Sunday, December 16, 2018

Happy Sunday reader!

Inspiration for You

So glad you decided to take time out from your hectic and busy world. Included here are a few brief inspirational messages--all to uplift your day.

What's happening lately.

I visited St. Louis last week, the city where we landed when my family emigrated from Bolivia.

Some have asked us why we chose this city.

Here’s the answer: While birds sang and a warm breeze blew, my Mom sat in the courtyard in her Bolivia home. She spent hours and hours reading. Her favorite books were classics translated into Spanish. At the top of the list was Mark Twain's Tom Sawyer. The stories fascinated her. And she vowed someday she would visit the Mississippi River where those delicious adventures took place.

That dream came true when she turned 35. Now married and children, she and my father chose St. Louis, located on the shores of this mighty river to become our new home.

Everything was new…and also intimidating. Wearing the same clothes we wore in Bolivia, my brother 11, and I at 12 went to school only two days after our arrival. We learned English quickly because back in 1964, there were no ESL classes or “press 1 for Spanish.” We either learned the language or drown in a foreign culture.

God had a plan. I had mine, too. Mine included a happy life in America, shining with health and with a complete family to surround me with joy.

God’s plan was different. I lost my sight, but He gave me insight to see His grace. My family suffered the loss of my youngest son. God gave us comfort so we could, in turn, comfort others.

As we swam across the river of adversity, gratitude filled our life. And when discouragement tries to come in, reminders of the best puts joy right back.

Here are a few of those reminders:

• My blindness reminds me to fuel my vision every day.

• The lessons I learn remind me God is still at work.

• The tragedies that touched my life remind me of the triumph God brought.

• The mistakes I see others make remind me I’m flawed too.

• Obstacles remind me they must never become excuses.

• Harsh words from others remind me to guard my own lips.

• Disappointments remind me to keep dancing to the melody of God’s Word.

• Failures remind me they remain failures unless I fail to learn.

• Victories remind me God smiles at every stage.

• Rejections remind me God is re-directing my steps.

• The love I receive is God's reminder of His presence

• The setbacks remind me that my heart is set on hope.

• The struggles remind me that through Christ, my weaknesses turn to strength.

• The Bible reminds me God’s Word was meant for me too.

• The care I give reminds me I’ll need the same one day.

Thanksgiving could be only one day—or a lifetime of gratitude. Your choice. But when you make it a lifetime, joy blooms and expectation of a new horizon grows.

What does success look like?

It’s not what you think. In this segment of my radio show Lou Vickery, author of 12 books, relates the path to success. His conversations with Mickie Mantle and other illustrious people fill his real-life stories to show us the true path to success. Here’s the link for you to relax, listen and enjoy: LISTEN

Just because he asked...

I was recently asked if JC Empowerment is a tax deductible 501(c)(3). The answer is yes, it is. Actually, my heart-felt thanks goes to all of you beautiful friends who choose to partner with me and donate to keep us going.

With immense gratitude, I count on your support. And if you found a bit of inspiration in what you read, consider partnering with JC Empowerment. Together we can expand Christ's Kingdom.

Here's the place where you'll easily find the button to donate. Just use this LINK and look for the donate button in the right menu near the bottom of the page.

A Book I Recommend

Christmas is coming and here’s a book for that little one in your life.

Studies have shown that reading poetry to children contributes to their healthful emotional development.

Poems for Wee Ones, a book by Maryann Diorio, will stimulate your child's mind, bless your child's soul, and warm your child's heart, all at the same time. Makes a great gift for Christmas. Use the link to find it on amazon.

HERE'S where you can find your own copy.

Take Time Out for a Quick Laugh

Little Johnny's mother was having difficulty gulping down the birthday cake he had made for her as a surprise. When she was finished, Little Johnny happily exclaimed, “I’m so glad you like it, Mommy. There should have been 32 candles on the cake, but they were all gone when I took it out of the oven.”

Pastor Tim by way of Doc’s Daily Chuckle

Prayer

Suffering and heartache are part of life. But the greatest part is the power of prayer. It's a blessing to join you in this effort. Please send your requests HERE.

Until next month...Janet