Moments...

Sunday Sentiment...

"My Own Little World" - Matthew West

     In Luke 10: 25-37 we read about "The Good Samaritan".  Now, this is a story about a man that was beaten and robbed while traveling, and left for dead.  As it happened, this was a major route between cities, and so there were surely other travelers that would assist this man.  True to expectation, along came a Priest, who when seeing this beaten man chose to pass him on the other side of the road.  Likewise, a Levite when he arrived on the scene, looked and then kept walking.  But the story goes on to say that a certain Samaritan , as he journeyed, came to where this man was and had compassion.  

     What would you have done?  What do we do?  How many times do we see the needs of others in our lives, and like the Priest and Levite, we choose to look the other way and continue on about our business?  As you consider these difficult questions, I DO NOT want you to feel condemnation or pride.  I DO hope that today, we can consider the difference we are making in "Our Own Little World" and Purpose to Be Aware, Have Compassion, Be a Solution, Make a Difference!!  

     In Luke, Jesus was speaking to a group, and sharing this story about The Good Samaritan in response to the question, "What shall I do to inherit eternal life".  Upon completion, He asks the group in verses 36-37, "So which of these three do you think was a neighbor to him who fell among thieves?"  "And he said, He who showed mercy on him!"  "Then Jesus said to them, Go and Do Likewise!" 

     This week, I will turn 40, and as I've been reflecting on my life, I felt led to start an "Initiative" inviting all of my friends and family to celebrate with me by Practicing one Act of Random Kindness each day for 40 days.  PARK Project was birthed with a vision to Inspire ALL who choose to participate to Be a Blessing by Being Others Minded as a way of life, rather than an event!

     I encourage you, and invite you to join me on this 40 day journey of Mercy and Grace beginning this Tuesday, 05/01/12!  Let us answer the call to Go and Do Likewise with boldness, passion and PURPOSE; and may you Be Blessed Abundantly as you do!!  :)

Sunday Sentiment...

"Count it all joy when you fall into various trials!"

- James 1:2

Sunday Sentiment...

"Life is NOT about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain!!"

 - Vivian Green

On Grace and Greatness...

     When you think of Grace and Greatness, what images come to mind?  Do you hear Classical Music playing in the background or "Eye of the Tiger"?  Do you imagine a person or people that embody these qualities?  Do you notice your thoughts being limited by your experience and/or level of understanding?  Do thoughts of these words bring feelings of peace and hope?  As we prepare for Easter Celebrations this week, these words are in the forefront of my heart and mind!!  

     Recently, my amazing Husband and I were invited to consider the relevance and application of Grace and Greatness through the context of becoming Ambassadors for Family Matters,  a "non-profit ministry whose goal is to see families transformed by God's Grace into instruments of restoration and reformation by equipping families for every age and stage of life".  As a result, we have experienced the power of both!  We have been encouraged and challenged as we consider our family dynamic; and have found great hope in applying the principles of Grace as we equip our Children to walk in Greatness!!  

familymatters.net     

     I am excited to Announce that we are now in position to facilitate events where we get to share this message of hope with families searching for wisdom on Raising Kids for True Greatness and Grace Based Parenting!  We look forward to scheduling events that are FULL of wisdom, as we pursue our family relationships on purpose, based on principle and passion!  Join us as we step into this new season of service by prayerfully considering how we might support you, your church, small group or community organization in   being better equipped for success!  Likewise, I challenge you to take time this week to consider the impact Grace has in your life and whether or not your are walking in the fullness of Greatness God has called you to.  May you be blessed as you open your heart and home to the Hope-filled message of Grace; the power of redemption; and the joy of Abundant Life!!

Wisemen STILL Seek Him!!

     Do you consider yourself to be wise?  How would we know?  Long ago, wise men were identified by their elaborate clothing/tunics, their abundant provisions, and their purposeful decisions.  What, then, sets us apart today as Wise?  

     2 years ago, I posted some thoughts on "where your treasure is, there your heart will also be" and challenged us to be found as the Wise Men of old - Seeking, Worshipping, and Giving!  As I now, revisit this idea that Wise Men Still Seek Him, I wonder - Do they?

     When you consider the word "wise", who do you envision?  I think of my Grandfather, and Pastors - men, who walk with Godly Character.  I also connect wisdom to my husband, who faithfully seeks to lead our family according to the Word/Will of God!  I think of Donald Trump and Bill Gates - men who have achieved great financial abundance; and I also consider women like Joyce Meyers and Marilyn Hickey whose passion for a God-Honoring life has positioned them among those of influence.  A common characteristic among these and the countless other "Wise" people, is Purpose!!  As an adjective, "Wise" is defined as follows: having or showing experience, knowledge, and good judgement.  Wisdom, then is the quality or state of Being wise!

     Likewise, let's also consider again what it means to "seek".  The Greek define "seek" as pursuing a continued direction with determination.  "Seek", then, is a verb - it requires action!  Based on this information, it stands to reason that we would then desire to Be Wise in our Seeking!!  Let's get real now, and identify who or what are we seeking?  Are we seeking validation from our peers?  Are we seeking financial riches regardless of the costs?  Are we seeking love?  Are we seeking peace?  Perhaps, more importantly, are we wisely seeking?  

     The more I come to know and understand the nature of God (his DNA), the easier I can identify His Divine ability and desire to meet ALL of my needs according to His riches in Glory!  Therefore, it is Wise to "Seek First the Kingdom of God and HIS righteousness" knowing that "ALL these things shall be added to us!" - Matthew 6:33 NKJV  This is Amazing news!!  I love the simplicity and power of this promise!!!  

     What then sets us apart today as Wise?  Based on this information, Wise Men and Women Still Seek Him - thee One who Loves first!!  I invite you to join us this year as we PURPOSE to BE Wise in SEEKING Him First!!  

Merry CHRISTmas!

 Love, The Baker Bunch

Live With A Thankful Heart

"And let the Peace of God rule in your hearts, and Be Thankful."

- Colossians 3:15 (Paraphrased by Nanette)

I LOVE this time of year!!  It is a season of harvest, celebration, and generally filled with joy.  As I enter a new season, I cherish the time to reflect and consider my "Heart Condition".  Recently, I have felt the gentle promptings of the Holy Spirit challenging me to consider what it means to have a Thankful Heart, and how this leads to joy.  I have spent a large portion of my life relating to "Being Content" as a passive decision I had to make.  What I have noticed is that, as a result of this limited perspective, I have spent most of my life Enduring rather than Enjoying.  

This week, a fellow blogger, and new friend, Grace Full Mama wrote a post on Battling Discontent with Thankfulness.  This So touched my heart as a key to breaking through the cycle of Enduring!!  Joy (Grace Full Mama) records,  "The one thing I have learned is that it is extremely difficult to be discontent when I am actively thankful."  As I continue to ponder the nature of my Heavenly Father; believing that God is Good - ALL the time, and wants nothing less for us than to walk in Joy, Peace, Grace, and Love; I am left with only one emotion...Thankfulness!!  It is in this place of thankfulness that I find Peace, Joy, Grace, and Love!!

So it is with renewed Intention and Purpose that I boldly step in this new Season with a Thankful Heart!!  I invite you to join me in one of favorite traditions - GRATITUESDAY!!  Each Tuesday, I take time to post things I am grateful for on Facebook.  This is a fun way for me to pause and consider the little things that make big differences.  It is also a quick opportunity to align my Thankful Heart and recognize ALL that I have to be in gratitude of.  Many times I list things like Toilet Paper and Double Stuffed Vanilla Oreos, which then leads me to consider things like Healthy Kids with Happy Hearts and Quiet Moments with My Sweetheart.

It is my prayer and challenge that throughout this Season, we will choose to Live With A Thankful Heart!

On Faith and Forgiveness...

"Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins."

- Proverbs 10:12

Have you ever wished you could leave your past behind you?  I have!!  At the same time, have you ever pondered, in gratitude, the lessons learned ONLY having walked your past?  

It has been some time since my last post, as life's journey has seemed to explode!  Miraculous opportunities have opened (and closed) over the months, and I continue to walk in gratitude for God's provision, grace, and love!!  As I again pause to record a moment in time, I am quickly reminded of just how abundant life is!

I have long been a fan of Historical Fiction novels, particularly with a Christian theme; thus I was delighted when Bethany House Publisher gifted me an opportunity to review one of their titles!!  I received a free copy of  "to Win Her HEART" by Karen Witemeyer and eagerly dove in!!  Karen Witemeyer had already been added to my growing list of treasured authors for her ability to create deep emotions in me as I journeyed into her stories, and this novel was no different!!

As I have shared my journey, I have shared my struggle with accepting and offering forgiveness.  I have recorded numerous examples of God's grace and mercy as He gently reminded me of my worth as His daughter.  Needless to say, I felt immediately connected with the story line of "to Win Her HEART" as I reviewed the following synopsis:

A blacksmith with a criminal past. A librarian with pacifist ideals. Do they have a fighting chance at finding love?

Having completed his sentence for the unintentional crime that derailed his youthful plans for fame and fortune, Levi Grant looks to start over in the town of Spencer, Texas. Spencer needs a blacksmith, a trade he learned at his father’s knee, and he needs a place where no one knows his past. But small towns leave little room for secrets. . . .

Eden Spencer has sworn off men, choosing instead to devote her time to the lending library she runs. When a mountain-sized stranger walks through her door and asks to borrow a book, she steels herself against the attraction he provokes. His halting speech and hesitant manner leave her doubting his intelligence. Yet as the mysteries of the town’s new blacksmith unfold, Eden discovers hidden depths in him that tempt her heart.

Levi’s renewed commitment to his faith leads Eden to believe she’s finally found a man of honor and integrity, a man worthy of her love. But when the truth about his prodigal past comes to light, can this tarnished hero find a way to win back the librarian’s affections?

I immediately fell in love with the characters, as they struggled with the challenge of putting their pasts behind them.  I was moved by the evidence of God's grace to restore, as I have come to intimately know His faithfulness .  I delighted in Ms. Witemeyer's ability to include my emotions in that of the character's as she vividly guided me into an era of honor and faith.  I could relate to the discomfort of walking in love over judgement, and celebrated in the victory over the flesh!  

"to Win Her HEART" immediately captured mine, as I found myself taking every opportunity to "curl up" with Eden and Levi's adventures into Love.  Karen Witemeyer has once again created a "Happily Ever After" that left me feeling uplifted, encouraged, and loved!  I HIGHLY recommend you spend quality time walking through the pages of this inspiring novel as you consider your own Faith and Forgiveness!  Perhaps it is time to Rejoice in the Sweetness of Second Chances!!!

ILUMN8

"Let my light so shine before men, that they will see my good works, and glorify my Father in Heaven!"

- Matt 5:16 Confession

As I began to consider a theme for this season of "Sunshine Singers", God almost immediately laid on my heart "ILLUMINATE".  How awesome to spend time really considering the Legacy I'm Leaving, the Path I'm Paving, and the Choices I'm Making!  I invite you to join us as we embrace this new season, and consider what are you doing to ILUMN8?

Abundant Blessings,

Nanette

This Is The Day!!

"THIS is the Day, the Lord Has Made.  

I WILL Rejoice and Be Glad in it!!!

I hope you are filled with Joy as you "Choose this day whom you will serve"!!  "As for me and my house, we Will serve the Lord"!!!

Grace!!!

"Count it ALL Joy!!!"

James 1:2-3

Today, I am SO grateful for the lessons I've learned - especially those I've learned the hard way!!  I choose to believe that God works ALL things together for good for those who love Him, and I continue to experience His grace and mercy in ALL I do!!  I KNOW that God forgives and restores!!  I have learned to trust Him as I continue to step forward with courage!!  To God be the Glory for ALL that He does and May Our Light So Shine!!

A Reason to Start Over New...

I am SO blessed by the grace and mercy of our Savior, Jesus Christ!!!  It is with a quiet heart that I reflect on the life and love of this One who gave his life that I might be free!  How sweet it is!!  It is my heart desire that this Easter Season be filled with the message of hope and joy knowing that He Lives and Loves!  If you don't know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, I invite you to make this decision TODAY!  Salvation is just one heart beat away, and I am FOREVER grateful for the decision I made many years ago!!  "A Reason to start over new, and the Reason is You!!"

Blessings & Happy Easter,
Nanette

Peace Among the Pieces

"The Lord will give strength unto his people;

the Lord will bless his people with peace."

- Psalm 29:11

What is this peace? The Hebrew, Shalom translates as safe, that is (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, that is health, prosperity, peace: to be well wholly. Love it!

My thoughts today are drawn to the desire for peace. Psalm 34:14 counsels us to "seek peace, and pursue it!" Again, the Hebrew for pursue is Radaph - to run after, chase, or hunt. THIS I can relate to! I totally know what it is to pursue peace with a passion!! I am familiar with difficult situations and circumstances where fear bombards my thoughts and leaves me with the choice to seek hard after peace or to stay stuck in worry and doubt. We've known the pain of financial struggle - no income, bills to pay. Like many of you, we too have felt the sting of broken relationships, gossip, and betrayal. Recently, we have even come to know the heartache of a child being victimized in most unthinkable ways. We know that in this life, there Will Be pain and seasons of trial; so, where do we focus during these times? Where do we look for peace?

I heard a friend recently struggling to find security. She was looking to "man and the world" for a sense of knowing - a stable income, home ownership, roots. As she shared her desire and journey, I became aware of her Real search for peace. I have come to understand that often times when we seek security, we look to man for the solution, and forever seem unsatisfied. Conversely, when we seek peace and look to the One who promises an endless supply, our internal struggle with fear subsides. I am convinced that as long as we choose to dance with fear, doubt, and worry; we miss out on the opportunity to know peace, joy, and love!!

I am grateful for my relationship with a Heavenly Father that is the source of endless peace in ALL circumstances. I have heard the knock of our loving Savior who stands ready. I have considered the depth of the Atonement that covers not only the offense, the pain of being offended, as well as the offender! God knows the intent of the Adversary to "kill, steal, and destroy" and has so paved a way for us to follow!

I know that God moves among the pieces!! God stands ready and able to assist us in putting the pieces of life together peacefully! Choosing to Trust God has been one of the most difficult and rewarding decisions I make on a daily basis!! Looking to God as my source and security is an act of faith that ALWAYS brings peace!! Trusting that I am not alone in my journey to discern the pieces of life brings peace! Enjoying the Divinely appointed friendships in my life, brings peace and encouragement!

I also know that if I can find peace among my pieces, so can you! Trust God, look to him as the author and finisher of your faith! I pray that we will be encouraged in our journey to seek peace, and pursue it with renewed energy!

Blessings,

Nanette

A Season of Reflection and Preparation

Yesterday was "Ash Wednesday", typically a Catholic tradition which begins a season of reflection called Lent; and, although I am not Catholic, I can relate to the value of reflecting on the life I'm leading and how it may or may not reflect the life of the Savior and draw me closer to Him. Traditionally, this time of Lent begins a 40 day journey, ending with the celebration of Easter. For many, this is a time of letting go of habits that distract us. Again, I know and understand the value of letting go of bad habits and distractions!! Often times, this is also a season of fasting, prayer, and study; a time to remember the life, death, and resurrection of our Savior. What a great idea!!! I've noticed in my life, the times when I've recognized a bad habit or distraction, the Only way to let go is by invoking the powers of heaven to assist me! I am grateful to know that God IS Faithful! I have also come to know Jesus as my Savior, Intercessor, and Friend. He is my best friend who knows Everything about me, and SO desires for me to succeed in Every area of my life! He is the one I am totally transparent with, who loves me in spite of myself! He is the one whom I can trust to always see me through the loving eyes of our Father. He knows my heart and He knows where my distractions are, He also knows an easier way!

I was thinking of my other Very Best Friend and Sweetheart, Jeff. We have been married now for more than half of my life. He knows me intimately, and often times can recognize things about me that I just don't see. He also loves me enough to be open and honest in his feedback. Now, for many years I resented this fact! I spent a lot of time hearing his loving support as critical judgments, Totally unfounded in truth. I found myself being defensive, defiant, disrespectful, disgusted, and eventually disloyal. What a dangerous road to choose!!! In my self-righteous pride, I had taken the love and support offered me and watered it down to the point of holding No value. On top of that, I found myself complaining that I didn't feel loved. I then decided to wallow in self-pity and even enrolled others to join me. I was quite the hostess at this incredible Pity Party!! I had spared no expense! I found myself feeling alone, empty, and hurting; when in reality, I was being offered abundant love and support. How had I gotten so confused? Why would I resist such an offer? It took me a Long time of reflecting and letting go to see this resistance as a distraction, one of the Adversary's greatest tactics. If Satan can get us distracted and believing the lies He tells, then He wins! The Scriptures are full of wise counsel to stay focused, and on purpose!! I am grateful for Love that corrects and forgives! I am grateful for the power of Grace, Mercy, and Redemption!!! I am grateful for new beginnings!! This time of year also happens during Spring, a time of new beginnings! A time when the earth wakes up, dusts itself off, and starts all over again! Isn't it exciting that we too have this opportunity? I invite you to spend this next 40 days reflecting. I encourage you to be willing to be open and honest about where you might be distracted. Where have you replaced love and support with food, medication, etc.? Where has your self-righteous pride interfered with relationships and blessings? I even dare you to consider your own relationship with Jesus Christ.

I can promise you that this journey, however uncomfortable it may be, will be worth it! I KNOW and have experienced the power of receiving the grace and mercy to let go, and redemption to to begin again! You can start fresh, with new wisdom, new habits, new choices. God wants to bless you with Peace, Joy, Prosperity, Health, Wisdom, Understanding, Forgiveness and Love. Let this be the year when you decide to break free from the distractions of this world and set your sights on the Savior!! Be ferocious in your quest for freedom! Be Unwavering in your faith! Be Bold in moving forward!! Be Open to receive ALL that you desire and deserve!! Be Courageous in seeking Salvation.

I believe that God has Great things in store for those that love and trust Him!! I know that We choose if will be our Best of Times or Worst of Times! Please don't be like me and waist precious time wallowing! I am passionate about the joy of letting go, and being on purpose!! I know God will do miraculous things with our willing hearts!! This season, I pray that we choose to "Let our Lifesong Sing"!!

Blessings,

Nanette