Storms...

This evening we had the most magical thunder storm we've had in a while! Flashing beams of light darting across the sky, casting shadows all around. Then the clouds opened up, offering a downpour of nature's tears. I love storms. There's something so cathartic about watching the chaos of whipping wind, electric beams and heavy rain drops from the security of home.

It reminds me of the uncertainty of life and the storms we each face. If we look at the storms while we're standing in the rain, we're sure to be hit by lightening. But if we surround ourselves in the home of God, those storms become something mystical...the fear turns into wonder. We begin to look at the mysteriousness of what is taking place and begin to see the beauty in it.

Something that has the potential to be terrifying is transformed into a deeper moment of depending on God. We are able to see what is happening in a different light. Instead of running to find cover, we stand in awe of the power before us. We appreciate the rain that waters the land, wait with excitement for the next flash of light to show and count the seconds until we hear the boom of thunder.

I love to light a few candles in the fireplace, turn off all the lights and watch the light show from the safety of home. The next time you find yourself in a storm, take a deep breath, find a home in the safety of God's arms, light some candles and watch the show with different eyes. You have nothing to fear. Just know that the storm will pass soon enough and you will come away with a greater knowing of yourself and your God.

Miraculous Gifts and Talents...Gifted Hands - Are You Using Yours?

I watched the most amazing movie tonight on TNT..."Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story." It's based on the popular book by Dr. Ben Carson whose inspiring story tells of a frustrated inner-city kid whose faith in God helped him become director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins University Hospital.

For those of you who cry at the drop of a hat, get the tissues ready. In the face of challenge after challenge Ben had the love of an encouraging Mother who told her boys they could do anything! Even in the midst of her own self doubt, she knew her children were destined for greatness.

As God's children we are all destined for greatness. He has blessed each of us with miraculous gifts and talents to give to this world we share. But how many of us allow the battles we face to drown out those callings? Those small nudges inside that say, "Yes, you can do this! Yes, you are a blessing! I have created you as a gift to the world...to make it a better place in My name."
I offer you a challenge...to listen to that small voice inside. To hear the calling that is resting in your heart. I challenge you to be bold enough to embrace your gifts and talents and use them to touch others in God's name. We never know how even the small gesture of a smile or encouraging word can utterly change the course of someone's life. Do you know how special you are? Do you know you have miracles just waiting to be performed through you? If you don't know this yet, I encourage you to watch Gifted Hands...and then begin using yours.