Extraordinary Sprint

If my sister had tripped, then she would have been swimming with a dolphin.

But, she did not trip.  She ran with wild abandon along the sandy bank.

The dolphin kept the same pace, surfaced frequently, 

and made a gentle puff sound from its blowhole.

Some children joined with them near the end of the impromptu, 

frolicking race.

My other sister, our mom, and I vicariously enjoyed the show.

In our hearts, we silently applauded 

the unexpected gift of an extraordinary sprint.

I thank God for the thrill of childlike wonder 

being a lifelong pursuit and adventure.

Spur of the Moment

The cool breeze had discouraged the normal crowds from gathering.

But, we have happily replaced our handy ice scrapers 

with emergency beach chairs.

So, last weekend, we enjoyed an impromptu picnic on the beach.

Each place that we have lived has provided special locations 

for spontaneous enjoyment.

Some of my favorite places had to be searched for 

before they could be treasured.

The trick is to take advantage of the opportunities 

and not take them for granted.

With a thankful heart, 

I’m remembering and savoring settings that I will always cherish.

Revisited

This morning, I was reminded of an old poem of mine.

(I’ve shared it before.)

I know the Lord wants me to consider my part

in the local church, body that He has blessed me with.

 

APPENDIX

Consider the appendix -

not an attractive thing.

Without known function

it just sits there

absorbing life

without working to sustain it.

It’s only claim to fame

is that it can rupture

- threatening the health of the body.

Thank you Lord

that in the body of Christ,

your church,

there is no appendix.

Help me Lord

not to act like one. 

                                    Julie Lynn

Entertaining Thoughts

Entertaining thoughts can be a strange pastime.

Some visitors outwear their welcome very quickly.

Well Maybe is the sly little sister of a group that I try to avoid.

(I have shared my opinion of them in the past.)

Would Have, Could Have, and Should Have are a set of evil triplets.  Even when they whisper, they are obnoxious and disorderly.  Never invite them over.  Never entertain them, not even individually.  Remove the welcome mat when you hear them approaching your threshold. 

It is so much more peaceful to step out with Faith, Trust, and Forgiveness. 

Thank you, Jesus, for healthy conversations, even with myself.

Wake-up Call

During the message at church yesterday,

I was confronted with a question.

Where do I feel stuck?

The question bothered me. I did not have an answer.

I thought that was a good thing.

Maybe, I’m free in every area of my life.

Maybe, I’m continually learning and growing.

Maybe, I’m delusional.

The first step is to have a heart to heart conversation with my Abba, Father.

Then I need to trust Him to help me move forward in victory.

I desire an abundant life.  I’m willing to do my part to enjoy one.