Afraid to pray?

Sometimes you may be like me...afraid to pray.  Okay, not so much of the act of praying, but rather in an answer to a desperate prayer.  For example, I often pray for patience and wisdom.  Yet as I do, I wonder if I really want to be stretched and molded.  Not to mention, the cost at which I will receive these priceless gifts.

In my English class we read The Monkey's Paw by W.Jacobs. In short, the characters get three wishes for anything they want.  Their wishes although answered, bring nothing but sorrow.  Is this what I fear?

While pondering something much bigger than myself, Christ revealed this to me...

"Jennifer, fear not, for I have redeemed you. I have called you by name. You are mine.  When you pass through the waters, I will be with you and through the rivers, they will not overflow you...Since you were precious in My sight, you have been honored and I have loved you."

Isaiah 43:1,2,4 

You get what you get, and you don't throw a fit...

We all know that Berenstain Bear's story about exemplifying an attitude of gratitude.  I know that in my own life, I rarely take time to appreciate the graces that God has put there.  I am so often on to the next event, item, or chaotic moment, that I fail to see the gift God has provided for that moment. 

He has placed precious people around me in order to bless my life.  I often assume those people know they are loved.  I often assume that because I have not talked to them in a while, everything must be just fine.  Is this how our heavenly father feels?  As understanding as he may be, he longs for my words and thoughts.  He must often feel less than gratitude for the small amount of time I give him each day.  I am to serve my heavenly Father with a happy heart full of gratitude and appreciation.  He is my maker and all my words, actions, and thoughts glorify him.

Dominick is SUPER funny.  A few months back, he asked me to make him a snack.  So I did so, with a great big kiss.  Then, he asked me to get him a drink.  So I did so, with a great big smile.  He then asked me to bring him his favorite stuffed toy.  So I did so, very quickly with my hands on my hips.  At last, he asked me to bring him a Kleenex because his nose was stuffy.  "Dominick," I said breathing heavily from his previous request. "Get UP and get it YOURSELF!"  Very sweetly he replied, "I thought serving others brings joy...so I wanted to make you really happy!"  -Yes another kick in the stomach moment. 

It made me think, I am happy to serve the Lord with a happy heart.  But do I grow weary and frustrated?  Faith goes way beyond a snotty Kleenex.  It just goes to show you, even when you are not sure what all the running around is for...perhaps God see's the point.  Will you continue to serve?

A Time For Thanksgiving!

As I come to you sweet Jesus, I fall to my knees. My life is so very blessed and I give you all the glory. My prayer tonight is full of thanks. My husband seeks your heart. My sweet children long to follow your path. I hear your comforting whisper in the warm breeze. You have kept you promises and remained faithful. You are my rock and salvation. I am humbled.

Dominick and I were on our way to school and deep in prayer. I figure Dominick's precious innocence is sure to have a direct line! He ended his sweet prayer for rain and at that very moment drops of joy filled our windshield. Dominick was amazed and said, "Mom, God answered that prayer fast!". He immediately jumped out of the car and began telling everyone that it was a miracle...an answered prayer.

...you know he was right!

A New Beginning

This past year our family has struggled.  The struggles we have survived are not the central focus, but rather my sweet Jesus who held my hand along the way.  Let us be honest, he probably picked me up and threw me over his shoulders most of the time. 
Shawn and I have given it all to the Lord and amazingly enough he knew just what to do, where to lead us, and directed our path.  Do you believe in miracles?  Over this trying time my Faith has been tested and I AM 100% sure he is at work in all our lives.
My marriage has been enriched, my relationships have been strengthened, and my precious child gave his life to Christ. 
Is he at work in my life?  Yes!  Literally.  A few days ago a group of God loving women did a prayer walk in our school.  The power of this experience is humbling.  I guarantee we prayed over everything from lockers to the toilets.  God is Awesome!
Several of my sisters in Christ share a little saying.  It states that if the devil can't make you bad, he will make you busy.
My goal this year is to take time for the Lord.  He alone has shown me mercy and given me grace.