How can I be useful?

The last several weeks our sermons at church have been about "Doing Something".  I had always been active in our church.  I was involved in drama for many years.  I absolutely loved this.  It was my own identity with in the church.  My husband and son both are musicians, therefore playing on the worship team.  I would often feel lost, like I wasn't contributing.  That is until I was involved with drama and creative arts.  

Then something happened. The spinal cord re-tethering. I was no longer able to drive well, or walk well.  My pain level was too high to be able to function like that any more.  For the last several years I have struggled once again about feeling useful.  I would pray diligently, Lord, what would You have me do? How can I once again do something for the Kingdom of God? I was determined to be faithful in my prayer time and devotion time everyday. I felt that God would reveal to me once again how He would use me.  

A few months back the Lord placed this idea of a blog on my heart.  Something I never thought about.  I became excited about being useful again.  And then it began a few short weeks ago.  My message to you this week, don't lose hope, or faith. Trust always that God has a plan for you.  He will use you for His glory if you allow Him to.  Think outside of the box you have built, and let God expand that box to fit His desire for you. He is a faithful, loving God that will always have use for you. 

Happy New Year 2016

Christmas came and went.  Well for many. Paul and I like to remember the 12 days of Christmas which go until January 6. It seems folks like to start with Christmas even before Thanksgiving. Then on December 26 they are tired of it already. What ever happened to the Holiday Season, going through New Years? The hustle and bustle of today's lifestyle.  
We are so busy with life itself that we forget about Who and what we are celebrating. It is Jesus' birthday. The day He came to save the lost. The day He came to bring hope into the world. He deserves to have His birthday celebrated for more than 1 day. Think about it. 
When the shepherds visited the Baby Jesus, it was days later. How about when Simeon held the Babe, lifted Him high toward heaven, and blessed Him. Days later. 
My point, during the full Christmas season, try to rest in the fact that Jesus was born for you and me. Not thinking of gifts to buy, parties to attend, etc. But just basking in the hope and love Jesus has for us. Allow Him to rejuvenate and refresh you. Let Him strengthen you. 
Maybe instead of making a New Years resolution that no-one seems to keep, let's agree to rest in the peace and comfort Jesus has for us. Take 1 day at a time. He is waiting with arms opened wide for you, for me. 
Let's give Jesus a birthday present, our heart. 

MATTHEW 11:28 “Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
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Merry Christmas

It is Christmas week and everyone is busy shopping, getting last minute necessities, and so on. We would think that everyone would be happy, cheerful, and friendly during this special time. But where are the smiles and perky faces?  They seem hard to find. There can be many reasons that people have.
But simple truth- this should be the most wonderful time of the year for us. We should be happy, cheerful, and perky.  This being said let me tell you a bit more of my story.
Last week I told you of my spinal cord damage. I did have another surgery in 2011 to release the cord again. A few weeks later I had another surgery because the sac that houses the cord and spinal fluid ruptured. It was then I was diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia.
We all have various reasons why we may be sad during the Christmas season. But that doesn't mean you have to be. I fight for all it is worth to stay motivated, stay positive, and stay cheerful. How do I do this, as I said last week, reading the Bible, praying, and worshipping my Lord Jesus.
Yes, that is enough.  Our Lord promises that we will never walk alone, He will always be right by our side.
Now it is Christmas time, and I love Christmas. So this year I have thoughts of excitement and cheer. Then I have another tragedy. My Mom suddenly passed away in October. My Mom, whom taught me how to love, how to be so excited for Christmas. Together we baked cookies and more every year. We truly loved doing these things together. The past few years we could not due to her health and mine. But my wonderful husband told me he wants to help me bake our cookies. "Grandma cookies".
Sure I may tear up from memories. But these are happy memories I will always cherish.
Our son and daughter-in-law can not join us this year. Ok, another kink in my cheerfulness.  And my husband has to work on Christmas night. Well I admit, I was beginning to feel the disappointment.  But then I caught myself. WHO are we celebrating?   That's right, it isn't my birthday, it is Jesus' birthday. He was born this day to be our Savior. For me folks, this is reason enough to celebrate and be joyful.
There is so much tragedy in our world today. Let's all try to give ourselves a break from all that sad news. Let's be determined to be joyful and cheerful. Let's help each other stay upbeat. Let's remember who's birthday we are celebrating and why He was born.
Then let's take it a step further. If you see someone looking sad, maybe even grumpy, why not offer to pray for them. How about having coffee or tea with them. Let's help each other have that joy this Christmas.
Jesus, born in a stable, for you and I. That we may be saved. He brought us hope, love, peace, and comfort. He came to seek and save the lost, you and me.
“And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭2:10-11‬ ‭ESV‬‬
Merry Christmas,
Kathy