Blogging through the Gospels: John 12!

Good Morning!

Today our Scripture reading is John chapter 12. Come join me, as we spend a few minutes in our Bibles before rushing into the day. . .

Scripture:

I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness. John 12:46

Observation:

Jesus predicted His own death, but people would not hear what He said. It did not fit into their idea of what the Savior would do. Yet Jesus said that it was for this very reason that he came (verse 27). And through His death, He would draw all men to Himself (verse 32).

Application:

I love this whole chapter, which starts with the beautiful story of Mary pouring perfume on Jesus' feet and wiping them with her hair. But I especially love these words of Jesus--"I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness," John 12:46. I do not have to wander around in fear or without help. Jesus has come, and He has given me courage and assurance. He has told me "Do not be afraid" and "I will provide." He has forgiven my sins, and has overcome death. He has told me of His plans for a new earth without sin (Revelation 21) and there will be no more crying there. Beautiful Savior.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for giving up Your Son to die for us here. Help me to follow Your light always, so I never have to be in darkness.

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Blogging through the Gospels: John 11!

Good Morning!

Today our reading is John, chapter 11. Very powerful lessons for us in this story. Just imagine if you were Mary or Martha, and this had happened to you . . .

Scripture:

Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" John 11:25,26

Observation:

A brother dead. Two sisters left weeping. Finally Jesus arrives, but it is too late. Death has already struck and won--or has it? What does Jesus mean by these strange words? The dead living? The living never dying? And then Martha is asked whether she believes these confusing words.

Application:

Faith. What if Martha had replied "No, Lord, I don't believe that. Just look at my brother if you want proof--there's death, and he used to live and believe in You!" What would have happened? Would her brother Lazarus have remained in the grave? We will never know for sure what Jesus would have said or done. But we do know what did happen. Jesus chose to raise Lazarus from the dead right then, instead of waiting for the second coming. What things in my life are dead--beyond all normal hope? Am I trusting Jesus to work them out--in His own time, in His own way?

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for this story being recorded for us. Help me to have faith like Martha did, in trusting You even when she did not understand. Help me to obey and roll the stone away from the grave of dead hopes and dreams, and hand them all to You.

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Blogging through the Gospels: John 10!

Good Morning!

Today our Scripture reading is John, chapter 10. Some very interesting dynamics going on here between Jesus and the Pharisees. Some leaders say Jesus is possessed by a demon, others argue that a demon cannot open the eyes of the blind. I think, quite frankly, they do not know WHAT to do with Jesus. . .

Scripture:

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. John 10:27

Observation:

Jesus is talking with the Pharisees, who are unhappy over Jesus healing the blind man. Jesus says of Himself that He is the Good Shepherd--that He lays down His life for the sheep. The Pharisees did not know what to do with Jesus. They did not want to follow Him, because they wanted all the glory and honor for themselves. But then they see Him preform these miracles of healing--how does one handle something like that?

Application:

I think the key is in this verse I chose for today--John 10:27. It says "My sheep listen to my voice." Did the Pharisees listen to Jesus' voice? No! They were not concerned about learning or changing--only about bringing glory and honor and riches to themselves. And if you don't do the first part--listen to Him--you can't have the second part--Jesus knowing us and us in turn following Him. I want to follow Him--so I need to listen to His voice in the Bible and prayer.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Tune my ears to Your voice only. Help me to discern between strangers and the Good Shepherd, and to follow You.

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Blogging through the Gospels: John 9!

Good Morning!

Today our Scripture reading is John, chapter 9. A story of a miracle--can miracles still happen today?

Scripture:

One thing I do know. I was blind, but now I see! John 9:25

Observation:

Total darkness. But one day all that changes--you can see! In your wildest dreams you never thought seeing could be as wonderful as it really is. The leaders call you in and grill you on how you can possibly see now when you were born blind. You answer--and again they call you in. Same answer again. How do they expect you to explain a miracle? There is only one explanation--He is the Savior!

Application:

How so many things will happen. Children that need to be healed. Fathers being ill and the threat of their family losing them. Expenses that need to be paid, and there is no money. Young families torn apart, the threat of divorce. Hearts that need to be opened towards each other. All these I see, and I do not know how they can possibly be healed. But one thing I do know--God is able!

Prayer:

Dear Father--You know the pain and suffering and troubles that I see. You know so much more that I do not see. Be with these children of Yours. I do not see how these situations can change--but I know You are able.

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Review: Homestead Blessings--The Art of Quilting

Delightful.

That is the one word that best sums up my thoughts on Franklin Springs "Homestead Blessings--The Art of Quilting" DVD.

http://franklinsprings.com/allfilms/homestead-blessings/homestead-blessings-the-art-of-quilting.html

I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to review this DVD. Being an experienced quilter myself, I was curious to see if I would learn anything new. I was also wondering if this might be useful for using in a homeschool setting--sort of as a little home economics class. The answer to both of my questions ended up a resounding "Yes!"

This DVD showed very clearly what steps to take in making a simple yet beautiful quilt. If I had never quilted before in my life, I would have felt after watching this DVD like it was something that I could easily do and something that I would love to do. The West ladies are warm and friendly, and clearly show how to cut fabric, sew blocks, layer your quilt, bind the edges and finally how to hand quilt. They show the start-to-finish of making a quilt, then show you different little quilting projects such as using one quilt block to make beautiful hot pads, a cobbler cozy, making pinwheel blocks simply, etc.

Everything that they show is clearly and simply shown. While they do show a few tools such as quilting rulers and rotary cutters that may make your quilt making easier, at the same time they do not emphasize having the latest and best in everything. Some sewing machines out there cost more than my car does--well, the West ladies do their sewing on a treadle sewing machine!

I love how they bring out a bit of the history of quilting, and also show how fun it can be to have a quilting bee. I wish they were MY neighbors--guess I will need to have my own quilting bee!

This quilting DVD could VERY easily be used in homeschool as a home economics class, but truly you will want to get it just for yourself!

You can learn more about all the Homestead Blessings DVDS here: http://player.vimeo.com/video/13279882?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0

Personally, I would love to own all of them!

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Disclaimer: I received free of charge one copy of "Homestead Blessings: The Art of Quilting" in exchange for my reviewing it on my blog. I have received no other compensation, and all opinions expressed here are 100% my own.

Blogging through the Gospels: John 8!

Good Morning!

Today our reading is John, chapter 8. This chapter records a story that I think shows Jesus' compassion perhaps the very best. Even though He is perfect, He still offers forgiveness to us . . .

Scripture:

Jesus straightened up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" "No one, sir," she said. "Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin." John 8:10,11

Observation:

A woman caught in adultery. Dragged before Jesus. The law said she was to be stoned. She was guilty as charged. Jesus answered "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." (verse 7) She cringed and waited, but no stones came. The only pure one who could have rightfully carried out the sentence, instead offered forgiveness.

Application:

I am not without sin, so should I be "throwing stones" at others? Instead of beating us down, Jesus reaches a hand out to us and lifts us up. But the cost of sin must still be paid. Jesus took our place on the cross, that we could be with Him in heaven. Beautiful Savior. Though our sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.

Prayer:

Dear Father--How unworthy I am to be saved. Thank you for reaching out to me, instead of condemning me. I accept Your give of Jesus as my Savior.

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The Bible in 90 Days--A Look at the 90 Day Bible

News Flash!

Starting July 11, 2011, Amy over at www.momstoolbox.com is starting up another through the Bible in 90 days on-line program. This is the same program that I participated in back in January, and was SO blessed that I did. I would HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend it--it will be an experience that you will never forget, and you will be blessed far more than you can even imagine. This program has a 90 day reading schedule http://www.momstoolbox.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/b90orgbookmark.pdf and you can follow along using whatever favorite Bible you already have. That said, there does exist an "Official" Bible in 90 Days Bible. I have had some questions as to whether you need to purchase this to do the program. Short answer, "No." Long answer, "No, but some people find it helpful." My sister did the program along with me, and simply used her own Bible--and yes, she finished. I was blessed with a scholarship from the Bible in 90 Days web site, and really enjoyed using the Bible that they gifted me with. If you are needing help with a Bible, go to their web site http://www.biblein90days.org/and search for where they mention "scholarships." I know they have a limited amount of scholarship money available, but what they do have available for that they really do use--I am a testimony of that, because I received their scholarship.

So, to help you know better what what benefits the Bible in 90 Days Bible may give you, I took some pictures of my own Bible to show you.

The main "thing" this Bible has is every 12 pages are marked to stop on that page for a certain day's reading, or to begin a day's reading there. The whole Bible is divided into the daily reading selections being every 12 pages--you will ALWAYS be reading 12 pages in this Bible. All the markings, though, are simply at the top of the page--they are never put in the middle of the page. Very helpful to have, especially if you are dragging your Bible around with you during the day, it gives you a "heads up" where you don't have to think about where to stop, just read till you get to the marked page.

The back flap of the paper cover has the 90 Day reading schedule printed on it. A handy place to make check marks and keep track of your progress. If you do not have this Bible, though, you can do the same thing with the Bible reading plan book marks that I linked to above. I had printed out a page of the book marks (prints three copies of the reading plan on one page). I gave one to my mom, kept one as a book mark in my Bible, and pinned one above my desk on my corkboard. That helped keep it in front of my eyes and in my thoughts to make sure I didn't forget to do my daily reading.

Inside the last several pages this Bible also has a couple different reading guides--this one is for if you are listening to the Bible on CDs at the same time as you are reading it. This guide helps you know where on your CD you will stop or start each day. I actually already owned the NIV Bible on CDs, and found this to be the VERY most helpful thing for me as I was reading. I have a terrible time with my mind wandering away while I am reading--then all of a sudden you get to the end of the page and realize that you haven't been paying attention even though your eyes were "reading." It wasn't getting through to your mind, which had wandered away and was thinking about how you need to remember to start the laundry! I do this ALL the time! That is, all the time until I started using my Bible CDs along with my Bible. I literally sat at my desk, read my Bible, and listened to my CDs. It REALLY helped in the "wandering mind" department!

This is showing that this Bible version really is not too large--handy for when you are carrying it around with you. It is a NIV version, which I find easy to read. There are purposely no study notes or concordance in the back--both to keep it thin, as well as to not distract you from your purpose of READING.

So there you have it. I hope this gives people a good overview of the advantages this 90 Day Bible will give you--yet at the same time show how it is really not absolutely necessary for you to do the program. If you think some of these features will help you--then get this Bible. If you have a different version Bible that you favor, then by all means use that one. The important thing is not which Bible you have and use--the important thing is that you are reading! :)

Hope this helps! And if anyone wants to sign up with Mom's Tool Box for the July 11, 2011 Bible in 90 Days, you can read more information here: http://www.momstoolbox.com/blog/bible-in-90-days-reading-schedule/ If you would like to specifically ask to be in my mentor group, you can ask for me by name at the last question on the sign-up questionaire, where it asks if there is anything else you want Amy to know about you. Pray about joining us--and Happy Bible Reading!

God Will Make a Way

Here is one of my very favorite songs--I just learned it within the past year. This is a nice version--it is a tad slower than I learned to sing it, but some of the other versions out on YouTube are much rockier than I like, so this was the best of the bunch. All it is missing is beautiful pictures to go with the lyrics--it needs some flowers, mountains, valleys, rivers, etc. But close your eyes, listen to the words, and imagine those things yourself! :)

I have so many friends who are facing such serious times in their family lives. I lift them up in prayer, and claim God's promises of help and healing for them.

Blogging through the Gospels: John 6!

Good Morning!

Today we are reading in John chapter 6. I love this chapter, because it assures me that with Jesus I do not need to fear.

Scripture:

But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid." John 6:20

Observation:

The disciples were crossing the lake. It was dark, and Jesus had not joined them. The wind began to grow strong, and the waters rough. Suddenly, they saw Jesus walking on the water towards them, and they were terrified.

Application:

What were they afraid of? That Jesus could do something so impossible for us to do? When I really think about it, would I want a Savior who was only able to do the same as I could do myself? Wouldn't be much of a Savior then--I could simply save myself. Or more likely, perish myself. Truly I do understand the disciples fear. But as Jesus told them not to be afraid, He tells me the same. And it is truthfully only when Jesus is with me that I have no reason to fear.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for this assurance that I do not have to be afraid when You are with me. Help me to trust more in You.

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Come read the Gospels with us and be blessed! www.momstoolbox.com

Blogging though the Gospels: John 5!

Good Morning Everyone!

Today we are in John, chapter 5. Grab your Bible, and start your day reading along with me . . .

Scripture:

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?" John 5:6

Observation:

Paralyzed for thirty-eight years. No electric wheel chair or automatically opening doors. Just lying near a pool of water, and when the waters stir, you will your weak muscles to drag your body over so you can fall into the pool. But you are too weak, and someone else always gets in the pool first. But one day Jesus is there. He looks at you and asks "Do you want to get well?" This is no race that you must beat someone else. It is a simple question--"Do you want to?" But the gift of healing is right around the corner. You only have to want and accept it.

Application:

"Do I want to?" How many things in my own life do I mutter and grumble about, but Jesus is there asking me "Do I want to?" Do I want to be a better spouse? He can help me. Do I want to be a better parent? He can help me. Do I want to improve my health or read the Bible each day, or . . . ? Am I asking Him to help me?

Prayer:

Dear Father--I want my desires to match with Yours. My thoughts to be pure like Your thoughts. My actions to be loving and kind like Your actions. Do I want? Yes, I do!

Blogging through the Gospels: John 4!

Good Morning!

Hope you are all with electricity this morning--we have had our on, off, on, off, on, off and finally ON! I think most of it caused by some lightening strikes that we had with a thunder storm last evening. But for now it's back on, so before the next line of thunder storms roll through today I will try and get this posted!

Today our Bible reading is John, chapter 4.

Scripture:

But whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life. John 4:14

Observation:

A Samaritan woman going to the well to draw water by herself. Not part of the group of women who would have visited the well at a different hour. Instead of only finding water, she finds a Savior. Or rather, He finds her.

Application:

While it is true that I need physical food and water, more than this is my need for spiritual food. Made by God, I cannot live without Him.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Grant me communion with You today. Grow and spring up inside of me, until I cannot be separated from You at all. And we are One.

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Read through the Gospels with us! www.momstoolbox.com

Blogging through the Gospels: John 3!

Good Morning!

Today's reading is John, chapter 3. A familiar passage, yet always something new to discover...

Scripture:

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. John 3:16,17

Observation:

Nicodemus was a member of the Jewish ruling council. Curious--starting to believe yet surrounded by unbelief--he sought Jesus out at night. Under the cover of darkness, away from other prying eyes, he could ask his questions. As Jesus and he talked together, Jesus told him the above verses. That God loved the world so much that He sent Jesus so we would not die a forever death. That Jesus did not come to condemn, but to save.

Application:

What beautiful words--but the best part is that they are true. I do not have to "earn" God's love. He already loves me. Even when I make mistakes or let Him down, He still loves me. He does not condemn me, but instead lifts me up. And I am set free.

Prayer:

Dear Father--I am so thankful that Nicodemus went to Jesus that night. Thank you for having that conversation recorded in the Bible so I can read it all these years later. But most of all, thank you for loving me like this.

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Blogging through the Gospels: John 2!

Good Morning!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Father's Day! I am sorry I did not get a Blogging through the Gospels post done yesterday, but I spent my time in the morning making homemade waffles for my sweet husband--yum! Maybe sometime I will have to make them again and take pictures, then post the recipe on here.... When I get a chance, I will. Anyway, so my morning hours were a bit busier than usual and the on-line posting was the thing that didn't get done. But I hope everyone spent some time with their Heavenly Father yesterday. No matter what your earthly father was/is like, God is a wonderful, caring, loving heavenly father to each one of us. He never fails, He never forgets.

We are into John in our Bible reading already--can you believe it? Yesterday our reading was John chapter 1, so today we are on to John chapter 2. Grab your Bibles and read along with me....each of the Gospels records things a little bit different than the other Gospel records. Let's see what we find in the book of John . . .

Scripture:

His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you." John 2:5

Observation:

A wedding celebration has had a crisis--the refreshments have run out. But Jesus' mother had faith. Faith in two things--first, that Jesus "could" help them, and second, that He "would." She instructs the servants to do whatever Jesus told them to do. No matter if it makes sense to them, obey Him anyway. They did. And they saw a miracle as the water they poured into the jugs was turned to wine.

Application:

Do whatever He tells you. As a Christian, this is the same instruction I am to follow. Do whatever Jesus tells me. Whether it makes sense or not. To serve others, to help bring others up goes against the "me first" attitude that the world tells me to have. But when I obey, I see miracles happen.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Help me to do whatever You tell me to do. Open my eyes, that I may see the miracle when I do.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 24!

Good Morning! And Happy Sabbath!

Here we are--the last chapter of Luke. I can hardly believe we have gone through three of the four Gospels already. But blessings still await us in the book of John. Meanwhile, grab your Bible and read the last chapter of Luke with me--chapter 24.

Scripture:

Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. Luke 24:45

Observation:

Jesus had been crucified. He had risen from the dead and appeared to His disciples. He pointed out how all of these things were written in the Scriptures, and that everything must be fulfilled that was written about Him in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms. And He opened their minds so they would understand.

Application:

This is what I need--Jesus to open my mind, so that I will understand the Scriptures. But if I don't study them, how can I understand them?

Prayer:

Dear Father--Open my mind that I may understand what You have recorded for me. Help me to study Your Word more and more, until I desire it in a greater way than physical food.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 23!

Good Morning!

Today we are in Luke, chapter 23. Jesus being crucified--what if you were there? What if you were watching the whole thing take place? What if suddenly you were grabbed and made to carry His cross?

Scripture:

As they led him away, they seized Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus. Luke 23:26

Observation"

Jesus was being led away to be crucified. The beatings, lack of sleep, lack of food, and being separated from His Heavenly Father was too much for Jesus. He collapsed, physically unable to carry His cross to the hill where the crucifixion would take place. Simon just happened to be passing by at that exact time. He was grabbed, and forced to carry the cross that Jesus was unable to carry.

Application:

Simon did not volunteer to carry the cross--he was forced into it. But he did it. Did his heart open to Jesus as he saw what was going on? Reading this story this morning, I couldn't help but wonder, are there things "forced" upon me by circumstances--burdens that I did not ask to carry? But--while I am carrying them, may my heart open and change. From being resentful perhaps, may I become happy to lift the load from someone else.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Open my eyes that I may see the burdens of people all around me, and how I can help.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 22!

Good Morning!

Today we are reading in Luke chapter 22.

Scripture:

. . . the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. Luke 22:26

Observation:

They were celebrating the Passover. Jesus and His disciples were eating in the upper room, and the disciples start to argue among themselves. "I'm going to have a high position in the coming kingdom," I can hear one say. "No, I'm going to be of more importance than you," another one counters. Jesus hears them, in spite of their trying to hide their conversation from Him. "The greatest is the one who serves others" he tells them. Suddenly, they begin to realize that they just may have been missing what He has been trying to teach them all this time.

Application:

Serving others. Humbling yourself. Doing a job no one else wants to do. This is not in my nature to want to do. But Jesus says to "Follow Me." And Jesus served. I have seen at the school where my husband works an example to me of humbling oneself. Every year, for one day, the college president forsakes his suit and office and works somewhere else on campus. Sometimes it is in landscape, pulling weeds, planting flowers, mowing grass in the hot southern sun. It may be in services, washing windows, vacuuming classrooms, scrubbing toilets. It is just for one day--the next he will be back in his suit coat and air conditioned office. But it gives him an idea of what others are working at every single day. And it makes him a better leader. So in my own little world, may I remember what it is like to be a child, a teen, or a full-time worker. And may I serve my family today--like Jesus.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Open my eyes to those around me. Show me how to serve them and better their lives, lighten their loads, draw them closer to You.

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Come read with us and be blessed! Reading through the Gospels with Mom's Tool Box. www.momstoolbox.com

Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 21!

Good Morning!

Today our Scripture reading is Luke, chapter 21. Good instruction for us today, so come and read along with me!

Scripture:

Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap. Luke 21:34

Observation:

Jesus was speaking to His disciples, telling them signs of His second coming. After telling them signs such as wars, the sun, moon and stars being shaken, etc., He gave them this warning--to be careful to not let themselves get burdened down too much by daily life.

Application:

These same words apply to me today. How well Jesus knew me! It is SO easy to get too caught up in all of the day's burdens that I forget the big picture. As the expression goes, I can't see the forest through the trees. I may be taking care of my children, but am I forgetting to teach them about Jesus? It is good to clean my home. But am I forgetting to clean my heart?

Prayer:

Dear Father--I have asked this before, and I ask it again. Grant me Your eyes, that I will see and value things the way You do.

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Susan's Top Secret Ginger-Bread Men Cookie Recipe

O.K.

I know you all want it--people are BEGGING me for it, SO. . .

Here it is. My TOP-SECRET Ginger-Bread Men Cookie Recipe. Not really. But doesn't that make it sound more exciting? I mean, if I say "Here is the recipe that no one has asked me about but I think you will like" who will write down the recipe then?

All teasing aside, I do really like this newly adapted recipe. My family has fought over the results (THAT is not an exaggeration!), and the recipe is low-fat for a cookie--and with the changes I made, it is vegan as well. Oh--and I added in the whole wheat flour, so it has some fiber in it. I haven't made it with all three cups of flour being whole wheat, but as Aunt Kay says, I'm "fixin too." You can say "fixin" if you are from the south.

So here goes:

Gingerbread Cookies

Mix together the following:

3 cups flour (I use 2 cups whole wheat and 1 cup white)

1 1/2 tsp. baking powder

3/4 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp. salt

1 T. ground ginger (yes, that really IS one Tablespoon!)

1 3/4 tsp. cinnamon (I substitute corriander)

1/4 tsp. ground cloves

Beat until well-blended:

6 T. softened butter

3/4 c. packed brown sugar

1 large egg (I use 1 T. cornstarch and 2 T. water)

Add and beat in:

1/2 c. molasses

Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until smooth. Divide dough in half. Roll dough out on floured surface until 1/4 inch thick. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters. Bake at 375 degrees for 7-10 minutes. Cool on racks.

Enjoy!

Making a Homeschool Room--With no Room at all!

It has finally happened. After years of wishing we lived in a house with room for an actual homeschool room, I finally decided I needed to be proactive and just TAKE a spot. You know, squatters rights. It's mine, because I am there sort of thing. Now, we DO actually have a basement in this house, but after living here for several years, I realize that the basement is NOT where "school" happens for us. If it was a beautiful basement it might, but ours is a basement with very tiny natural light. During the summer it is nice and cool, but during the winter it is freezing and you will find us curled up in the living room near the wood stove. SO. Given my perimeters, given that we do not have money to add on an addition and I know much of the day we "school" either on the couch or at the kitchen table, I hereby claim this little used corner in our living room, right where the front door enters. It's now mine.

This is the view from the front door corner. It's just a little 8 feet by 8 feet space. And, of course, there isn't a lot of wall space and it is not truly an enclosed room, so I can't park large book cases there. But I do have the basement for storage of longer term school items. I just need a place for more of the things that we are using NOW to be gathered all together. So I don't waste time searching for a math item that I KNOW I have, but I don't know where....(don't ask me about this, it's not pretty!).

Behind the couch I have placed my daughter's workbox drawers. We have used these for one school year so far, and I love them still. Helps her be independent in some things, yet she knows when it is an activity I want her to do with me. On top of the workboxes is our math balance, and the pink container with the handle holds her glue, tape, scissors, and pencils. The zebra box on the floor next to her workboxes holds binders with things that we are working on, but are not in the workboxes for today. The hanging chart is her chore chart, with tags that she turns over when she has completed a chore. I like this method because I can easily see what she still needs to do for that day. The red bag underneath holds all our M-U-S blocks. The plastic shoebox stores our magnet letters.

This is sort of "my" spot in our little "room." I bought these carts really inexpensively the day after Thanksgiving at JoAnn Fabrics. Yes, I was one of those insane people who was up around 4:00 a.m., out shopping. But honestly, I was only there because my husband had a store HE wanted to go to, so I decided SOME rational person had better go along with him. And while I'm out and about, well, might as well shop! Anyway, I am repurposing them now for homeschool use. One has been next to my desk for filing, and one in the basement in my sewing room. But I have decided I need them more for organizing homeschool, so this is where I have put any "teacher" type of books that I will be using this next school year. In addition to regular teacher manuals, I also have some hands-on math games, flash cards, etc. Whatever I have that I am planning on using with her for this new school year, I have put in these drawers. No more searching for those lost fraction bars that I KNEW I had somewhere...

The giraffe box holds file folder games. The tub in front has spelling cubes. Our dictionary and thesaurus are sitting close by. The magnetic white board I picked up at a thrift store for $1.00, and the file box on the floor is holding our felts for our felt board.

The third wall of our school room has our felt board leaning on it. This is the only "real" wall we have in our little corner, but due to the front door opening and swinging back against it, I only have around four inches of usable space. Also, it heads right into the kitchen, so is a pass-through space. No bookcases can be placed here, but our felt board (made from a 4x8 piece of plywood cut down to a 4x6 size) fits just fine. I thought this is making good use of this space. Since this IS a living room, I don't want to put a bunch of nail holes in this wall for hanging things--but I can "hang" from our felt board with using large clips. One pocket chart has our days of the week and weather, one the math flash cards we are working on, and the third has a Bible verse written out and cut apart to be put back together.

And there you have it. Our little schoolroom. Some work will be done on the floor right here, or sitting/standing in front of the felt board. Some work will be done using a little bed tray, just the right height for my daughter to sit on the floor and use it for a little desk. Stories will be read on the couch. Handwriting and other subjects that need a larger writing surface can be taken to the near by kitchen counter. The drawers in both the "teacher" carts as well as the drawers in the workboxes all can be slipped out and carried to a table to work there.

I hope this little tour into our new schoolroom has given you some possible ideas of ways to think creatively and "out of the box." Or is that "out of the room?"

Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 20!

Good Morning!

I thought I would share today this cool picture of a fern that I took while I was on vacation. It is just partway unrolled. If I reach waaaaaaay back into my memory from summer camp, when I took the class "Mosses, Likens, and Liverworts" from Mrs. Jewkes, I believe these are called "fiddleheads," when they are just partly unrolled. It looks like the end of a fiddle, doesn't it? Anyway, hope you enjoy looking at it. I love looking closely at things in nature. There are so many discoveries just waiting for you to see them.....

Today our Scripture reading is Luke, chapter 20.

Scripture:

. . . Then give to Caesar what is Caesars, and to God what is God's. Luke 20:25

Observation:

The priests and teachers of the law were trying to trap Jesus by asking Him if it was right for them to pay taxes to Caesar. Jesus asked for a coin, then asked whose picture was on the coin. "Caesar's," was the reply.

Application:

So what belongs to the government, and what to God? According to this story, our money belongs to our government, but our hearts belong to God. What is in my heart will determine how I treat others around me each day. God does not need our money--He is the Creator of the Universe. But He does need our hearts, because He loves us so.

Prayer:

Dear Father--I can still hardly believe how You love me so. Show me clearly each day how to treat others--so my heart will show that i belong to You.

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Come look for blessings with us! Read the Gospels with Mom's Tool Box! www.momstoolbox.com

Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 19!

Good Morning!

Today we are reading in Luke, chapter 19. Grab your Bibles quickly, because Jesus is coming to Jericho...

Scripture:

When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today." Luke 19:5

Observation:

Jesus was passing through Jericho. Zacchaeus had heard that He was coming, and wanted to see who Jesus was. But he was too short, and couldn't see over the crowd. Then he had an idea, and ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree, for Jesus was coming that way.

Application:

Most of us are familiar with the rest of this story. Jesus went to Zacchaeus' house, and Zacchaeus' heart changed that day. But one thing that I never thought of until today when I was reading this chapter is that Jesus invited Himself over that day. Go back and read it and you will see. Jesus didn't wait for Zacchaeus to clean his home and prepare a banquet. Jesus didn't wait for a formal invitation to be sent. Jesus simply said "Can I come?" And because Zacchaeus said "Yes!" his life was completely changed. Jesus is inviting Himself over today--will I let Him come in?

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for not waiting for me to get my life together first, before coming to me. Enter my heart and throw out all that does not belong there. And thank you for coming!

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 18!

Good Morning!

Notice the tiny heart-shaped leaves on this little plant? Aren't they cute? I have to confess that I have no idea what type of plant it is--but it was growing in my mother-in-laws garden and I thought the leaves with the dew on them were so lovely. Jesus didn't need to cover this plant with little hearts all over it--but He did. :)

Our reading for this morning is Luke chapter 18. The place where I picked my verse from is titled in my Bible "A Blind Begger Receives His Sight," but I think it really should have a different name. I think I would call this section "A Very Wise Man."

Scripture:

Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" Luke 18:39

Observation:

A blind man was sitting by the roadside to Jericho, doing what he did every day--begging. There wasn't much else he was able to do with his handicap, and if he was lucky, he would earn enough to eat that day. But even though he couldn't see, he could certainly hear. All day long he listened--listened to others as they lived a life that he could never participate in. Children laughing. Dogs barking. People going places. All he did was sit in his spot and cry out for money. People hardly even noticed him any more. He was kind of part of the landscape now--always there. Always begging. But one day something different happened. He heard the crowd. He felt them bump into him. And when he asked what was happening, someone told him that Jesus was passing by! Passing by? The blind man started shouting for Jesus to help him. Others rebuked him, and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more. And Jesus healed him. And his life was never the same again.

Application:

I think there is a lot we can learn today from this blind begger--never let Jesus pass you by. Whatever your circumstances, do not let anything keep you from Jesus. No matter if it is people, or circumstances, or busyness--even if others think I am being foolish. Really, it is only the fools who LET Jesus pass them by. He may have been blind, and he may have been a begger, but this man was no fool--and I do not want to be one either. Jesus, help me!

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for this lesson recorded for us. Help me to give up other activities that keep me from You. May I never just let Jesus pass me by.

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Homeschool Review: Scripture Adventures--Update!

Hi Everyone!

I thought it was time to give you an update on the Scripture Adventures curriculum that we are testing this summer. Back in mid May, I posted about how we were able to chose an item from their selection to play around with over the summer. We have played around for a couple weeks with the Old Testament book, and are really enjoying ourselves.

I am finding the materials to be thoughtful and well written. I love how the actual Bible text is right in the actual page you are working on, therefore making it easy for your child to read the Bible passages right then and answer the questions. There is a variety of activities, ranging from reading the Bible passages and underlining a certain part they are looking for, to more creative things such as coming up with your own names for the animals like Adam did.

The pictures here in this post show my daughter doing one of the other suggested activities--when reading about God forming man out of the dust of the earth, the materials suggest that the children make their own "people" and while doing them, think about how unique we each are. There is even a cookie recipe included in the book pages, though due to special dietary needs I had to choose a different recipe for us to use as I needed something vegan.

Don't you think this cookie-person looks JUST like my daughter? As you can see, she had a grand time with this activity, and this is the kind of school she would like to do every single day. I love that this curriculum is giving us a chance to read the Bible together, and really think about the passages and apply them to our lives. I want her to be excited about the Bible--and this book is really helping her to be just that.

Disclaimer: Though I did receive a free copy of the Scripture Adventures book we are using, my only obligation was to post one post about it on my blog. All opinions are 100% my own, and I was not even obligated to post a second time. It is only because I am enjoying this curriculum so much that I decided to post about it again.

Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 17!

Good Morning!

And a "Happy Sabbath" to everyone! Thought I would share with you all a picture of a California poppy I took this Spring--in California, no less! Yes, I know they are SUPPOSED to be bright orange. And this little flower WAS growing right in the midst of a clump of orange ones. But I guess you could say he decided to be unique! Or "Dare to be Different!"

Which reminds me, that goes right along with the text I chose for today. One about being "different," because what Jesus asks us to do is not what comes naturally to us humans. So grab your Bibles and read Luke, chapter 17 with me today.

Scripture:

"If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. If he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says 'I repent,' forgive him." Luke 17:3,4

Observation:

Jesus was talking to His disciples about sin. He taught them that it was their duty to forgive others.

Application:

This is one of those verses that is easier to read and agree with than it is to read and DO. We may think we have forgiven--but if we then SEE that person, our hearts will tell us the truth. Or perhaps the person hasn't even asked for forgiveness--we are to forgive anyway. I have no answers. I have no solutions. All I can say is that I know this is impossible without God. Good thing He IS the "God of the Impossible. . . "

Prayer:

Dear Father--Help us to forgive others the way YOU have forgiven us. Change out our stony hearts, and give us Yours instead.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 16!

Good Morning!

I couldn't resist showing you another picture of these peppermint striped flowers! I think they remind me of peppermint ice cream--my favorite! Though these flowers are much lower in calories...

Our Scripture reading for today is Luke, chapter 16. Read along with me and ponder God's value system.

Scripture:

Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. Luke 16:10

Observation:

Jesus was again teaching His disciples, and was telling them the parable of the shrewd manager, who forgave debts owed to his master in order to gain friendships for himself. The Pharisees were listening as Jesus told this parable, and Luke says that the Pharisees loved money and sneered at Jesus and His teachings. Jesus said to them "You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God's sight." Luke 16:15

Application:

Can I be trusted with little, so that I may be trusted with much? Not "much" in the world's eyes, but "much" in God's eyes? I think what the world values can be condensed into one word. Money. What God values can also be put into one word. People. The world throws away people, and saves money. God throws away money and saves people. As I read this chapter, I cannot help but ask myself how am I treating the people in my life? My mother, father, brother, sisters, husband, children, aunts, uncles, cousins, and the people I run into in my daily activities?

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for valuing us so much! Place Your value system inside me today. Help me to treat my family, friends, and even strangers with Your love today.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 15!

Good Morning!

God has given us another beautiful day. What it will hold, I do not know. But I do know it is full of promise and God's care for us, just like this swelling flower bud. I love the glimmers of what is to come as you look at the bud. God has also given us glimmers of how we will eventually live with Him in heaven. It will come, in His time. And when it does, it will be wonderful.....

Today our Scripture reading is Luke, chapter 15. When I first read it I thought a good title for the whole chapter would be "The Parable of the Lost," because it talks of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son. But then immediately came to mind the thought that no, it is not "The Parable of the Lost," but rather "The Parable of the Found." For that is God's lesson to us in all of these stories--how He finds us and rejoices!

Scripture:

In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents. Luke 15:10

Observation:

Jesus told the parable of a woman who had ten silver coins and loses one. Instead of saying "Oh well, I do have nine more..." she lights a lamp and sweeps her house carefully until she finds it. When she does find it, she calls her friends and neighbors to come and rejoice with her.

Application:

It would be rather easy for me to forget about one lost coin, I confess. Even though I AM the kind of person who bends over to pick up coins I find in parking lots, still a coin has very little value to me. After all, I have others. Easy come, easy go. But this is NOT God's attitude towards me, and I am so glad! Just because He has many others, not one person (or a million people) can replace us. He made us, and thinks we are ever so special. He longs for us to be restored to Him. We are NOT "easy come, easy go" to God!

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for not giving up in Your search for me. I do not understand how You--the Creator of all things--can miss me personally. I do not understand how You can love me so, but I am so glad You do.

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My son is a guest poster over at this web site today! :) Go read his thoughts and reap a blessing!

Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 14!

Good Morning!

Here is a beautiful flower to start your day! :) I love pink anyway, but the stripes on this flower I thought were especially beautiful. Can't you just imagine how it was when God was creating the world? How many different flower types He made--and all for our enjoyment because He loves us!

Today's Scripture reading is Luke, chapter 14. Grab your Bibles and read along with me!

Scripture:

The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant 'Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.' Luke 14:21

Observation:

In this parable, Jesus told of a man who was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. But when everything was ready, all the invited guests began making excuses for not coming. One had just bought a field and wanted to go see it. Another had a new set of oxen and wanted to go try them out. One had just gotten married and made that his excuse. Upon hearing this report, the master told his servant to go and invite ANYONE and EVERYONE, even those who would normally be excluded from a banquet such as this. He wanted his house to be full.

Application:

The invitation in this parable is for me too! God is preparing a great banquet to celebrate Jesus' second coming. You and I are both invited! A place is prepared. Can you imagine a place card with your name on it? We are wanted--but whether we accept is up to us. I know I want to be there--I need to make sure I do not get so busy in other activities that I miss the event!

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for the invitation! It is humbling to think that You want me there. Help me to not miss it, for any reason.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 13!

Good Morning!

Today we are reading Luke chapter 13.

Scripture:

If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down. Luke 13:9

Observation:

Jesus was telling a parable of a man who had a fig tree planted in his vineyard. For three years he came looking for figs, but there never were any. Finally he went to the caretaker of the vineyard and said to cut down the fig tree--it should not be taking up space when not producing. The caretaker, however, asked for one more years time. He said he would dig around it and fertilize it and see if the next year the tree would produce fruit.

Application:

God bears long with each one of us. Are we producing fruit for Him? With all of the love, care, and blessings God has given to me, am I blossoming and growing for Him? This is our time to do that. This old sinful world of ours will not continue forever. Jesus is coming back, and He will be gathering up His harvest. What am I doing for Him today?

Prayer:

Dear Father--Help me to produce fruit for you. I am so selfish, I tend to just keep taking and taking. Show me how to give.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 12!

Good Morning!

Our Scripture reading for today is Luke chapter 12.

Scripture:

"But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?' This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God." Luke 12:20,21

Observation:

Jesus was telling a parable to his disciples. In the story, the rich man had such an abundant crop that his barns could not hold it all. So he planned to tear down his barns and build bigger ones--and then take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.

Application:

What does it mean to be "rich toward God?" Poor natives have mistakenly thought in the past that they had to sacrifice their families only livestock, or sometimes even their own sons or daughters--all in an attempt to win God's favor. Or, in more "civilized" countries, one church sold indulgences to people. The money helped build beautiful churches, and the people could sin and have forgiveness--or so the church taught. Thats a win-win situation, isn't it? What if when the offering plate passes by me in church next week, I put in a $10 bill instead of a $1. Or a $100. Or a $1,000. does that make me rich towards God? There is absolutely nothing I can give to God as a gift that He needs. Except one--my heart.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Your love for me overwhelms my mind. I cannot comprehend it, let alone understand it. But dirty and ragged that it is, I give You my heart.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 11!

Good Morning!

How do you like this flower picture? I just took this one a couple weeks ago. It was in my mother-in-law's flower garden, and I love how beautiful and pure it looks. It reminds me of Jesus, in it's lovely clean whiteness. Here on earth, this flower will soon show signs of decay. But there will be no decay in heaven.....

But--before I get myself too off track, today's Scripture reading is Luke, chapter 11. Grab your Bibles and read it with me! :)

Scripture:

"If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" Luke 11:12

Observation:

Jesus' disciples had come to Jesus, asking Him to teach them how to pray. Jesus agreed to do this, and taught them what we know as "The Lord's Prayer." Then He goes on and tells them to ask God in prayer for what they need. To seek, to knock, and they would find what they were looking for. And He assures them that God will give them only good gifts--with the best gift being the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Application:

Do we trust God? I know at first I think to myself "of course I do!" because I know in my brain that He is trustworthy. But when it comes to my heart, I am much more cautious. I don't want to be disappointed, so if you don't ask for much, you won't be let down if you don't get it, right? But--Jesus tells us to do the exact opposite. To ask, seek, knock. And He promises God will answer. The Holy Spirit, the Comforter, was the special gift given when Jesus returned to heaven. God will not leave me without guidance if I will but ask Him. And God knows how to give the best gifts of all.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Forgive my lack of trust. Help me to trust You completely, nothing held back.

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Blogging through the Gospels Luke 10!

Good Morning Everyone!

And a "Happy Sabbath" to you. Sabbath. My favorite day. A gift from God, each week, just for us to spend time with Him. :) How cool is that?!

Our Scripture reading today is Luke, chapter 10. Several well-known stories appear in this chapter. The "Good Samaritan" parable gives LOTS to think and study about. But--perhaps because I'm female, the story that jumps out at me is the short little one of Mary and Martha when Jesus came to their house....

Scripture:

"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41,42

Observation:

Jesus and His disciples were at Mary and Martha's home. It was time to eat. This was not the days of microwaves or take-out from diners. Everything that was made was "from scratch." No shortcuts. Only longcuts.

And while Martha rushes around frantically, preparing food for at least 13 hungry men plus others in the household and any others traveling with the group--Mary sits. She sits at Jesus' feet. Listening. Learning. Loving. And leaving Martha doing all the work herself.

Application:

O.K. True confession time. I feel sorry for Martha! I mean, she was the responsible one here. SOMEONE had to make the food. She does all the work--and then gets gently chastised for not choosing the "better thing." I bet Martha would have LOVED to have sat at Jesus' feet...

But our vision is so narrow. Maybe, just maybe. If Martha HAD chosen to sit at Jesus' feet, maybe Jesus would have chosen to provide the food. Perhaps He would have done a miracle. We will never know. But I do know that Martha missed an opportunity to sit at Jesus' feet. And that is something I do not want to miss--no matter how busy I am.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Help me to slow down. To not be so busy "doing" that I miss the opportunity for "sitting."

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 9:28-62!

Good Morning!

Today's Scripture reading is Luke 9, the second half. Join me in pondering some of Jesus' teaching that seems backwards to our ears!

Scripture:

Then he said to them, "Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For he who is least among you all--he is the greatest. Luke 9:48

Observation:

The disciples were arguing among themselves as to which one of them would be the greatest. Jesus knew their thoughts, and He took a little child and had him stand beside Him. And He taught that welcoming a child was welcoming Him. And whoever is the most humble is truly the greatest.

Application:

Jesus' teachings sometimes seem backwards to our ears. Treating a child as we would treat the God of the Universe? Yes--because they are God's child. The most humble being the greatest? Yes--because God's kingdom is not an earthly kingdom, and God values things differently than we do. Very differently!

Prayer:

Dear Father--Take my mind, turn it inside out--and help me to see the value in things the way that You see it. Help me to forgo those things that do not last, and give my time to things that are truly important.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 9:1-27!

Good Morning!

Today's reading is the first half of Luke, chapter 9. Come ponder it with me for a while...

Scripture:

What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self? Luke 9:25

Observation:

Jesus was speaking to His disciples. He had just asked Peter who the crowds were saying He was. Peter answered that some said John the Baptist, some thought Elijah, and still others thought He was a prophet from long ago come back to life.

Jesus pressed the question, asking Peter who HE said Jesus was. Peter confessed "The Christ of God." Jesus confirmed that this was true, and continued on to tell them how He was going to suffer and be killed. He taught them that if anyone wanted to follow Him, they would have to deny themselves and take up their cross daily.

Application:

So what is our cross today? Am I focusing on the world, and what I can "get out of it" before I die? Or am I focusing on heaven, and trying to take as many people with me as I can?

Everyone loves to have a nice house. Cars to drive. Clothes to wear. Food to eat. These things can be true necessities in our lives here on earth. But are we remembering that they are only "things?" No matter how nice our house here, I promise we would rather have the one Jesus is making for us. Cars? Won't need them in heaven. Clothes and food? Jesus has those covered as well. In fact, the only thing we do need to focus on "getting" is our relationship with Jesus. Because that is all that really matters.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Let the scales fall away from my eyes. May I see things the way You do. Help me to pursue only what is of real value.

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