Before making a decision or reaching a conclusion, there is often much to think about. Good timing works best when motivated through the joy of learning. To give this thought a kick-start, I’d like to share a story that I once heard in reference to an annual lumberjack competition. The competition took place between an older experienced lumberjack and a strong fellow about twenty years his junior. The rules of the competition were simple, the two lumberjacks would be sent into the woods and the one who could cut the most trees down in eight hours would be the winner.
The younger lumberjack was full of enthusiasm and went off into the woods and started cutting trees immediately. He worked all through the day, barely taking time to catch his breath or to grab some food and water. He felt confident because he could hear noise from the older fellow occasionally stop. The younger lumberjack naturally assumed the older guy was taking breaks because of his age and lesser strength. He was confident his youth and stamina would win him the competition. When the final whistle blew, the younger lumberjack felt confident he had won as he looked out over the piles of trees he had cut. He made his way over to the podium for the medal ceremony and climbed to the platform confident of his victory. The older fellow was there, actually looking much less tired than he did. When it was time to announce the winner, the younger lumberjack was waiting to hear his name, but was devastated when the older man was declared the winner. The younger man turned to the winner and asked, “How can this be? I heard you taking breaks every hour while I worked continuously. I am younger, fitter, and stronger than you. How could you possibly have beat me?” The older man smiled and said, “Son, I was not stopping to rest. I was stopping to sharpen my saw.”
The moral of the story, is tonever neglect the time and effort necessary for due diligence before action. Prayer, study, research, preparation, are all imperitive steps before rushing into something just because it feels good. Whether it’s in our relationships, personally, or professionally, to act without consideration could be all it takes, to lose it all. A woodsman once said, “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” One in the same, some things do need our immediate action, but when we have a foundation of knowledge to act on, it is as if our axe has already been sharpened and is waiting to be used. The future is in front of us, however, it’s not only being supported by what’s under it, but also by what is behind it.
Life is a process, nonetheless, the present moment is so very important. It’s a good time to recognize that how we choose to live will affect those here with us, as well as the generations to come. Praise be to God, who loves us so much that He takes the time to help us and to be with us. Praise be to God whose hand is held out to care for us, protect us, teach and guide us, even when we are too busy to notice…
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the Name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” [Colossians 3:17]
As Learning is also a process, let’s consider the moment. May we give all the glory, honor and praise to God. For it is by His grace, that we can embrace and enjoy more of this life that He has given to us, and that’s through the good times, difficult, and the ones that seem very ordinary.
A teacher is not so much responsible for what our students know, but more so for the seeds we plant to help them grow.
Father in the Name of Jesus, by the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, be with us, direct our path, fill us with the riches of Your grace, transform our mind with a healthy balance that is good for our body and soul. Guide us with Your gracious love, that we may press forward to being all that You created us to be. In Your Holy Name we pray… Amen
Sweet blessings always,
Deanna Danielle
Deannadanielle.com
Psalm 32:8 “I will instruct you & teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.”
Have you ever made a decision that changed your entire life?
As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen.“Come, follow Me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to become fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed Him.” Mark 1:16–18 Their lives would never be the same again…The right questions tied together with the right responses, ignite a beautiful symphony of action, hope, healing and love.
For our learning experience this week in class, we did something awesome. We created a fish that was capable of both giving and receiving God’s love, the same way we as humans can give and receive God’s love. All it took; one blue solo cup for the body, some white construction paper for the eyes and tail, a few markers, a little bit of string, and we were ready. Once our fish were created we were ready to become not only fishermen, but also fishers of men.
My third-grade class looked at me puzzled. They didn’t understand what being “fishers of men” had meant… yet! I had them picture us going down to the water, baiting the hook and casting out the line so that we could catch some fish. Then I asked them what it would look like if we were to become fishers of men.
To be a fisher of men:
First, we have to receive God’s incredible love for us. I picked up some foam figures of baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph, and shared with my students the Christmas story. After I told them the story, I placed the Holy Family figures into the mouth of the cup to show them how the Christmas story now lives within us. Now, we can share that story with others, or in other words, cast our line. Holding the fish cup that contained the story of Jesus birth and the love of Mary and Joseph, I cast out my line. I asked my students to pretend as though they were the fish that got hooked. With that I reeled them in. We shared a good laugh as they “swam” up to their webcams so that all I could see was their eyes.
God can draw others closer to Himself when evidence of His presence shows in and through us. Stating a fact, I let my class know that God had a great plan and a purpose for each one of them and how special and wonderful they were made in His image. All they had to do was cast the line, God will reel the right people in when the time is right.
Our response is important because it’s life changing. As I watched their eyes widen, I knew they now contained the treasure of understanding what it meant to be fishers of men. Not only do teachers play a critical part in the lives of their students, I am realizing more and more that students also play a major part in many hallmark moments for a teacher.
As we dive into Scripture, we can find a treasure of wealth. Through the stories of fish and fishermen there is bountiful food for our souls. From feeding the hungry to sharing God’s love in the streets… discussing how we can become fishers of men with my ready and waiting third-graders, I saw them grow eager to go out and cast their lines.
“Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14]
To accept this invitation of God’s grace and mercy, is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding responsibilities we will ever have in life. It consists of making the world, here and now, a better place. It also allows us the grace and privilege of setting up a strong foundation for the next generation to soar freely and that they may love and serve our God Most High.
“As for everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears My words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.” [Luke 6:46-49]
A teacher is not so much responsible for what our students know, but more so for the seeds we plant to help them grow.
Father in the Name of Jesus, by the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, be with us, direct our path, fill us with the riches of Your grace, transform our mind with a healthy balance that is good for our body and soul. Guide us with Your gracious love, that we may press forward to being all that You created us to be. In Your Holy Name we pray… Amen
Sweet blessings always,
Deanna Danielle
Deannadanielle.com
While walking with my grandson, I noticed a heart shaped figure in the road. In that moment, I felt a great sense of joy and comfort in the little reminder of ,God’s Love in the streets… Where ever we are in life, we can be assured that our Lord God is always there with us!
In a season that calls us to reflect on the things we are grateful for, we sometimes need an important reminder to help us do just that; to make known our gratitude. So let me start by saying, I’m so grateful for YOU! God made you so very special and here are just a few scriptures to prove just that:
God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. [Genesis 1:27]
The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life. [Job 33:4]
For You formed my inward parts; You knitted me together in my mother’s womb. [Psalm 139:13]
I am grateful for the Bible, it truly is my daily bread. The word of God is living truth. “It is able to quicken and make alive.” I know this for a fact, because I’ve experienced it first hand. When we understand something through personal experience, it takes the matter from the mind and places it ever so gently in the heart. God is always with us and it is so important that we talk to Him on a daily basis through our thoughts and prayers. As we reach out to God we experience the grace of His love for us and for others and with that we should always give thanks.
I am grateful for the privilege to teach. Just as the Autumn rain fills the Earth and provides the moisture trees and plants need to stay alive, a teacher is graced to share the peace, harmony and truth that our God so desires for us to have as His children. Jesus teaches us to respect each other, so that we experience His glorious rain of blessings.
The best thing about thankfulness is that the more we choose to use it, the easier it gets. This Thanksgiving season, let’s not miss out on all the love that our God desires to shower us with. Let us start taking care of each other with words of encouragement and forgiveness so that we may be a clear vessel in which God’s gracious love can flow. Jesus is peace, He is our everlasting Father and He is knocking on our door this season to share the most beautiful melody we will ever hear. Let us stop what we are doing and let Him in for that thanksgiving meal! May our wonderful Lord, bless you and your family by the power of the Holy Spirit! For nothing can compare to peace one feels in the presence of our God.
What a beautiful sound, “Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before Him with thanksgiving and extol Him with music and song. For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods”. [Psalm 95:1-3]
What are you thankful for?
A teacher is not so much responsible for what our students know, but more so for the seeds we plant to help them grow.
Father in the Name of Jesus, by the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, be with us, direct our path, fill us with the riches of Your grace, transform our mind with a healthy balance that is good for our body and soul. Guide us with Your gracious love, that we may press forward to being all that You created us to be. In Your Holy Name we pray… Amen
Sweet blessings always,
Deanna Danielle
Deannadanielle.com
“I always thank my God for you because of His grace given you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Corinthians 1:4“And now we thank You, our God, and praise Your glorious Name.” 1 Chronicles 29:13
June 19, 2015 at 8 p.m. Tarrytown Music Hall. Our son bought tickets for a small group of us to see, ‘A Bronx Tale.’ As I watched Chazz Palminteri’s autobiographical one-man show, this thought went through my head, “I could do that” (that being tell a story of course). Sitting in the church pew the following Sunday as I looked down at the hymnbook, the music began to play and as if I were in a flashback scene, I could hear those words again, “I could do that.” All things considered, I looked toward heaven and prayed, “Lord, what would I write about?” In an instant I knew I had to tell the story of the three Marys; Mary, mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene and Mary of Bethany. Nine days later what would be the first of three short autobiographical stage plays, concerning major biblical figures in a modern day setting, was written!
Upon completion of the writings, I wanted to affirm the manuscripts mission and purpose to-be interesting, engaging, thought provoking and inspiring. For this reason I sent one of the three scripts titled ‘In My Weakness, Your Love Never Failed’ to a friend in the film industry. The written text I sent him was set in a romantic time in American history. The early 20th century, a season in time that fueled intuition, imagination, invention and innovation accompanied by the Great Depression and all that followed. He expressed his thoughts, “Very powerful concept” and wanted to know more about the protagonist (the prodigal son). A few weeks passed from receiving his note and after being inside all day organizing a few things, my memory recalled something my grandma always said, “it’s important to spend time outside everyday.” So, before the sun went down on a perfect winter day, I stepped outside only to slip on clear ice. As my hand hit the ground my thoughts were many; “Ouch;” “Oh no, will I be able to work? (As a hairstylist, hands are a valuable tool…)” And, “Lord, what is Your plan?” Suddenly occurring in my mind were words from my friend, ‘I want to know more…’”
One broken wrist, one month out of work, gave one stage play the allotted time to journey into a feature-length dramatic screenplay. Thanks to my friends bullet list, of what more he wanted to know.
As we negotiate through all of life’s ups and downs, prayer is the essential key. As my broken wrist gave me a month off from work, with limited ability to do certain things, God was orchestrating something beautiful. Through the enforced time on my hands, I felt blessed through prayer to see some of the most important facts about the situation, for one, a written historical drama! From invention to innovation, antique to extinct, these are some of the things you learn when writing about past events. Times that help shape the course of the future.
Many years ago at a family gathering my Dad lovingly wrapped his arm around his mom (my grandma). Gently he placed his forehead on her temple as he proudly stated, “Woman, you’ve been from the horse and buggy to the calculator” (born in the early 20th century until that very moment) making a declaration too the changes she had seen in her life time. Change is constant. From memorable Pharisees such as, “They don’t make them like they used to,” as well as, “New and improved” …And likewise the Pony Express en route to the Internet, change is evident. When a need or circumstance is followed by a course of action it creates history!
From my observations, I have learned thattime is a stepping stone for what is yet to come. The Bible in itself is not meant to be read as a history book. It is a love letter to all, a guide that assists us from past to present and into eternity! From major biblical figures, to those on the quieter side, you can see God writing a symphony through people whom love Him. A true reflection of God’s love and one of my many favorite Bible Heroes is found in the Book of Nehemiah. Accredited for his work in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem in 52 days, Nehemiah was devoted to God. A man of prayer, faith, leadership and action, he sowed the seed with noble qualities as a personal cupbearer while serving the Persian king. The book of Nehemiah reflects the extraordinary impact one individual can have on a nation in the face of great odds with God’s assistance, provision, and direction. Nehemiah is a melody written, representing a time in history of renewal, stability, and what life looks like when our focus is on God… You and I were created, “For such a time as this.”… “Lord, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant of love with those who love Him and keep is commandments, let Your ear be attentive and Your eyes open to hear the prayer Your servant is praying before you day and night for Your servants, the people of Israel…” [Nehemiah 1:5-6]
I heard a priest once say, “I fell asleep and had a dream that life was a joy. When I woke up, I saw the reality that life was a servanthood, and in serving, I realized that the joy of life was in serving others.”
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. [Colossians 3:17]
I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. [Romans 15:13]
A teacher is not so much responsible for what our students know, but more so for the seeds we plant to help them grow.
Father in the Name of Jesus, by the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, be with us, direct our path, fill us with the riches of Your grace, transform our mind with a healthy balance that is good for our body and soul. Guide us with Your gracious love, that we may press forward to being all that You created us to be. In Your Holy Name we pray… Amen
Sweet blessings always,
Deanna Danielle
Deannadanielle.com
I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope He has given to those He called–His holy people who are His rich and glorious inheritance. Ephesians 1:18Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you. 1 Peter 5:7
Showering off all the bubbleson my 4-year-old during bath time (fast forward twenty years – now my editor-in-chief and one of my best friends), I turned to pick up the towel when I heard the voice of God whisper ever so gently to my soul, “Who do you love more?” Taken aback, I thought about it for a moment and responded, “I love You more… After all, You gave her to me.” At the same time, I turned with the towel in hand to dry my baby girl off as she looked up at me with her beautiful Bambi eyes and sweetly spoke, “Mommy, who do you love more, me or God?” Taken aback again, thinking, “Wait!…What?!” I smiled and replied, “I love God more!” She had the cutest facial expression, as if to say right back to me, “Wait!…What?!” Come what may, God prepared me for that very moment. If you could only imagine the joy I felt in my heart as I wrapped her in the towel, held her close and explained, “I love God more, because, I am so blessed, so grateful and so happy that He gave you to me! How could I not love God more? If it wasn’t for Him, I would not have you!” With a loving kiss on her nose, my little girl giggled with contentment.
Love is the essential foundation and necessity in life that we all need in order to truly live established, fulfilled and healthy lives. Extraordinary power lives in love and how we see it will lead the way to success or otherwise. To understand love, it is not only helpful but also very interesting to recognize that there are various definitions and types of love. Here are a few that stand first in rank:
Whichever title we choose, Intimate love / Eros / Romantic love / True love, this type of love is is a beautiful blessing from God and reserved exclusivelyfor marriage. After all those crazy natural chemicals fire off in our brain that produce attraction and affection for that “in-love” feeling; this kind of love requires commitment, communication, faithfulness, honesty, trust, selflessness, time, respect, patience, support, and should be celebrated, cherished and enjoyed everyday. Scripture gives us an innermost look, “I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine.” – [Song of Solomon 2:16]
The love we have for family is recognized as Familiar love / Storge / Natural love. The naturalness in a familial bond, built on strong connections between family members that provide a sense of wholeness and meaning. Important responsibilities come along with the gift of family as well; provision, nurturance (spiritually, emotionally, intellectually), respect, forgiveness… “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” – [1 Corinthians 13:4-8]
When people share the same values and respect for each other, it’s commonly referred to as Brotherly love / Philia / Friend bond, love without romantic attraction. Friendships are an important part of life. They are one of life’s necessities, grounded in trust, special-moments, precious-moments, simple-moments and comfort during trying-moments. “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor…” If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” [Ecclesiastes 4:9-10}
The greatest type of love and what we seek most is Unconditional love / Agape love. This is known as the highest form of love and is given, even when it is not returned. It is pure, completely unselfish and accepts us for who we are, regardless of our flaws or imperfections. It is God’s deep love for us, fully expressed through the complete and on going life of Jesus Christ. If we will take just one moment out of our busy schedule and place it on God (Creator of all things), the Living Word (Bible), and prayer, (conversation and communion with God), we will become aware of a magnificent and breathtaking love like no other. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
If we were to ask God, “Who do you love more?” He would tell us that it is already written. A love so great that it continues to shine and flourish through the darkest hours / simplicity of the day / and by way of tender celebrations… * The Agony in the Garden – “Jesus knelt down and prayed…” [Luke 22:39-44] * The Scourging at the Pillar 39 times – “Jesus was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” [Isaiah 53:5-10, Matthew 27:26] * The Crowning with Thorns – Kneeling before Him in derision, they spit on Him, and cry out: “Hail, King of the Jews!” [Matthew 27:28-31] * The Carrying of the Cross – “He went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha). There they crucified Him.”[John 19:16–18] * The Crucifixion and Death of Jesus – “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do…” [Luke 23:34]
Jesus knows the sins of all mankind, whose guilt He has taken upon Himself, for each and everyone one of us. What have we missed? It is my prayer that we will continue to listen to God’s call, observe the blessings, value the love, embrace His goodness and experience His love in its many forms and share that love with others, as God intended. You are important… ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’” [Matt. 22:37–39].
A teacher is not so much responsible for what our students know, but more so for the seeds we plant to help them grow.
Father in the Name of Jesus, by the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, be with us, direct our path, fill us with the riches of Your grace, transform our mind with a healthy balance that is good for our body and soul. Guide us with Your gracious love, that we may press forward to being all that You created us to be. In Your Holy Name we pray… Amen
Sweet blessings always,
Deanna Danielle
Deannadanielle.com
‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’” [Matt. 22:37–39].
Inspirational quotes have the capability to tell a story in just a fewwords. They bring us encouragement, instruction, and guidance though some of the toughest and saddest hours of our lives. We hang them on our walls, write them down in books and treasure them in our hearts. Quotes make us smile, reflect and ponder what life is all about through the treasures of written and spoken words. Extraordinary moments that leave us with memorable statements are usually built upon layers of experience that may even echo out, “If you’ve never hurt, you’ve never lived.”
From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible shares quotes that leave us with tools, techniques and a realizations that can help teach and comfort in ways that last a lifetime. Incidentally, a ‘quote’ also refers to an estimated cost of a job or service. In other words, there is a price tag attached. Let’s take a closer look:
Known for being a dreamer and the favorite son of his father Jacob; the Scriptures tell us of a young man named Joseph. If we were to take a step back and reflect on the early years of Joseph’s life, it’s hard to imagine how much hurt must have followed rejection as his jealous brothers threw him into an empty cistern then sold him into slavery. He must have shed so many tears from the separation and thoughts of never seeing his Father and other family members ever again. To top it off, humiliation and imprisonment were a price he paid for a crime he did not commit. Yet, through it all, we see a spirit of hope, integrity, and a personal relationship with God Almighty rise to the top as we read these words; “It was not you who sent me here, but God. He has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house and ruler over all the land of Egypt.” [Genesis 45:8]
David was the son of a man named Jesse. Scripture gives us a first glance of this ruddy, bright eyed, good-looking youngster during a very important family gathering that David, being the youngest of his seven brothers, was not invited too. Overlooked, David, was out in the field tending the sheep (fields that would serve as the training grounds for bravery, endurance, and courage, while teaching him to lean on God for strength and guidance). It wasn’t until the stone in a sword fight was picked up by this young Shepherd / Musician / Warrior / Poet / later to be King, that he would gain his popular acclaim (through defeating the giant ‘Goliath’). Accustomed to waiting for the Lord to direct him on a very laborious and slow rise to power, we continually see David’s personal relationship with God, as his Chief Cornerstone, in the foundation of his life. “For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” [1 Samuel 16:7]
The success of an athlete, awards of a scholar, scars of a warrior have all come at a cost. Stories have great purpose, they help us to remember the incredible things that God has done and is doing for us. Life as we know it gives us no guarantee, but God Himself does. He promises that if we seek Him first He will never abandon us and will always be the Chief Cornerstone in any fight that this life brings our way. As the price He paid for our salvation is beyond words, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” [John 3:16]
In writing about God’s love, I myself have learned a great deal. From 1st grade on, school was beyond difficult and unfavorable for me. I did not feel like I fit in academically, being a visual learner made it so hard to retain information. Socially, unless I was invited I did not feel like I belonged, and physically, during my teenage years, it was the 80’s! When it came to gym class, my hair took way too long to do in the morning to justify any sort of pool, rain or sweat. Yet, the truth is, I didn’t realize how important and exciting learning really can be. It would be years later with children of my own when I was invited to teach a 3rd grade religious education class. Honored and thrilled over the opportunity to share with the children the love of God, I walked into that class fully ready, yet not prepared to be unprepared to hold the attention of 8-9 year olds for 90 minutes. As I walked in feeling like a star, I literally left seeing stars (these are those moments that make or break you, nonetheless, I was up for the challenge). Time later, when our class tests were due, I questioned God if I was truly capable of teaching. I will never forget the exact spot I was standing in the school parking lot when His peaceful presence filled me with these words:
“A teacher is not responsible for what their students know, but for the seeds they plant to help them grow.”
What we feel about ourselves will direct our path, how we see God, will guide us. I remember asking the question, “What is love?” to a class that I taught. The most beautiful melody came from a little girl named Charlotte, when she responded, “Love is a gift from God.” Quotes speak of the many hidden treasures found within ones life, even though it may hurt sometimes…
“We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” [Romans 8:28]
Father in the Name of Jesus, by the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, be with us, direct our path, fill us with the riches of Your grace, transform our mind with a healthy balance that is good for our body and soul. Guide us with Your gracious love, that we may press forward to being all that You created us to be. In Your Holy Name we pray… Amen
Sweet blessings always,
Deanna Danielle
Deannadanielle.com
From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible shares quotes that leave us with tools, techniques and a realizations that can help teach and comfort in ways that last a lifetime.You are worth the fight…
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